Many international students hesitate to apply for scholarships abroad because of IELTS requirements. The good news? A growing number of scholarships and universities do not require IELTS especially if you meet alternative English proficiency criteria, demonstrate previous English-medium education, or qualify through test waivers.
Here’s a comprehensive list of scholarships that don’t require IELTS and tips on how to qualify and what alternatives you can use.
Why Some Scholarships Don’t Require IELTS
Not all programs demand IELTS. Scholarship providers may waive English tests if applicants:
Studied in English-medium schools/universities
Provide other test scores (TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo English Test)
Submit strong writing samples or interviews
Receive conditional admission with a pre-sessional English course
Always verify the latest requirements on the scholarship or university website before applying.
Canada
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- IELTS: Not mandatory (check university criteria)
- Details: Focuses on research excellence; conducted in English or French programs.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- IELTS: Waived if institution accepts alternative proof of English
- Details: For students from Commonwealth countries; covers full tuition + stipend.
Many Canadian universities accept alternative tests like TOEFL, PTE, or even provide acceptance letters without any test score if prior education was in English.
United Kingdom
GREAT Scholarships
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Not always required depends on partner university rules
- Details: Joint scholarship between UK and selected countries.
Think Big Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate & Master’s
- IELTS: Not mandatory (English-medium proof accepted)
- Details: Offered by UK institutions for international students from developing countries.
Some UK universities may accept Duolingo English Test or proof of previous English instruction in lieu of IELTS.
New Zealand
New Zealand Development Scholarships
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Waived if alternative English proof is provided
- Details: Fully funded, supports study and return to home country service.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities accept internal English tests, Duolingo, or academic English proof instead of IELTS.
Australia
Australia Awards Scholarships
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Not strictly required if university offers conditional English pathways
- Details: Full tuition, living stipend, travel allowance.
University-Level Scholarships
Several universities accept Duolingo, PTE, TOEFL, or waive English test if:
Previous degree was in English
Applicants complete an English Bridging Course
Netherlands & Europe
Holland Scholarship
- Level: Master’s & Bachelor’s
- IELTS: Not required if alternative English proof is accepted
- Details: For students from outside the EEA studying in the Netherlands.
Many European universities also waive IELTS if the applicant:
Completed education in English
Provides portfolio or interview evidence
Other Scholarships That May Waive IELTS
Erasmus+ Joint Master Degrees (EU)
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Not always required — depends on participating universities.
Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Waiver possible with proof of English education or alternative tests.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
- Level: Master’s
- IELTS: Considered on a case-by-case basis.
Alternatives to IELTS Accepted by Many Scholarships
If a scholarship or university doesn’t require IELTS, they often accept one of the following:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Duolingo English Test (DET)
Cambridge English Qualifications
Letter of English Education (from previous institutions)
Internal university English assessments
How to Increase Your Chances
Proof of English-Medium Education: If your prior schooling was in English, submit official transcripts or letters confirming language of instruction.
Take Alternative Tests: Duolingo is widely accepted and often cheaper than IELTS.
Prepare a Strong Application: Scholarship committees look for academic merit, leadership, and clarity in goals — so a strong application can outweigh language scores.
Ask the Admissions Office: Always contact the university if you’re unsure whether IELTS is required or waivable.
Getting a scholarship without IELTS is possible, especially if you prepare alternative proof of English, demonstrate academic strength, and choose destinations that value flexible language requirements. From Canada and the UK to Australia and Europe, there are many opportunities for international students to pursue fully funded education even without IELTS.
FAQ
Q1: Can I study abroad with no English test at all?
Yes, many scholarships and universities allow alternative English proof or waive tests if you studied in English earlier.
Q2: Is Duolingo accepted everywhere?
Not universally, but its acceptance is rapidly expanding among universities and scholarship providers.
Q3: What if I have a low IELTS score (e.g., 5.5)?
You can often use English bridging courses, conditional admission, or alternative certifications to satisfy requirements.
Q4: Does scholarship type affect English requirements?
Yes, government awards and research fellowships often have stricter requirements than university-specific or foundation scholarships.
