Studying abroad is a dream shared by millions of students around the world. However, two significant barriers often stand in the way: the IELTS requirement and high costs. Fortunately, in 2025, more universities and scholarship programs have adopted inclusive policies that allow international students to study without IELTS and even receive fully funded scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and more.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to study abroad without IELTS and with 100% funding, including country-specific options, top universities, and scholarships that make this opportunity accessible and real.
Why Skip the IELTS?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests, but it can be:
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Expensive (Test fees often exceed $200 USD)
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Time-consuming (Requires preparation and scheduling)
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Limiting for students from non-English speaking countries who haven’t had access to quality test prep
The good news is that several universities and scholarship programs now accept alternative forms of English proficiency or waive the requirement altogether.
Top Countries That Allow Studying Without IELTS (2025)
1. Germany
Germany is a top destination for international students, offering tuition-free education at public universities. Many institutions accept students without IELTS if:
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You’ve studied in English previously (e.g., your bachelor’s degree was taught in English)
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You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous school
Scholarship Highlight:
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) Scholarships offer full funding including tuition (if applicable), monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowance.
2. Norway
Public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education to all international students, and many master’s programs are taught in English. IELTS may not be required if:
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You’re from an English-speaking country
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You submit proof of English-medium education
Bonus: Norway also offers scholarships through the Quota Scheme, providing full funding to students from developing countries.
3. Sweden
While Sweden does charge tuition for non-EU students, it also provides generous scholarship opportunities. IELTS alternatives are accepted, including:
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TOEFL
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Cambridge English tests
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MOI certificates for certain countries
Scholarship Highlight:
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) covers full tuition, monthly stipend (~SEK 11,000), health insurance, and travel costs.
4. Canada
Canada is known for its inclusive immigration and education systems. Several universities offer admission without IELTS if you:
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Completed prior studies in English
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Submit a MOI certificate
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Take university-specific English tests
Scholarship Highlight:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship provide full funding, including tuition, living expenses, and visa support.
5. Turkey
Turkey has emerged as a budget-friendly study destination. Many Turkish universities offer programs in English and waive IELTS if you’ve studied in an English-speaking school.
Scholarship Highlight:
Türkiye Burslari Scholarships cover 100% tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and return airfare.
Top Universities That Waive IELTS in 2025
Here’s a list of universities that accept alternative English language proof or waive IELTS entirely:
| University | Country | IELTS Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University of Oslo | Norway | Waived with MOI |
| TU Munich | Germany | Waived with proof of English instruction |
| University of Saskatchewan | Canada | Accepts MOI or alternative exams |
| Istanbul University | Turkey | No IELTS required |
| Linköping University | Sweden | Waived for some countries/schools |
| University of Debrecen | Hungary | No IELTS for MOI holders |
Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS Requirement
These are top scholarship programs that don’t require IELTS and offer 100% financial support:
1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend (€934+), travel allowance, health insurance
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Eligibility: Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Germany; MOI accepted
2. MEXT Scholarships (Japan)
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare
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IELTS: Not required; English language proficiency may be evaluated during interview
3. Turkey Government Scholarships
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Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend (~1,000 TL), travel, health insurance
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IELTS: Not mandatory; interview conducted in English
4. CSC Scholarships (China)
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Coverage: Full tuition, on-campus housing, monthly stipend
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IELTS: Not required for English-taught programs if you can provide MOI
5. Hungarian Stipendium Scholarship
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation allowance, health insurance
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IELTS: Not mandatory if previous education was in English
How to Apply Without IELTS
Here’s how to make your application stand out, even without IELTS:
1. Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
Request an official letter from your previous school/university confirming that your education was conducted in English. It should:
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Be on official letterhead
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Mention your full name, course, and duration
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Be signed and stamped
2. Apply to IELTS-Free Universities
Focus on institutions with policies accepting MOI or alternatives. Check admission requirements carefully.
3. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Use your SOP to explain your background, why you want to study abroad, and how you are proficient in English.
4. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose referees who can also vouch for your English ability, especially if you don’t have IELTS.
Visa Application Tips Without IELTS
Worried about getting a student visa without IELTS? Follow these tips:
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Provide your MOI and admission letter showing the medium of instruction is English
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Include additional proof like TOEFL/iBT scores if you have them
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Clearly explain in your visa SOP how your English proficiency meets the study requirements
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Attach communication with your university confirming IELTS is not required
Countries like Germany, China, and Turkey rarely require IELTS for visa purposes if your admission is confirmed.
Final Words: Your Study Abroad Dream Is Possible
In 2025, studying abroad without IELTS and with 100% funding is not just a dream—it’s a growing reality. Universities and scholarship bodies are removing unnecessary barriers, making global education more inclusive for deserving students worldwide.