Studying abroad without IELTS is one of the most searched study-abroad topics worldwide, especially among students from Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The good news is that in 2026, hundreds of universities and fully funded scholarship programs officially allow international students to study abroad without IELTS, using alternative English language proofs.
Top Countries to Study Abroad Without IELTS (Quick List)
If you are in a hurry, these countries are currently the most popular and reliable for studying abroad without IELTS:
- Germany
- Italy
- Hungary
- Malaysia
- China
- Norway
- Japan
- Turkey
All countries listed below are explained in detail.
What “Study Abroad Without IELTS” Really Means (Important)
Studying abroad without IELTS does not mean universities ignore English proficiency. Instead, they accept official alternatives, such as:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Previous degree taught entirely in English
- University English interview
- Internal language assessment
- Duolingo English Test or TOEFL
- Conditional admission with pre-sessional English
Always request written confirmation of the waiver from the university.
Complete Country List: Where You Can Study Without IELTS
Germany
Germany is one of the best countries to study abroad without IELTS, especially for master’s and PhD programs.
Accepted Alternatives
- English-taught previous degree
- MOI certificate
- University interview
Why Germany
- Public universities with low or no tuition fees
- DAAD-funded programs
- Strong global recognition
Click Here for Study in Germany Scholarships for International Students
France
France offers many English-taught programs without IELTS.
Accepted Alternatives
- English-medium education
- Internal assessment
Popular Options
- Public universities
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Click Here for France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Master’s & PhD in France
Italy
Italy is trending heavily for European study without IELTS.
Accepted Alternatives
- MOI certificate
- Online interview
Top Benefit
- DSU fully funded scholarships
Click Here for the List of Open Scholarships in Italy 2026
Spain
Spain continues expanding English-taught programs.
Accepted Alternatives
- English-medium education
- Interview
Netherlands
Some universities waive IELTS for English-educated students.
Sweden
Highly popular for master’s and PhD applicants.
Accepted Alternatives
- English-taught bachelor’s degree
Norway
Bonus Advantage
- Public universities with no tuition fees
Finland
Several universities allow IELTS waivers based on education background.
Hungary
Hungary is one of the top countries for fully funded study without IELTS.
Major Program
- Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
Click Here for Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships 2026–27 | Study in Hungary (Fully Funded)
Turkey
Many universities accept:
- MOI
- University interviews
- Turkey Burslari (scholarships)—Scholarships Scholarship will Open in January 2026
Click Here for Türkiye Bursları Scholarship | Türkiye Scholarships (Fully Funded)—Study in Turkey
Malaysia
Malaysia is extremely popular for affordable education without IELTS.
China
China offers thousands of English-taught programs.
Popular Scholarship
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Click Here for the Open CSC Scholarships in China 2026
Japan
Many programs under MEXT and Japanese universities waive IELTS.
Click Here for the Detailed MEXT Scholarships in Japan Preparations for Applications
South Korea
English-taught programs often rely on interviews.
Thailand
Several fully funded scholarships accept MOI certificates.
Australia
Some universities waive IELTS for strong academic profiles.
New Zealand
IELTS waivers available on a case-by-case basis.
Canada
Many universities accept:
- MOI
- Duolingo
- Internal English assessment
United States
IELTS is often not required, especially for PhD programs.
United Kingdom
Several UK universities waive IELTS for:
- English-medium education
- Certain nationalities
Common IELTS Alternatives Accepted Worldwide
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL
- University English interview
- Pre-sessional English programs
Who Benefits Most From Studying Without IELTS?
- Students from English-medium universities
- Applicants for fully funded scholarships
- Master’s and PhD candidates
- Students from Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Middle East
Should You Apply Without IELTS?
Studying abroad without IELTS in 2026 is real, achievable, and increasingly common. With the right country choice, proper documentation, and early applications, you can secure admission, scholarships, and fully funded degrees without taking IELTS.
Click Here to Visit the List of Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2026
Also Check: List of Open Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in Europe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?
Yes. Many government and university scholarships accept MOI or interviews.
Is IELTS mandatory for all universities?
No. Requirements vary by university and program.
Is studying abroad without IELTS safe and legal?
Yes, if the waiver is officially confirmed by the university.
Can I apply first and submit IELTS later?
Yes. Many universities offer conditional admission.
Also Check Latest Scholarships Below:
- HEC Scholarship
- International Scholarships Worldwide
- Undergraduate Scholarships
- Master Scholarships
- PhD Scholarships
- Postdoc Fellowships
Stay connected with Careers Help Desk for the latest international fellowships, scholarships, and research opportunities to empower your future!
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