English language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL are standard requirements for studying in many English-speaking countries. However, the costs, scheduling challenges, and access barriers often make it difficult for international students—especially those in developing regions—to take these exams. Fortunately, a growing number of institutions and scholarship programs now accept alternative proof of English proficiency or waive language requirements altogether. This article explores top scholarships around the world that do not require IELTS or TOEFL, how to apply, eligible universities, and ways to prove your English proficiency through other means.
Why Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL Are Important
Many bright students are excluded from global education opportunities simply because they cannot access or afford these standardized tests. Some universities have recognized this inequality and have opened new pathways for students by:
- Accepting proof of prior English-medium education
- Replacing test requirements with online interviews or internal testing
- Partnering with countries or organizations that provide recognized language certification
- Trusting institutional language certificates or letters from previous schools
These initiatives make higher education and scholarships more inclusive and equitable.
General Alternatives to IELTS or TOEFL
When applying for a scholarship without IELTS or TOEFL, universities may require one of the following:
- A letter from your previous institution confirming English was the medium of instruction (MOI certificate)
- Online language interviews or assessments conducted by the university
- English language courses offered after admission as a condition for full enrollment
- Other language proficiency tests such as Duolingo English Test, Cambridge English, or PTE Academic
- Successful completion of a pre-sessional English program at the institution
Top Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL
DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Germany offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Many DAAD partner universities do not require IELTS or TOEFL if you can provide a certificate of English proficiency from your previous institution.
Level: Master’s and PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel, health insurance
Countries: All non-EU countries
Proof of English: Medium of instruction letter, or internal language test
Deadline: Varies by program
CSC Scholarships (China Government Scholarship)
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) allows international students to study at various Chinese universities without IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities accept an MOI certificate or conduct their own language tests.
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance
Proof of English: MOI accepted at many institutions
Deadline: March to April annually
MEXT Scholarships (Japan)
Offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, MEXT is one of the most generous scholarships available. Many universities in Japan accept students without IELTS or TOEFL if their previous education was in English.
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, travel, monthly stipend
Proof of English: MOI certificate or university interview
Deadline: April to June
Russian Government Scholarships
Russia offers thousands of fully funded scholarships each year to international students. Most Russian universities do not require IELTS or TOEFL and instead provide a preparatory Russian language year or accept English language certificates.
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, dormitory, monthly stipend
Proof of English: Not required for English-taught programs if MOI is provided
Deadline: January to March
University of Ottawa Entrance Scholarships (Canada)
The University of Ottawa provides multiple entrance scholarships for international students. Students from certain countries or English-speaking regions can apply without IELTS or TOEFL by submitting proof of previous English-medium education.
Level: Undergraduate
Coverage: Partial tuition and merit-based funding
Proof of English: MOI letter or exemption based on nationality
Deadline: Rolling
University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship
The University of Winnipeg in Canada offers scholarships to students from developing countries, and many applicants qualify for English proficiency waivers.
Level: Undergraduate, Graduate
Coverage: Up to $5,000 CAD
Proof of English: May be waived for students from English-medium institutions
Deadline: June 1 annually
Istanbul University Scholarships (Turkey)
Turkey provides a wide range of fully funded government and university scholarships. Many Turkish universities accept MOI certificates instead of IELTS or TOEFL.
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, insurance
Proof of English: MOI or university-administered English test
Deadline: January to February
University of South Australia Scholarships
This university offers fully funded research scholarships for postgraduate students and may exempt applicants from IELTS if they completed previous degrees in English.
Level: Master’s and PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, health insurance, living allowance
Proof of English: English proficiency letter or academic exemption
Deadline: April and August
Qatar University Scholarships
Qatar University accepts applications from students without IELTS or TOEFL if they can prove previous study in English or pass the university’s internal placement exam.
Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance
Proof of English: Internal test or English proficiency letter
Deadline: February
University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship
Brunei’s top university offers scholarships that do not require IELTS or TOEFL. Students can be assessed based on interviews or past education language.
Level: Master’s and PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance, book allowance, airfare
Proof of English: Interview or language certificate from prior institution
Deadline: February and July
How to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL
- Research eligible scholarships and their partner institutions
- Check if the university accepts alternatives to IELTS/TOEFL such as an MOI or internal assessment
- Obtain a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your last institution
- Collect other standard documents like academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statement
- Apply for admission and the scholarship through the official portal
- Wait for confirmation of exemption or instructions for alternate testing
- Complete interviews or pre-sessional language courses if required
Tips for Success
Apply early to scholarship programs with language flexibility
Contact the admissions office to confirm if IELTS/TOEFL waivers are accepted
Make sure your MOI certificate is on official letterhead and signed by an academic officer
Include evidence of English-language coursework, publications, or presentations
Prepare well for any interviews or internal assessments
Write a compelling personal statement that emphasizes your ability to study in English
Choose courses that are offered in English at your target institution
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Failing to confirm language exemption details with the university
Using an unofficial or unsigned MOI certificate
Ignoring deadlines for scholarship and university admission
Assuming all programs in a country offer exemptions—check by department
Not preparing for internal English assessments if required
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really get a scholarship without IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes. Many fully funded scholarships and universities now accept alternative English proficiency evidence.
Will skipping IELTS affect my visa application?
Not necessarily. If the university has admitted you and confirmed your English ability, most embassies will honor that decision, especially for countries like China, Japan, Russia, and Turkey.
What is an MOI certificate and how do I get one?
A Medium of Instruction certificate is an official letter from your school stating you were taught in English. Request it from your school’s principal, head of department, or registrar.
Do top universities waive IELTS or TOEFL?
Some highly ranked institutions offer conditional admissions, English language pathways, or internal assessments. Always verify with the admissions office.
Can I take Duolingo or other tests instead?
Yes, many universities accept Duolingo, PTE, Cambridge English, or internal English proficiency tests.
Conclusion
Scholarships without IELTS or TOEFL offer a valuable opportunity for students who are academically qualified but unable to meet traditional language test requirements. Whether you’re applying to Germany, China, Japan, or Canada, options are available for those with strong academic records and alternative proof of English. By understanding the specific requirements of each program, preparing your documents carefully, and applying early, you can secure a world-class education and scholarship without the burden of standardized tests.
