Language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL have long been gatekeepers for international students. However, in recent years, many universities and governments have recognized that these tests are not always necessary to assess a student’s capability. As a result, several fully funded scholarships now waive IELTS/TOEFL or accept alternative proof of English proficiency.
Whether you’re from a non-English speaking country or simply want to avoid expensive exams, this guide uncovers the best scholarships that don’t require IELTS or TOEFL, and how you can still qualify.
🎯 Why Avoid IELTS/TOEFL.
- 💰 Costly: IELTS and TOEFL exams can cost between $150–$250 each
- ⏰ Time-consuming: Requires scheduling, prep, and travel to centers
- ❌ Unfair rejections: Even fluent speakers fail due to test anxiety
Luckily, many institutions accept alternative proof, such as:
- A certificate from your previous English-taught institution
- A letter from your university confirming the medium of instruction was English
- Interviews or internal language tests
🌍 Top Scholarships Without IELTS/TOEFL Requirement
Turkey Burslari Scholarship
- No IELTS or TOEFL required
- Accepts English Proficiency Certificate from your previous school
- Fully funded: tuition, flights, accommodation, stipend, health insurance
- Available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs
✅ Apply directly through turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
DAAD Scholarships – Germany
- Many German universities don’t require IELTS/TOEFL
- Accepts English proficiency letter
- Fully funded for Master’s and Ph.D. in development, engineering, arts, etc.
- Monthly stipend + travel + insurance + tuition
✅ Especially popular among students from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
- IELTS/TOEFL not mandatory for most universities
- Accepts prior education in English
- Fully covers tuition, monthly allowance, visa, and travel
- Open to undergrad and postgrad students
✅ Fields include science, IT, economics, and education.
CSC Scholarships – China
- IELTS/TOEFL not mandatory at many Chinese universities
- You can provide an English Proficiency Letter from your last institution
- Fully funded: tuition, dorm, stipend, health insurance
- Offered for Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
✅ Apply through campuschina.org
Italian Government Scholarships
- Universities like University of Bologna, Padua, and Pisa waive IELTS if English was the medium of instruction
- Scholarships cover full tuition + living stipend + insurance
- For Bachelor’s and Master’s students
✅ Language requirement depends on program of study, not nationality.
GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) – South Korea
- Many Korean universities do not require IELTS/TOEFL
- Instead, interviews and document screening are used
- Fully funded by the Korean Government: tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, and language training
- Offered for undergrad, Master’s, and Ph.D.
✅ Apply through Korean embassies or designated universities.
MEXT Scholarships – Japan
- IELTS/TOEFL not required
- Accepts proof of previous English-medium education
- Covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and round-trip flight
- For undergrad, graduate, and research programs
✅ Application through Japanese embassies or universities.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship – France
- Many French institutions accept medium of instruction letters
- Scholarships for master’s and Ph.D. students
- Covers tuition, travel, insurance, and monthly allowance
✅ Offered by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
📋 Common Alternatives to IELTS/TOEFL
| Alternative | Description |
|---|---|
| English Proficiency Letter | From your university or college |
| University Interview | Some schools assess you via video interview |
| Previous Degree in English | Documented proof of instruction language |
| Internal Language Test | Some universities have their own test |
💡 Tips to Apply Without IELTS/TOEFL
- ✅ Shortlist programs/universities that accept alternative language proof
- 📄 Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your current or last school
- 📧 Reach out to university admissions and confirm their requirements
- ⏳ Apply early to handle interview or document-based assessments
- 📁 Include extra documents like recommendation letters to strengthen your profile.
