For many international students—especially those from non-English-speaking countries—the IELTS and TOEFL exams can be a major barrier when applying for scholarships abroad. These tests can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming. Fortunately, several global universities and scholarship providers now offer opportunities that do not require IELTS or TOEFL, making international education more accessible.

In this article, we highlight 10 scholarships that don’t require IELTS or TOEFL in 2026, along with eligibility criteria, benefits, and application tips.

Why Many Scholarships Don’t Require IELTS or TOEFL

You may wonder why some scholarships waive these English proficiency tests. Here are common reasons:

• Acceptance of alternative English proficiency proofs

• Prior education in English

• English language tests conducted by the university itself

• Online interviews to verify language ability

• Country-specific exemptions

This makes the application process more flexible for international students.

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Top 10 Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS or TOEFL

Below are ten reputable, fully funded or partially funded scholarships you can apply for without IELTS or TOEFL.

1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Germany is well-known for its tuition-free education, and DAAD remains one of the most prestigious scholarship bodies in the world.

Why IELTS/TOEFL Is Not Required

Many German universities accept:

• Proof of English-taught previous studies

• A university-issued English proficiency letter

• Internal tests conducted by the institution

Benefits

• Full or partial tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

Eligibility

Varies by program but generally includes academic excellence and clear study motivation.

2. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)

The MEXT Scholarship is a fully funded Japanese government scholarship available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies.

Why No IELTS/TOEFL

MEXT conducts its own English language examination. Many universities also accept a proficiency letter from your previous institution.

Benefits

• 100% tuition coverage

• Monthly allowance

• Free flights

• No application fee

3. Chevening Scholarship (UK)

Although many UK scholarships require IELTS/TOEFL, Chevening allows alternatives.

Why It Doesn’t Require IELTS/TOEFL

Chevening accepts several forms of English language proof, depending on the applicant’s background and host institution.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Travel costs

• Arrival allowance

• Visa fees

4. CSC Scholarship (China)

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is one of the largest fully funded programs in the world.

Why English Tests Are Not Required

Many Chinese universities teach in English and accept:

• English proficiency letters

• Internal English tests

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage

• On-campus accommodation

• Monthly stipends

• Health insurance

5. Turkey Burslari Scholarship (Turkey)

Turkey offers one of the most competitive scholarships globally.

Why IELTS/TOEFL Is Not Required

Turkey Burslari has no English language requirement for many English-taught programs. Students may take a free Turkish language course after arrival.

Benefits

• Full tuition

• Accommodation

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Free flight tickets

6. Holland Government Scholarship (Netherlands)

Available for international students applying to Dutch research universities and applied sciences institutions.

Why IELTS/TOEFL Is Not Mandatory

Selected Dutch universities accept:

• Previous English-taught education

• Institutional English tests

• Cambridge tests

Benefits

• Tuition fee support

• One-time €5,000 grant

7. University of Alberta Scholarships (Canada)

The University of Alberta in Canada offers scholarships for international students even without IELTS or TOEFL.

Why They Don’t Require IELTS/TOEFL

They accept:

• Duolingo English Test

• English proficiency letters

• Alternative tests like CAEL

• Country-specific exemptions

Benefits

• Fully funded PhD funding

• Partial undergraduate scholarships

• International entrance scholarships

8. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP/GKS)

South Korea remains a top study destination for African and Asian students.

Why English Tests Are Not Required

Students can provide:

• English proficiency letter

• Internal testing conducted by the Korean university

Benefits

• Full tuition

• Settlement allowance

• Monthly stipend

• Medical insurance

• Free Korean language training

• Round-trip airfare

9. University of Bologna Scholarships (Italy)

Italy offers affordable education and generous scholarship packages.

Why IELTS/TOEFL Isn’t Required

If you studied previously in English, Bologna accepts a medium of instruction certificate from your institution.

Benefits

• Full or partial tuition waivers

• Study grants

• Access to low-cost housing

10. Qatar University Scholarships (Qatar)

Qatar University offers numerous undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to international students.

Why No IELTS/TOEFL

The university accepts:

• Institutional English tests

• English proficiency letters

• Foundation programs

Benefits

• Tuition waivers

• Accommodation support

• Monthly stipends (for certain categories)

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Other Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS or TOEFL (Honorable Mentions)

If you want more options, here are additional programs with flexible language requirements:

• University of Helsinki Scholarships (Finland)

• OIST Internship Awards (Japan)

• ADB-Japan Scholarship Program

• Hungary Stipendium Scholarship

• King Saud University Scholarships

These programs may require alternative forms of English proof instead of standardized tests.

General Requirements to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS/TOEFL

Although the requirements vary, most scholarships require:

• Academic transcripts

• Recommendation letters

• Motivation or personal statement

• Passport or ID

• Language proficiency (via MOI or internal test)

• Research proposal (for postgraduate studies)

How to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify scholarships that accept alternatives

Step 2: Prepare your “Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI)”

This is the most common replacement for IELTS/TOEFL.

Step 3: Submit your application online

Ensure your documents are complete and meet the program’s standards.

Step 4: Attend interviews (if required)

Some universities verify English ability through interviews.

Step 5: Wait for your admission or scholarship decision

Why This List Is Important for International Students

• Saves IELTS/TOEFL exam costs

• Reduces application stress

• Expands global opportunities

• Offers alternatives to expensive testing centers

• Encourages equal access to education

Final Thoughts

Finding scholarships that don’t require IELTS or TOEFL is entirely possible in 2025/2026. Many universities and government-funded programs now offer flexible language requirements and accept alternatives like English proficiency letters or internal tests.

Whether you’re targeting Germany, Japan, China, the UK, Turkey, Italy, Canada, or Qatar, there are multiple opportunities available. Start preparing your documents early, apply to multiple scholarships, and follow the specific guidelines of each program.

Your dream of studying abroad is achievable—even without standardized English tests.