Worried about missing out on scholarships because you haven’t taken IELTS or TOEFL? Don’t worry! Many top universities and governments now offer fully funded scholarships without English proficiency test requirements. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the Top 10 Scholarships in 2025 that waive IELTS/TOEFL.
Why Some Scholarships Skip IELTS/TOEFL
- Save money on expensive tests.
- Avoid delays in application processing.
- Universities often accept English proficiency from previous degrees.
- Some countries or programs exempt language requirements for certain students.
1. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Disciplines: All major streams
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not required if previous education was in English
- Benefits: Monthly allowance, travel grant, medical insurance
- Deadline: Varies (Mostly Oct–Dec)
- Tip: Submit your university’s English Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter.
2. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Usually waived for Pakistani, Indian, and African students
- Coverage: Tuition, living allowance
- Deadline: April–May
3. Turkiye Burslari Scholarships
- Level: Bachelor, Master’s, PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not needed; English interviews conducted
- Benefits: Tuition, monthly allowance, return ticket, accommodation
- Deadline: Jan–Feb 2025
4. GKS – Global Korea Scholarship
- Level: Bachelor, Master’s, PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Waived if previous degree was in English
- Benefits: Tuition, airfare, living allowance, Korean language course
- Deadline: Feb–Mar
5. CSC Scholarships – China
- Level: Bachelor, Master’s, PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not required for English-taught courses
- Requirements: English proficiency letter from previous institution
- Deadline: Dec–Mar
6. Emile Boutmy Scholarship – France (Sciences Po)
- Level: Bachelor & Master’s
- IELTS/TOEFL: Exempt for students from English-speaking institutions
- Benefits: Up to €13,000/year
- Deadline: Dec–Feb
7. Russian Government Scholarships
- Level: All levels
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not required
- Benefits: Tuition, housing, monthly stipend
- Deadline: Oct–Jan
8. Stipendium Hungaricum – Hungary
- Level: Bachelor, Master’s, PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not required by some universities
- Alternative: Previous institution letter + online interview
- Benefits: Tuition, housing, stipend
- Deadline: Mid-Jan
9. Italian Government Scholarships
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- IELTS/TOEFL: Not required for English-taught programs
- Requirements: Letter of English competence + interview
- Deadline: June
10. Mexican Government Scholarships
- Level: Graduate & Postgraduate
- IELTS/TOEFL: Often waived
- Coverage: Tuition, visa, living grant, airfare
- Deadline: May–June
How to Apply Without IELTS/TOEFL
- Request an English Proficiency Certificate (MOI) from your previous university.
- Check if the university conducts its own English interview/test.
- Prepare strong SOPs, recommendation letters, and transcripts.
- Apply early; requirements may vary by program or embassy.
- Sample request line:
“I have completed all my previous studies in English and have been certified by my university. I humbly request a waiver of the IELTS/TOEFL requirement.”
Final Thoughts
Don’t let IELTS or TOEFL stop you from achieving your study abroad dreams. Verify deadlines, prepare strong documents, and apply confidently. Hundreds of students have already won scholarships without English tests — you can too!
FAQs
1. Can I apply to these scholarships without IELTS/TOEFL?
Yes, most of these scholarships waive IELTS/TOEFL if your previous education was in English or through university certification.
2. What documents prove English proficiency?
A Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter or a transcript showing your previous studies were in English is usually sufficient.
3. Are these scholarships fully funded?
Yes, they typically cover tuition, living allowance, travel, and sometimes accommodation.
4. Can I apply if I studied in a non-English country?
Some programs may require additional proof of English proficiency or an interview. Check each scholarship’s criteria.
5. When should I apply?
Deadlines vary per scholarship but generally range from October to June. Early applications are recommended.
