Study abroad dreams shouldn’t be derailed by a language test. For international students, the IELTS requirement can be a significant hurdle, but it’s one that many top scholarships no longer demand. In 2026, numerous global scholarships are embracing flexibility, accepting English Proficiency Certificates instead of test scores. This opens a world of opportunity for thousands of students who have completed their previous education in English. Study Abroad without IELTS
Here is a guide to 20 renowned international scholarships for 2026 that allow you to study in prestigious universities worldwide without taking the IELTS.
Why you may not need the IELTS?
While the IELTS is a common benchmark for English language skills, many universities and scholarship bodies offer alternative ways to prove your proficiency.
- Proof from previous education: If your prior degree was taught in English, you can obtain an English Proficiency Certificate from your university. This official document states that English was the medium of instruction and is widely accepted as an alternative to the IELTS.
- Countries with alternatives: Several countries are increasingly accepting non-IELTS alternatives. Leading destinations like China, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, and Germany understand that language competence can be demonstrated in various ways, making them excellent options for applicants who meet the proficiency criteria through other means.
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Top 20 scholarships without IELTS to apply for in 2026
1. MEXT Scholarship (Japan):
This fully funded scholarship covers tuition, airfare, and living costs for undergraduate and graduate programs. An English Proficiency Certificate is sufficient for admission.
2. Türkiye Burslari Scholarship (Turkey)
The Türkiye Burslari Scholarship is a fully funded program for all levels of study. It includes tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. Applicants can apply with an English Proficiency Certificate.
3. CSC Scholarship – Chinese Government (China)
China’s CSC Scholarship supports international students in over 280 universities. It covers full tuition and housing and doesn’t require IELTS if your previous education was in English.
4. Open Doors Scholarship (Russia)
Offered by the Russian government, this scholarship targets Master’s and PhD students. You can apply without IELTS and choose from diverse academic fields.
5. Global Korea Scholarship (South Korea)
The GKS Scholarship provides a full ride to undergraduate and graduate students. Many Korean universities accept English Proficiency Certificates instead of IELTS.
6. Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
MIS is offered by the Malaysian government for Master’s and PhD programs. Applicants from English-medium institutions can apply without IELTS.
7. KNB Scholarship (Indonesia)
The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship supports students from developing countries. No IELTS is require if English was the medium of instruction.
8. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary)
Hungary’s Stipendium Hungaricum covers tuition, accommodation, and health insurance for all levels. IELTS-free applications are accept with a proficiency certificate.
9. Kazakhstan Government Scholarship (Kazakhstan)
Kazakhstan offers scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, accepting English proficiency letters instead of IELTS.
10. Study Abroad without IELTS | ANSO Scholarship (China)
The Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO) offers fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhD students in Chinese universities — no IELTS required.
11. Italian Government & University Scholarships (Italy)
Italy welcomes international students with scholarships that often don’t require IELTS if you have studied in English previously.
12. GIST Scholarship (South Korea)
The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) offers full scholarships for graduate programs. IELTS is optional if you present an English proficiency letter.
13. DAAD EPOS Scholarship (Germany)
Germany’s DAAD EPOS program provides scholarships for development-related fields. Some courses accept English proficiency certificates instead of IELTS.
14. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship (Europe)
The prestigious Erasmus Mundus Scholarship offers joint Master’s programs across Europe. Some partner universities waive IELTS if you studied in English.
No, an English Proficiency Certificate is often accepted in place of the IELTS by some universities participating in the program.
15. Brunei Darussalam University Scholarship (Brunei)
Fully funded for all levels, this scholarship covers tuition, airfare, and stipends. Applicants can apply without IELTS if their prior degree was taught in English.
16. Azerbaijan Government Scholarship (Azerbaijan)
This program for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students does not make the IELTS a mandatory requirement.
17. Shanghai Government Scholarship (China)
A full package covering tuition, accommodation, and a stipend is available for students at Shanghai universities, with no IELTS needed if you can prove English proficiency
18. Taiwan International Graduate Program (Taiwan)
The TIGP provides full financial support for graduate research, and students from English-medium universities are exempt from the IELTS.
19. Thailand AIT Scholarship (Thailand)
The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) offers scholarships to international students and grants IELTS exemptions to those from English-medium academic backgrounds.
20. Nanjing University Scholarship (China)
Offering scholarships for various programs, Nanjing University waives the IELTS for students who can provide proof of English proficiency from their prior institution.
Benefits of Applying for Study Abroad without IELTS
- No extra testing costs – IELTS exams can be expensive.
- Faster applications – You can apply directly using your academic certificates.
- Equal access – Students from non-native countries get fair chances to study abroad.
- More confidence – You focus on your academic achievements, not language scores.
How to apply for these scholarships
Follow these steps to navigate the application process smoothly:
- Review eligibility: Always check the specific eligibility criteria on the official scholarship website.
- Obtain proof of proficiency: Request an English Proficiency Certificate from your previous academic institution.
- Prepare documents: Gather all required documents, including transcripts, motivation letters, and letters of recommendation.
- Adhere to deadlines: Pay close attention to deadlines and submit your application on time.
- Prepare for interviews (if needed): Some scholarships may require an online or written interview.
Maximize your chances of success
- Strong motivation letter: Craft a compelling letter that clearly outlines your academic and career goals.
- Exceptional recommendations: Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors or mentors who know you well.
- High academic standing: A strong academic record with a high GPA can significantly boost your application.
- Highlight experience: Mention relevant volunteering or research experience to demonstrate your commitment and skills.
- Apply early: Submitting your application well before the deadline gives you an advantage
Conclusion
Your dream of studying abroad is more achievable than ever, even without the IELTS. These 20 scholarships open up incredible opportunities at prestigious universities around the globe. By leveraging your prior English-medium education, you can confidently apply and focus on your academic achievements. Use this guide to find the right opportunity for you and take the first step toward your international education in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apply for scholarships without IELTS if my degree was in English?
Yes, most universities and scholarship providers will accept an official English Proficiency Certificate from your previous institution as proof of language skills.
2. Are these scholarships fully funded?
Yes, the scholarships listed in this article are generally fully funded and cover tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
3. Which countries offer the most accessible IELTS-free scholarships?
Countries like China, Turkey, and Japan are known for offering numerous accessible scholarship opportunities that don’t require the IELTS.
4. How do I get an English Proficiency Certificate?
You can request this document from the registrar’s office or the administration of the university where you completed your previous degree.
Study Abroad without IELTS | 20 Top Global Scholarships for 2026