Study Abroad Without IELTS 2026: Top Countries, Requirements

International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )

Raushan
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Updated on Dec 16, 2025 12:42 IST
Check out the alternative options available for students who want to study abroad without giving language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Despite the IELTS being a significant credential to get into top universities in the world, there are still colleges that offer high-class and quality education to students without clearing the IELTS exam

Wish to study abroad but do not have an IELTS score? Do not worry, you can get into top universities even without an IELTS score. In this article, we will talk about how to study abroad without IELTS, universities in USA/UK/Canada/Australia that do not require an IELTS score.

Study Abroad Without IELTS

Do you have a dream to study abroad but you are worried about the IELTS exam? Many students feel tension because of this test. We think that without a high band score, we cannot go to a foreign country. But actually, this is not true anymore. Many top universities in UK, Europe, and Australia are changing their rules. They understand that just one exam is not the only way to check your English.

For Indian students, the best option is the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. This is a simple paper from your school or college. If your study was fully in English language, your principal can give this certificate. It prove that you know English well. Also, many colleges say that if you have good marks in Class 12 English subject (like 70% or 80%), then you don't need IELTS.

By using these ways, you can save lot of money and time. You dont need to join expensive coaching classes. You can get admission in top ranking universities directly based on your past study. This is a great chance for you to start your career without the stress of extra exams.

Table of contents
  • Can You Study Abroad Without IELTS?
  • Top 10 Universities in World Without IELTS
  • Study in UK without IELTS
  • Study in Canada without IELTS
  • Study in US without IELTS
  • Admission in Europe without IELTS
  • Study in Australia without IELTS
View More

Can You Study Abroad Without IELTS?

Yes, absolutely! You can study abroad even if you do not take the IELTS exam. Many student think this is not possible, but that is wrong thinking.

Here is how you can do this:

  1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: This is very famous method. If you studied in your school or college in English language, you can take this paper from your principal. It just say that "this student has completed education in English." Many universities in Europe and UK accept this paper and don't ask for IELTS.

  2. Class 12 English Marks: Some colleges just see your report card. If you got more than 70% or 80% marks in your English subject (in CBSE or ICSE board), they think your English is good. Big colleges like University of Bristol gives admission like this.

  3. School Interview: Sometimes, the college will take a small video call interview to talk to you. If you speak well there, you don't need exam.

So, dont take stress. Countries like Germany, Australia, and Ireland have many colleges where IELTS is not mandatory. You can save money and go for your dream degree easily.

Top 10 Universities in World Without IELTS 

Here is the table of the Top 10 Universities in world where you can apply without IELTS.

Rank University Name Country QS Ranking* How to Apply Without IELTS
1 Technical University of Munich (TUM) Germany 28 MOI Certificate stating that the language of instruction in Grade 12 was English (at least 50% of the program)
2 University of Queensland Australia 40 Class 12 Marks: 65-80% or better in English (depending on the board and program)
3 University of Bristol UK 54 Class 12 Marks: 70-80% in English for CBSE/ICSE students.
4 Trinity College Dublin Ireland 87 MOI Certificate from your previous institution or 75% in Class 12 English.
5 Humboldt University of Berlin Germany 126 MOI Certificate accepted for Master's programs (taught in English). Bachelor's usually requires German proficiency (TestDaF)
6 University of Leicester UK 285 Class 12 Marks: 70% in English (CBSE) or 80% (State Boards)
7 Dublin City University (DCU) Ireland 421 Class 12 Marks: 80% in English (CBSE/ICSE) or an MOI Certificate.
8 University of Salzburg Austria 600 MOI Certificate: Submit transcripts/degree showing your previous education was entirely in English.
9 University of Bedfordshire UK 1000+ Class 12 Marks: 60-70% in English (Standard 12th grade pass).
10 EPITA Graduate School of CS France N/A MOI Certificate from your high school/college stating the medium of instruction was English.

Study in UK without IELTS

Are you looking to study in UK? Then you must be aware of the standard examination tests that measure the level of your skills in English. IELTS is one of the most common and standard tests in the UK. Students whose mother tongue is not English are required to take it to show their English proficiency. However, there are some universities where students can study without considering the results of IELTS. Check the list of universities below in the UK to study without the IELTS exam. Also, check out How to study in the UK without IELTS.

Study in Canada without IELTS

Canada is another country on the list of studying abroad without IELTS. Canada follows specific rules for admitting international students without IELTS. For instance, if you have attended a school or lived for the last four years where English is considered the primary language of instruction, you are also not bound to give language proficiency proof. Some universities accept students who have not appeared for IELTS or TOEFL examinations, however, aspirants should meet certain criteria specified by the universities.

Study in US without IELTS

The United States is the world’s most demanding destination for international students to study abroad. Few of the popular universities in US grant admission to international students without asking for English proficiency tests. Students who have completed one year of full-time study at any US institution are exempt from meeting the criteria of applying through IELTS or TOEFL. Universities give admission to students who have cleared the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) and offer the Pathways Program to students who do not meet the English language requirements. Also Read: Study in the USA without IELTS

Admission in Europe without IELTS

Apart from this, many European countries like GermanyHolland, and Norway also allow international students to apply to their universities without taking IELTS. If the candidate possesses excellent communication skills and can prove that their prior education was conducted entirely in English, then they can avail the privilege of not applying through IELTS. If you belong to a non-English speaking country then you need to prove your efficiency in the English language. The first and foremost step is to go to the university’s website and check the entire process of applying without an IELTS score. 

Summary of key factors to consider before applying to universities without qualifying for any language tests:

  • Candidates should be able to submit supporting proof that they pursued their education in an English medium institution.
  • Candidates should submit proof that they have studied English as a subject between eighth to twelfth standards.
  • Students should undergo the institution’s assessment; they would be required to give telephonic or video interviews, as per the specific requirements of the university.

Also Read: Study in Europe without IELTS

Study in Australia without IELTS

Suppose you wish to study in Australia without taking the IELTS test. In that case, it is completely possible with the only condition that the students must have pursued their education from institutes that are recognised by the Australian Education System. Indian students seeking an exemption from the IELTS test must present their AISSCE certificate issued by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Along with this, students who have completed their UG/PG degrees from recognised institutions where the medium of instruction was English can also be exempted from presenting their English test scores. Check out the Australian universities that exempt students from taking the IELTS test below.

The biggest challenge to overcome while applying to foreign universities is to qualify for the requirements of IELTS and TOEFL. This was all about without IELTS study visa countries list. We are hopeful that our research on Studying abroad without IELTS will help you understand this complex procedure and will guide you further while you apply to different universities. All the best!

Related Articles

Q:   Which country is the best for studying without IELTS?
A:

Australia, Canada, the UK, Germany, the USA, Malaysia, etc. are some of the popular countries to study abroad without IELTS.

Q:   Is abroad study without IELTS possible?
A:

Yes, abroad study without IELTS is possible. Candidates planning to study abroad must submit proof of school certificates stating that they have studied English as a subject from the 8th to 12th standard. Some universities require students to attain IELP (Intensive English Language Program) to get admission.

Q:   Is IELTS exam hard to crack?
A:

The difficulty of IELTS exam is not same for everyone. It depends on your English level and how much you prepare. Many students find IELTS Writing and IELTS Speaking little hard because you need good ideas and fluency.

But if you do practice and know the test format, the exam becomes easy. Focus more on your weak areas and you can get a good band score.

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About the Author
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Written by
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new Read Full Bio
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Comments

(52)

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shivani Singh

2 years ago

Hello, In year 2022 I have completed my MBA and now I want to get into PhD program abroad in some good university. It is possible to get admission into good university without ILETS ? From starting I am a CBSE student and enough good in English language as also I have some working experience with I

...Read more

Reply to shivani Singh

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Aastha Khatri

2 years ago

Hello i completed my BHM recently in 2022 in English medium securing 3.64 gpa .Currently, i'm looking for to pursue master's in event management abroad. Am i eligible to study masters in abroad without ilets and i'm from nepal.

Reply to Aastha Khatri

J

Jung Shah

2 years ago

Dependend ma lanu hunx 75 ma halxu

K

Khaja Banu

3 years ago

Hello i completed my B.com in 2018 and i clear bipc in 2022 in English medium. Am i eligible to study MBBS in aboard without ielts.

Reply to Khaja Banu

43308123
Chandra Shekhar

3 years ago

Hi Khaja Banu, yes you can still be eligible to study MBBS in abroad without IELTS in Russia, China, Kazakhastan, the Philippines, or any other Non-English speaking countries. However, you must require an IELTS score for English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Australia, etc. You can also check

...Read more

F

Florentin

3 years ago

i live in Romania. I have some questions, I hope you can helo me, so i failed the bachelor degree in Romania, i finished the high school. I want to know if it possible to study or to do my bachelor degree in another country. Here in Romania I was in a profile called "Natural Sciences" focused more

...Read more

Reply to Florentin

A

Aprant Agarwal

3 years ago

You can pursue your bachelor's degree in other countries as well. You need to look at different eligibility criteria for different countries, different universities, and different courses.

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Shilpee Saxena

3 years ago

Hi, I did my graduation from Hindi medium but MBA from English medium. Am I Eligible to study in abroad without IELTS. My English Laungage is average.

Reply to Shilpee Saxena

A

Aprant Agarwal

3 years ago

Hi. Every student, who belongs to a country where English is not the native language, is required to provide a proof of English language proficiency through IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE, etc.