Studying abroad is a dream for millions of students worldwide, but one common barrier is the requirement to take standardized English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. These tests are expensive, time-consuming, and stressful—especially for students from developing countries or conflict-affected regions.
But here’s the good news: many top universities and organizations now offer fully funded scholarships without requiring TOEFL scores. Whether you're from a non-English-speaking country or simply unable to take the exam due to cost or accessibility, there are alternatives.
This article highlights some of the best fully funded scholarships that don't require TOEFL and explains how you can qualify without traditional language exams.
Why Avoiding TOEFL Can Be a Game-Changer
Taking the TOEFL test typically costs between $180 and $300, not including prep courses or travel to testing centers. For students in under-resourced regions, this expense can be a major roadblock.
Benefits of TOEFL-Free Scholarships:
-
Save money and time
-
Accessible to more students
-
Alternative English proof options accepted
-
Faster application process
These scholarships also often accept proof of English proficiency through prior education in English, interviews, or institutional assessments—making the entire process more flexible and inclusive.
High CPC Keywords in This Niche
In addition to helping students, content in this niche performs well with high-cost-per-click (CPC) keywords, including:
-
Scholarships without TOEFL
-
Fully funded scholarships no IELTS required
-
Study abroad without English test
-
Free scholarships for international students
-
Tuition-free universities without TOEFL
Targeting these keywords can boost your blog’s monetization potential through ads or affiliate programs.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships That Don’t Require TOEFL (2025 Edition)
Here are the most prominent scholarships that do not require TOEFL or IELTS and offer full financial support:
1. Türkiye Burslari Scholarships – Turkey
Host Country: Turkey
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel costs
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
Proof of prior education in English
-
University-specific interviews or assessments
Why It’s Great:
This government-funded program is one of the most generous in the world and doesn't demand any standardized English test for non-English programs.
2. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Host Country: China
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, housing, health insurance, stipend, and sometimes airfare
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
Letter from previous institution confirming English-medium instruction (MOI)
-
University-conducted English test
Why Choose This:
Chinese universities are rapidly climbing global rankings, and many now offer English-taught programs that don’t require TOEFL or IELTS.
3. Russian Government Open Doors Scholarship
Host Country: Russia
Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, visa support, dormitory, and living stipend
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
Online English test by university
-
Interview or prior English-medium degree
Why It’s Unique:
The Open Doors initiative is specifically designed for international students and offers English and Russian language programs, many without requiring formal English tests.
4. Hungary Government Stipendium Hungaricum
Host Country: Hungary
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, monthly allowance, housing, medical insurance
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate
-
In-house English language exam
What Makes It Valuable:
A highly competitive European scholarship with English-taught programs, flexible requirements, and excellent university partners.
5. MEXT Scholarships – Japan
Host Country: Japan
Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Graduate, Research
Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel allowance
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
University-conducted English test
-
MOI from previous institution
-
Japanese language programs also available
Why Consider This:
Japan’s government is actively globalizing its universities, and MEXT is one of the most prestigious scholarships worldwide with no strict English test prerequisite.
6. University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship
Host Country: Brunei
Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, return airfare, housing
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
Prior education in English
-
English placement test/interview
What’s Special:
Brunei offers high-quality education in English, and their flagship university runs a generous scholarship program without needing TOEFL or IELTS.
7. GKS (Global Korea Scholarship)
Host Country: South Korea
Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, airfare, settlement allowance, Korean language training
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
MOI certificate
-
Language test after arrival (for Korean programs)
Why Apply:
South Korea’s scholarship scheme is among the most well-funded in Asia, offering a rich cultural and academic experience without rigid language test rules.
8. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Host Countries: Multiple European countries
Degree Level: Master’s
Coverage: Tuition, travel, living allowance, and insurance
TOEFL Requirement: ❌ Often Not Required
English Proof Alternatives:
-
MOI certificate
-
Internal language test
-
Some programs may accept Duolingo
Key Benefit:
Study in two or more countries in Europe under a fully funded joint degree without needing TOEFL for most tracks.
What Is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate?
If you studied in English but lack TOEFL or IELTS, many universities accept a Medium of Instruction certificate—a letter from your previous institution stating that your education was conducted in English.
Tips for Using MOI:
-
Must be on official letterhead
-
Signed and stamped by the registrar or department head
-
Clearly state the language of instruction was English
-
Ideally translated if not in English
Pro Tips for Applying Without TOEFL
-
Read the University’s Language Policy Carefully
Many universities quietly state that TOEFL is “preferred” but not required if MOI is provided. -
Email the Admissions Office
Clarify your eligibility without TOEFL; many are flexible if you show other evidence of proficiency. -
Prepare for Online Interviews
Some universities assess English skills during a virtual interview—be prepared to speak clearly and confidently. -
Use Alternatives Like Duolingo English Test
Accepted by over 4000 universities globally, it's cheaper and more accessible than TOEFL or IELTS.
Final Thoughts: Study Abroad Without Barriers
Language tests like TOEFL shouldn't stand in the way of your dreams. Today’s world is moving toward accessibility, flexibility, and inclusion, and that includes removing unnecessary barriers to education.