For many international students, studying abroad is a life-changing opportunity—but one that often feels out of reach. Between expensive tuition fees, visa requirements, and language proficiency tests like IELTS, the hurdles can be overwhelming.
However, what if you could study abroad without IELTS and receive 100% funding to cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and more?
Yes, it's possible.
In 2025, dozens of countries and universities are opening their doors to bright students without requiring IELTS and offering fully funded scholarships that make your global education dreams a reality.
This article outlines everything you need to know—top scholarships, IELTS alternatives, countries that accept Medium of Instruction (MOI), and how to apply successfully.
Why Skip IELTS?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is widely used to assess English proficiency for academic and immigration purposes. However, the test comes with several disadvantages:
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High cost ($200–$300 per attempt)
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Time-consuming preparation
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Limited availability in rural regions
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Stressful exam conditions
Many students from low-income or conflict-affected countries find it nearly impossible to access or afford this test. That’s why choosing programs that don’t require IELTS can save both money and time.
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What Is Medium of Instruction (MOI)?
Many universities now accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as proof of English proficiency. This is an official letter from your previous school or university stating that your education was conducted in English.
Requirements for MOI:
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Issued on institutional letterhead
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Signed and stamped by the registrar
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Clearly mentions the language of instruction
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Ideally translated into English if not already
This option is widely accepted in Turkey, Germany, China, South Korea, Russia, Malaysia, and more.
Top Countries to Study Without IELTS and With 100% Scholarships
Here are countries where students can study on a fully funded basis without providing an IELTS score.
1. Germany
Why Germany?
Germany offers tuition-free education at most public universities—even for international students.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not mandatory at many universities
Alternatives: MOI certificate, university language tests
Top Scholarships:
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DAAD Scholarship – Covers tuition, living allowance, travel, insurance
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Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
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Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship
Fields: Engineering, Social Sciences, Medicine, Humanities
2. Turkey
Why Turkey?
Home to over 200 universities, Turkey combines affordable living with generous scholarships.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not required for most public universities
Alternatives: English-medium prior education
Top Scholarships:
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Türkiye Bursları (Turkey Government Scholarship) – Full tuition, accommodation, stipend, flight ticket, and insurance
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Bilkent University Scholarships
Fields: All major disciplines
3. China
Why China?
China is rapidly becoming a global education hub, offering English-taught programs with no IELTS requirement.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not needed for most CSC-funded programs
Alternatives: MOI or internal English test
Top Scholarships:
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Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) – Covers tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and airfare
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Schwarzman Scholars (Tsinghua University) – Elite leadership program for future global leaders
Fields: STEM, International Relations, Business
4. Russia
Why Russia?
Russia offers globally recognized degrees in medicine, engineering, and IT at low or no cost.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not required
Alternatives: University-conducted test or MOI
Top Scholarships:
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Open Doors Scholarship (Russian Government) – Full tuition, dormitory, visa support, and living stipend
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Russian Federation Scholarships for Foreign Nationals
Fields: IT, Medicine, Engineering, Arts
5. Malaysia
Why Malaysia?
Malaysia offers high-quality education with relatively low living costs, and many programs are taught in English.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not mandatory for many universities
Alternatives: MOI or institutional interview
Top Scholarships:
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Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) – Full tuition, monthly allowance, and travel
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UCSI University Trust Scholarship
Fields: Business, IT, Medicine, Science
6. South Korea
Why South Korea?
An innovation hub with a strong education system, Korea provides numerous scholarships for foreign students.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Optional for most GKS tracks
Alternatives: MOI, internal university assessment
Top Scholarships:
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Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – Full tuition, airfare, stipend, settlement allowance
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KAIST and POSTECH Scholarships
Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, Management
7. France
Why France?
France offers low tuition fees and multiple fully funded scholarships for students globally.
IELTS Requirement: ❌ Not compulsory for English-taught programs
Alternatives: MOI or language waiver
Top Scholarships:
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Eiffel Excellence Scholarship – Monthly stipend, full tuition, travel and insurance
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École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection
Fields: Sciences, Law, Humanities, Social Sciences
Pro Tips to Win Scholarships Without IELTS
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Get a Medium of Instruction Certificate Early
This is your IELTS alternative—make sure it's well formatted and officially signed. -
Apply Early and Widely
Many scholarships close 6–12 months before the academic year starts. Use global platforms like ScholarshipPortal, DAAD, or Opportunity Desk. -
Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Since you’re applying without IELTS, your academic motivation and English writing skills need to stand out. -
Prepare for Virtual Interviews
Some universities may assess your spoken English via Zoom or Skype. -
Build a Strong Resume/CV
Include academic achievements, volunteer work, language skills, and any published research.
Final Thoughts: Your Dream of Studying Abroad Is Within Reach
Don’t let IELTS or financial barriers stop you from accessing quality education. Thanks to forward-thinking universities and governments, there are now hundreds of opportunities to study abroad without IELTS and with 100% funding.