Scholarships Without IELTS in 2027

Scholarships without IELTS do exist, but the phrase can be misleading. In most cases, “without IELTS” does not mean that English proficiency is irrelevant. It usually means that the scholarship provider or university may accept another form of proof, such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, Cambridge English, an institutional test, or evidence that your previous degree was taught in English.

What Does “Scholarship Without IELTS” Actually Mean?

Students often search for “fully funded scholarships without IELTS” expecting programs that require no English evidence at all. That is not usually how the system works.

A scholarship application and a university admission application can have different requirements. A scholarship organization may not require IELTS, while the university still requires proof of English. The reverse can also happen: a university may waive IELTS for a student who completed previous education in English, while a scholarship program requests separate language evidence.

The safest interpretation is:

• No IELTS required: IELTS is not mandatory.
• Alternative English proof accepted: another test or document can be used instead.
• English requirement waived: the institution has formally exempted the applicant from submitting language proof.
• No language requirement: uncommon for English-taught degree programs and should never be assumed.

Common IELTS Alternatives Accepted by Universities

Depending on the university and scholarship, international applicants may be able to use one of the following alternatives:

The exact list differs by institution. For example, current DAAD scholarship guidance for some programs lists multiple acceptable forms of English proof, including Cambridge English, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and in some cases the Duolingo English Test. Other DAAD programs can have stricter rules, which is why applicants must read the exact scholarship call and university requirements.

What Is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate?

A Medium of Instruction certificate is a document issued by a school, college, or university confirming the language in which your previous program was taught. If your previous degree was fully taught in English, some universities may accept an MOI certificate instead of IELTS.

A useful MOI letter typically includes:

• Your full name.
• The qualification you completed.
• The dates or academic period of study.
• A clear statement that the program was taught in English.
• The institution’s official letterhead.
• Signature and/or stamp from an authorized academic or administrative office.
• Contact information for verification.

Do not create your own MOI letter or use an unofficial template without institutional verification. The document should come from the institution that delivered your previous education.

Scholarship Systems Where IELTS May Not Be Mandatory

The following examples show how “without IELTS” can work in practice. They are not a guarantee that every 2027 applicant will be exempt from IELTS. Requirements can change by cycle, university, course, nationality, and scholarship route.

1. Chevening Scholarship

Chevening is one of the clearest examples of the difference between a scholarship requirement and a university requirement. Chevening officially removed its own English-language requirement in 2020. This means applicants do not need to submit an English test score simply to satisfy a Chevening English-language rule.

However, Chevening also states that applicants still need to meet the English-language requirements of their chosen UK universities and secure the required university offer. Therefore, a student may apply for Chevening without IELTS but still need IELTS—or another accepted form of English evidence—to receive university admission.

Official source: Chevening English-language requirement FAQ.

2. Chinese Government Scholarship and University Scholarship Routes

Some Chinese universities explicitly accept alternatives to IELTS for English-taught scholarship programs. Current 2026/2027 examples show why China can be relevant for students searching for scholarships without IELTS.

Southwest Jiaotong University’s 2026/2027 Chinese Government Scholarship guidance states that non-native English speakers applying to English-taught programs may submit an IELTS/TOEFL-equivalent score, a certificate from the previous university confirming that the prior degree was taught in English, or other documents proving English proficiency.

Official source: Southwest Jiaotong University 2026/2027 CSC guide.

China Agricultural University’s 2026 Beijing Government Scholarship guide also allows applicants for English-taught programs to present IELTS, TOEFL, or certification that the applicant’s highest degree was completed through English-medium instruction.

Official source: China Agricultural University scholarship guidance.

Another current example is Chongqing University’s 2026 joint scholarship guide, which accepts IELTS/TOEFL, a certificate that the previous degree was taught in English, or evidence of more than one year of study in an English-speaking country for relevant English-taught programs.

Official source: Chongqing University scholarship guide.

3. DAAD Scholarships in Germany

DAAD scholarship programs do not follow one universal IELTS rule. Language evidence depends on the scholarship program and the language of instruction. Current DAAD guidance for some scholarship programs lists several possible forms of English-language proof, including IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, PTE Academic, and in some cases Duolingo English Test or other accepted certificates.

That means a student may be able to apply without IELTS if the specific DAAD program and target university accept a different form of proof. However, some DAAD calls explicitly require particular scores or certificates, so applicants should not assume that MOI alone will be accepted.

Official source: DAAD Scholarship Database – language requirements example.

4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters can provide highly competitive scholarships, but there is no single IELTS rule covering every Erasmus Mundus program. The official Erasmus+ guidance explains that applicants apply directly to the institution or consortium running the selected master’s program, and each program website publishes its own entry requirements.

Therefore, whether you can apply without IELTS depends on the specific Erasmus Mundus program. One consortium may accept TOEFL or another test, another may accept previous English-medium education, and another may require IELTS.

Official source: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters.

Scholarships Without IELTS: What to Check

Which Countries May Offer IELTS Alternatives?

There is no country where every university automatically waives IELTS. The decision is usually made at the institution or program level. However, students commonly find alternatives in countries where universities accept multiple standardized tests or recognize previous English-medium education.

China

China is one of the strongest examples because some current university scholarship notices explicitly accept previous English-medium degree certificates or other approved English-proficiency evidence for English-taught programs.

If China is one of your target destinations, explore study options in China, compare international programs, and read WiseAdmit’s CSC Scholarship guide.

United Kingdom

Some UK universities accept alternatives to IELTS depending on the applicant’s educational background, nationality, degree, and course. Chevening itself does not impose its own English-language test requirement, but university admission requirements still apply.

Germany

English-taught German programs may accept different recognized English tests. DAAD scholarship calls also vary. Some list several accepted certificates, while others are stricter. German-taught programs have separate German-language requirements.

Other European Destinations

For Erasmus Mundus and other university scholarships, language requirements are normally set by the specific consortium or institution. Students should compare programs individually rather than assuming that a country-wide waiver exists.

How to Find Scholarships Without IELTS

Instead of searching only for the phrase “scholarship without IELTS,” use a more systematic process.

Step 1: Start With Official Scholarship Pages

Find scholarships that match your nationality, degree level, subject, and destination first. Do not reject a scholarship simply because an old blog says IELTS is required or not required.

Step 2: Check the University Language Requirement

Look for an official section titled:

• English language requirements
• Language proficiency
• International admissions
• English waiver
• Medium of instruction
• Accepted English tests

Step 3: Look for Accepted Alternatives

Search for wording such as:

• “previous degree taught in English”
• “English-medium instruction”
• “certificate from previous university”
• “TOEFL or equivalent”
• “PTE Academic accepted”
• “Duolingo accepted”
• “English proficiency interview”

Step 4: Confirm Ambiguous Rules in Writing

If the official page is unclear, email the university admissions office. Ask a precise question:

“I completed my bachelor’s degree fully in English and can provide an official Medium of Instruction certificate. For the 2027 intake of the MSc in ___, can this document replace IELTS for admission and scholarship consideration?”

Keep the written response for your records.

How to Apply Using an MOI Certificate

If a university accepts MOI, follow these steps:

1. Request the certificate from your previous institution.
2. Make sure it explicitly states that your degree/program was taught in English.
3. Use official letterhead and obtain the required signature or stamp.
4. Check whether the document must be recent.
5. Upload it in the correct language-proficiency section of the application.
6. If the university has a separate scholarship portal, upload it there too if required.
7. Keep the original or certified copy in case the university asks for verification.

Documents You May Need for Scholarships Without IELTS

Language proof is only one part of the application. A typical international scholarship application may require:

• Passport.
• Academic transcripts.
• Degree certificate or expected-graduation document.
• CV or résumé.
• Motivation letter or scholarship essay.
• Study plan or research proposal.
• Recommendation letters.
• Language evidence such as MOI, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, Cambridge, or another accepted certificate.
• Employment certificates for programs requiring work experience.
• Medical examination documents where applicable.
• Police or non-criminal record where applicable.
• University application or admission offer where required.

Can a Fully Funded Scholarship Be Available Without IELTS?

Yes. “Fully funded” describes the financial package; “without IELTS” describes one part of the language-admission process. They are separate concepts.

A fully funded scholarship may include:

• Full tuition.
• Accommodation or housing allowance.
• Monthly living stipend.
• Medical insurance.
• Travel support.
• Visa or settlement allowances in some programs.

Whether IELTS is required depends on the scholarship and university. A fully funded scholarship may accept MOI or TOEFL, while a partial scholarship at another university may require IELTS. Never assume funding level determines English-language rules.

Scholarship Requirement vs University Requirement

This distinction is so important that every applicant should create a two-column checklist:

You need to satisfy both sides when the scholarship depends on university admission.

Does MOI Also Work for the Student Visa?

Not necessarily. A university’s decision to accept MOI does not automatically determine immigration requirements. Visa authorities can have different rules regarding language evidence, financial proof, admission documents, and credibility assessments.

Always check the official immigration requirements for the destination country after receiving admission. Do not rely only on a university waiver when planning your visa application.

Can You Get a Scholarship With Low GPA and No IELTS?

It can be more difficult because you are asking the scholarship provider to evaluate a profile with two potential constraints. However, the answer depends entirely on the scholarship.

If your GPA is below the mandatory minimum, an IELTS waiver will not solve that problem. If the scholarship has no strict GPA cutoff and evaluates leadership, work experience, community impact, or other achievements, your broader profile may still matter.

The best approach is:

• Filter out programs where you fail a mandatory academic rule.
• Prioritize universities that accept your form of English evidence.
• Strengthen your CV, essays, recommendations, and academic explanation where relevant.
• Apply to a balanced list instead of only highly selective scholarships.

Common Mistakes When Searching for IELTS-Free Scholarships

• Assuming “no IELTS” means no English requirement.
• Using a random blog as proof that MOI is accepted.
• Applying with MOI when the university requires a standardized test.
• Checking the scholarship rules but not the university rules.
• Ignoring visa-language requirements.
• Using an outdated 2024 or 2025 scholarship notice for a 2027 application.
• Submitting an unofficial MOI letter.
• Assuming all programs at the same university use the same language policy.
• Believing every English-taught program accepts Duolingo.
• Waiting until the deadline to discover that a language test is required.

2027 Application Strategy

This is a planning framework, not a universal scholarship calendar. Individual 2027 deadlines can differ significantly.

How WiseAdmit Can Help

WiseAdmit can help you compare the scholarship and program together instead of treating “IELTS-free scholarship” as a standalone search.

• Explore international scholarships.
• Compare study abroad programs.
• Research study destinations.
• Explore study opportunities in China.
• Read the CSC Scholarship guide.
• Use WiseScore to explore options relative to your profile.

Official Sources to Verify Before Applying

• Chevening – English language requirement FAQ
• Southwest Jiaotong University – CSC 2026/2027
• China Agricultural University – Scholarship guidance
• Chongqing University – Scholarship guidance
• DAAD Scholarship Database
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?

Yes, if the scholarship and university accept another form of English evidence or waive the requirement for your profile. Possible alternatives include TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo English Test, Cambridge English, MOI, or previous English-medium education.

Is an MOI certificate enough for a scholarship?

Only if the scholarship and university explicitly accept it. Some universities accept MOI for English-taught programs, while others require a standardized English test regardless of previous education.

Does Chevening require IELTS?

Chevening itself removed its English-language requirement, but applicants still need to meet the English-language admission requirements of their chosen UK university.

Does the CSC Scholarship require IELTS?

There is no single IELTS rule for every Chinese Government Scholarship university. Some universities accept previous English-medium education or other proof for English-taught programs, while others require IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent scores.

Can I use Duolingo instead of IELTS?

Sometimes. Acceptance depends on the scholarship and university. Some current DAAD scholarship guidance lists Duolingo English Test among possible English certificates for particular programs, but not every DAAD or university program accepts it.

Which country is best for scholarships without IELTS?

There is no single best country. China can offer strong opportunities where some universities accept English-medium proof, while UK, German, and European programs may accept alternatives depending on the institution. Choose based on your degree, eligibility, funding, and admission fit rather than the IELTS rule alone.

Can I apply before receiving my MOI certificate?

Only if the application system allows missing documents or later submission. Many scholarship applications require a complete file by the deadline, so request the MOI certificate early.

Are scholarships without IELTS easier to win?

No. Waiving IELTS only changes one admission requirement. Scholarship selection can still be highly competitive and may depend on academic results, leadership, work experience, research quality, essays, recommendations, or other criteria.