Study Abroad Without IELTS: Scholarships & Alternatives

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS for International Students

Many international students search for fully funded scholarships that do not require IELTS. The important point is that “without IELTS” does not always mean “without English-language requirements.” In many cases, the scholarship itself does not make IELTS mandatory, while the selected university or degree programme may accept another test, a language certificate, an interview, or another form of evidence.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

This guide covers 10 major fully funded scholarship programmes or scholarship routes where IELTS may not be mandatory at the scholarship-application level or where official alternatives can exist. Requirements vary by country, university, programme, degree level and application route, so applicants should always verify the final admission requirements before applying.

Important Notice:
A scholarship being listed as “without IELTS” does not guarantee that every applicant can study without an English-language test. Some universities and programmes may still require IELTS, TOEFL, another approved test, or other evidence of language proficiency. Always check the specific university and programme requirements before submitting an application.

What Does “Without IELTS” Really Mean?

IELTS is an English-language proficiency test used by many universities around the world. However, scholarship programmes and universities do not all use the same language requirements.

When students see the phrase “study abroad without IELTS”, it can refer to several different situations:

The scholarship application itself does not require IELTS.
The university accepts TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English, Duolingo or another approved test.
The university accepts an official Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate in specific circumstances.
The university assesses English proficiency through an interview or another institutional process.
The programme is taught in a language other than English and therefore uses different language requirements.
The scholarship application and university admission have separate language requirements.

Key Information:
There is an important difference between “IELTS is not required for the scholarship application” and “IELTS is not required for university admission.” The first can be true while the second is not.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarship Options Without IELTS

The following programmes are presented as major options to investigate rather than as a guarantee that every applicant will qualify without IELTS. The language column explains the situation applicants should expect.

Scholarship	Country / Region	Main Study Level	IELTS Situation
1. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)	South Korea	Undergraduate & Graduate	IELTS/TOEFL certificates can be optional under the GKS application rules, but universities or departments may impose their own requirements.
2. MEXT Scholarship	Japan	Undergraduate, Research & Other Categories	Requirements vary by route, university and programme; language examinations and proof can be part of selection or admission.
3. Türkiye Scholarships	Türkiye	Undergraduate, Master's & PhD	Language tests are required only where the selected university or programme requires them, although some programmes have specific language requirements.
4. Stipendium Hungaricum	Hungary	Bachelor's, Master's & PhD	Requirements depend on the programme; some official programme listings accept an English-medium education certificate instead of an IELTS score.
5. Chevening Scholarship	United Kingdom	Master's	Chevening itself removed its English-language requirement, but applicants must still satisfy the chosen university's requirements.
6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters	Europe & Partner Countries	Master's	Language requirements are set by individual Erasmus Mundus programmes and their university consortiums.
7. DAAD Scholarships	Germany	Mainly Master's, PhD & Research	IELTS is not the only possible proof; DAAD guidance allows other recognised evidence of English proficiency in relevant circumstances.
8. Schwarzman Scholars	China	Master's	Applicants whose previous degree was taught in English for the specified period may receive an English-test waiver.
9. CAS-ANSO Scholarship	China	Master's & PhD	Language requirements are connected to the admission requirements of USTC, UCAS or the relevant CAS institute and programme.
10. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)	China	Undergraduate, Master's & PhD	Requirements vary substantially by university and programme; some institutions accept proof that previous education was taught in English instead of IELTS.

1. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a South Korean government scholarship programme for international students. It covers different study routes, including undergraduate and graduate opportunities, depending on the relevant annual programme.

One of the most useful points for students looking specifically for scholarships without IELTS is that the 2026 GKS graduate guidance states that English and Korean language-proficiency certificates are optional. Applicants can therefore apply without an IELTS or TOEFL certificate under the central GKS application rules. However, the same guidance warns that individual universities or departments may require a minimum language level.

This makes GKS one of the clearest examples of a scholarship where IELTS can be unnecessary at the scholarship application stage, while university-level requirements still need to be checked.

Best Point to Understand:
For GKS, the absence of an IELTS certificate does not automatically prevent an application. However, an individual university or department can still impose language requirements.

Typical GKS Study Routes

Undergraduate study
Master's study
Doctoral study
Research-related routes under applicable calls

Language Requirement

The 2026 GKS graduate guidance identifies TOEFL iBT and IELTS as optional language-proficiency evidence. It also states that some universities or departments may require minimum language proficiency. Therefore, applicants should not assume that every participating university will accept an application without language evidence.

How to Apply

Check the current GKS announcement and eligibility requirements.
Choose the appropriate application track.
Review participating universities and available programmes.
Prepare academic and personal documents.
Check the language requirements of the specific university and department.
Submit the application through the appropriate embassy or university route.

Official source: Study in Korea / Global Korea Scholarship information and application guidance. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. MEXT Scholarship — Japan

The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship is one of Japan's major government scholarship programmes for international students. It includes several categories, such as research students, undergraduate students, teacher-training students, Japanese studies students, college of technology students and specialised training college students.

The official Study in Japan website explains that applicants can apply through embassy recommendation or university recommendation, and that requirements can vary according to the scholarship category, university and programme.

This means students searching for “MEXT without IELTS” should not assume that there is one universal IELTS rule for every MEXT applicant.

Why MEXT Appears on a No-IELTS List

The important issue is that MEXT has different application routes and programme-specific requirements. Some routes involve examinations and university-level requirements rather than a universal IELTS requirement. The official MEXT information specifically instructs applicants to check the latest application guidelines and the requirements of the relevant embassy or university.

Major MEXT Categories

Research students
Undergraduate students
Teacher training students
Japanese studies students
College of technology students
Specialized training college students
Young Leaders Program

Important MEXT Warning

Warning:
Do not treat “MEXT without IELTS” as a universal rule. The official MEXT website states that detailed qualifications and procedures can vary and applicants must follow the latest application guidelines applicable to their route.

Official source: Study in Japan – Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. Türkiye Scholarships

Türkiye Scholarships is the Turkish government's international scholarship programme and provides opportunities across undergraduate and graduate levels.

The official application guidance states that international language-test results such as TOEFL or other accepted certifications are required when the chosen university or programme requires them. The application system also allows applicants to check the language of instruction of programmes.

This is important because Türkiye Scholarships itself should not be confused with the admission requirements of every participating university.

Study Levels

Undergraduate
Master's
PhD

Language Requirements

Language requirements depend on the selected programme. Some English-medium programmes may require an internationally accepted language certificate, while the scholarship application does not impose one universal IELTS requirement across every programme.

The official programme information also shows that some programmes have specific international test requirements. Therefore, applicants must check the exact programme before assuming IELTS can be avoided.

Application Process

Create an account on the official Türkiye Scholarships application system.
Complete your personal and academic information.
Upload required academic documents.
Select suitable universities and programmes.
Check whether the selected programme requires an international language test.
Submit the application before the official deadline.

Official source: Türkiye Scholarships. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

4. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship

Stipendium Hungaricum is Hungary's major international scholarship programme and offers degree opportunities at bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

The important point for IELTS-free applicants is that language requirements can differ between individual programmes. Official programme listings show examples where an applicant may provide an official medium-of-instruction certificate instead of an IELTS result, provided the previous programme was fully taught in English.

Can IELTS Be Avoided?

In some programmes, yes. For example, official Stipendium Hungaricum programme listings include programmes where an official certificate confirming that previous studies were conducted fully in English can be accepted as evidence of language ability.

However, this is programme-specific. Another programme may require IELTS, TOEFL or another recognised test.

What to Check Before Applying

Teaching language of the selected programme
Required English level
Accepted English tests
Whether a Medium of Instruction certificate is accepted
Whether the certificate must cover the entire previous degree
Whether your country has an additional sending-partner requirement

Best Advice:
Do not select a Stipendium Hungaricum programme only because a general website says “IELTS not required.” Open the official programme listing and check the exact language requirement for that course.

Official source: Stipendium Hungaricum programme and study information. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

5. Chevening Scholarship — United Kingdom

The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government scholarship for eligible international students pursuing a one-year master's degree in the United Kingdom.

Chevening is particularly relevant to students searching for scholarships without IELTS because the Chevening English-language requirement was removed in 2020.

However, this does not mean that applicants can automatically enter any UK university without proving English proficiency. Chevening requires successful applicants to obtain an unconditional offer from an eligible university course, and the chosen university can have its own English-language requirements.

What This Means for Applicants

You can apply to Chevening without satisfying a separate Chevening IELTS requirement, but you must still meet the admission requirements of your chosen UK universities.

Typical Application Route

Check your eligibility for Chevening.
Select suitable eligible master's courses.
Prepare your application carefully.
Apply to your chosen UK university courses separately.
Meet the university's academic and English-language requirements.
Secure an unconditional offer from an eligible course within the required timeframe.

Important:
Chevening's removal of its own English-language requirement does not remove the English-language requirements of UK universities.

Official source: Chevening FAQs. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are international master's programmes delivered by consortia of higher education institutions in different countries. Students from around the world can apply to eligible programmes, and some programmes offer full scholarships.

The European Commission's official Erasmus+ information states that students apply directly to the institution running their selected programme. Each master's programme publishes its own entry requirements, including language requirements.

Can You Apply Without IELTS?

Potentially, depending on the specific Erasmus Mundus programme. There is no single IELTS rule covering every Erasmus Mundus Joint Master.

One programme may accept a Medium of Instruction certificate or another English test, while another may explicitly require IELTS or TOEFL.

What to Do

Search the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue.
Choose a programme related to your academic background.
Open the programme's official website.
Read the programme-specific admission requirements.
Check accepted English-language evidence.
Apply directly to the consortium or institution according to its instructions.

Official source: European Commission Erasmus+ – Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

7. DAAD Scholarships — Germany

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a wide range of scholarships for international students, graduates, researchers and academics.

DAAD is not one single scholarship with one universal language rule. Requirements depend on the individual scholarship and study programme.

Current DAAD guidance shows that applicants who do not have IELTS or TOEFL may in some cases provide other official evidence of English proficiency. Examples listed by DAAD include Cambridge English, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, Duolingo and other recognised forms of evidence, depending on the applicable programme.

Why DAAD Can Be Suitable for No-IELTS Applicants

The key point is that IELTS is not necessarily the only acceptable evidence of English ability. However, a specific German university or programme may still require a particular certificate.

Before Applying

Identify the exact DAAD scholarship programme.
Identify the degree programme.
Read the language requirements for that programme.
Check which English or German certificates are accepted.
Check whether an official alternative to IELTS is accepted.

Key Information:
DAAD does not have one universal “no IELTS” policy. The applicable scholarship and university programme determine the required language evidence.

Official source: DAAD language requirements and scholarship information. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

8. Schwarzman Scholars — China

Schwarzman Scholars is a fully funded master's-level scholarship programme at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

The official Schwarzman Scholars website states that applicants must demonstrate strong English ability because the programme is taught in English. However, the programme also provides an important waiver: applicants who studied at an undergraduate institution where the primary language of instruction was English for at least two years can have the English-test requirement waived. A similar waiver applies to applicants who studied in English for two or more years at master's level or higher.

Does Schwarzman Require IELTS?

Not necessarily. IELTS is one accepted test, but eligible applicants may qualify for the specified English-language test waiver.

Accepted English Tests

The official programme lists TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English and Duolingo English Test among its accepted options. Therefore, applicants without IELTS may still have other routes, subject to the programme's current requirements.

Who Should Consider This Option?

Applicants seeking a master's-level opportunity in China
Students with strong academic and leadership profiles
Applicants who completed sufficient previous education in English
Applicants who can satisfy the programme's age and eligibility requirements

Official source: Schwarzman Scholars – Prospective Students. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

9. CAS-ANSO Scholarship — China

The CAS-ANSO Scholarship is an international postgraduate scholarship associated with the Alliance of National and International Science Organizations and major Chinese research institutions. The degree programme supports master's and PhD study through participating institutions including the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS).

The official 2026 CAS-ANSO call confirms that applicants apply through the relevant USTC or UCAS admission system and select the CAS-ANSO Scholarship option.

Can You Apply Without IELTS?

The answer depends on the specific admission route and programme. CAS-ANSO is connected to university admission, so applicants need to satisfy the language requirements of the receiving institution and programme.

Therefore, it is safer to describe CAS-ANSO as a scholarship where IELTS may be avoidable in certain admission circumstances, rather than claiming that IELTS is universally unnecessary.

Main Study Areas

CAS-ANSO is particularly relevant to students interested in science, technology and research-related postgraduate study.

Application Process

Review the current CAS-ANSO scholarship call.
Choose USTC, UCAS or the relevant participating institute.
Review the admission requirements of your intended programme.
Check the applicable English or Chinese language requirement.
Prepare academic, recommendation and research-related documents.
Submit the university application and select the scholarship option where required.

Official source: CAS-ANSO Scholarship – 2026 Degree Programme. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

10. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is a major government-funded scholarship route for international students studying in China. Depending on the programme and application route, opportunities can include undergraduate, master's and doctoral study.

One reason CSC frequently appears in searches for scholarships without IELTS is that language requirements are determined at the programme and university level. Some Chinese universities allow applicants to provide proof that their previous degree was taught in English instead of IELTS, while others require IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo or another recognised test.

An Important CSC Example

For example, official 2026 university admission information for Chinese Government Scholarship applicants shows that some English-taught programmes accept an English-medium certificate as an alternative to an IELTS score. Other universities impose fixed IELTS or TOEFL thresholds.

Therefore, the correct strategy is not to search for a generic “CSC without IELTS” rule. Instead, find a CSC university and programme whose official admission requirements allow an acceptable alternative.

Typical CSC Routes

Chinese Government Scholarship Type A / Bilateral routes
University-level Type B routes
High-Level Postgraduate Programmes
Selected university-specific scholarship routes

How to Find a CSC Programme Without IELTS

Choose your intended degree level.
Search participating Chinese universities and programmes.
Identify programmes taught in English or Chinese.
Open the university's official admission guide.
Look specifically for the language-proficiency section.
Check whether an English-medium certificate is accepted.
Check whether TOEFL, Duolingo or another test is accepted as an alternative.
Only then prepare your CSC application.

Warning:
Do not assume that every CSC university accepts an MOI certificate. Current university requirements differ. For example, some official 2026 Chinese university notices require IELTS/TOEFL or another approved test, while other institutions provide exemptions for applicants whose previous education was conducted in English.

Official information: Applicants should use the official Chinese Government Scholarship application system and the official admission page of the selected university. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Which Scholarships Are Most Flexible About IELTS?

There is no universal answer because flexibility can change according to the programme and university. However, the official rules show several different models:

Scholarship	Possible IELTS-Free Route	What You Must Verify
GKS	Language certificates can be optional in the central application.	University/department requirements.
MEXT	Depends on route and institution.	Latest embassy/university guidelines.
Türkiye Scholarships	Language tests are tied to programme requirements.	Selected university and programme.
Stipendium Hungaricum	Some programmes accept English-medium certificates.	Exact programme listing.
Chevening	Chevening itself has no English-language test requirement.	University admission requirement.
Erasmus Mundus	Depends on consortium/programme.	Programme admission page.
DAAD	Alternative language evidence can be accepted in relevant programmes.	Specific DAAD scholarship and university.
Schwarzman Scholars	Specified English-medium education can qualify for a waiver.	Duration and language of previous study.
CAS-ANSO	Depends on receiving institution/programme.	USTC/UCAS programme requirements.
CSC	Some universities accept English-medium proof or alternatives.	Exact university and degree programme.

What Can You Use Instead of IELTS?

If you do not have IELTS, there may still be several ways to demonstrate language proficiency, depending on the scholarship and university.

1. Medium of Instruction Certificate

An MOI certificate is an official document from an educational institution confirming the language used to teach a previous degree or academic programme.

Some universities accept this document when the applicant's previous education was conducted in English. However, acceptance is not universal.

2. TOEFL

Some universities accept TOEFL instead of IELTS. Always check the minimum score and accepted test version.

3. PTE Academic

Some institutions accept PTE Academic as evidence of English proficiency. Acceptance depends on the programme.

4. Duolingo English Test

Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test, particularly for selected international admissions routes. It should never be assumed to be accepted simply because another university accepts it.

5. Cambridge English Qualifications

Certain universities and scholarship routes accept Cambridge English qualifications as evidence of English proficiency.

6. Institutional Assessment or Interview

Some programmes may assess language ability through an interview or another institutional process. This depends entirely on the institution and programme.

Medium of Instruction Certificate: Practical Example

Suppose a student completed a four-year bachelor's degree and the university officially confirms that the entire programme was taught in English.

Illustrative Example:

Student: International bachelor's graduate

Previous degree: Bachelor's degree

Language of instruction: English

Document: Official university-issued Medium of Instruction certificate

Possible use: The document may be accepted by a programme that explicitly allows an English-medium certificate as an alternative to IELTS.

The important word is “may.” An MOI certificate does not automatically replace IELTS everywhere. The target institution must explicitly accept it.

Who Should Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS?

These opportunities can be particularly useful for applicants who:

Completed their previous education in English and can obtain official evidence.
Do not currently have a valid IELTS score.
Have another accepted English-language qualification.
Are applying to a programme where IELTS is not mandatory.
Are applying to a programme taught in another language.
Can satisfy language requirements through the institution's own assessment process.

General Eligibility Requirements

Every scholarship has its own eligibility rules, but applicants commonly need some combination of the following:

Academic qualification appropriate to the selected degree.
Strong academic performance.
Valid passport or identity document.
Academic transcripts.
Degree or graduation certificate.
Curriculum vitae or resume where required.
Motivation letter or personal statement.
Study plan or research proposal for relevant programmes.
Recommendation letters.
Language evidence where required.
Additional programme-specific documents.

Note:
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection. Fully funded scholarships can be highly competitive, and selection criteria differ between programmes.

Documents You Should Prepare

Applicants should prepare their documents before scholarship applications open whenever possible.

Document	Why It May Be Needed
Passport	Identity and nationality verification.
Academic transcripts	Demonstrate academic performance.
Degree certificate	Confirms completed academic qualification.
CV / Resume	Summarizes education, experience and achievements.
Motivation letter	Explains academic goals and reasons for applying.
Study plan	Explains intended study objectives where required.
Research proposal	Commonly relevant to research and doctoral applications.
Recommendation letters	Provides academic or professional references.
Language evidence	Required only where the scholarship or university specifies it.

How to Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship Without IELTS

Choose your study destination.
Decide which country and academic field match your goals.
Find the appropriate scholarship.
Use official government, university or scholarship websites.
Choose a specific programme.
This is especially important for scholarships where admission requirements are determined by the university.
Check the language requirement.
Look for IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, MOI, interview or other requirements.
Check whether IELTS can be waived.
Never rely on a third-party claim. Look for an explicit statement in the official admission requirements.
Prepare your academic documents.
Collect transcripts, certificates and other required documents.
Prepare your application documents.
Write your motivation letter, study plan, CV and research proposal where applicable.
Apply through the correct portal.
Government scholarships, universities and scholarship programmes may use different application systems.
Check the application after submission.
Make sure all required documents were uploaded successfully.
Monitor official announcements.
Keep checking your application portal and official email address.

How to Find a Genuine No-IELTS Opportunity

Avoid relying solely on articles that use phrases such as “100% guaranteed without IELTS.” Instead, use this verification process:

Find the official scholarship website.
Find the official university or programme page.
Open the admission requirements.
Find the section titled “English Language Requirements” or similar.
Check whether IELTS is mandatory.
Check whether alternative tests are accepted.
Check whether an MOI certificate is accepted.
Check whether a language interview is available.
Save the official requirement page for your records.
Recheck the requirements before submission because they can change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming No IELTS Means No English Requirement

This is the most common mistake. A university can waive IELTS while still requiring another form of English evidence.

2. Trusting an Old Scholarship Advertisement

Scholarship requirements change. An article published several years ago may no longer accurately describe the current application process.

3. Checking Only the Scholarship Website

For university-based scholarships, the scholarship rules and admission rules may be separate. You must check both.

4. Assuming MOI Is Accepted Everywhere

Some institutions accept an English-medium certificate; others explicitly reject it or require a standardised test.

5. Applying Without Checking the Programme Language

Always confirm whether your chosen programme is taught in English, the local language or another language.

6. Ignoring Degree-Specific Requirements

A university may have different requirements for undergraduate, master's and PhD applicants.

7. Using Unverified Scholarship Links

Do not submit passports, academic documents or personal information through websites that are not connected to the official scholarship or university application process.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Maintain strong academic records.
Choose programmes that match your previous education.
Research the university before writing your motivation letter.
Explain clearly why the selected programme fits your academic and career goals.
Use a professional academic CV.
Prepare recommendation letters early.
Keep scanned documents clear and readable.
Follow the official formatting requirements.
Check every application field before submission.
Do not submit false documents or inaccurate information.
Keep copies of submitted documents.
Verify the latest requirements immediately before applying.

Scholarship Selection Strategy Without IELTS

If you do not currently have IELTS, you can use a structured approach rather than applying randomly.

Your Situation	What to Look For
Previous degree taught entirely in English	Programmes that explicitly accept an English-medium/MOI certificate.
No IELTS but another test	Universities accepting TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, Cambridge or another approved test.
No English test at all	Scholarship routes where language certificates are optional, subject to university requirements.
Programme taught in another language	The language requirement for that specific programme.
Strong English but no certificate	Programmes offering recognised alternatives or institutional assessment.

Application Checklist

Use this checklist before submitting an application:

☐ Scholarship eligibility checked
☐ Degree eligibility checked
☐ University admission requirements checked
☐ Programme language confirmed
☐ IELTS requirement checked
☐ Alternative language evidence checked
☐ MOI acceptance checked where relevant
☐ Passport ready
☐ Academic transcripts ready
☐ Degree certificate ready
☐ CV prepared
☐ Motivation letter prepared
☐ Study plan/research proposal prepared if required
☐ Recommendation letters prepared
☐ Official application portal verified
☐ Current deadline checked

Important Information About Deadlines

Scholarship deadlines are not permanent. They can vary by country, scholarship category, university, degree level and application route.

For example, MEXT explains that embassy-recommendation schedules vary by country and region. Erasmus Mundus also states that each master's programme has its own application details and deadlines. Türkiye Scholarships publishes its own application process and requirements, while university-based programmes can have separate admission schedules.

Deadline Warning:
Do not rely on a deadline copied from an old blog post, social-media post or scholarship aggregator. Always confirm the deadline on the official scholarship or university website before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

1. Can I really get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?

Yes, in some cases. Some scholarship programmes do not require IELTS at the central scholarship-application stage, while some universities accept alternatives such as another English test, an English-medium certificate or an institutional assessment. However, requirements vary.

2. Which scholarship is completely free from IELTS?

There is no single universal answer because university and programme requirements can apply. For example, the 2026 GKS graduate guidance states that English and Korean proficiency certificates are optional for the GKS application, although universities or departments may impose language requirements.

3. Can I apply for GKS without IELTS?

According to the 2026 GKS graduate guidance, IELTS and TOEFL certificates are optional and applicants can apply without them. However, some universities or departments may require language proficiency, so applicants must check their chosen programme.

4. Can I apply for Chevening without IELTS?

Chevening removed its own English-language requirement in 2020. However, applicants must still meet the English-language and admission requirements of the UK university and course they choose.

5. Can an MOI certificate replace IELTS?

Sometimes. Some universities explicitly accept an official Medium of Instruction certificate when previous education was conducted in English. Other universities do not accept it. The target institution's written requirements should always be followed.

6. Is IELTS required for the CSC Scholarship?

It depends on the university and programme. Some Chinese universities accept English-medium certificates or other alternatives, while others require IELTS, TOEFL or another approved test.

7. Is IELTS required for Stipendium Hungaricum?

Not necessarily. Requirements are programme-specific. Official Stipendium Hungaricum programme listings include examples where an English-medium certificate can be accepted instead of an IELTS result.

8. Does MEXT require IELTS?

MEXT does not have one identical language rule for every category and application route. Requirements can vary by embassy, university and programme. Applicants should follow the latest MEXT guidelines applicable to their application route.

9. Can I use TOEFL instead of IELTS?

Many universities accept TOEFL instead of IELTS, but this is not universal. Check the exact minimum score and accepted test version listed by your target programme.

10. Does “without IELTS” mean I do not need to prove English?

No. It may simply mean that IELTS itself is not required. Another test, an MOI certificate, an interview or another form of evidence may still be required.

Official Sources / Official Resources

The following official sources should be used to verify requirements before applying:

Global Korea Scholarship / Study in Korea: :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
MEXT / Study in Japan: :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Türkiye Scholarships: :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Stipendium Hungaricum: :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Chevening: :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Erasmus Mundus: :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
DAAD: :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Schwarzman Scholars: :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
CAS-ANSO Scholarship: :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Chinese Government Scholarship: :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Related MY TRKHAN Guides

If you are preparing a scholarship application, related guides on MY TRKHAN can help you prepare stronger documents. Relevant topics include:

How to Write a Motivation Letter
Academic CV / Resume Guide
How to Write a Research Proposal
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
Government Scholarships
University Scholarships
Study Abroad Guides

Use these resources together with the official scholarship and university requirements rather than treating any third-party guide as a replacement for official instructions.

Final Thoughts

Fully funded scholarships without IELTS are possible, but the phrase needs to be understood correctly. In many cases, the scholarship does not require IELTS itself, while the university or programme may still require proof of English proficiency.

Among the major opportunities discussed in this guide, the Global Korea Scholarship is a clear example where language certificates can be optional under the central GKS graduate application rules. Chevening has removed its own English-language requirement, while Schwarzman Scholars provides a specific English-test waiver for applicants who meet its previous-English-medium education conditions. Other programmes, including MEXT, Türkiye Scholarships, Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus Mundus, DAAD, CAS-ANSO and CSC, require applicants to examine the requirements of the relevant route, university or programme.

The safest strategy is therefore simple: do not search only for a scholarship advertised as “without IELTS.” Search for an eligible programme whose official admission requirements clearly explain what evidence of language proficiency is accepted.

Requirements, deadlines, participating universities and accepted language tests can change. Always verify the latest information directly through the official scholarship and university websites before submitting an application.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. Scholarship eligibility, admission requirements, accepted language tests, deadlines, funding conditions and application procedures can change and may differ by university, programme, country and application route. MY TRKHAN does not guarantee admission, scholarship selection or funding. Applicants should verify all important information directly with the relevant official scholarship provider, university, government authority or programme before applying.