Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but the requirement for English proficiency tests like IELTS can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, numerous prestigious scholarships worldwide do not mandate IELTS scores, making higher education more accessible. These fully funded scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs, allowing students to focus on their academic and personal growth. Instead of IELTS, many programs accept alternative proofs of English proficiency, such as certificates from previous institutions or interviews.
Below is a curated list of the top 10 fully funded scholarships for 2025-2026 that do not require IELTS, offering opportunities for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students across various countries.
Top 10 Scholarships Without IELTS Requirement
1. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
The Chinese Government Scholarship supports international students pursuing undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD degrees at over 270 Chinese universities. It covers tuition, accommodation, a monthly stipend (CNY 3,000–3,500), and medical insurance. No IELTS is required; an English proficiency certificate from a previous institution is sufficient. Programs are offered in English or Chinese, fostering cultural exchange and academic excellence.
2. Azerbaijan Government Scholarship
This scholarship, offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Azerbaijan, funds undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD studies. Benefits include tuition waivers, an 800 AZN monthly stipend, medical insurance, and visa support. Applicants can submit an English proficiency certificate instead of IELTS or TOEFL, making it accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.
3. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhD programs in Germany. Benefits include tuition waivers, a monthly stipend (€934 for Master’s, €1,300 for PhD), travel allowances, and health insurance. Many German universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as proof of English proficiency, eliminating the need for IELTS.
4. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
The Japanese Government’s MEXT Scholarship supports undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students. It offers tuition waivers, a monthly stipend (JPY 117,000–145,000), and round-trip airfare. Applicants can provide alternative evidence of English proficiency, such as a certificate from their previous institution, instead of IELTS or TOEFL.
5. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary)
This fully funded scholarship supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies in Hungary. It covers tuition, accommodation, a monthly stipend (HUF 43,700–80,000), and health insurance. IELTS is not mandatory; applicants can submit an English proficiency certificate or undergo university interviews to demonstrate language skills.
6. Turkey Burslari Scholarship
Offered by the Turkish government, this scholarship funds undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. It includes tuition coverage, accommodation, a monthly stipend (TRY 800–1,400), and a one-year Turkish language course. No IELTS is required; an English proficiency certificate from a previous institution is accepted.
7. Korean Government Scholarship Program
This program supports international students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degrees in South Korea. It covers tuition, airfare, accommodation, and a monthly stipend (KRW 900,000–1,000,000). Applicants can submit an English proficiency certificate instead of IELTS, making it a flexible option for global students.
8. Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP)
TIGP, offered by Academia Sinica and Taiwan’s top universities, provides fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhD programs. Benefits include tuition waivers, a monthly stipend (NTD 34,000), and accommodation support. No IELTS is required; an English proficiency certificate or university-administered test suffices.
9. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program enables international students to study and conduct research in the USA. It covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance for Master’s and PhD students. IELTS is not mandatory; applicants can provide alternative proof of English proficiency, such as a WAEC certificate or a letter from their institution.
10. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
This prestigious scholarship funds Master’s and PhD studies at the University of Cambridge. It covers full tuition, a £20,000 annual stipend, airfare, and health insurance. IELTS is not required; applicants can submit a certificate of English instruction or other proof of proficiency, making it accessible to global talent.
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FAQs
What is an English proficiency certificate, and how can I obtain one?
An English proficiency certificate is a document from your previous educational institution confirming that your studies were conducted in English. You can request it from your school’s registrar or academic office. It typically includes a statement verifying the medium of instruction and may require an official stamp or signature.
Are these scholarships open to all nationalities?
Most of the listed scholarships are open to international students from various countries. However, some, like the Fulbright Program, may have specific country eligibility criteria. Always check the scholarship’s official guidelines for nationality requirements.
Can I apply for these scholarships if I have a low IELTS score?
Yes, since these scholarships do not require IELTS, a low IELTS score does not affect eligibility. You can use alternative proofs of English proficiency, such as an English proficiency certificate or university interviews, to meet language requirements.
What expenses do these fully funded scholarships cover?
Fully funded scholarships typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly stipend for living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes travel costs (e.g., airfare). Specific benefits vary by scholarship, so review each program’s details.
How competitive are these scholarships?
These scholarships are highly competitive due to their comprehensive funding and global appeal. To increase your chances, maintain strong academic records, submit compelling personal statements, secure strong recommendation letters, and apply early.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships unless explicitly restricted by the scholarship provider. Ensure you meet each program’s eligibility criteria and tailor your applications to highlight relevant qualifications.
Do these scholarships support undergraduate programs?
Some scholarships, like the Chinese Government Scholarship, Azerbaijan Government Scholarship, and Turkey Burslari Scholarship, support undergraduate programs in addition to Master’s and PhD studies. Check specific program details for degree-level eligibility.
Do I need to know the local language for these scholarships?
For most scholarships, programs are offered in English, and no knowledge of the local language is required. Some, like the Turkey Burslari Scholarship, may include a language course (e.g., Turkish) as part of the program.
How can I improve my chances of winning these scholarships?
To stand out, focus on academic excellence, craft a strong personal statement, obtain compelling recommendation letters, and highlight leadership or community involvement. Research each scholarship’s priorities and tailor your application accordingly.