Can I study abroad without IELTS? Which countries accept applications without IELTS?
Updated on Jul 2, 2025Yes, you can study abroad without IELTS, and many countries and universities accept students without it. Let’s explore how it works, where you can go, and what options are open to you, without going through English language tests.
Studying abroad without IELTS
Firstly, IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English language tests, but it’s not the only way to prove your English skills. Many universities in countries like Canada, Germany, the USA, the UK, Norway, and others offer alternatives to IELTS.
Plus, if you’ve studied in English before, or if you’re applying to a university that offers its own language assessment, you might be able to skip IELTS altogether. Now let’s see some of the top countries that accept international students without IELTS.
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Countries that accept students without IELTS
Canada
Many students choose to study in Canada for various reasons. One reason is that some universities here allow you to study without IELTS if you’ve:
- Studied in an English-medium school for at least 3 - 4 years
- Taken another English Language Proficiency test
- Submitted results from other exams like TOEFL, the Duolingo English Test, or CAEL
Some of the universities and colleges in Canada that accept students without IELTS are the University of Regina, University of Prince Edward Island, University of Winnipeg, Trent University, Thompson Rivers University, Brock University, Cape Breton University, and the University of Saskatchewan.
United States
Yes, it’s possible to study in the USA without IELTS or TOEFL, if you’re from certain countries, and especially if:
- You’ve studied in an English-speaking school
- You take alternative tests like Duolingo, PTE, or the university’s placement test
- Or if you’ve taken any pathway programmes or US coursework
Note: Conditional exemptions only apply if you've completed English Composition I & II at a US (or qualifying English-speaking) institution. Mostly, if you haven't studied in the US recently, you'll likely need a standardised English test.
United Kingdom
You can also study in the UK without IELTS if you’ve done any of these:
- You’re from an English-speaking country
- You’ve completed previous studies in English
- You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your school/college
What is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate?
It’s a letter from your school confirming that you studied in English. Many universities accept this instead of IELTS.
Some of the universities in the UK that accept students without IELTS are the University of Bristol, London South Bank University, and the University of Portsmouth.
Tips to study abroad without IELTS
- You can take an alternative test, such as the Duolingo or PTE. These can replace IELTS.
- Each university has its own rules. Always check the official website or contact their admissions office.
- Prepare your MOI letter and get it signed and stamped by your school or college.
- You can also look for Foundation or Pathway programmes. These improve your English and get you ready for a university degree.
Whether you’re aiming for Canada, the USA, or the UK, there are plenty of options open for you. Universities are becoming more flexible, and as long as you can prove that you can understand and speak English, they’re willing to help you. Don’t let IELTS hold you back.
