Study Abroad Without IELTS in International Universities

Getting admitted into an international college or university comes with a list of mandatory requirements in which the language proficiency test is one of the most crucial and primary criteria. 

Students aspiring to study at an international university are expected to take the language proficiency test to evaluate their speaking, reading & writing ability. These tests are a prerequisite for admission to an international university, with a passing score being obligatory. Each college or university has its own pre-determined set of acceptable grades that must be fulfilled with the application.

However, many students find it difficult to attain qualifying marks as they are not native English speakers. Also, taking these tests multiple times can be expensive, and might undermine the self-esteem of the student. Paying the exam fee each time you take the test and obtaining a low score will deter you from applying again.

Several universities around the world offer high-quality education programs for studying abroad without having to take the IELTS exam.

Countries that do not require IELTS for admission

Numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Ireland, and New Zealand, provide international-standard higher education to individuals who wish to study abroad without taking the IELTS exam. Some universities in these nations do not demand language proficiency tests as a mandatory admission requirement.

Study in Canada without IELTS

Canada is the place to go if you don’t want to take the IELTS to study abroad. In Canada, there are several universities where you can study without having to take the IELTS exam. Students who have resided and attended a school where English is the main language for at least four years are not compelled to submit an IELTS score. However, students should meet specific standards stipulated by the universities and colleges.

Universities in Canada that do not require IELTS:

1. McGill University
2. Carleton University
3. University of Guelph
4. University of Saskatchewan
5. Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador

Study in Australia without IELTS

Many Australian universities allow international students without having to take the IELTS exam. The language requirements are relinquished if you have acquired an education in English. The former institution, on the other hand, will be required to submit particular documentation to back up your claim.

Universities in Australia that do not require IELTS:

1. The University of New South Wales
2. The University of Queensland
3. The University of Adelaide
4. Macquarie University
5. Swinburne University of Technology   

In case if the student doesn’t have the expected English Language skills, but is talented enough, then the University would retain an admission and will procure a Language proficiency Preparatory course for the student before joining the regular course.

Study in the United Kingdom without IELTS

If you want to study in the United Kingdom, English is a mandatory requirement. However, many universities waive the IELTS requirement, allowing you to study in the UK without having to take the test. Generally, the British Commission will accept students who have earned a “Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies” (CAS) letter from the UK university to which they have applied.  

Universities in the UK that do not require IELTS:  

1. Audencia Nantes School of Management 
2. University of Bristol 
3. University of Basel 
4. University of Warwick 
5. Swansea University 

Study in Ireland without IELTS  

Many universities and colleges in Ireland offer programs that do not need IELTS. If you do not wish to take the IELTS test, the university will administer its proficiency test to determine your basic writing, speaking, and reading abilities. Students without IELTS who wish to study in Ireland must submit a prior education certificate that has been ratified in English.  

Universities in Ireland that do not require IELTS:  

1. University College Dublin 
2. National University of Ireland 
3. Dublin Institute of Technology 
4. Dublin City University  
5. University of Limerick 

Alternative proficiency tests for English can be taken by the applicants, such as Cambridge Proficiency, Cambridge Advanced, and PTE Academic  

Study in the United States without IELTS  

With the United States having the best higher education system in the world, there aren’t many universities that allow admission without IELTS or TOEFL. Universities in the United States that do not impose an IELTS or TOEFL have an alternate option in the form of the IELP. The Intensive English Language Program (IELP) is a university-sponsored program in which a candidate must enroll in and pass an examination. If the applicant fails the examination, she or he has the option to retake it.  

Universities in the USA that do not require IELTS:  

1. University of Colorado 
2. University of Lowa 
3. State University of New York 
4. University of Delaware 
5. Drexel University 

Study in New Zealand without IELTS 

Since New Zealand has comparatively less universities and colleges, students are eligible to apply without taking the TOFEL/IELTS. Alternatives to this would be,  

Having proof of schooling from class VIII to XII in an English Medium School or College.  

During the immigration process, students who do not have IELTS scores will be interviewed by the New Zealand Immigration Authority.  

Universities in New Zealand that do not require IELTS:  

1. University of Auckland 
2. University of Otago 
3. University of Canterbury 
4. Lincoln University 
5. Unitec Institute of Technology 

Study in Europe without IELTS  

Aside from these countries, many European countries, such as Holland, Germany, and Norway, allow international students to apply to their universities without having to take the IELTS. If a student has outstanding communication skills and can ascertain that their previous education was completed solely in English, they can avert taking the IELTS exam. Studying abroad without the IELTS has its own set of shortcomings and advantages. Before pursuing additional choices, it is always a good idea to administer detailed research. While it may be advantageous for those who do not prefer to take these language proficiency tests, it can also be costly in certain conditions. If you are from a non-English speaking nation, you must demonstrate your proficiency in English. The first and most important step is to visit the university’s website and study the full application process.  

Overview of important considerations before applying to universities or colleges without first passing any language proficiency tests:  

Students should be able to provide evidence that they attended an English-medium school or college for their education.  

Students must show proof of having studied English as a subject from the VIII to XII class.  

Students should go through the examination conducted by the university; they will be needed to give telephonic or video interviews, depending on the special needs of the university.  

What can EduVisa Services do for you? 

At EduVisa Services, we offer a wide range of services to students who want to take admission to international universities. If you are aspiring to study abroad, connect with EduVisa’s expert admission counsellors.  We provide a one-stop solution including expert guidance, course selection, education loan processing, visa assistance and guaranteed admissions.