Top 10 Scholarships for International Students Without IELTS

The list opens with trusted options at top universities in the UK, Europe, Australia, and the U.S. It highlights major awards like Chevening, Fulbright, MEXT, DAAD, Gates Cambridge, and CSC that offer test waiver alternatives or internal English assessments for applicants who lack a formal ielts score.

Readers will learn which programs are fully funded and which provide partial support. The guide makes clear what each award covers—tuition, living costs, travel, health support—and notes typical allowance figures so candidates can budget ahead.

It explains how a waiver works and when institutions accept alternative proof of english language ability. The section also flags eligibility limits by citizenship and degree level so students can match goals to the right award.

Act now by checking the target school’s “Test Waiver Alternatives” page, compiling required documents, and noting deadlines to shortlist the most realistic fully funded options.

Scholarships without IELTS: how language waivers and alternatives work today

Many global programs now offer test waivers that let applicants prove language ability in alternate ways. These routes do not remove the need for english language proficiency. They replace a formal test with accepted evidence that shows readiness to study at an advanced level.

Common waiver routes

Typical paths include prior English-medium study, internal university assessments, and live interviews. Universities also accept standardized alternatives such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo when allowed.

Proof of earlier degrees taught in English.
Institutional tests or departmental interviews.
Standardized alternative exams where accepted.

What “Test Waiver Alternatives” means at top universities

Many universities list a “Test Waiver Alternatives” note on program pages. This shows accepted documents and thresholds for exemptions.

Policy element	Common evidence	Who benefits
Prior study	Degree in English-medium institution	Students from English programs
Institutional test	Department interview or assessment	Applicants with strong academic records
Standard alternative	TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo	Those lacking formal ielts scores

Note: Waiver availability varies by program and degree level. Applicants should check each university’s “English Test” or “English requirements” page and plan early to gather acceptable evidence.

Chevening Scholarship, UK — fully funded master’s with test waiver alternatives

Chevening offers a high-value route for mid-career leaders to pursue a one-year master in the UK. The scholarship program covers core costs and supports international students during their studies.

Funding coverage

Chevening typically pays university tuition fees in full and provides a monthly living allowance. It also includes an economy return airfare and extra grants for arrival and visa expenses.

Language options and waiver routes

Many partner universities — for example, Durham, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Southampton, Swansea, Greenwich, and Northampton — list Test Waiver Alternatives. These allow applicants to show English readiness via prior English-medium degrees or institutional assessments rather than a formal ielts score.

What is covered	Typical detail	Notes for applicants
Tuition	Full tuition fees at host university	Confirmed on award letter
Living support	Monthly stipend aligned to UK living costs	Helps with accommodation and daily expenses
Travel & allowances	Economy return flight; arrival and visa grants	Check country-specific travel allowance
Language proof	Prior English-medium study or university test	Verify waiver rules with each host

Chevening is highly competitive and favors leadership potential and clear post-master impact plans. Applicants should document accepted waiver evidence early to strengthen their application.

Commonwealth Scholarships — master’s and PhD funding across UK institutions

A range of UK universities host Commonwealth awards that back master and PhD studies for candidates from Commonwealth nations.

The program is a government scholarship that normally funds tuition, a living stipend, and essential academic costs. Many participating universities — such as Swansea, University of Northampton, Durham, University of Glasgow, and University of York — list Test Waiver Alternatives to show accepted English evidence.

Eligible applicants are citizens of Commonwealth countries and apply through national nominating agencies.
Funding is typically fully funded and covers master and phd programs at host institutions.
Waiver rules differ by university and by program, so applicants must check each course page.
Priority often goes to candidates from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries.

The scheme aims to boost research and leadership that benefit home countries. Applicants strengthen proposals with clear development plans, strong references, and early alignment to deadlines and agency timelines.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship — fully funded master’s and PhD at the University of Cambridge

Gates Cambridge invests in leaders who plan to advance knowledge and deliver public benefit through graduate study at Cambridge.

What it covers

The award is a prestigious cambridge scholarship that covers tuition and core costs for master and phd candidates.

Funding includes a £17,500 monthly stipend equivalent per year, full university fees, and essential academic support.

Additional support provides health insurance, academic development funding (up to £2,000), and a family allowance for dependents.

Language rules and waiver options

The University of Cambridge notes Test Waiver Alternatives but may be required for applicants to this award.

Waiver eligibility often depends on prior English-medium study or passing an internal assessment with the department.

Ideal candidates and fields

Gates Cambridge seeks academic excellence, leadership, and a clear commitment to improving others’ lives.

Applicants in STEM, social sciences, arts, and professional fields strengthen applications by aligning projects with faculty expertise.

Benefit	Typical detail	Note
Stipend	£17,500 per year	Supports living costs
Development	Up to £2,000	Conference or research costs
Family allowance	Up to £10,120	For dependents

DAAD Scholarship Germany — funded master’s and PhD in top German universities

For many applicants, the DAAD route is the clearest path to funded master and doctoral study in Germany. It targets students who plan research or coursework at leading german universities and offers stable support for living and academic expenses.

Financial support: monthly stipend, fee coverage, and living support

The DAAD scholarship provides a monthly stipend to cover living costs: 934 euros for graduates and 1,300 euros for doctoral candidates. Many award lines also contribute to insurance, travel, and academic expenses.

Programs may be taught in English or German. Language rules depend on the course and institution. Some partner schools may accept a waiver if the applicant’s prior degree was taught in English, but applicants must confirm this per program.

“Applicants should prepare a clear study or research plan, secure strong references, and track DAAD deadlines well in advance.”

How to prepare

Match your profile to supervisors and program focus.
Prepare a concise research or study proposal and two or more academic references.
Include evidence of language ability and budget for tuition or semester fees if required.

Benefit	Typical detail	Note
Monthly stipend	934€ (master) / 1,300€ (PhD)	Covers basic living expenses
Additional support	Insurance and academic costs	Varies by DAAD program line
Language policy	English or German depending on course	Waiver possible with prior English-medium degree

Fulbright Scholarships USA — comprehensive master’s and PhD awards

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds graduate study in the United States for talented international applicants. It supports both master and PhD degrees and emphasizes academic excellence and cultural exchange.

Coverage and benefits

Fulbright offers a comprehensive funded scholarship package. Typical coverage includes full tuition fees, a living stipend, accommodation support, round-trip airfare, and health insurance.

English language policies and waivers

Language rules follow guidance from each country’s Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy. Some commissions accept alternative proofs or institutional assessments as a waiver for formal tests.

What is covered	Details	Applicant note
Tuition fees	Full tuition at host institution	Confirmed on award letter
Living & accommodation	Monthly stipend and housing support	Varies by location
Travel & health	Economy airfare and health insurance	Insurance often included for the grant period
Language proof	Commission rules or institutional test	Waiver may apply with prior English-medium study

Applicants should consult their local Fulbright office early. A strong academic record, leadership evidence, and a clear statement of purpose improve chances.

“Fulbright values cultural exchange and community impact alongside academic merit.”

MEXT Scholarship Japan — tuition, airfare, and monthly allowance included

Japan’s MEXT award is a government-backed, fully funded option for international students at undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and training levels. It covers tuition fees, provides a monthly allowance, and usually includes a round-trip travel allowance to and from Japan.

Many MEXT tracks also offer on-campus housing support and access to university student insurance structures. Applicants should confirm health-related insurance details with the host university.

MEXT funds tuition and living costs and supports multiple degree levels.
Language rules and any waiver options vary by university and program.
Selection focuses on academic merit, research potential, and alignment with Japan’s goals.

Required documents typically include transcripts, a study or research plan, and recommendation letters. Routes via embassy nomination or direct university recommendation change timelines and competitiveness.

Tip: Early contact with prospective supervisors helps research-track applicants. Basic Japanese cultural knowledge and a language plan strengthen applications and ease academic transition.

Benefit	Typical detail	Note
Tuition	Full coverage	Confirmed on award notice
Living support	Monthly allowance	Varies by track
Travel & insurance	Round-trip travel allowance; student insurance	Confirm with host

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) — study at 280+ universities with full support

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) funds undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies across more than 280 universities in China. It is one of the largest funded scholarship programs for international students and covers core living and academic needs.

What the award typically covers

The CSC often provides university accommodation, basic health insurance, and a monthly allowance up to 3,500 Yuan, depending on degree level. Tuition may be included under certain CSC categories, so applicants must confirm the specific arrangement with the host university.

Application tips and language rules

Programs can be taught in Chinese or English. Prospective students should verify whether a waiver or alternative proof of English is accepted for English-taught tracks.

Choose universities that match your field and supervision capacity.
Prepare a clear study plan, two or more recommendation letters, and medical examination forms.
Some schools request pre-admission letters from supervisors to strengthen the application.

Application routes include embassy nomination and direct university application. Plan months ahead to meet windows and to check local rules on tuition, insurance, and monthly allowance levels.

ETH Zurich Excellence Master’s Scholarship — tuition waiver plus CHF grant

ETH Zurich’s Excellence Master’s award supports top candidates with a tuition waiver and a substantial living grant. The program targets master’s studies and favors those with strong academic records and clear research goals.

Program scope and selection criteria

The foundation scholarship pairs a full tuition fee waiver with a grant of CHF 11,000 per semester to cover living and study expenses. This makes it effectively a fully funded scholarship for many recipients.

The selection prioritizes outstanding grades, research potential, and strong references. Applicants should include publications, project summaries, and a focused motivation letter.

“Candidates who show clear academic trajectory and innovation potential have the best chance of success.”

Target fields: engineering, sciences, architecture, and related high-impact areas.
Applicants must confirm departmental rules and any language waiver expectations.
Plan visa and relocation steps well ahead of intake; deadlines follow an annual cycle.

Benefit	Detail	Note
Grant	CHF 11,000 per semester	Covers living and study costs
Fees	Tuition fee waiver	Reduces up-front costs
Selection	Academic excellence & references	Highly competitive

Monash University Scholarship, Australia — research funding with living, relocation, and research allowances

Research candidates at Monash can access a comprehensive award that supports relocation, living, and project expenses. This option is aimed at Master’s by research and PhD applicants who align with faculty strengths and available supervisors.

Eligible levels and program details

Monash provides a scholarship fully funded package that includes an annual living allowance of $35,600. It also adds a $550 relocation allowance and a $1,500 research allowance to help cover initial study costs.

Applicants must confirm departmental English requirements and whether a waiver is possible based on prior English-medium degrees. Competitive profiles show strong grades, a clear research proposal, and relevant publications or experience.

Supports Master’s by research and PhD students with core living and start-up support.
Funding offsets key research expenses and initial settlement costs in Australia.
Applicants should contact potential supervisors early to refine project scope and timing.

Benefit	Amount	Note
Annual living allowance	$35,600	Covers basic living expenses
Relocation allowance	$550	One-off payment
Research allowance	$1,500	Supplies and minor expenses

Tip: The award may be stacked with faculty or external support subject to rules, so plan budgets and insurance needs early and submit applications on time.

Proving English without IELTS: documents and strategies that strengthen applications

Admissions teams often accept several forms of evidence to confirm an applicant’s English ability when a formal test score is unavailable. Applicants should prepare clear, consistent documentation to support a waiver request.

Accepted alternatives

Standard tests: TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Duolingo when the target universities accept them.
Institutional checks: departmental interviews or internal language assessments for many programs.
Pre-sessional or conditional offers that include language modules to meet entrance rules.

Waiver evidence

Common waiver routes include a prior degree taught in English or official letters that confirm the medium of instruction.

Professional work in an English-speaking environment may also support a waiver, depending on policy. Applicants should request formal confirmation from former institutions to strengthen claims.

Supporting documents that help

Strong academic references and a concise statement of purpose.
A robust research proposal for graduate applicants.
Consistent CV, transcripts, and official letters that align with the waiver request.

Tip: Check each program page’s “English Test” or Test Waiver Alternatives section early, and budget for possible fees for alternative tests if a waiver is not granted.

Conclusion

This conclusion gives a short checklist for international students aiming at fully funded study paths.

Top awards offer wide coverage — tuition, monthly stipend or allowance, travel, and health insurance. Examples include Gates Cambridge (£17,500 stipend), DAAD (934€/1,300€), MEXT (tuition, airfare, allowance), Fulbright (tuition, stipend, airfare, insurance), ETH Zurich (CHF 11,000/semester + fee waiver), Monash ($35,600 + relocation/research allowances), and CSC (accommodation, up to 3,500 Yuan monthly).

Applicants should confirm Test Waiver Alternatives, match programs to master or phd goals, and document English ability precisely.

Next steps: gather language evidence, refine proposals, secure references, budget for residual fees, and apply early to the funded scholarship programs that best fit their field.

FAQ

What are the top fully funded master’s and PhD awards that offer language waivers or alternatives?

Major programs that often allow test waivers or alternative proofs of English include the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Chevening, Commonwealth Scholarships, Fulbright, DAAD, MEXT, Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship, and university-funded awards like Monash research scholarships. Each program publishes its language policy and possible alternatives such as institutional tests, prior English-medium degrees, or interviews.

How do language waivers and test-alternative routes work at top universities today?

Institutions review applicants’ English proficiency case-by-case. Common waiver routes include previous degrees taught in English, official transcripts showing English-medium instruction, in-person or online interviews, or satisfactory scores on alternative tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Some universities provide their own language assessments or conditional admission tied to a short pre-sessional course.

Which evidence typically convinces admissions teams to grant a waiver instead of an IELTS score?

Credible evidence includes a degree from a recognized English-medium institution, formal letters from prior universities confirming instruction language, high academic performance in English-taught coursework, professional experience requiring advanced English, and strong supporting documents like recommendation letters and a clear research proposal or statement of purpose.

Does Chevening provide full coverage and accept language alternatives for master’s applicants?

Chevening is a fully funded UK award covering tuition, living allowances, and travel. Applicants must meet language requirements set by their chosen UK universities; many universities accept alternatives or waivers based on prior study in English, institutional tests, or interviews. Candidates should check each host university’s policy and list acceptable evidence in their application.

What does the Gates Cambridge Scholarship cover and when are language waivers possible?

Gates Cambridge provides comprehensive funding including a generous annual stipend, academic development funds, and support for health insurance and travel. The University of Cambridge may exempt applicants from formal tests if they can demonstrate sufficient English through previous degrees taught in English, strong academic references, or successful departmental interviews.

Who is eligible for Commonwealth Scholarships and do they accept language alternatives?

Commonwealth Scholarships target citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries for master’s and PhD study in the UK. Award packages are fully funded and host institutions often accept evidence of English proficiency beyond standard tests, such as English-medium qualifications or official university confirmation of instruction language.

What financial support do DAAD scholarships in Germany usually include?

DAAD awards commonly offer a monthly stipend, contributions toward travel, health insurance support, and sometimes tuition fee coverage or allowance for family members. DAAD guidance specifies language requirements; many programs accept German- or English-language credentials, institutional proof, or alternative test scores depending on the course language.

How do Fulbright language policies handle applicants from non-English countries?

Fulbright grants full tuition, living stipends, accommodation support, travel allowance, and health coverage. Language requirements vary by host university and country commission. In many cases, the local Fulbright commission can accept TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, institutional assessments, or evidence of prior English instruction instead of a single standardized test.

What does the MEXT Scholarship in Japan cover, and how strict is its English requirement?

MEXT covers tuition, a monthly allowance, and travel to and from Japan. Language expectations depend on the program; some research programs run in English and accept alternative evidence such as prior English-taught degrees or supervisor confirmation. Applicants should consult the specific MEXT announcement and host university guidance.

What support does the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) provide and what language proofs are accepted?

CSC scholarships can cover tuition, accommodation, basic health insurance, and a monthly allowance. For English-taught programs, many Chinese universities accept TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or documentation showing prior study in English. Programs taught in Chinese require HSK or other Mandarin proficiency evidence.

What makes ETH Zurich Excellence Master’s Scholarship attractive and how flexible are language rules?

ETH Zurich offers tuition waivers plus a CHF grant to outstanding master’s applicants. English-language requirements depend on the program; applicants may submit TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo, or show that prior study took place in English. Selection emphasizes academic excellence and fit with program goals.

Do Australian university awards like Monash research scholarships accept language alternatives?

Research awards at Monash and similar universities provide living and relocation allowances, research funds, and tuition coverage for master’s by research and PhD candidates. Australian institutions typically accept TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or documented English-medium study as alternatives to a single test, along with supervisor endorsement.

Which accepted English tests and alternatives strengthen applications when a standard test is unavailable?

Widely accepted alternatives include TOEFL, Pearson PTE, and Duolingo English Test. Universities may also use institutional English assessments, department interviews, or proof of an English-medium degree. Applicants should include academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a clear research or study plan to strengthen the waiver request.

How should applicants present waiver evidence to maximize chances of approval?

Provide official transcripts indicating the language of instruction, a formal letter from the previous university confirming English-medium teaching, detailed recommendation letters referencing language ability, and clear, well-written statements of purpose or research proposals. Where possible, arrange an interview or departmental endorsement to support the case.

Are monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances common across these fully funded programs?

Yes. Most fully funded awards include a monthly allowance or stipend, health or medical insurance coverage, and travel support. The exact amounts and coverage vary by program: for example, Gates Cambridge includes a substantial annual stipend, while DAAD and Fulbright outline specific monthly and travel contributions.

Can professional experience or publications substitute for formal test scores?

Professional experience in an English-speaking environment, peer-reviewed publications in English, or teaching experience can strengthen a waiver case. These items do not always replace formal scores but can be persuasive when combined with other documentation and strong references from supervisors or employers.

Where can applicants find specific language policies for each award and university?

Applicants should consult the official program pages—Chevening, Gates Cambridge, Commonwealth, DAAD, Fulbright, MEXT, CSC, ETH Zurich, Monash—and the host university’s admissions site. National scholarship agencies and university international offices publish the most current guidance on accepted tests, waivers, and conditional offers.

Published on: 18 de August de 2025

Isabel Sanchez

Isabel Sanchez is a specialist in personal finance and financial planning, with a background in business administration and investments. Driven by a passion for helping others make smarter financial decisions, Isabel founded BovespaNews.com. Through this platform, she shares insights and guidance on finance, making the financial world easier to understand and more accessible to everyone. In her free time, Isabel enjoys reading books and spending time with her pets, recharging with moments of leisure.