How to Get a UK Scholarship Without IELTS in 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide

Study in the UK Without Taking the IELTS Exam

Dreaming of studying in the UK but struggling with the cost of IELTS or not confident about passing it? You’re not alone. Many international students — especially from Africa and South Asia — face this challenge. The good news? You can apply for scholarships in the UK without IELTS if you meet specific conditions.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get fully funded UK scholarships without taking IELTS, alternative options for proving English proficiency, and which universities accept other tests or waivers.

Why Some UK Scholarships Don’t Require IELTS

While IELTS is the most popular English test, it’s not the only option. Many UK universities and scholarship providers:

• Accept alternative tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test.
• Accept proof of English instruction from your previous university (MOI – Medium of Instruction letter).
• Offer conditional admission or internal language assessment for selected applicants.

This means you can skip IELTS if you have strong academic credentials and meet other criteria.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a UK Scholarship Without IELTS

Step 1: Choose UK Universities That Accept IELTS Alternatives

Many UK universities allow international students to apply without IELTS if they provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter or meet alternative test requirements.

Examples:

• University of Portsmouth
• London South Bank University
• University of Bolton
• University of Plymouth
• University of Northampton
• University of Greenwich

These institutions often accept:

• TOEFL iBT
• Duolingo English Test (DET)
• Cambridge English qualifications
• MOI from previous degree (must be recent and in English)

Step 2: Identify Scholarships from These Universities

Once you’ve selected your target universities, look for their institutional or government-linked scholarships.

Examples of Scholarships:

• Chevening Scholarships
  Does not require IELTS if the university accepts another test.
  Website: chevening.org

• Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
  Some universities in this program accept MOI.
  Website: fcdo.gov.uk

• University of Sussex Chancellor’s Scholarship
  Accepts alternative proof of English proficiency.
  Website: sussex.ac.uk

• University of Bradford Global Development Scholarships
  Often open to students from crisis zones and accepts MOI in specific cases.
  Website: bradford.ac.uk

Step 3: Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter

If your undergraduate degree was taught in English, ask your previous institution to provide an official MOI letter confirming that all your courses were delivered in English.

Most universities will accept this in place of IELTS, especially if:

• Your degree is recent (within 5 years)
• You are from an English-speaking country or region

Step 4: Prepare Other Key Scholarship Requirements

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Passport copy
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter
• Resume or CV
• Proof of extracurriculars or leadership

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Follow Up

Apply directly via the university’s portal or through the scholarship program (e.g., Chevening, Commonwealth). Make sure you:

• Upload your MOI or alternative test proof
• Reach out to the admissions office for clarification if needed
• Track deadlines and submit early

Alternative English Proficiency Options to IELTS

Final Thoughts

You do not need IELTS to get a scholarship in the UK — if you know where and how to apply. Use the Medium of Instruction route or alternative English tests. Focus on building a strong application and selecting universities that welcome students without rigid language test barriers.

Study smart, apply early, and let nothing — not even IELTS — stop you.

Ready to begin your scholarship application journey? Visit ApplyScholarshipHub.com for more detailed guides, application templates, and personalized assistance with your scholarship applications.