Get a Scholarship to Study in Europe without IELTS

Thinking of studying in Europe but not keen on writing IELTS? You’re not alone—and good news, you don’t have to. For the 2025–26 academic year, some universities across Europe are now admitting international students without requiring IELTS. So, whether you’re aiming for a degree in engineering, business, science, or the arts, there are solid options available that let you skip the IELTS stress and still access top-quality education abroad.

From Germany to the Netherlands, Sweden to France, institutions are increasingly accepting alternative language proficiency options or waiving the requirement entirely for those who’ve previously studied in English. This means Nigerians and other students from English-speaking backgrounds now have a smoother path to study abroad, saving both time and cost.

In addition to admission flexibility, many European governments and universities are offering generous, fully funded scholarships to help cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and even travel costs. These scholarships are tailored to support your academic journey and personal development—all in the heart of some of the world’s most vibrant, multicultural societies.

List of European Universities Where You Can Study Without IELTS

These universities either waive the IELTS requirement under specific conditions or accept alternatives like Duolingo, TOEFL, or proof of prior English-taught education:

• University of Bonn (Germany)
• University of Padua (Italy)
• Ghent University (Belgium)
• Uppsala University (Sweden)
• University of Bologna (Italy)
• Maynooth University (Ireland)
• University of Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• University of Siegen (Germany)
• Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (Czech Republic)
• University of Applied Sciences (Various Countries)
• ESAIP School of Engineers (France)
• Technical University of Denmark
• University of Oslo (Norway)
• University of Valencia (Spain)

Accepted Alternatives to IELTS

Many European universities accept these instead of IELTS:

• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge English Exams (C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency)
• Duolingo English Test
• Pearson PTE Academic
• University-specific language assessments
• Proof of previous education in English
• Top Scholarships in Europe 2025–26 (Fully Funded)

Here are some of the most attractive scholarship opportunities you should be eyeing:

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s/PhD
   Study across 2–3 European countries with full funding—tuition, travel, insurance, and a monthly stipend.
   Open to students from all over the world.

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
   For all levels and a broad range of disciplines, fully funded.

3. Holland & Orange Knowledge Scholarships (Netherlands)
   For Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, it covers tuition and part of the living costs.

4. Eiffel Excellence Scholarships (France)
   Fully funded Master’s and PhD scholarships are provided by the French government.

5. Belgium Government Scholarships (ARES & BAEF)
   For students from developing countries, covering tuition, travel, and living stipends.

6. Danish Government Scholarships
   For non-EU/EEA students, covering tuition and living expenses.

7. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
   Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs—all tuition and accommodation covered.

8. Swedish Institute Scholarships
   For Master’s students, it includes tuition, living, and travel support.

9. Ireland Government Scholarship (GOI-IES)
   One-year full tuition and €10,000 stipend for high-performing international students.

10. Finland Government Scholarships
    Covers full tuition and, in some cases, living grants.

How to Study in Europe Without IELTS

To get started, follow these steps:

• Identify Universities and Programs: Use platforms like Study in Europe or visit university websites directly. Look for English-taught degrees.
• Check Language Requirements: Some universities waive IELTS if your previous education was in English or if you’re from an English-speaking country like Nigeria.
• Provide Alternative Language Proof: Use TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, or Cambridge English test scores, or secure a waiver letter if your former institution taught in English.
• Meet Admission Criteria: Prepare other documents like your transcript, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
• Apply for Scholarships: Don’t just settle for admission—go for funding. Start early to beat deadlines.
• Apply for a Student Visa: Once admitted, prepare your student visa application. Requirements usually include an acceptance letter, proof of finances, and health insurance.

Studying in Europe without IELTS in 2025–26 is not just possible—it’s smart. You’ll bypass one of the biggest barriers, gain access to high-quality education, and immerse yourself in a multicultural setting while building a global network. Whether you’re drawn by the affordability, the academics, or the adventure, this could be your golden ticket out of Nigeria into a life of purpose and progress.