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Every year, over 4 million students attempt the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. Administered by the British Council, the IELTS is considered the gold standard when it comes to measuring a student’s English language proficiency. Universities, employers and immigration authorities in the UK, Australia, and Canada use the IELTS to assess an individual’s ability to listen, read, write, and speak in English. A common question that students ask is, “Can I study abroad without IELTS?” Those who do not have the resources to attempt the IELTS can still study abroad. Let’s explore alternative exams and have a look at the most popular countries to study in without IELTS.
Key highlights:
- Understanding the IELTS
- Alternative Tests to Study Abroad Without IELTS
- Exploring Countries Without IELTS Requirements
Understanding the IELTS
The IELTS helps universities gauge a student’s ability to understand English in formal and academic settings. The test, which is accepted by over 12,500 institutions in over 140 countries, helps learners boost their application and secure a spot in some of the best universities in the world. The test equips students with the English skills they can rely on in the real world.
IELTS Test Format
The IELTS has four sections – listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Students will receive a band score for each section and an overall band score for the test. Several universities have a minimum band score requirement for each section.
Also Read: What Aspirants Must Know About the IELTS Listening Band Score
Alternative Tests to Study Abroad Without IELTS
Students can still study abroad without an IELTS score. Those who choose to skip the IELTS can take an alternative exam to showcase their ability to speak, read, write, and converse in the language. Several countries now accept university admissions without IELTS. Instead, they accept one of the following test scores.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT
Almost every university that accepts the IELTS also accepts the TOEFL iBT. The computer-based test evaluates each candidate’s reading, listening, speaking, and writing proficiency. Educational institutes in over 150 countries accept the test as proof of English language proficiency.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
The PTE Academic, like the TOEFL iBT, is a computer-based test. The test uses real-life scenarios and integrated language tasks to measure an applicant’s English language proficiency. Recognised by universities and immigration authorities worldwide, it includes three sections:
- Speaking and Writing (Combined)
- Reading
- Listening
Duolingo English Test (DET)
Students looking for a flexible, affordable, and convenient alternative, can opt for the Duolingo English Test (DET). More than 2,000 universities accept DET scores as proof of English proficiency. Students can take the exam from home as long as they have a stable internet connection and a webcam.
The test is shorter than the TOEFL and PTE, lasting about one hour, and includes:
- Speaking, Reading, Listening, and Writing tasks
- A video interview segment to assess verbal proficiency
Instead of the IELTS, you can apply to top universities overseas with an alternative test score.
Exploring Countries Without IELTS Requirements
You can study in popular destinations like the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia without an IELTS score. Let’s better understand without IELTS, which country we can go to for higher education.
Study in the US Without IELTS
Many universities in the USA waive IELTS requirements for students who have completed previous education in English or undertake an Intensive English Language Programme (IELP).
Universities in the US to Study Abroad Without IELTS
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Drexel University
- State University of New York
- University of Arkansas
- University of Dayton
Study in the UK Without IELTS
Some UK universities accept students without IELTS if they provide proof of English-medium education or a score above 70% in high school English.
Universities in the UK to Study Abroud Without IELTS
- Sheffield Hallam University
- University of Warwick
- Brunel University of London
- University of Lincoln
- Bangor University
Study in Australia Without IELTS
Certain Australian universities exempt students from IELTS if they completed previous studies in English or qualify through alternative English proficiency tests.
Universities in Australia to Study Abroad Without IELTS for Indian Students
- University of Queensland
- University of Adelaide
- Macquarie University
- Bond University
- Swinburne University of Technology
Study in Canada Without IELTS
Canadian universities often accept students without IELTS if they studied in an English-medium school for over four years or qualify via alternative tests like TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE.
Universities in Canada to Study Abroad Without IELTS for Indian Students
- Concordia University
- Brock University
- University of Winnipeg
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Okanagan College
Pursuing higher education abroad is no longer limited by IELTS requirements. You now have the flexibility to study in top countries without IELTS scores for your higher studies. Whether you’re considering the US, UK, Canada, or Australia, universities worldwide offer options for students to enrol without an IELTS score.
If you’re wondering, “Without IELTS, which country I can go to?”, the answer depends on your academic background and alternative test scores like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Appearing for these tests and completing your applications requires careful financial planning. You can rely on Avanse Financial Services for an education loan for study abroad to help with these costs. At Avanse, we provide customised education financing options, making your dream of studying abroad more accessible. Our loans for students cover tuition, accommodation, and other expenses. So, take the next step towards your international education—without the stress of IELTS!
