Study in Europe Without IELTS 2025: A Complete Guide

Studying in Europe without IELTS is an exciting opportunity for students who may find the IELTS exam a barrier. Many top European universities offer programs where English proficiency can be proven through alternatives like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or a personal interview.

Similarly, you can take other standardized tests like TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo, depending on the country. This means you don’t always need to stress over taking an IELTS exam to pursue your dream education abroad. Let’s explore how you can study in Europe without IELTS and the universities that offer this amazing option!”

List of Best Countries to Study in Europe Without IELTS

Europe is home to beautiful institutions that offer courses across various fields. Most of these courses are offered in the English language. Students wanting to study in Europe without IELTS 2025 will be glad to know that there are many options. Firstly, you can apply to study in any of the MOI accepted universities in Europe. Similarly, you can also look for countries without IELTS in Europe.

You may be exempt from the IELTS requirement if you have completed your education in English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, USA. Here is a list of countries that accept international students without IELTS for 2025 admission:

Study in Europe without IELTS Countries	Top Universities
Germany	-University of Siegen  -University of Koblenz and Landau-Esslingen –University of Applied Sciences
France	-American Business School -Paris-EBS Paris -ESAIP School of Engineers
Italy	–University of Bologna –Polytechnic University of Milan
Poland	-Medical University of Gdansk -Medical University of Warsaw
Belgium	–Ghent University
Sweden	–Uppsala University
Spain	-Universidad Antonio de Nebrija -Pablo de Olavide University
Norway	–University of Oslo –University of Bergen
Cyprus	-The University of Cyprus -Eastern Mediterranean University
Ireland	–Maynooth University -National University of Ireland, Galway
Netherlands	–University of Amsterdam -Wageningen University & Research
Latvia	-Riga Technical University -Riga Stradins University
Czech Republic	–Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague -University of Pardubice
Denmark	-Technical University of Denmark -Aalborg University

Also Read: Is It Possible to Study MBA in Europe Without GMAT?

Overview of 10 Best Countries to Study in Europe Without IELTS

Wondering about the best countries in Europe offering courses without mandatory IELTS? Here are the top 10 countries to plan your study abroad journey:

Now, let’s take an overview of the 10 best countries to study in Europe without IELTS, one by one:

Study in Germany without IELTS

Students who wish to study in Germany without IELTS can benefit from its most affordable public universities. The country is among the superpowers in technology and is regarded as the best European country to study and become a professional. Certain German universities or colleges do not require students to have an IELTS score. Instead, students are required to prove their language proficiency through a document issued by their previous educational institution. This document requires a statement that English was the Medium of Instruction (MOI) for the course.

It is important to note that the certificates and requirements mentioned are not standard for all universities in Germany. You can get a general idea of the alternative English requirements.

Accepted Certificates for English Language Skills in German Universities	Details
IELTS Scores	B1 Level (4.5) or B2 Level (5.0).
Cambridge English Certificates	From B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, to C2 Proficiency.
TOEFL Scores	Paper-based: 450–500 (B1/B2); Computer-based: 130–170 (B1/B2); Internet-based: 60–80 (B1/B2).
TOEIC Certificate	Accepted as proof of English proficiency.

Best Universities to Study in Germany without IELTS

• University of Siegen 
• University of Koblenz and Landau
• Esslingen University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Esslingen)
• University of Kaiserslautern 
• University of Giessen 
• Technical University of Braunschweig (TU Braunschweig)
• Free University of Berlin

Study in France without IELTS

France is a dream destination for several students who are willing to study abroad. It has top-ranked universities, which make it a prosperous and leading country in the field of education and innovation in Europe and across the world. There is a wide range of courses where students are not required to appear for an IELTS.

However, there are alternatives to the English language test, such as an audio-video interview conducted by the universities or simply a proof of the previously completed educational qualification from a recognised university or institute in the English language.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	80
Duolingo	100
PTE	50-55

Universities to Study in France without IELTS:

• American Business School, Paris
• EBS Paris
• ESAIP School of Engineers
• EPITA Graduate School of Computer Science
• ESC Rennes School of Business, France

Study in Italy without IELTS

With the great success stories of pizza, Italy is famous for its contribution to the world of fashion, design, film, opera, architecture, etc. The country has some of the oldest universities in the Western world. Studying in France also provides international students with an enriching cultural experience and profound learning. Students can study in Italy without IELTS if they can prove that English was the medium of instruction of their undergraduate degree (of at least 3 years).

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
PTE	58 – 65
TOEFL	70 – 80

Universities to Study in Italy without IELTS

• University of Bologna
• Polytechnic University of Milan

Study in Poland without IELTS

Poland is a culturally rich and modern country providing a range of opportunities for international students to advance higher education in Europe. Studying in Poland without IELTS allows you to acquire a high-quality European degree at a low cost. IELTS is not required if you have graduated from an English-speaking higher education institution. 

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	70
PTE	59
Duolingo	90

Universities to Study in Poland without IELTS

• Medical University of Gdansk
• Kozminski University
• Medical University of Warsaw
• University of Bialystok

Study in Sweden without IELTS

Known as the largest country in Northern Europe, Sweden is famous for the Northern Lights. From music and food to tradition and open climate, it has a strong focus on education, it is considered to be an exciting destination for international students. Sweden has some of the successful corporations resulting in an expansion in the field of education and research.

Students having a bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Information Technology or Computer Science are waived off an IELTS. With any of these degrees, you can apply for an M.A. degree in Sweden. Also, the mode of instruction must be English in the previous educational institution.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	90
PTE	62
Cambridge ESOL	CAE 180

Universities to Study in Sweden without IELTS

• Stockholm University
• Lund University
• Uppsala University
• Chalmers University of Technology
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology
• University of Gothenburg

Study in Ireland without IELTS

Studying in Ireland without IELTS is possible for international students who meet specific criteria. Many universities in Ireland offer alternatives to IELTS, such as proof of prior education in English or a personal interview. Additionally, some universities may conduct interviews or accept other language proficiency tests like TOEFL or PTE as substitutes. Ireland’s world-class universities and vibrant student life make it a popular destination for international students.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	85
PTE	60
Duolingo	110 – 120

Universities to Study in Ireland without IELTS

1. Maynooth University
2. National University of Ireland, Galway
3. University of Limerick
4. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
5. Dublin Institute of Technology

Study in UK without IELTS

Studying in the UK without IELTS is possible through several alternatives. For instance, if you have completed your secondary or higher education in English, some UK universities may waive the IELTS requirement. Additionally, universities like the University of Bristol offer pre-sessional English language courses for students who need to improve their language skills before starting their degree. Other accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE, or even a successful interview in English.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	86
PTE	60

Universities to Study in UK without IELTS

• Imperial College London
• London School of Economics and Political Science
• University of Birmingham
• University of Glasgow
• Durham University

Studying in the Czech Republic without IELTS

Studying in the Czech Republic without IELTS is a practical option for many students, as several universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency. Institutions like Charles University and the University of Prague offer alternatives like TOEFL and Cambridge A Levels. Students can also prove their proficiency with TOEFL or PTE scores, typically at a B2 level, or even undergo an English language interview.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Minimum Score
TOEFL	90
Czech Republic	58

Universities to Study in Czech Republic without IELTS

• Brno University of Technology
• Charles University
• University of Chemical Technology

Study in Belgium without IELTS

To study at Belgium’s renowned Ghent University, you do not require IELTS as an admission eligibility criterion. The only criterion for language is to submit proof that the student has a prior study program from an English-language-speaking institution.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Details
TOEFL	80 – 100
PTE	55 – 60
Duolingo	110

Universities to Study in Belgium without IELTS

1. Universidad Antonio de Nebrija
2. Pablo de Olavide University
3. University of Valencia

Study in Norway without IELTS

Norway offers diverse educational and career prospects for foreign students. Norway is a highly developed country with a very accommodating community that offers a high standard of living. They lay a strong emphasis on hospitality and will try to make the international students feel at home.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Details
TOEFL	80
PTE	50

Universities to Study in Norway without IELTS

1. University of Oslo
2. University of Bergen
3. Norwegian University of Science And Technology

Study in Cyprus without IELTS

Cyprus is a stunning island blessed with the beauty of the Middle East and the Mediterranean Sea. With a multilingual population and English as their commonly spoken language, the country welcomes students from across the globe seeking quality education at affordable costs. The universities of Cyprus are recognized by the European Union ensuring excellence in education and teaching methods.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Details
TOEFL	65
Duolingo	105 – 115

Universities to Study in Cyprus without IELTS

1. The University of Cyprus
2. Eastern Mediterranean University
3. Cyprus university of technology
4. University of Nicosia

Study in Denmark without IELTS

Studying in Denmark without IELTS offers students a unique opportunity to experience high-quality education in a country renowned for its innovative teaching methods and strong academic standards. Denmark is home to top universities like the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, offering a diverse range of courses in fields such as engineering, business, and social sciences. With a high global ranking in education, Denmark emphasizes research, critical thinking, and practical skills.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests	Denmark
Duolingo	105
TOEFL	80 – 90

Universities to Study in Denmark without IELTS

1. University of Copenhagen
2. Technical University of Denmark
3. University of Southern Denmark
4. Aarhus University

Popular Universities to Study in Netherlands without IELTS

Studying in the Netherlands without IELTS is a realistic option, as many universities offer alternatives to prove English proficiency. The Netherlands has a strong reputation for higher education, with institutions like Delft University of Technology (#49 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025) and the University of Amsterdam (#55) consistently ranking among the best worldwide. In the academic year 2024/25, the country hosted over 131,000 international students, showing continued growth in its appeal as a study destination.

Popular fields of study include business and management, engineering, and social sciences. This diverse academic environment offers students a rich and varied educational experience.

Universities to Study in Netherlands without IELTS

1. University of Amsterdam
2. Wageningen University & Research
3. University of Groningen
4. Leiden University

Popular Universities to Study in Latvia without IELTS

Latvia is an increasingly popular destination for international students, with universities like the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University recognized as leading institutions in the Baltic region. During the 2024-2025 academic year, the number of international students grew to over 11,500, with many coming from countries like India and Uzbekistan. The most popular fields of study for these students are social sciences, business, law, and medicine, highlighting the country’s diverse and high-quality academic offerings in a welcoming and affordable environment.

Universities to Study in Latvia without IELTS

1. Riga Technical University
2. Riga Stradins University
3. University of Liepaja
4. Ventspils University College

Eligibility to Study in Europe Without IELTS in 2025

It is possible to study in Europe without IELTS by satisfying certain eligibility criteria. These criteria generally focus on proving your English proficiency through alternative methods, allowing you to bypass the IELTS exam. Here are the common requirements:

• Previous Education in English: You must have completed your prior education (high school or university) in English, preferably in an English-speaking country or a program where English was the medium of instruction.
• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: A certificate from your previous educational institution confirming that English was the primary language of instruction is often required.
• English Language Tests (Alternatives): Some universities accept other English proficiency tests such as TOEFL, Duolingo, or Cambridge English qualifications instead of IELTS.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying to European Universities

It becomes very critical for individuals who are planning to advance their career in universities abroad. You need to carefully research and go through the basic eligibility criteria for admission to a certain university. Whether you need to have an IELTS score or not, listed below are all the essentials that one must keep in mind:

• Make sure that your documents support the language criteria required to be eligible for the admission process.
• Do not vaguely go through a university’s website. Check each and everything very clearly. If needed, take help whenever anything is not clear. You can also reach to the experts at Leverage Edu for any admission-related guidance.
• As someone who aspires to study in Europe without IELTS, you will be required to submit a certificate proving that you have studied English at the Intermediate level.
• Some universities need students to achieve IELP to get admission. However, this criterion does not apply to all universities.

Cost of Studying and Living in Europe

The cost of studying in Europe varies significantly depending on the country, the type of institution (public or private), and your nationality (EU/EEA vs. non-EU/EEA). However, Europe remains a relatively affordable study destination for many international students.

Here is a table summarizing the cost of studying and living in Europe for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Country	Tuition Fees (Non-EU/EEA Students)	Living Expenses (Per Month)
Germany	Public Universities: Free tuition, but students pay a semester fee of EUR 100 – EUR 350.  Private Universities: EUR 1,500 – EUR 20,000+ per year.	EUR 950 – EUR 1,700
France	Public Universities: Bachelor’s: EUR 2,895 per year. Master’s: EUR 3,941 per year.  Private Universities: EUR 6,000 – EUR 18,000 per year.	EUR 1,200 – EUR 1,600
Netherlands	Public Universities: Bachelor’s: EUR 6,000 – EUR 15,000 per year. Master’s: EUR 8,000 – EUR 20,000 per year.	EUR 1,200 – EUR 1,800
Norway	Public Universities: No tuition fees, even for international students.  Private Universities: EUR 8,000 – EUR 19,000 per year.	EUR 1,300 – EUR 1,800
UK	Undergraduate: GBP 11,000 – GBP 32,000 per year. Postgraduate: GBP 12,000 – GBP 40,000+ per year.	GBP 1,000 – GBP 2,100

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We hope that this blog was able to provide you with all the information regarding the “Study in Europe Without IELTS”. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.