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Dreaming of studying in Spain but worried about the IELTS requirement? The good news is that you can study in Spain without IELTS and still enjoy access to top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, and a rich cultural experience.
Spain has become the most popular destination for international students, offering a wide range of universities that now accept alternative proof of English proficiency, such as MOI certificate, an online interview, or previous education in English. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about studying in Spain without IELTS.
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Why Study in Spain?
Spain is a top country which is well known for its rich culture, Mediterranean climate, and high-quality education system. But beyond the lifestyle, there are strong academic and career reasons to study here why you choose Spain for your education:
- Well-reputed universities: Top Universities like the University of Barcelona and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid rank among Europe’s best universities.
- Affordable Education: Compared to the UK, USA, or Australia, Spain offers lower tuition fees and cost of living.
- English Taught Courses: There are many bachelor’s, master’s, and MBA courses that are now taught entirely in English, which can be helpful for Indian students to learn.
- Post-Study Opportunities: Students can apply for a post-study work visa for up to 1-2 years after completing their courses, which allows students to work and stay there after their course program.
- Cultural Diversity: Students from Asia, Africa, and Europe create a multicultural academic environment.
Also Read: Education in Spain for International Students: Courses
Can You Study in Spain Without IELTS
Yes, the IELTS exam is not mandatory to study in Spain. Many Spanish universities offer alternatives, while some universities may ask for a standard English test score. International students who have attended English-medium schools or universities can particularly benefit from this. Here we have mentioned the alternative option if you do not appear for the IELTS exam, and help you to study in Spain without IELTS:
- Universities in Spain call applicants for an interview, which assesses their ability to communicate in the English language.
- Students can go for another English proficiency option like TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo, which are accepted by many universities.
- You can submit a certificate of Medium of Instruction (MOI) from your previous school or institution attesting to the fact that you had your previous education in English.
List of Top Spanish Universities Without IELTS in 2025-26
Here you can discover the top Spanish universities that accept international students without requiring IELTS in 2025-26. These institutions offer quality English-taught programs and flexible admission options for non-native speakers. Here are some of the top universities that help you to study in Spain without IELTS:
| Universities Name | Alternative to IELTS |
| IE University | IELTS optional; University accept MOI |
| ESADE Business School | Accepts MOI/interview |
| University of Navarra | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universidad Autónoma de Madrid | Accepts MOI/interview |
| University of Granada | Accepts MOI |
| Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya · BarcelonaTech (UPC) | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universidad Antonio de Nebrija | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universitat Politècnica de València | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universitat de Barcelona | Accepts MOI/interview |
| University of Salamanca | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) | Accepts MOI |
| Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Universitat Pompeu Fabra | Accepts MOI/interview |
| University of Valencia | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Complutense University of Madrid | Accepts MOI/interview |
| Pablo de Olavide University | Accepts MOI/interview |
What are the Alternatives to IELTS in Spain
Learn about the best alternatives to IELTS accepted by Spanish universities, including other English proficiency tests and language proof options for international students. Here are some alternative options to study in Spain without IELTS:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: This is the certificate which is provided by your previous school and college stating that your previous education is from the English board.
- Interview process: Universities arrange interview sessions to assess the English skills of students.
- Other English proficiency tests: Exams like PTE, TOEFL, and Duolingo are accepted by many universities.
Also Read: Spain Student Visa Process in 2026: Steps, Eligibility & Fees
List of Scholarships in Spain Without IELTS 2025-26
Explore the top scholarship in Spain for 2025-26 that doesn’t require IELTS. Learn about funding options available for international students to study in Spain without an English proficiency test. Here ae the list of scholarships in Spain without IELTS
- European University of the Atlantic Scholarship
- University of Granada Scholarship
- Spanish Government Schaolshrip
- UIC Barcelona Scholarship
- 850,000 Ministry of Spain Scholarship
- CGR Internship in Spain
- Erasmus+ Scholarships
- Barcelona Graduate School for Economic Scholarships
- Santander Scholarship
How to Study in Spain Without IELTS
Find out the step-by-step process to study in Spain without IELTS, including eligibility requirements, application tips, and alternative ways to prove English proficiency. Here you can check how to study in Spain without IELTS.
- Research about the top universities that offer English-taught programs and accept admission with the IELTS exam. Check the eligibility and application deadline on the official website.
- Prepare alternative proof of English proficiency, like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous school or an English test like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo, is accepted.
- Gather all the mandatory documents before starting your application process.
- Submit your application through the university’s online portal and pay the application fee if required.
- Attend the interview, which is conducted by the university; it should be an online or video interview to assess your communication skills.
- Once you receive the admission letter, that can be used for your Spanish student visa application.
Document list for Study in Spain Without IELTS
Check the essential documents required to apply for universities in Sian without IELTS, including academic record, proof of English proficiency, and visa-related paperwork. Here is the list of some important documents for study in Spain without IELTS:
- Valid passport
- An admission letter from a recognised university
- Proof of Funds
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Letter of recommendation
- Updated CV.
Also Read: Best 5 Places to Study Abroad in Spain as per QS Top
Studying in Spain without IELTS is absolutely possible and opens the door to excellent academic and cultural experiences. With a variety of English-taught programs, affordable tuition fees, and welcoming universities, Singapore is an ideal study abroad destination for students who wish to avoid the hassle of language exams. If you can prove your English proficiency through previous education or other means, your dream to study in Spain without IELTS can easily come true.
FAQs
IELTS may be required for admission by the educational institution, but it is not a requirement for the visa itself. English or Spanish proficiency may be required, so it’s a good idea to verify the precise language requirements of the institution you’re applying to.
Tuition costs are significantly less in Spain, no matter whether you join a public or private university. Public Universities: Depending on the program and university, annual tuition costs for bachelor’s degrees can range from EUR 700 to EUR 3,000.
Depending on the season and kind of visa, the projected percentage of Indian applicants who are denied a Spain visa ranges from 10% to 20%.
Related Reads
This was all about study in Spain without IELTS. For more informative blogs on Spain, follow Leverage Edu. Also, you can reach out to our experts to get enrolled in top universities in Spain.
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