Many potential international students want to know how to study abroad without IELTS. Studying in your desired country comes with a long list of conditions that must be met before you can be accepted into your chosen university or educational institution.
As a result, the standardized IELTS is the most commonly requested English language competency test, and many universities require it as proof of proficiency. Language proficiency exams are sometimes a part of that standard admission package. Still, there are many universities that require IELTS specifically in order to study abroad there.
However, it is possible to study abroad without IELTS. The IELTS doesn’t last forever, it’s expensive and needlessly difficult. With the help of this guide, you can learn about other options you have and what steps you can take to reach your goal of studying abroad without taking the IELTS exam.
IELTS – How Useful Is It?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is not the only standard method for international education. Many other language tests aimed at university students studying abroad can guarantee their knowledge and proficiency.
The IELTS, however popular, has flaws that should not be overlooked.
1. Validity
Certificate validity for those interested to study abroad without IELTS is one of the main reasons why prospective study abroad students want to avoid it. Namely, your IELTS exam has an expiration date, and it is only valid for 24 months.
If your IELTS test expires before your university admission success, you may need to retake it.
2. Cost
Another valid reason why many international students choose to circumvent the IELTS exam is the cost of the IELTS. Needlessly expensive, the test poses a great financial burden for all study abroad students, especially those who come from low-income countries.
Studying abroad necessitates extensive financial planning. Hence, many students seek scholarships to help them support themselves while studying abroad. The cost of the IELTS exam, especially if you have to retake it, can be a budget overload.
3. Difficulty
Many international educational institutions will require a certain test score from their students. While the difficulty of the test itself depends on individual preparedness and the overall mental state that the candidate is in on the day when they’re taking it, it requires training and it’s time-consuming.
Many international students prepare for the test months in advance and yet find it quite difficult. If you fail your IELTS exam, you’ll have to repeat the process of preparing for it, paying for it, and retaking it until you get a good score.
Is There A Different Route?
Many people even refuse to take the test and abandon their plans to study abroad. If neither option appeals to you, there is always a third choice to explore. You may always commit to digging a little deeper if retaking the test and fully giving up on your study abroad dream are out of the question.
Not everything needs to be black and white, and you’ll be happy to hear that yes, it is possible to study abroad without IELTS!
Where to Study Abroad Without IELTS
Many study abroad possibilities are available without IELTS in countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia.
Their universities have specific language requirements, so make sure to research them thoroughly before applying.
Study Abroad Without IELTS in Canada
International students without an IELTS exam that are applying for admission to Canadian educational institutions have several options to choose from:
- You can showcase your English proficiency by submitting other English proficiency tests (TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, and PTE)
- Alternatively, you can submit proof that you’ve studied English as a second language in school (four years minimum)
- Finally, you can take an English language course at the university
University of Winnipeg
The University of Winnipeg has its own English language program you need to complete if you don’t have an IELTS. With a satisfactory score, you can commence your studies abroad hassle-free and you won’t have to worry about taking IELTS.
University of Saskatchewan
On the other hand, the University of Saskatchewan has a plethora of different options that are viable alternatives for IELTS. Namely, as an international student, you can either take other English proficiency tests (TOEFL, CanTest, Duolingo English Test) or you can take a preparatory program at the university’s language center.
Study Abroad Without IELTS in Germany
Known for its world-class education, Germany provides amazing opportunities to study abroad without IELTS.
It’s possible to study without IELTS if you provide the medium of instruction certificate, also known as MOI. The MOI is a document that testifies that English was your medium of instruction.
This basically demonstrates your English language proficiency. Also, the good news is that the majority of German universities recognize and accept it as a genuine language certification.
Study Abroad Without IELTS in Australia
Nine universities in total in Australia accept students to study abroad without IELTS. To name a few, those universities include the University of Queensland, the University of Adelaide, the University of New South Wales, and Swinburne University.
Should you want to study elsewhere in Australia, IELTS is not the only proficiency test that Australian universities recognize – TOEFL, PTE, and CAE are also recognized!
It Is Possible to Study Abroad Without IELTS!
In the end, you can study abroad without having to worry about IELTS. You can avoid the rigorous training process and you won’t have to pay to take it. At the same time, you’ll still be able to study at a high-quality international university.
Many universities abroad – such as these in Canada, Germany, and Australia – have developed different ways to ascertain the level of English language proficiency of their international students.
Make sure to take advantage of their pre-planned courses and submit the necessary information in order to fulfill your dream of studying abroad.
Happy studying and take care!