Dreaming of studying in Europe, but don’t want to take the IELTS or TOEFL?
You’re not alone! Many students avoid English tests because they’re expensive, time-consuming, or just plain stressful.
The good news is — you can still study in Europe without IELTS.
Yes, really. Some universities accept alternative proof of English or waive the test entirely!
Let’s break it down in the simplest way so anyone — student, parent, or beginner — can understand.
Why Do Universities Ask for IELTS?
Most European universities want to make sure you understand and speak basic English, since many programs are taught in English.
But here’s the catch — IELTS is not the only way to prove it!
Many universities accept:
- Proof that you studied in an English-speaking school or college
- Other tests (like Duolingo English Test, Medium of Instruction letter)
- An interview instead of a test
Top 10 European Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS
Let’s look at real universities across Europe where you can apply without IELTS in 2025.
1. University of Oslo – Norway 🇳🇴
Top-rated public university
Accepts students without IELTS if:
You completed previous education in English or passed their internal English test
Language: English-taught Master’s programs available
2. University of Siegen – Germany 🇩🇪
Affordable and public university
No IELTS if:
You submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter showing your past education was in English
TIP: MOI letter must be from your school/college principal or registrar
3. Ghent University – Belgium 🇧🇪
Known for engineering and research
Accepts:
- MOI letter
- Proof of English-taught Bachelor’s degree
- Or personal interview
Offers both Bachelor’s & Master’s programs in English
4. Polytechnic University of Milan – Italy 🇮🇹
One of Italy’s top tech universities
No IELTS needed if:
You studied in English at school or university (just show documents)
Courses in Architecture, Engineering, Design
5. University of Bologna – Italy 🇮🇹
Oldest university in Europe (founded in 1088!)
Exempts IELTS if:
Your previous education was in English
OR you take a short Skype interview
Offers lots of programs in English – from Economics to Engineering
6. Riga Technical University – Latvia 🇱🇻
Very affordable and open to international students
No IELTS if:
You provide a Medium of Instruction certificate
OR pass their online English exam
Tuition starts at €2,000–€4,000 per year
7. University of Pardubice – Czech Republic 🇨🇿
Public university in Czechia
Accepts students without IELTS if:
- You submit a Medium of Instruction letter
- OR you pass a university-conducted interview
Programs in English available in tech, business, and health
8. University of Turku – Finland 🇫🇮
Known for innovation and research
IELTS not always required:
- If you studied earlier in English
- Or submit other test scores (TOEFL, PTE, or internal test)
Check each course for exact language requirement
9. University of Warsaw – Poland 🇵🇱
Top-ranked public university
No IELTS if:
You provide proof of English-medium education
OR take an online English test
Tuition fees are low, and cost of living is student-friendly
10. Vytautas Magnus University – Lithuania 🇱🇹
Modern university popular among international students
IELTS not mandatory:
- Medium of Instruction letter is enough
- Interview may also be used
Wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in English
What is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter?
An MOI letter is a simple document from your school or college that says:
“This student completed their studies in English.”
It usually includes:
- Your name
- Your course name
- Duration of study
- Confirmation that all subjects were taught in English
- Signature and stamp from school head or registrar
How to Apply Without IELTS (Step-by-Step)
- Choose your university from the list above
- Check the program and its English requirements on the official website
- Collect your documents:
- MOI letter
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- CV/resume
- Motivation letter
- Apply online on the university portal
- Wait for interview call (if needed)
- Get admission offer and apply for visa
Real Example
Meet Sarah from Nigeria.
She wanted to study Architecture in Italy but didn’t have an IELTS score.
She got a Medium of Instruction letter from her college, submitted it to Politecnico di Milano, passed their quick interview — and now she’s studying in Europe, tuition fully funded.
Bonus: Scholarships Available Too!
Many of these universities offer scholarships for:
- Tuition fee waivers
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel grants
Some examples:
- DAAD (Germany)
- Erasmus+
- Italian Government Scholarships
- Poland NAWA Program
Final Thoughts – No IELTS? No Problem.
Studying in Europe without IELTS is 100% possible.
You just need:
A Medium of Instruction letter
The right university
A strong application
Don’t let a test stand between you and your dream.
Start early, apply smart, and soon — you could be walking the streets of Berlin, Milan, Oslo, or Warsaw… as an international student.