If you can prove your English competence through other means, including prior
English-language coursework or other examinations, many European institutions
offer programs for overseas students without having IELTS (overseas English
Language Testing System) results. Ten prestigious European colleges that, under
specific conditions, do not require the IELTS are listed below:
1. Amsterdam University (Netherlands)
Alternatives for English Proficiency: Students who have finished their prior
English coursework are admitted to the University of Amsterdam. You may not be
required to submit your IELTS results if you have completed your secondary or
undergraduate studies in English.
Programs: provides a large selection of English-language undergraduate,
graduate, and doctorate programs in the fields of business, law, the humanities,
and the sciences.
2. English Proficiency Options at the University of Berlin (Germany):
The University of Berlin recognizes a number of English proficiency exams,
including the TOEFL, Cambridge English, and other accredited credentials.
Students who have taken English-language courses for their prior degree may
occasionally be excluded from taking the IELTS exam.
Programs: A wide range of postgraduate English-language programs in
disciplines including business, engineering, and the sciences.
3. English Proficiency Alternatives at the Free University of Berlin
(Germany):
If an applicant has already earned an English degree, the Free University of
Berlin may forgo the IELTS requirement. Other options like Cambridge English,
the TOEFL, or a university’s own language exam could be acceptable.
Programs: Provides a wide range of courses taught in English in subjects
including the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities.
4. Vienna University (Austria):
Alternatives for English competence: Candidates who can prove their English
competence by previous English coursework or other accredited language
credentials are accepted by the University of Vienna. IELTS isn’t always required.
Programs: The institution provides a wide range of English-language courses,
especially in the social sciences, business, and humanities.
5. Barcelona University (Spain):
English Proficiency Alternatives: Students who have studied in English or who
have earned a degree from an institution where English was the primary
language of instruction may be exempt from the University of Barcelona’s IELTS
requirement.
Programs: Numerous undergraduate and graduate English-language programs,
particularly in the arts, business, and international relations domains.
6. English Proficiency Alternatives at Charles University (Czech Republic):
If you can demonstrate that your prior coursework was in English, Charles
University frequently waives the IELTS requirement. The TOEFL and other
English proficiency exams can also be acceptable.
Programs: The institution provides a range of courses taught in English in
subjects like business, economics, law, and the sciences.
7. Warsaw University (Poland):
Alternatives for English competence: If an applicant’s prior coursework was in
English or if they can demonstrate their English competence in another way, the
University of Warsaw may waive the IELTS requirement.
Programs: Provides a large selection of business, economics, political science,
and other courses taught in English.
8. University of Milan (Italy):
English Proficiency Alternatives: The University of Milan may waive
IELTS for students who have completed their education in English or have
other acceptable forms of proof of English proficiency.
Programs: Offers English-taught programs, especially in fields like
medicine, business, and engineering.
Website: University of Milan
9. University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
English Proficiency Alternatives: The University of Copenhagen accepts
students who have completed previous studies in English. It also accepts
other English proficiency tests like TOEFL, and some programs may have
no requirement for standardized tests.
Documentation: Even while some universities may not require the IELTS,
you might still need to provide documentation such as letters from prior schools,
proof of English-medium schooling, or other language evaluation results.
These colleges give international students who might not have IELTS scores the
chance to continue their education in Europe by offering a wide variety of
programs. However, since rules might vary from year to year, it’s always a good
idea to confirm the requirements of each individual university.
● Programs: Numerous English-taught programs across disciplines
including business, social sciences, and health sciences.
● Website: University of Copenhagen
10. University of Malta (Malta) English Proficiency Alternatives:
If an applicant has prior English-language study experience or can offer other
proof of English proficiency, the University of Malta may not always require the
IELTS.
Programs: provides a large selection of English-language undergraduate and
graduate programs, with a focus on business, medical, and law.
Additional Vital Information:
IELTS substitutes include the TOEFL, Cambridge English tests (such as C1
Advanced), PTE Academic, or evidence of previous English-language instruction.
Make sure to review the university’s unique admission requirements before
applying.
Language ability Requirements: Many colleges will nevertheless require
non-native speakers to demonstrate their English ability even in the absence of
the IELTS. Verify the program’s precise needs at all times.