Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but language proficiency tests like the IELTS can be a barrier. Fortunately, several U.S. universities and scholarship programs now waive the IELTS requirement under certain conditions, making it easier for non-native English speakers to access world-class education. If you’re aiming to study in the USA in 2025 without taking the IELTS exam, here are 10 top scholarships you should consider.
Why Scholarships with No IELTS Matter
For many students, the cost, accessibility, and stress of standardized English tests like IELTS can delay or discourage applications. Scholarships that either waive IELTS or accept alternatives like TOEFL, Duolingo, or proof of English-medium education offer a more inclusive path to higher education.
Top 10 Scholarships in the USA Without IELTS – 2025
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- Degree Level: Master’s and PhD
- IELTS Waiver: Often not required if you studied in English or take TOEFL instead
- Funding: Tuition, living stipend, travel, and health insurance
2. Clark University Global Scholars Program
- Degree Level: Undergraduate
- IELTS Waiver: Waived for students who attended an English-medium school
- Funding: Up to $25,000/year with an additional $5,000 need-based grant
3. University of Dayton Merit Scholarships
- Degree Level: Undergraduate
- IELTS Waiver: Accepts Duolingo and TOEFL; waiver possible with English-medium instruction
- Funding: $30,000/year
4. University of New Haven Graduate Scholarships
- Degree Level: Master’s
- IELTS Waiver: Duolingo accepted; waiver possible for English-medium degree holders
- Funding: 75% tuition assistance and hourly wages through campus employment
5. Drexel University Merit-Based Scholarships
- Degree Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
- IELTS Waiver: Accepts Duolingo, TOEFL; waiver for prior English-medium education
- Funding: Varies by department and program
6. Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships
- Degree Level: Undergraduate
- IELTS Waiver: Waived with proof of English proficiency through school transcripts or interviews
- Funding: $16,000 to $30,000/year
7. University of Oregon International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship
- Degree Level: Undergraduate
- IELTS Waiver: Accepts alternatives; waiver with English instruction background
- Funding: $9,000–$35,000 per year
8. East Tennessee State University (ETSU) International Student Academic Merit Scholarship
- Degree Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
- IELTS Waiver: TOEFL, Duolingo accepted; waiver with academic proof
- Funding: $12,500/year (undergrad), $5,000/year (grad)
9. Kansas State University International Student Scholarships
- Degree Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
- IELTS Waiver: Duolingo and prior English instruction accepted
- Funding: Up to $24,000
10. National Louis University Scholarships
- Degree Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
- IELTS Waiver: Offers ESL pathway and accepts Duolingo/TOEFL
- Funding: $10,000–$24,000 depending on program
How to Strengthen Your Application Without IELTS
- Submit Proof of English-Medium Education: Transcripts or a letter from your institution
- Take Alternative Tests: Consider Duolingo English Test or TOEFL iBT
- Highlight Communication Skills: Use your personal statement and interviews to show fluency
- Start Early: University-specific policies may vary, so give yourself time to request waivers
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