Explore IELTS, and other English tests accepted for fully funded scholarships 2027.

Introduction

Are you planning to apply for a fully funded scholarship abroad in 2027 but worried about the cost of taking IELTS or TOEFL?

You are not alone. Many international students face this challenge when preparing to study abroad. Some are unsure which English examination to take, while others do not know whether their previous education can exempt them from testing.

The good news is that IELTS and TOEFL are not the only English proficiency examinations accepted by international universities. Depending on your chosen institution and degree programme, you may be able to use the Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, Cambridge English qualifications, LanguageCert Academic or other recognised alternatives.

Some universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or grant exemptions to applicants who meet specific conditions.

This means that you should not automatically assume that you must take IELTS or TOEFL before applying for a scholarship.

However, some universities and scholarship programmes have strict English language requirements. You must establish which qualifications they accept before deciding which examination to take.

In this guide, we explain IELTS, TOEFL and other English language requirements for fully funded scholarships in 2027. You will also discover alternative examinations, possible exemptions, free English learning resources and YouTube videos that can help you prepare.

1. Why Do Universities Require English Proficiency Tests for Scholarships?

Many international scholarship programmes support students who want to study in countries where English is the main language of instruction.

Universities therefore need to establish whether applicants can communicate effectively in an academic environment.

For example, international students may need to:

Understand lectures and classroom discussions.
Read academic books, research papers and other learning materials.
Write essays, assignments and research reports.
Participate in presentations and group discussions.
Communicate effectively with lecturers and other students.

English proficiency tests help universities assess these abilities.

However, there is an important distinction between scholarship requirements and university admission requirements.

Scholarship requirements determine whether you qualify for the financial award.

University admission requirements determine whether you meet the conditions for admission to your chosen degree programme.

A scholarship provider may not specifically require IELTS. Nevertheless, the university offering the funded programme may require evidence of English proficiency.

Similarly, a scholarship may accept applications without an English test result at the initial stage but require successful applicants to satisfy the university’s language requirements before admission.

Therefore, always check both sets of requirements before submitting your application.

2. What Is IELTS Academic?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It is one of the most widely recognised English proficiency examinations for international students.

If you intend to study for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree abroad, IELTS Academic is generally the relevant version to investigate.

The examination assesses four language skills:

Section	What it assesses
Listening	Understanding spoken English
Reading	Understanding written passages and academic texts
Writing	Presenting ideas clearly in written English
Speaking	Communicating ideas verbally

IELTS Academic takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Results are reported using band scores ranging from 1 to 9. Universities determine their own minimum overall scores and may also specify minimum scores for individual sections.

For example, a university might require an overall band score of 6.5, with no individual section below 6.0.

This means that achieving the required overall score may not be enough if you fail to meet the minimum score in one section.

Who should consider IELTS Academic?

Consider this examination if:

Your chosen university accepts IELTS.
Your programme requires formal English proficiency evidence.
You have confirmed the minimum overall and individual section scores.
You are comfortable with its examination format.

3. What Is TOEFL iBT?

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. TOEFL iBT is an English proficiency examination developed by Educational Testing Service (ETS) and accepted by many universities internationally.

It assesses four major language skills:

Reading
Listening
Speaking
Writing

The examination evaluates your ability to use English in academic situations, including understanding information, communicating ideas and completing university-related tasks.

Important TOEFL update for 2027 applicants

TOEFL iBT introduced an updated examination format and scoring system on 21 January 2026.

For examinations taken on or after that date, results use a new scale from 1 to 6, in half-point increments. The scale aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

During a two-year transition period, ETS also provides comparable scores on the previous 0–120 scale.

This is important because applicants preparing for 2027 may encounter older TOEFL preparation materials that use the previous scoring system.

Always make sure that the practice materials you use reflect the current examination format.

4. What Other English Proficiency Tests Can You Use Besides IELTS and TOEFL?

IELTS and TOEFL are not the only examinations universities accept as proof of English proficiency.

Depending on your chosen university and programme, you may be able to demonstrate your English language ability through other recognised examinations.

This is particularly important for scholarship applicants who may find IELTS or TOEFL expensive, inconvenient or difficult to access.

Before registering for either examination, explore the following alternatives.

A. Duolingo English Test (DET)

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency examination designed for students applying to universities and other educational institutions.

Unlike traditional examinations that usually require candidates to visit an examination centre, Duolingo allows eligible applicants to take the examination from home, provided they meet its technical and examination conditions.

The test assesses your ability to use English through reading, writing, listening and speaking activities.

Why should scholarship applicants consider Duolingo?

It can be taken online from home.
It offers an alternative to traditional examination centres.
Results are generally available relatively quickly.
Many universities recognise it for admission purposes.

However, acceptance is not universal. Some universities accept Duolingo for particular programmes but not for others.

Where can you learn more?

Before paying for the test, check whether your intended university accepts it and what score it requires.

Important: The Duolingo English Test is different from the free English-learning lessons available through the Duolingo language-learning application. Completing lessons on the app does not give you the formal English proficiency qualification.

B. Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

PTE Academic is another English proficiency examination accepted by many universities internationally.

It assesses your ability to communicate in English in an academic environment through speaking, writing, reading and listening tasks.

The examination is computer-based and uses automated scoring for many of its tasks.

Why should applicants consider PTE Academic?

It is accepted by many international universities.
It assesses the four major English language skills.
Its computer-based format may appeal to applicants who prefer this examination style.
It provides an alternative for students who do not want to take IELTS or TOEFL.

PTE Academic should not be confused with PTE Core, which serves different purposes and may not satisfy university admission requirements.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

C. Cambridge English Qualifications

Cambridge English offers internationally recognised English language qualifications.

Two particularly relevant examinations for university applicants are:

Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

This qualification demonstrates advanced English proficiency. It may be accepted by universities as evidence that an applicant can communicate effectively in academic and professional environments.

Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE)

This is a higher-level qualification that demonstrates a very advanced command of English.

Some universities accept these qualifications as alternatives to IELTS or TOEFL.

Applicants should check the minimum grades required and whether their chosen university recognises the particular qualification.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

D. LanguageCert Academic

LanguageCert Academic is another English proficiency examination that applicants should investigate.

It assesses the language skills needed for academic study and is available through different examination arrangements, depending on the version.

Some universities accept LanguageCert Academic as an alternative to IELTS and TOEFL.

However, make sure you select the correct examination. A university that accepts LanguageCert Academic may not necessarily accept every other LanguageCert qualification.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

E. Oxford English Language Level Test (Oxford ELLT)

Oxford ELLT is an English proficiency examination developed for international students seeking admission to higher education institutions.

It assesses the language abilities required for university study.

Some universities accept Oxford ELLT as an alternative to more familiar examinations.

It is worth investigating if your preferred university includes it among its approved English language qualifications.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

F. Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE)

Trinity ISE is another English language qualification accepted by some universities.

It assesses the ability to understand and communicate in English through integrated language activities.

Depending on the examination level and university requirements, it can provide an alternative way of demonstrating English proficiency.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

G. PSI Skills for English

Skills for English is another examination worth exploring.

It assesses English language proficiency across the four major skills and is recognised by certain educational institutions.

Applicants should check which version and level their university accepts, as requirements may differ.

Where can you learn more?

see official links in the list of links below

A quick comparison of alternative English examinations

Examination	Main advantage	What to confirm
Duolingo English Test	Online testing from home	Whether the programme accepts DET
PTE Academic	Computer-based examination	Required PTE Academic score
Cambridge C1 Advanced	Recognised advanced English qualification	Minimum accepted grade
Cambridge C2 Proficiency	Higher-level English qualification	Required score and validity
LanguageCert Academic	Alternative academic English assessment	Accepted version and test format
Oxford ELLT	Designed for international university applicants	Whether the university recognises ELLT
Trinity ISE	Integrated English language assessment	Accepted examination level
Skills for English	Alternative English proficiency assessment	Approved test version and level

Important: These examinations are not automatically interchangeable. A university may accept Duolingo but reject another examination, or accept PTE for one programme but not another.

Always consult the official admission requirements before registering.

5. Does the Scholarship Committee Decide Which English Test You Must Take?

This is an important question because scholarship applicants sometimes confuse scholarship eligibility with university admission requirements.

In many scholarship programmes, the university determines which English proficiency examinations are acceptable for admission.

The scholarship provider may then require applicants to satisfy the university’s admission conditions.

For example, a scholarship may provide full funding for a master’s degree without mentioning IELTS. However, the university offering the programme may require evidence of English proficiency.

Similarly, a university may accept Duolingo, PTE Academic and Cambridge English, even though the scholarship advertisement mentions IELTS as an example.

Therefore, do not assume that the examination mentioned in a scholarship advertisement is necessarily the only acceptable option.

Check the following:

Does the scholarship provider specify a compulsory English examination?
Does the university accept alternative English proficiency tests?
Does your intended programme have additional language requirements?
Can you request an exemption based on your previous education?
Does the scholarship require you to satisfy the university’s language requirements before funding is awarded?

If the scholarship provider explicitly requires IELTS or another particular examination, you must follow that condition unless an authorised alternative or exemption is confirmed.

When information is unclear, contact the scholarship administrator or university admissions office.

6. Can You Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS or TOEFL?

Yes. Some universities and scholarship programmes allow students to apply without IELTS or TOEFL.

However, this does not necessarily mean that they do not require evidence of English proficiency.

There are several ways an applicant may satisfy a university’s language requirements.

Option 1: Submit an alternative English proficiency test

Instead of IELTS or TOEFL, your university may accept:

Duolingo English Test.
PTE Academic.
Cambridge C1 Advanced.
Cambridge C2 Proficiency.
LanguageCert Academic.
Oxford ELLT.
Trinity ISE.
Skills for English.

Check the specific examination and score requirements for your programme.

Option 2: Provide a Medium of Instruction certificate

If you previously studied at an institution where English was the language of instruction, you may qualify for an exemption.

Your previous university may issue a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate confirming that your programme was taught and assessed in English.

Some universities accept this document as evidence of English proficiency.

However, others do not accept MOI certificates, or only accept them under specific conditions.

If you studied in Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa or another country where English is used in education, investigate this possibility before registering for an international examination.

What should a Medium of Instruction certificate contain?

Where the university accepts MOI certificates, it may request a document that:

Is issued on the previous institution’s official letterhead.
Identifies the applicant and the qualification completed.
Confirms that English was the language of instruction.
Includes the institution’s official stamp and authorised signature.
Provides contact information for verification.

Always follow the receiving university’s specific instructions.

Option 3: Use previous academic qualifications

Certain universities recognise particular school-leaving qualifications, university degrees or English language subjects as evidence of proficiency.

For example, Cambridge English qualifications and some national academic qualifications may satisfy university language requirements.

The important thing is to establish whether your specific qualification is recognised.

Option 4: Complete an approved university English language programme

Some universities offer pre-sessional English courses or approved language programmes for international students.

These programmes are designed to help students reach the required level before beginning their degree.

However, not every university accepts completion of an external English course as a substitute for an examination.

Ask whether the programme leads to direct admission or whether you will still need to submit a separate English proficiency result.

7. How to Find Out Which English Tests Your Target University Accepts

One of the biggest mistakes scholarship applicants make is relying entirely on information published on scholarship blogs or social media.

Even when a scholarship advertisement states that IELTS is not required, the university may have separate language requirements.

Use the following steps to confirm the information.

Step 1: Identify your intended degree programme.

Find the exact undergraduate, master’s or PhD programme you want to study. Requirements may differ between departments.

Step 2: Visit the university’s official website.

Locate the international admissions or English language requirements section.

Step 3: Check the accepted examinations.

Look for a list of accepted tests. Do not stop at IELTS and TOEFL. Check whether the institution recognises Duolingo, PTE Academic, Cambridge English or other qualifications.

Step 4: Read the exemption policy.

Find out whether previous English-medium education qualifies you for an exemption.

Step 5: Check the required scores and deadlines.

Record the minimum overall score, individual section requirements and deadline for submitting results.

Step 6: Confirm unclear information directly.

If the scholarship and university websites provide conflicting information, contact the admissions office before spending money on an examination.

Examples of universities accepting alternative English qualifications

To understand why it is important to investigate alternatives, consider these examples:

University of St Andrews, Scotland

The university publishes a list of accepted English language qualifications that includes IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, Cambridge English qualifications, LanguageCert Academic, Oxford ELLT, Trinity ISE and Skills for English for relevant English language profiles.

View the University of St Andrews English language requirements.

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

The university recognises several English language qualifications, including IELTS, Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, Cambridge English qualifications and PTE Academic. Required scores depend on the admission category and programme.

View Trinity College Dublin English language requirements.

Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom

Oxford Brookes publishes a comparison of accepted English language qualifications that includes IELTS, PTE Academic, LanguageCert Academic, Oxford ELLT, TOEFL and Duolingo.

View Oxford Brookes English language requirements.

These examples demonstrate that applicants may have more options than they initially realise.

However, acceptance by one university does not mean that another university or scholarship provider will accept the same examination. Requirements may also differ between undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programmes.

8. Do Free English Courses Replace IELTS, TOEFL or Other Proficiency Tests?

No, not automatically.

There is an important difference between learning English and obtaining an English proficiency qualification recognised by a university.

For example, completing a free English course on British Council LearnEnglish, BBC Learning English or another learning platform can help you improve your language skills.

However, a certificate of completion from such a course does not automatically satisfy university admission requirements.

Similarly, learning English through the Duolingo language-learning application is different from taking the Duolingo English Test.

The Duolingo English Test is a formal proficiency examination. Completing lessons in the Duolingo app does not give you the same qualification.

If you want to use a course certificate to satisfy an admission requirement, confirm that the university specifically recognises that course or qualification.

Our advice: Use free English courses to improve your ability, and use an approved proficiency examination or exemption to meet formal admission requirements where necessary.

9. What If You Cannot Afford IELTS or TOEFL?

Examination fees can be a significant expense for students applying from African countries.

In addition to registration fees, applicants may need to consider transportation, accommodation and other costs associated with taking an examination.

If you cannot afford IELTS or TOEFL immediately, consider the following options.

Check whether you qualify for an exemption

Start by reviewing the university’s English language policy. If your previous education meets its conditions, you may not need to take another examination.

Explore alternative examinations

Some universities accept other recognised English proficiency tests.

For example, Duolingo English Test or PTE Academic may be suitable alternatives if your intended institution accepts them.

Compare the registration costs, examination arrangements and preparation requirements before deciding.

Use free English learning resources

You can improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills through free online lessons and practice exercises.

Prepare before paying for the examination

Do not register simply because you feel pressured to do so. First, assess your current English proficiency and identify the areas that need improvement.

Plan your examination budget

If a test is compulsory, start saving early. Allow enough time to prepare, receive your results and retake the examination if necessary.

Remember, free English courses can improve your language skills, but they do not automatically replace an official proficiency examination.

10. Free YouTube Videos and Resources to Improve Your English and Prepare for IELTS or TOEFL

If you need to improve your English before applying for scholarships, you do not necessarily need to pay for expensive preparation classes.

Several reputable organisations provide free learning materials, examination guidance and practice videos.

The resources below can help you understand the examinations and improve the language skills required for university studies.

A. IELTS preparation videos

1. British Council IELTS preparation videos

The British Council provides IELTS preparation videos covering different sections of the examination.

You can learn about the test format, understand common question types and receive guidance from IELTS experts.

Explore British Council IELTS preparation videos.

You can also visit the TakeIELTS YouTube channel.

Who should watch these videos?

Students who are considering IELTS Academic and want to understand the examination before registering.

2. IELTS preparation from IELTS official

The official IELTS website provides preparation materials, sample questions and information about the examination.

Explore official IELTS preparation resources.

These resources are useful for understanding what each section assesses and how to prepare.

B. TOEFL preparation videos

3. Official TOEFL preparation resources from ETS

ETS provides official TOEFL preparation materials to help applicants understand the examination.

These resources include:

Sample questions.
Practice tests.
Study guides.
Reading preparation.
Listening preparation.
Speaking preparation.
Writing preparation.

Explore official TOEFL preparation resources.

Make sure you use materials that reflect the updated 2026 examination format.

C. Improve your general English skills

Preparing for IELTS or TOEFL is not only about learning examination techniques. You also need to develop the English language skills required to study successfully at university.

If your English needs improvement, spend time developing your vocabulary, grammar, listening comprehension, reading and writing abilities.

4. British Council LearnEnglish

The British Council provides free English learning materials for different proficiency levels.

You can practise:

Grammar.
Vocabulary.
Listening.
Reading.
Writing.
Speaking.

Visit British Council LearnEnglish.

5. BBC Learning English

BBC Learning English provides lessons and videos that can help you improve your English.

Its materials cover vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar and everyday communication.

Visit BBC Learning English.

6. VOA Learning English

VOA Learning English provides news and educational content designed for English learners.

It can help students practise listening and reading while developing their vocabulary.

Visit VOA Learning English.

7. Duolingo English learning application

If you are a beginner or want to practise English regularly, the Duolingo language-learning application may help you develop basic vocabulary and language skills.

Visit Duolingo.

Remember that completing lessons on the application is not the same as taking the Duolingo English Test.

How to use these resources effectively

Do not spend all your time watching videos without practising.

A useful approach is to:

Watch a lesson and take notes.
Complete the exercises provided.
Practise speaking aloud.
Read short articles and identify unfamiliar vocabulary.
Write short passages to improve your grammar.
Review your mistakes and repeat difficult exercises.

These activities can help you build a stronger foundation before taking an official English proficiency examination.

11. How to Prepare for IELTS or TOEFL Before Applying for Scholarships

Once you have confirmed that an examination is necessary, develop a preparation plan.

Start by taking a practice test or completing sample questions. This will help you identify your current strengths and weaknesses.

Next, organise your preparation around the four language skills.

Skill	What you should practise
Listening	Understanding conversations, lectures and spoken information
Reading	Reading comprehension, vocabulary and identifying important information
Writing	Grammar, sentence structure, essay organisation and clear communication
Speaking	Pronunciation, fluency and expressing ideas confidently

Create a realistic weekly study plan

You do not have to study for several hours every day. Consistent practice can help you make progress.

For example:

Day	Preparation activity
Monday	Listening practice
Tuesday	Reading comprehension
Wednesday	Grammar and vocabulary
Thursday	Writing practice
Friday	Speaking practice
Saturday	Full or partial practice test
Sunday	Review mistakes and revise difficult topics

You can adjust this schedule depending on your availability and current English proficiency.

Most importantly, review your mistakes. Completing practice questions without understanding why your answers are incorrect will limit your progress.

If writing is your weakest area, spend more time developing sentence structure, grammar and essay organisation.

If speaking is difficult, practise answering questions aloud and recording yourself. Listen to your responses and identify areas for improvement.

12. When Should You Take an English Proficiency Test for a 2027 Scholarship?

The right time depends on your preferred university, scholarship deadline and preparation level.

Ideally, establish your English language requirements while researching scholarship opportunities.

Use this approach:

Identify the universities and programmes you want to apply to.
Confirm which English examinations they accept.
Check whether you qualify for an exemption.
Determine the minimum required scores.
Begin preparing early.
Register for the examination when you are ready.
Leave enough time to receive your results and retake the examination if necessary.

Also, check how long the university considers your examination result valid.

IELTS recommends that organisations generally treat results as valid for two years, although individual organisations may set their own policies. TOEFL scores also have a two-year validity period.

If you are applying to several universities, check whether they accept the same examination and whether your result will remain valid throughout the application process.

13. Common English Language Mistakes Scholarship Applicants Should Avoid

Avoid these mistakes when preparing for fully funded scholarships in 2027:

Taking an examination without checking university requirements: You could spend money on a test that your preferred university does not accept.
Assuming every university requires IELTS: Some institutions accept alternative evidence or provide exemptions.
Assuming Duolingo lessons are equivalent to the Duolingo English Test: The language-learning application and formal proficiency examination are different.
Assuming English-medium education guarantees an exemption: Formal conditions may apply.
Ignoring individual section scores: Meeting the overall score may not be sufficient.
Using outdated TOEFL preparation materials: The examination and scoring system changed in January 2026.
Waiting until the application deadline approaches: You may not have enough time to prepare or receive your results.
Confusing scholarship and admission requirements: You may satisfy the scholarship conditions but still fail to meet the university’s language requirements.
Relying only on YouTube videos: Watching lessons is helpful, but you must also practise and assess your progress.

A careful review of the requirements can save you money and prevent avoidable application problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About English Language Requirements for Fully Funded Scholarships in 2027

Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?

Yes. Some universities and scholarship programmes do not require IELTS. Others accept alternative English proficiency evidence, such as Duolingo, PTE Academic or Cambridge English qualifications, or grant exemptions to eligible applicants.

However, you must confirm the conditions of your chosen university and programme.

Is Duolingo accepted for fully funded scholarships?

Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for their degree programmes.

However, acceptance depends on the university, programme and scholarship conditions. Check whether your intended institution accepts Duolingo before registering.

Is PTE Academic accepted instead of IELTS?

Yes, many universities accept PTE Academic as an alternative to IELTS.

However, the required score varies between institutions and programmes.

Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?

Neither examination is universally easier. Your experience will depend on your English skills, preferred examination format and preparation.

Compare the requirements and available test formats before choosing.

Can I use Cambridge English instead of IELTS?

Some universities accept Cambridge C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency qualifications as evidence of English proficiency.

Check the minimum grades and specific qualifications accepted by your intended institution.

Can I apply for a scholarship before taking an English test?

Some universities allow applicants to submit their English test results later. Others require the results during the initial application.

Check the admission instructions and scholarship deadlines before applying.

Can I use one English test result for several scholarship applications?

Yes, in many cases. You can use the same result for multiple applications if every institution accepts that examination and your score meets its requirements.

Also check the result’s validity period.

Do I need IELTS if I studied in English?

Not necessarily. Some universities accept previous English-medium education as proof of proficiency.

However, others still require an approved examination. You may need a Medium of Instruction certificate or other supporting documents.

Are free English courses enough to replace IELTS or TOEFL?

Not automatically. Free courses can help you improve your English, but they replace a formal examination only when the university explicitly accepts the relevant qualification or evidence.

Which IELTS examination should I take for university admission?

IELTS Academic is generally the relevant version for undergraduate and postgraduate university applications.

However, confirm the exact test accepted by your institution before registering.

Has TOEFL changed for 2027 applicants?

Yes. TOEFL iBT introduced an updated format and a 1–6 scoring scale in January 2026. Applicants preparing for 2027 should use current ETS preparation materials rather than relying exclusively on older resources.

Conclusion

English language requirements should not discourage you from applying for fully funded scholarships abroad in 2027.

Although some universities require IELTS or TOEFL, these are not the only examinations available to international students.

Depending on your intended university and programme, you may be able to use the Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, Cambridge English qualifications, LanguageCert Academic, Oxford ELLT or another recognised qualification.

You may also qualify for an exemption based on your previous education or a Medium of Instruction certificate.

The most important step is to understand the requirements of your preferred university before spending money on an examination.

If you need a test, compare the accepted options, registration costs, examination arrangements and required scores. Start preparing early and take advantage of free learning materials.

If you qualify for an exemption, make sure you understand the conditions and have the necessary supporting documents.

Your next step: Explore fully funded scholarships for 2027, shortlist your preferred universities and check all their accepted English proficiency qualifications before registering for an examination.

Official Sources and Further Reading

English proficiency examinations

Free English learning and preparation resources

Examples of universities accepting alternative English qualifications

Last verified: 12 November 2026. Always consult the official university, scholarship provider and examination websites for the latest requirements before applying.