Study in Germany Without IELTS – Scholarships Open for 2025/26

August 06, 2025

Host Country: Germany 🇩🇪

Eligible Study Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD

Eligibility: International students; many scholarships waive IELTS if English-medium instruction in previous education

Application Deadline: Varies by scholarship (typically mid‑2025)

Apply via: Explore scholarship websites (see links below)

Official Summary:

International applicants can access fully funded scholarships in Germany without providing an IELTS test score. Many German universities and foundations accept alternative proof of English proficiency—often a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or prior English-based education.

🎯 Top Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS

Scholarship / Foundation Description

DAAD Research Grants Master’s & PhD research scholarships; monthly stipend, travel & insurance; IELTS waiver for MOI holders.

Heinrich Böll Foundation Covers tuition, monthly stipend & book allowance; accepted alternative English proof.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Master’s & PhD scholarships; includes family support, travel & health; IELTS optional.

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Supports Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD with tuition, travel & living costs; IELTS not required.

SBW Berlin Scholarships Financial support (tuition, stipend, travel) to low-income students with MOI/English certificate.

IU Universities Germany (via LSBU) 80% tuition scholarships; IELTS not required if English instruction background.

Erasmus Mundus (Germany-based tracks) Joint EU programs with scholarships; many waive IELTS for MOI-qualified applicants.

✅ Important Notes for Applicants

Prepare a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous educational institute to bypass IELTS.

Submit strong academic transcripts and motivation letters—especially for foundation-led scholarships.