How to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS: A Nigerian Perspective
For many Nigerian students dreaming of studying abroad, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) can be a costly and intimidating barrier. The good news is that there are numerous scholarships for Nigerians without IELTS available at top universities worldwide.
These scholarships allow students to pursue their education goals without the burden of standardized English proficiency tests, especially if they’ve completed their education in English.
In this guide, we’ll explore how you can find and apply for scholarships that waive IELTS requirements, including practical steps, useful alternatives, and real opportunities tailored to Nigerian applicants.
Why Some Scholarships Don’t Require IELTS
Many countries and universities recognize that Nigerian students often receive their education in English. As such, they accept other forms of proof like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter or WAEC/NECO English results.
Countries like Germany, Norway, and some universities in Canada and the UK now allow international students to apply without IELTS, provided they meet other eligibility requirements.
Some notable examples include:
- Germany: Many public universities accept MOI letters.
- UK: Select programs under the GREAT Scholarships scheme waive IELTS for Nigerians.
- Canada: Institutions like the University of Winnipeg offer Duolingo or MOI-based admissions.
Top Scholarships for Nigerians Without IELTS (2025–2026)
If you’re seeking fully funded or partial scholarships that do not require IELTS, here are some opportunities to consider:
- DAAD Scholarships (Germany) – Offers full funding for master’s and PhD programs. WAEC English grades are accepted in lieu of IELTS.
- Massey University Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students – Massey University in New Zealand offers generous funding and often accepts MOI letters for admission purposes.
- Golden Key’s Study Abroad Scholarships – A reliable option for high-performing Nigerian students. This guide explains how to leverage academic excellence without standardized tests. [Read: A Guide to Golden Key’s Study Abroad Scholarships for International Students]
- GREAT Scholarships UK – Fully funded scholarships in the UK for Nigerian students. Some partner institutions waive the IELTS requirement if applicants meet alternative English proficiency criteria. [Explore: Unlock Your Future: GREAT Scholarships in the UK for International Students (2025/2026 Edition)]
- University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship (Canada) – Offers funding to international students without requiring IELTS if English was the medium of instruction.
- Turkiye Burslari (Turkey) – Fully funded government scholarships that do not require IELTS for many applicants.
For more updated opportunities, you can also visit ScholarshipsAds and Scholarship Positions.
Alternatives to IELTS: Other Accepted Proofs of English Proficiency
Instead of IELTS, here are commonly accepted alternatives:
- WAEC or NECO English Language Certificate: A grade of C6 or above in English is widely accepted by many universities abroad.
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter: A letter from your secondary or tertiary institution confirming that English was the language of instruction.
- Duolingo English Test: Cheaper, faster, and accepted by thousands of institutions globally.
- TOEFL: Some universities accept TOEFL over IELTS and occasionally offer waivers.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS
- Search for Relevant Scholarships
- Use reliable platforms like DAAD.de or British Council to find scholarships that mention “no IELTS required.”
- Check University Language Requirements
- Read admission guidelines carefully to verify if MOI or WAEC is accepted.
- Prepare Your Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Reference letters
- MOI letter or WAEC/NECO certificate
- Write a Strong Scholarship Essay
- Clearly explain your goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing the program.
- Apply Before the Deadline
- Most deadlines fall between November and March for the next academic year.
Tips for Boosting Your Scholarship Chances
- Maintain Strong Academic Records: Most scholarships are merit-based.
- Get Involved in Extracurriculars: Leadership roles or community service help you stand out.
- Prepare a Professional Resume: Showcase your achievements clearly.
- Leverage Internal Resources: Review our comprehensive post on [Massey University Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students] for examples of strong applications.
FAQs
Can I get a scholarship abroad without IELTS as a Nigerian? Yes, many universities accept WAEC, NECO, or Medium of Instruction Letters.
Which countries accept Nigerians without IELTS? Germany, Norway, Turkey, Canada, and some universities in the UK and New Zealand.
Are there fully funded scholarships that don’t require IELTS? Yes. DAAD, GREAT Scholarships, and Turkiye Burslari are good examples.
What platforms can I use to find these scholarships? Use official university websites, Scholarship Region, ScholarshipsAds, and 3A Global.
Conclusion: Your Journey Begins Now
Getting a scholarship abroad doesn’t have to mean paying for IELTS. With the right information and preparation, Nigerian students can access life-changing opportunities. Whether it’s a government-funded program like Turkiye Burslari or university-specific scholarships like those at Massey University, your path to studying abroad is more achievable than ever.
Start your application journey today. Explore our guides to Golden Key’s Study Abroad Scholarships, GREAT UK Scholarships, and more to take the next step confidently.
