Studying abroad can feel like a big dream that’s way out of reach sometimes. You hear about all these amazing schools in places like Canada, the UK, Germany, or even China, but then there’s that annoying part, English tests like IELTS or TOEFL. They’re expensive, they take a lot of time to prepare for, and honestly, they can feel like a scary barrier.
So, what if I told you there are fully funded scholarships out there that don’t even ask for IELTS or TOEFL? Yup, it’s true. You don’t have to be a test-taking genius or spend all your savings on an English exam to chase your dream. Many top universities and programs accept other proofs of English or sometimes skip the test completely if your previous studies were in English.
This guide will walk you through some of the best scholarships that don’t require IELTS or TOEFL for Nigerians. These scholarships are not some hidden “easy shortcut.” They’re competitive. But the good news is, thousands of Nigerians like you and me have gotten them without writing IELTS or TOEFL. So, why not you?
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Why Some Scholarships Skip IELTS Or TOEFL
You might be wondering, why would a university skip such an important test? Well, not every school thinks IELTS or TOEFL is the only way to prove your English. Some schools know that students from Nigeria have been learning in English all their lives. After all, English is our official language.
Another reason is that some scholarships want to make it easier for bright students from countries like Nigeria to apply. They know the tests cost money that many people can’t afford. So, instead of blocking opportunities, they give other options like:
- Accepting a letter from your university saying you studied in English.
- Doing a short interview to check your speaking skills.
- Accepting other English tests that are cheaper or easier.
This is great news for anyone who feels stuck because of IELTS or TOEFL.
Proving Your English Ability Without IELTS Or TOEFL
Now, if a scholarship doesn’t need IELTS or TOEFL, it doesn’t mean they don’t care about English at all. You’ll still need to show you can study in English. Here are some ways you can prove your English ability:
- Use your WAEC or NECO results. Many schools accept them as proof.
- Get a letter from your previous school or university stating that you studied in English.
- Be ready for a quick video or phone interview where they might ask you a few questions in English.
- If possible, include a good personal statement or essay with correct grammar. It shows you can write well.
See? It’s not as scary as it seems.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS Or TOEFL For Nigerians
Alright, now for the part you’ve been waiting for, the actual scholarships. Here are some of the best ones you should check out.
- DAAD Scholarships in Germany
Germany is one of the most affordable countries for international students, and DAAD is one of the biggest scholarship programs in the world. The cool thing? Many German universities don’t ask for IELTS or TOEFL if your previous education was in English. You can simply provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your university. DAAD scholarships cover tuition, monthly stipends, health insurance, and even travel costs.
- Chevening Scholarships in the UK
Chevening is one of the most popular scholarships for Nigerians. Even though many UK schools ask for IELTS, Chevening itself allows you to apply first without the test. You can get an offer from a university that waives the test or accepts other proof. Chevening covers everything: tuition, flights, and living expenses.
- Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC)
China is becoming a hot spot for Nigerians looking for affordable education. The CSC scholarships are fully funded and often don’t require IELTS or TOEFL. Many Chinese universities accept WAEC or an English proficiency letter instead. The scholarship covers tuition, housing, medical insurance, and a monthly allowance.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships
Erasmus Mundus is a really exciting program in Europe. It’s like a big team-up of several universities in different countries. The best part? Many courses don’t ask for IELTS or TOEFL if you can prove your English level in other ways. You get to study in two or more European countries, and the scholarship pays for tuition, travel, insurance, and a nice monthly allowance. Imagine living in Spain for a semester and then moving to France or Germany for the next, that’s the Erasmus experience.
- Turkey Burslari Scholarships
Turkey Burslari is another fully funded program that many Nigerians love. You don’t need IELTS or TOEFL to apply. They’ll often accept a letter from your school or just your previous English-based education as proof. The scholarship covers your tuition fees, flights, health insurance, housing, and even a monthly stipend for your living costs. Plus, Turkey is a beautiful country with a mix of cultures and delicious food. Doesn’t that sound exciting?
- MEXT Japanese Government Scholarships
Japan might not be the first place you think of, but MEXT scholarships are amazing. Many courses are offered in English, and for some programs, you don’t need IELTS or TOEFL if your past schooling was in English. The scholarship pays for your tuition, gives you a monthly allowance, and covers your travel. Studying in Japan also means you get to experience one of the safest and most high-tech countries in the world.
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
These are UK scholarships for students from developing Commonwealth countries like Nigeria. Some universities under this program will waive IELTS if you have other proof of English. The scholarship is fully funded, it pays for your tuition, flights, and living expenses. It’s a great chance to study in the UK without worrying about money or English tests.
- Hungarian Government (Stipendium Hungaricum) Scholarships
Hungary offers a generous scholarship called Stipendium Hungaricum. They welcome Nigerian students and don’t always ask for IELTS or TOEFL. Many universities accept WAEC or an English proficiency letter instead. This scholarship pays your tuition, gives you health insurance, and even provides a housing allowance or dorm space. Hungary is in the heart of Europe, so you can easily travel to nearby countries during your studies.
- Russian Government Scholarships
Russia offers a large number of fully funded places to international students, and many programs don’t require IELTS or TOEFL. They may offer a simple interview to check your English or accept your previous schooling in English as proof. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and sometimes a small stipend. Studying in Russia can be a unique experience, you’ll get to see a completely different culture and maybe even pick up some Russian phrases.
- Italian Government Scholarships
Italy has many universities offering English-taught programs, and some of them don’t ask for IELTS or TOEFL if you can prove your English level in another way. The Italian Government Scholarships help with tuition, health insurance, and living expenses. Italy is known for its art, history, and food, so studying there would be a dream for many.
Tips To Make Your Application Strong
So, now you know where to apply. But let’s talk about making your application shine. A scholarship is not just about filling forms, it’s about showing why you’re the right choice. Here are some friendly tips:
- Gather all your documents neatly. This includes transcripts, recommendation letters, and your proof of English.
- Write a personal statement that tells your story. Don’t just say “I want to study abroad.” Share why you’re passionate about your field and how you plan to use your education to help your community.
- Ask someone you trust to check your essays. A fresh pair of eyes can spot small mistakes you might miss.
- Be honest. Don’t exaggerate your achievements. Scholarship committees can tell when something feels fake.
- If an interview is required, practice speaking clearly and confidently. You don’t need to sound perfect, just be yourself and show your enthusiasm.
- Apply to more than one scholarship. Don’t put all your hopes on a single program.
FAQs
Can I really study abroad without IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes, you can. Many universities and scholarships accept Nigerians without these tests if you studied in English before.
What is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter?
It’s a letter from your school or university confirming that your classes were taught in English. It’s a simple document but very powerful.
What if the scholarship asks for proof of English after I apply?
Some might ask later. You can give them your WAEC results, an MOI letter, or even take a cheaper test like Duolingo English Test if needed.
Are these scholarships 100% free?
Yes, the ones listed here are fully funded. They cover tuition and living costs, and some even pay for flights and insurance.
Do I need to pay agents to apply?
No, you can apply on your own. The official websites of these scholarships have all the instructions. Be careful with anyone asking for big payments.
What documents do I need?
Usually your academic transcripts, passport, CV, recommendation letters, personal statement, and proof of English.
Can I work while studying under these scholarships?
Many countries allow part-time work for international students. Check the rules for the country you’re applying to.
Conclusion
Now you know there are many fully funded scholarships out there that don’t make you take IELTS or TOEFL. Isn’t that a relief? You don’t have to let an expensive English test stop you from chasing your dream of studying abroad.
Think about it, you could be studying in Germany, the UK, Japan, or Turkey next year without paying huge exam fees. These opportunities are real, and Nigerians like you get them every year.
