Study in Germany Without IELTS in 2024: Find Out How!

Being proficient in the English language is a prerequisite for many reputable universities across the world. However, students coming from diverse backgrounds and ethnicity finds it challenging to master the language and crack English proficiency exams or tests such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). 

Germany is one such country that breaks this notion! You can easily study in Germany without IELTS as many top universities offer admissions without the necessary exam scores. This reform has come as a relief and opens the doors for diverse students regardless of their linguistic background. 

To help you navigate your way through the admission process, we have curated a list of universities that provide admissions without IELTS, steps for the visa process to study in Germany, the admission application possess, and more. 

 

Top Universities to study in Germany without IELTS

Universities in Germany provide a variety of courses. Industrial engineering, psychology, computer science, dentistry, medicine, mathematics, law, business, architecture, and several other disciplines are well-known study programs offered by German Universities. While not all German universities require students to take the IELTS, several do offer alternative approaches to evaluate students’ English language proficiency. Here is a list of well-known educational institutions that might not require TOEFL or IELTS scores:

Universities	Location
University of Kassel	Kassel
University of Giessen	Giessen
Flensburg University of Applied Sciences	Flensburg
University of Siegen	Siegen
University of Kiel	Kiel
Ruhr University Bochum	Bochum
Technical University of Braunschweig	Braunschweig
University of Bayreuth	Bayreuth
Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences	Nordhausen
Chemnitz University of Technology	Chemnitz

Disclaimer: The above list is not all-inclusive and there might be other German universities that accept admissions without IELTS results. 

 

How to study in Germany without IELTS?

There are a few ways through which you can showcase your English language proficiency without IELTS. Here are some:

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: If your previous graduation program (bachelor’s or master’s) was solely taught in English, you can provide an official MOI certificate from your university.
• English language courses: Completing approved English language courses successfully may be considered by some colleges as proof of proficiency.
• Standardized examinations: Although less prevalent, certain colleges accept examinations such as the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo English Test (DET).

 

Below is a breakdown of the admission application process if you are looking to study in Germany without IELTS:

Explore universities: Check institutions that provide programs in your area of interest, then find out if they demand an understanding of English.

Prepare application documents: Compile the required paperwork, including recommendation letters, transcripts, and certificates of completion from English language courses or MOI, among other documents attesting to your fluency in the language. You can get in touch with overseas education consultants, such as MSM Unify, who are professional and reliable in navigating the application process. With MSM Unify, you get personalized guidance and support that can save you time and effort while you look for German Universities offering admissions without IELTS.

Send applications to universities: Use the application platform of your choice or the university portal to submit your application. It is best to plan as deadlines can change.

Get the offer letter: The university will send you an offer letter if you are accepted.

Student visa application:  After receiving the offer letter, visit the German embassy or consulate in your nation of residence to apply for a student visa. This might require proof of financial means to support your living expenses in Germany.

Pro tip: Usually applicants need IELTS scores to get a student visa in Germany, but if submitted the MOI certificate to a German university and got the acceptance letter then it is not required.

 

How to get a visa to study in Germany without IELTS?

While specific requirements may fluctuate slightly at various embassies/consulates, the following documents are commonly required for a German student visa application without IELTS:

• A valid passport
• Fill out an application for a visa
• Acceptance letter from a German university
• Evidence of your ability to pay for your stay in Germany, such as bank documents or a letter of scholarship
• Health insurance coverage
• Proof of fluency in the English language (MOI certificate, certificate of completion for an English language course, etc.) Only necessary if it hasn’t been submitted for admission already

 

How to apply for a student visa in three steps:

• Request an appointment at the German consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
• Gather and get ready the necessary paperwork.
• Show up at your visa appointment and apply.
• Pay the visa application fee.
• Wait for the visa acceptance. Processing times can differ, so keep that in mind when you plan your trip.

 

Scholarship programs to study in Germany without IELTS

While Germany offers a rich learning experience along with its innovative and cultural background, the financial burden can be tough to bear. Fortunately, there are several scholarships available for international students who want to study in Germany without IELTS. Some of the options are listed below:

Heinrich Boll Foundation scholarships: This acclaimed program provides scholarships to approximately 1,200 exceptional students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees across various fields. The scholarship will cover living costs, tuition, and research expenses for a maximum of two years with an option of extension; and nationality is not a defining requirement.

DAAD master’s student scholarship: This German government grant helps recent graduates (within the last 6 years) who want to pursue master’s degrees full-time. Although two years or more of job experience is preferable, academic achievements are the primary requirement. Travel expenses, health insurance, and monthly stipends are all covered by the scholarship.

Support for exceptional students – various universities: Many German institutions provide their scholarship programs for both national and international students who are academically talented. These scholarships come with different requirements and rewards but frequently offer monthly stipends, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and internships. For further information, visit the websites of universities that interest you.

The Erasmus+ Scholarship Program: This program is an initiative of the European Union that enables students enrolled in participating higher education institutions to study for one or two semesters at a partner university in Germany. The scholarship is a great option for short-term study programs because it mostly pays living expenses, travel expenses, and university tuition.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships: This program provides master’s, doctoral, and research opportunities for exceptional international students. While a solid academic record is essential, the program also values leadership ability and social participation. The award includes monthly stipends, tuition, and additional financial resources for family, travel, and research.

Note: This is not an all-inclusive list of scholarships and eligibility requirements. However, the acceptance criteria are subject to change so refer to their websites for updated information.

 

Studying in Germany without IELTS is feasible, thanks to numerous universities’ flexible admission criteria and the accessibility of alternative language competence tests. You don’t need to worry about the IELTS to start a fulfilling academic career in Germany if you carefully consider your options, prepare your application, and look into scholarship opportunities. If you wish to study in Germany without IELTS, consulting one of our specialists can offer helpful advice. Our team of overseas education consultants at MSM Unify is committed to helping students with their study abroad experience. 

 

FAQs

Can I study in Germany without IELTS?

Yes, many universities in Germany open admissions to international students without IELTS scores. Some of the top-ranking universities may evaluate your English language proficiency through different methods so that the institutions can offer education opportunities to students coming from diverse ethnicities and backgrounds. 

How to study in Germany without IELTS or TOEFL?

To study in Germany without IELTS or TOEFL, you can meet alternative language competency requirements set by universities. Alternatives include submitting transcripts indicating past English education, providing language certifications, or passing university-administered language examinations designed to assess competency.

Can I study master’s in Germany without IELTS?

Yes, numerous German universities provide English-taught master’s programs without necessitating IELTS scores for entrance. Potential candidates should check with the university directly about specific program requirements to confirm eligibility and, if necessary, look into alternate ways to demonstrate English ability.