Table of Contents of this Study Abroad Blog
Imagine going to an IDP educational fair, excited to interact with university representatives – just to learn most of them don’t have the course you love and that they REQUIRE your IELTS score – that’s right, a test that costs 17,000 INR.
Of course, this happened to me. In my delirium, I tried to desperately search for alternatives – and I’m happy to report that they do exist! 🙂
Several universities in the United States now offer IELTS waivers or accept alternative tests, making the application process easier for students. This article will explore how to study abroad without IELTS, alternatives to traditional English proficiency exams, and a list of IELTS waiver universities in the USA.

PS you can check out this DET video link.
Why Study Abroad Without IELTS?
IELTS and TOEFL exams can be challenging for most Indian students due to various factors, including preparation time, test costs, and availability of exam centers. Thankfully, many universities in the USA now offer flexible options for Indian students:
- Accepting alternate English proficiency tests such as the Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Waiving the English proficiency requirement if you’ve completed your previous education in English.
- Conducting direct interviews to assess your language skills.
Yes you heard that right! In many colleges in the USA, scoring above 60% in your board examinations and giving proof that all your courses were conducted in English (submitted by the school counsellor known as MOI) can serve as sufficient proof of english proficiency – but you must do your own research here.
TOEFL Alternatives
Here are some common alternatives to IELTS and TOEFL:
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Cambridge English Tests (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
- Earning a Certificate of English as Medium of Instruction (MOI) from your previous institution.
IELTS Waiver Universities in the USA
Here is a list of universities in the USA that waive IELTS requirements for Indian students:
University Name | Waiver Details | TOEFL Alternatives Accepted |
University of Dayton | Offers conditional admission based on English-medium instruction certificates. | DET, PTE, Interview |
California State University | Waives IELTS if you completed schooling in English for at least 3 years. | DET, PTE, MOI Certificate |
University of New Orleans | Provides an IELTS waiver for students with strong academic records from English-speaking institutions. | DET, PTE |
Rice University | Conducts interviews instead of requiring IELTS for students educated in English. | DET, PTE |
University of Arkansas | IELTS waived for Indian students with 70% or higher in English in high school. | DET, PTE |
Drexel University | Accepts students based on Medium of Instruction Certificate or Duolingo scores. | DET, PTE |
University of Delaware | Waives IELTS if you meet specific English language benchmarks in previous education. | DET, PTE |
Pace University | Provides an IELTS waiver based on academic interviews. | DET, PTE |

What is the DET?
DET or the Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test. For just an hour of your time and a minimum fee – you’ll receive a certificate that is accepted by over 5500 institutes!
Things to note for the DET
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection as your test will be cancelled without refunds in case of a stoppage.
- The test records your audio samples for further review, so make sure both your mic and speaker are functioning properly
- To ensure the authenticity of the candidate, the test requires two devices to record your testing session. Be sure you have two such devices available – preferably a phone and a laptop
It’s not hard to score well on the DET, especially for us Indians come on! Entire mock tests are provided on the application itself which are unlimited and free! So make sure to get in some practice and you can chill – easily scoring 140+ out of 160.
As proof, I myself scored 155 on the test with only 2 days of preparation, and here’s a video guide to learn more about the test!

IELTS for Other Countries: Is It Necessary?
When applying to universities outside the USA, the requirement for IELTS varies depending on the destination country, the university, and the applicant’s background.
However – broadly speaking, it isn’t as much of a hassle for most other countries. Of course you would require English proficiency certification for your visa, but that’s the topic for another day 😀
Canada
IELTS is one of the most commonly accepted English proficiency tests for Canadian universities and colleges. However, many institutions waive the IELTS requirement if:
- You’ve studied in an English-medium institution for at least three years.
- You provide a Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI) from your previous school or university.
- You meet certain criteria, such as completing a pre-university English language program offered by the institution.
Some Canadian institutions offering IELTS waivers include:
- University of Winnipeg
- Brock University
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
Alternatives to IELTS in Canada: TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test (DET).
Germany
IELTS is generally not mandatory for studying in Germany, especially for Indian students with an English-medium academic background. Many German universities accept alternative proofs of English proficiency, such as:
- Medium of Instruction Certificate from a previous institution.
- Completion of prior education in English-speaking countries.
- TestDaF or DSH (for programs taught in German).
Top universities like Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Heidelberg University may waive IELTS if your earlier education was in English. If this Germany is your main target – you’ve got to learn German! As simple as it gets.
Australia
IELTS is widely accepted by Australian universities, but several waive the requirement if you meet these conditions:
- Completed secondary or tertiary education in English for at least 5 years.
- Studied in an English-speaking country.
- Provide a Medium of Instruction Certificate as proof of English proficiency.
Some Australian universities that offer IELTS waivers include:
- University of Queensland
- University of Adelaide
- RMIT University
Alternatives to IELTS in Australia: PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge English Tests.
See this blog to get some more names on universities where you can apply without IELTS on Australia.
United Kingdom (UK)
Most UK universities require IELTS, but waivers are possible if:
- You’ve completed your previous education in an English-medium institution.
- You meet the language requirements through a pre-sessional English course at the university.
Top UK universities offering IELTS waivers:
- University of Warwick (accepts MOI).
- University of Bristol (offers pre-sessional English courses).
University of Manchester (waives IELTS for students with high grades in English).
Fun Fact!
If you have 90%+ in CBSE English and you are applying to UK then, you don’t need IELTS scores. Technically this is a hidden knowledge for Indians! But please confirm it with your UK universities.

Understanding English Language Proficiency Levels
English language proficiency levels provide a framework for assessing a person’s ability to read, write, speak, and understand English. These levels are important when applying to universities abroad, as they help institutions determine whether students can handle academic coursework in English.
The most commonly used framework is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which categorizes proficiency into six levels. Below is a detailed explanation of each level, along with its equivalent merit based on schooling:
1. A1 (Beginner)
- Description: Basic knowledge of English, limited to common phrases and simple sentences.
- Skill Example: Can introduce themselves, ask basic questions, and understand slow, clear speech.
- Equivalent Merit: Early schooling (Grades 1–3).
2. A2 (Elementary)
- Description: Can understand simple, everyday conversations and express basic needs.
- Skill Example: Can give simple directions, describe immediate surroundings, and talk about familiar topics.
- Equivalent Merit: Late primary schooling (Grades 4–6).
3. B1 (Intermediate)
- Description: Able to communicate on familiar topics, handle simple academic discussions, and manage travel-related scenarios.
- Skill Example: Can describe experiences, dreams, and opinions; comprehend straightforward instructions.
- Equivalent Merit: Middle school level (Grades 7–10).
4. B2 (Upper Intermediate)
- Description: Can understand and produce detailed, clear text on a variety of subjects. Suitable for academic environments requiring a good grasp of English.
- Skill Example: Can take part in complex discussions, understand non-technical texts, and write structured essays.
- Equivalent Merit: High school (Grades 11–12). This is typically the minimum level required for most undergraduate programs abroad.
5. C1 (Advanced)
- Description: Proficient in handling academic and professional communication. Can understand long, complex texts and express ideas fluently.
- Skill Example: Can deliver presentations, write detailed reports, and grasp subtle meanings in text.
- Equivalent Merit: Above high school; represents the level expected of undergraduate students and professionals.
6. C2 (Proficiency)
- Description: Near-native fluency. Can effortlessly handle academic, professional, or technical discussions.
- Skill Example: Can summarize complex information, engage in debates, and write research papers.
- Equivalent Merit: Advanced academic proficiency, suitable for postgraduate studies or highly specialized fields.

How English Proficiency Levels Are Assessed
- Tests and Scoring Systems:
- IELTS: Maps scores to CEFR levels, e.g., IELTS 5.0 = B1, IELTS 7.0+ = C1.
- TOEFL: Maps scores to CEFR levels, e.g., 42-71 = B1, 95+ = C1.
- PTE and DET: Similarly aligned with CEFR levels, making comparison easier.
- Schooling and Merit Alignment:
Many universities assess your proficiency based on your schooling background, particularly for students from English-medium institutions. For example:- Students from English-medium schools often meet B2 level proficiency.
- Students with exceptional high school performance in English (above 70%) may meet C1 level requirements.
Why Proficiency Levels Matter for Studying Abroad
Universities set minimum English proficiency levels to ensure students can:
- Understand lectures and participate in discussions.
- Write assignments, essays, and research papers effectively.
- Communicate fluently with peers and professors.
Table of Test Details
Here is a detailed table listing available centers, dates, times, and costs for alternative tests like DET
Test Name | Cost (INR) | Duration | Test Center Availability | Upcoming Test Dates |
Duolingo English Test (DET) | 5,500 | 1 Hour | Online Test (available worldwide) | On-demand |
Pearson Test of English (PTE) IELTS TOEFL | 15,900 17,000 16,900 | 3 Hours 2 Hours 45 minutes Under 2 hours | Centers in major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.) Centers in major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.) Centers in major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.) | Weekly Weekly Weekly |
How to Book a Test?
- DET: Visit Duolingo Test Official Site and register. You can take this test from home with a computer and webcam.
- PTE: Schedule your test through Pearson PTE Official Site. Ensure you book early to secure your preferred date.
The Bottom Line of Studying Abroad without IELTS…
Studying abroad without IELTS is now more accessible than ever, thanks to universities offering flexible language requirements and TOEFL alternatives. By choosing institutions that provide IELTS waivers or accept alternatives like DET , Indian students can save time, effort, and money. Be sure to research thoroughly and consult with a study abroad counselor to tailor your application process.
But it’s generally recommended to at least have a good score on the English Proficiency Tests because it helps in VISA. And choosing a low cost and an easy option like DET won’t hurt you.
If you’re interested in exploring more opportunities, contact a professional study abroad advisor to guide you through every step of your journey! Or Join the AFBF community where all knowledge is free 😀
If you’re looking for more insights into scholarships, check out our blogs:
- Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad
- How to Write a Winning LOR.
- Do I need the JEE to get into Ivy League?
It kinda got viral when he posted it!
FAQ: Common Questions About IELTS and Studying Abroad
1. What is IELTS, and why is it required for studying abroad?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardized test to measure English proficiency. Most universities in English-speaking countries require it to ensure students can understand lectures, communicate effectively, and succeed academically in an English-speaking environment.
2. Can I study abroad without IELTS?
Yes, many universities allow students to study abroad without IELTS by offering IELTS waivers or accepting alternative proofs of English proficiency, such as:
- Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI).
- Other tests like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test (DET), or PTE.
- Completion of previous education in English.
Countries like the USA, Canada, and Germany often have flexible policies.
3. Which countries allow students to study abroad without IELTS?
Countries like the USA, Canada, Germany, Australia, and the UK allow students to study without IELTS, provided they meet certain conditions. These may include completing prior education in English, taking an alternative test like DET or PTE, or enrolling in pre-sessional English courses.
4. What are IELTS alternatives for studying abroad?
Popular IELTS alternatives include:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Cambridge English Tests (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
Some universities also accept SAT/ACT scores or conduct interviews to assess English proficiency.
5. How can I get an IELTS waiver?
To get an IELTS waiver, you may need to:
- Provide a Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI) from your previous institution.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in English during high school or undergraduate studies.
- Complete a pre-sessional English course offered by the university.
Check the specific criteria of your chosen institution.
6. Do all universities in the USA require IELTS?
No, not all universities in the USA require IELTS. Many universities, like the University of Dayton, California State University, and Drexel University, waive IELTS for students with English-medium education or accept alternatives like DET and PTE.
7. Is IELTS mandatory for studying in Canada?
IELTS is not always mandatory for Canadian universities. Many institutions accept TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo scores or waive English proficiency tests for students with prior English-medium education. Universities like Brock University and Memorial University of Newfoundland offer IELTS waivers.
8. What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?
Both IELTS and TOEFL assess English proficiency, but they differ in format:
- IELTS: Offers academic and general training modules with a mix of written and oral tests.
- TOEFL: Internet-based test focusing on academic English, with integrated tasks across reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
Choice depends on the institution’s preference and the applicant’s strengths.
9. Is the Duolingo English Test (DET) accepted for studying abroad?
Yes, many universities in the USA, Canada, and other countries accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as an alternative to IELTS. It is affordable, conducted online, and provides quick results.
10. How long is the IELTS score valid?
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. After this period, most universities and visa offices will not accept the results.
11. Can I take IELTS after applying to a university?
Yes, you can take IELTS after applying, but it’s better to check the deadlines for submitting test scores. Some universities may grant conditional admission, requiring you to submit the IELTS score later.
12. What is the cost of taking IELTS?
The cost of taking IELTS in India is approximately INR 16,500, but it varies by location and test type. Always confirm the fee with the official IELTS test center.
13. How can I prepare for IELTS?
- Take online or offline coaching classes.
- Practice sample tests available on the official IELTS website.
- Use language learning tools and books, such as the Cambridge IELTS series.
14. Can I get a scholarship to study abroad without IELTS?
Yes, many scholarships do not require IELTS, especially if the university waives the English proficiency requirement or accepts alternatives like DET or PTE. Research scholarships specific to your country and institution.
If you’re looking for practical guidance on self-funding, scholarships, or planning your study-abroad dream, join the AFBF community—India’s largest and most supportive study-abroad community. It’s free to join guys. We’re here to help you every step of the way!