Masters Scholarships in UK for International Students Without IELTS

Explore UK master’s scholarships for international students without IELTS. Learn eligibility, deadlines, and how to apply without hassle.

 

Pursuing a master’s degree in the UK remains a top choice for international students, thanks to world-class universities and global recognition. However, one hurdle that stops many from applying is the IELTS requirement. Fortunately, several UK universities now accept international students for master's programs without insisting on IELTS. If you've previously studied in English or have alternative proof of proficiency, your dream of studying in the UK can move forward—without sitting for that exam.

Alongside the flexibility in language requirements, a growing number of UK institutions offer fully or partially funded master’s scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students who meet the academic criteria and demonstrate financial need, research interest, or leadership potential. Many of these scholarships allow candidates to present alternative language evidence, such as previous education in English-speaking institutions, or scores from tests like TOEFL, PTE, or even an internal assessment.

This combination of IELTS-free entry options and financial support means students from around the world can access a UK education without the traditional barriers. Whether you're from Nigeria, India, Ghana, Pakistan, or any other country, options are available to start your master's degree in the UK. Below are top scholarship programs and universities offering master's degrees without IELTS, along with how to apply, eligibility details, and deadlines.

Universities in the UK Offering Admission Without IELTS

Before diving into scholarships, it's important to know which UK universities accept master's students without IELTS. Some of the most notable include:

• University of Bolton
• University of Plymouth
• University of Portsmouth
• Sheffield Hallam University
• University of Greenwich
• Northumbria University
• London South Bank University

These institutions consider alternative qualifications such as:

• A letter from your previous institution confirming English was the medium of instruction.
• English proficiency demonstrated during undergraduate studies.
• Scores from other recognized English tests (e.g., TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE).

Commonwealth Master's Scholarships

Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the Commonwealth Master's Scholarships support students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries.

Eligibility

• Citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Bachelor's degree with strong academic performance.
• Cannot afford to study in the UK without financial support.
• Medium of previous education must have been English.

Deadline

Applications usually close in October each year.

How to Apply

1. Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online portal.
2. Submit a university admission letter, references, academic transcripts, and personal statements.
3. Show evidence that your undergraduate studies were in English (for IELTS exemption).

Official Website

https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk

GREAT Scholarships by British Council

The GREAT Scholarships offer financial support of at least £10,000 towards tuition fees for one-year master's programs in the UK. Many participating universities accept international students without IELTS.

Eligibility

• Open to students from select countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Demonstrated academic excellence.
• Must have a prior degree taught in English.

Deadline

Deadlines differ by institution, typically between March and May.

How to Apply

1. Choose a participating UK university listed on the GREAT Scholarships page.
2. Apply for a relevant master’s program.
3. Submit a scholarship application directly to the university.
4. Attach proof of English instruction if you're not providing IELTS.

Official Website

https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships/great-scholarships

University of Glasgow International Leadership Scholarships

The University of Glasgow offers scholarships worth £10,000 toward tuition fees for international master's students with exceptional academic backgrounds.

Eligibility

• Hold an offer for an eligible postgraduate taught program.
• Demonstrated academic merit.
• Proof of English proficiency via alternative means (e.g., letter from previous university or another English test).

Deadline

Rolling basis, but early application is recommended.

How to Apply

1. Apply for an eligible master’s program on the University of Glasgow website.
2. No separate scholarship application needed—selection is automatic for eligible candidates.
3. Submit all required academic and language documentation.

Official Website

https://www.gla.ac.uk/scholarships/

University of Birmingham Global Masters Scholarships

The University of Birmingham provides scholarships of up to £2,000 to support talented international students. For many countries, the university allows alternative English proof in place of IELTS.

Eligibility

• Must have received an offer to study a taught master’s program at the University of Birmingham.
• Undergraduate degree completed in English or from a recognized institution.
• Must be self-funded and classified as an overseas fee payer.

Deadline

Usually ends in June, but check specific deadlines by region.

How to Apply

1. Apply and receive an unconditional offer.
2. Confirm your offer and submit your application through the university portal.
3. Provide medium of instruction letter if opting out of IELTS.

Official Website

https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/funding/postgraduate/global-masters-scholarship.aspx

Clarendon Fund at University of Oxford

The Clarendon Fund is one of the most prestigious scholarships at the University of Oxford. It covers full tuition and provides a generous living allowance.

Eligibility

• Must apply for a master’s degree at the University of Oxford.
• Academic excellence and leadership potential required.
• English proficiency demonstrated through alternate measures (accepted for some programs).

Deadline

All Oxford course deadlines in January are eligible.

How to Apply

1. Apply for an eligible full-time master’s program by the January deadline.
2. No separate application for the Clarendon—shortlisted candidates are contacted.
3. Provide evidence of prior study in English, if applying without IELTS.

Official Website

https://www.ox.ac.uk/clarendon

How to Apply to a UK Master’s Without IELTS

If you’re aiming to study in the UK without IELTS, here’s how to approach it:

1. Shortlist Universities: Look for institutions that accept English proficiency alternatives.
2. Prepare a Medium of Instruction Letter: Get a letter from your previous university confirming your degree was taught in English.
3. Apply Early: Many scholarships close months before the academic session begins.
4. Check Requirements: Some universities may conduct an internal English test or interview.
5. Upload Documents Carefully: Your proof of English must be clear, well-formatted, and submitted with your academic documents.

Other Scholarships to Explore

• Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford (for select countries)
• Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
• University of Westminster Scholarships
• University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships

All these offer partial to full tuition coverage, and many accept alternative English evidence in place of IELTS.

Conclusion

Earning a master's degree in the UK is more accessible than ever for international students who either lack IELTS scores or wish to bypass the exam. With a variety of universities accepting alternate proof of English and scholarship programs supporting global talent, the barriers are steadily coming down. These scholarships are not only prestigious—they’re life-changing, opening doors to world-class education, research, and career paths.

Success in securing a scholarship starts with thorough preparation. Tailor your applications, back them with solid academic records, and ensure your English proficiency documentation meets the university’s standards. Many programs operate on rolling admissions or early deadlines, so starting early gives you a competitive edge.

Whether your goal is public health, business, data science, or international relations, the UK remains a promising destination. Skip the IELTS stress and focus on finding the right scholarship and university fit. Education should empower, not burden—and with these opportunities, your academic journey in the UK can begin without compromise.

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