Indian students can study in Europe without IELTS by submitting a Medium of Instruction certificate or passing university-based English assessments. This guide explains the cheapest universities, admission requirements, fees and application steps for 2026 intake, helping students apply successfully without IELTS.
Studying in Europe is a dream for many Indian students due to its affordable education, globally recognised degrees, and wide range of English-taught programmes. However, one major concern is English proficiency tests like IELTS. The good news is that several European universities accept alternative qualifications or offer admissions without IELTS.
This guide explains how to study in Europe without IELTS in 2026, highlights universities with low tuition fees, entry requirements, and offers actionable tips to help students start their application process confidently.
Can You Study in Europe Without IELTS?
Yes. Many European universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency such as:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate confirming education in English
- Proof of previous studies conducted in English
- University internal English assessments or interviews
- English language waiver based on academic performance
- A letter from your previous institution stating English was the primary teaching medium
Some universities offer conditional admission based on attending pre-sessional English courses.
Top Countries in Europe Where You Can Study Without IELTS
| Country | Key Advantage | Approx. Tuition Fee Range |
| Germany | Public universities with minimal tuition | €0–€3,000/year |
| France | Many English-taught programmes | €2,000–€9,000/year |
| Italy | Scholarships widely available | €2,000–€6,000/year |
| Spain | Business and arts programmes in English | €3,000–€8,000/year |
| Poland | Low cost of living | €2,500–€5,500/year |
| Hungary | Medical and engineering options | €3,500–€7,500/year |
| Portugal | Accepts MOI certificates | €3,000–€8,000/year |
Cheapest Universities in Europe Without IELTS (For Indian Students – 2026 Intake)
1. University of Siegen, Germany
- Tuition Fee: No tuition for most programmes
- Medium of Instruction: MOI accepted for English-based programmes
- Popular Courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Social Sciences
- Entry: Academic transcripts + English MOI required
2. University of Applied Sciences Zwickau, Germany
- Tuition Fee: Free (semester fee applies)
- English-language admissions accepted via MOI
- Ideal For: Engineering, automotive studies
3. Charles University, Czech Republic
- Tuition Fee: Approx. €3,500/year
- Accepts MOI or internal language exam
- Popular For: Medicine, pharmacy, natural sciences
4. University of Florence, Italy
- Tuition Fee: €2,000–€4,000/year
- MOI or university language evaluation accepted
- Popular Courses: Architecture, arts, management
5. University of Milan, Italy
- Tuition Fee: Approx. €3,500/year
- Accepts MOI for selected international programmes
- Popular For: Business, humanities, life sciences
6. University of Porto, Portugal
- Tuition: €3,000–€8,000/year
- English-based programmes accept MOI
- Strong in: Architecture, marine science, business
7. University of Debrecen, Hungary
- Tuition: €4,500–€7,000/year
- Offers medical, engineering, and agricultural courses
- Accepts MOI or English placement tests
8. University of Gdańsk, Poland
- Tuition: €3,000–€5,000/year
- Medium of Instruction: MOI accepted
- Best For: Business, computer science
9. Warsaw University of Business, Poland
- Tuition: Approx. €4,000/year
- MBA and business programs with English waiver option
10. University of Granada, Spain
- Tuition: €2,900–€4,500/year
- Accepts MOI or university interview
- Well known for: Tourism, business, language studies
Admission Requirements Without IELTS
Most universities require the following:
- 10+2 or bachelor’s degree transcripts
- Medium of Instruction letter (from previous institution)
- Valid passport
- Motivation letter
- CV or academic resume
- Sometimes university interview or English assessment
Scholarships for International Students in Europe (Without IELTS)
- DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Italian Government Scholarships
- Erasmus+ Grants
- Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
- Hungarian Stipendium Programme
- Campus France Scholarships
Steps to Apply Without IELTS
- Shortlist universities offering English-taught programmes
- Request MOI certificate from your college/school
- Prepare required documents
- Apply through university or study abroad portals
- Attend interview (if asked)
- Apply for visa with admission and financial proof
Conclusion
Studying in Europe without IELTS is achievable for Indian students if they have studied previously in English and can provide the Medium of Instruction certificate. Students should apply early, as programs without IELTS requirements are competitive and often fill quickly.
Many European public universities also offer low or zero tuition fees, making it an excellent destination for students seeking affordable education abroad.
Planning to study in Europe without IELTS? Secure the right accommodation before you apply. Stubard helps Indian students find safe, budget-friendly student housing near top European universities. Contact us today for personalised support.
FAQs
1. Can Indian students study in Europe without IELTS?
Yes. Many European universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate confirming previous education in English, or allow internal language testing instead of IELTS.
2. Which countries in Europe allow study without IELTS?
Germany, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Hungary, Spain, and the Czech Republic are popular destinations that offer admission without IELTS for selected programmes.
3. What is MOI and how does it work?
MOI stands for Medium of Instruction. It is a certificate from your school or college confirming that you completed your previous education in English. Many European universities accept this instead of IELTS.
4. Which universities in Europe accept MOI for admission?
Examples include the University of Siegen (Germany), University of Florence (Italy), University of Debrecen (Hungary), and University of Gdańsk (Poland). Availability depends on the course and university.
5. What is the cost of studying in Europe without IELTS?
Tuition fees range from €0 to €8,000 per year depending on the country and university. Germany offers free or very low-cost public education.
6. Do I need to take an English interview if I don’t give IELTS?
Some universities may require an online interview, internal test, or video assessment to evaluate your English communication skills.
7. Is it possible to study medicine in Europe without IELTS?
Yes, but you may need to clear university-level English or local language requirements. Countries like Hungary and Poland offer medical courses without IELTS if MOI is accepted.
8. Are scholarships available for students applying without IELTS?
Yes. Scholarships such as DAAD (Germany), Erasmus+, Italian Government Scholarships, and NAWA (Poland) are open to students who meet programme requirements.
9. Will studying without IELTS affect visa approval?
No, if the university provides an admission letter confirming you meet language requirements. Ensure your visa documents align with study permission guidelines.
10. What are the cheapest European universities without IELTS?
Public universities in Germany, University of Florence (Italy), University of Gdańsk (Poland), and University of Porto (Portugal) are among the most affordable options.
11. Can I apply for a master’s program in Europe without IELTS?
Yes. Many European universities accept MOI for English-taught master’s programs, especially if you completed a bachelor’s degree in English.
12. Can I stay and work in Europe after studying without IELTS?
Yes. Post-study work visa options depend on the country. Germany offers up to 18 months, while other countries provide work permits based on employment.
13. Is Duolingo accepted instead of IELTS in Europe?
Some universities accept Duolingo English Test for admission. However, MOI certification is more widely accepted.
14. How early should I apply for 2026 admission?
Start applying 9–12 months in advance. Programs without IELTS requirements are limited and fill up quickly.