Study in Europe Without IELTS from Bangladesh (2026)
A significant number of Bangladeshi students now prefer to study in Europe without IELTS. This is an emerging trend, as students seek cheaper, more convenient study opportunities.
Most universities in Europe now accept alternative proof of English, and applying has become much easier. The importance of this is that it may result in fewer concerns, less expenditure and quicker admission.
This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to study in Europe without IELTS from Bangladesh. Get to know about the alternatives to IELTS, the best European countries and universities, scholarships, visa regulations, and a clear application plan.
Why More Students Are Choosing to Study in Europe Without IELTS?
The term study in Europe without IELTS describes the practice of applying to European universities with non-traditional evidence of English proficiency, e.g. prior English-medium education, in-house university assessments, Duolingo, or MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates, instead of the standard IELTS test.
It has three principal advantages:
- Savings of cost and time: You save on IELTS exam fees, training and months of preparation.
- Faster and simpler application: You can often apply directly without waiting for test results.
- Greater accessibility: More institutions in Europe are now open to flexible language policies, thus making high-quality degrees more accessible.
Stat: Data provided by Studyportals and British Council showed that the figure of on-campus English-taught programmes in 2021-2024 increased by 22% worldwide, and non-Anglophone destinations experienced significant growth.
What Are The Other English Proficiency Options in Europe?
The question asked by many students is how to study in Europe without IELTS from Bangladesh. There are easy answers. There are a number of alternatives to demonstrate English ability rather than the IELTS exam. The most popular ones are:
Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificates
An MOI certificate is a document that shows that a student has had prior education in English. The school or university gives this official paper. It validates that all classes and exams were taken in English. Many countries and universities have accepted MOI as evidence of English.
As an example, MOI certificates are accepted in Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands. Students may request this letter from their educational institution in Bangladesh. They ought to ensure that it is stamped and signed by the appropriate office.
TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, Cambridge Exams
These are popular alternative English tests for European studies. They each have their own rules, charges and accepted scores.
| Test | Average score needed | Cost in USD | Results time | Proficiency |
| TOEFL | 72 to 100 | $185 | 6 to 10 days | Very good |
| PTE | 10 to 90 | $170 | 2 to 5 days | Good |
| Duolingo | 10 to 160 | $49 | 2 days | Competent |
| Cambridge | B2 first or C1 | $409.46 | 2 to 6 weeks | Extremely limited |
Many universities in Europe accept Duolingo, TOEFL and other examinations. All the tests include reading, writing, listening and speaking.
University-Specific or Internal English Tests & Interviews
There are European universities that have a style of their own in checking students’ English. They can administer a brief English examination or conduct a video interview. This usually occurs following the primary application.
The test is not complicated and examines whether the student is able to study in English or not. This is typically not as stressful as foreign tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Students are expected to verify the information with every university.
Other Qualifications (IB, A-Levels, English-taught Degrees)
Universities in Europe can accept high school proof or a previous degree taught in English. The typical evidence will be the International Baccalaureate (IB), A-levels in English, or the completion of a bachelor’s degree in English. The university normally demands a certificate from the former institution. This is a path mostly used by English-medium students.
Top European Countries & Universities That Let You Study Without IELTS
In many European states, there are flexible English policies. Most of the elite universities allow Bangladeshi students to apply for European study options without IELTS. The list below contains popular countries, how they accept students, and the best universities.
Germany
Germany offers one of the best educations. MOI certificates are accepted in most universities in Germany. Others have their own English tests or provide pathway programmes to students. Most German courses, particularly for a master’s degree, do not require IELTS. Top universities:
- Technical University of Munich (accepts MOI)
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Cologne
- University of Bonn
These are the universities that have numerous programmes in English. Students often wonder about TOEFL vs IELTS acceptance in Europe, and Germany is one of the countries where both are widely recognised, while MOI is increasingly common.
Poland
Polish universities accept students without IELTS. MOI and university interviews are accepted in most courses. A leading choice is the University of Warsaw. Students may also apply to the Warsaw University of Technology and Poznan University. The cost of fees is low in comparison with Western Europe.
Sweden & Finland
Sweden and Finland both have courses in English that do not rely on IELTS. They accept MOI certificates and exams such as TOEFL. Lund University is a renowned Swedish university among international students. In Finland, the University of Helsinki also considers MOI as evidence in certain instances.
Italy & France
Instead of IELTS, Italy and France accept MOI, internal examinations, or recognised examinations. These include the University of Milan and Bologna in Italy, and EBS Paris and SKEMA Business School in France. The cost of studying and living is low in both countries.
Czech Republic
One of the oldest in Europe, Charles University, accepts interviews or MOI. Most of the programmes are offered in English, and therefore it is easy to have Bangladeshi students being accepted. Prague is known to have a student-friendly lifestyle, and the expenses are moderate.
Hungary, Latvia, Spain, Malta
- Hungary: The University of Debrecen accepts MOI and other English tests.
- Latvia: Riga Technical University accepts interviews or MOI.
- Spain: Universities in some provinces of Spain accept Duolingo or in-house exams.
- Malta: It is flexible and has low-cost education in English.
Comparison Table – European Study Options
| Country | Top universities | Accepted alternatives | Tuition notes |
| Germany | TU Munich, Uni Heidelberg | MOI and internal test | Tuition-free |
| Poland | U Warsaw, U Poznan | MOI and interview | Low fees |
| Sweden | Lund university | Moi, Duolingo, TOEFL | Moderate to high |
| Italy | U Milan, U Bologna | MOI and text | Moderate |
| France | EBS Paris, SKEMA | MOI and test | Moderate |
| Czech Rep. | Charles University | MOI and interview | Moderate |
| Hungary | U Debrecen | MOI and test | Low |
| Latvia | Riga technical u | MOI and interview | Low |
| Malta | U Malta | MOI and English background | Low |
Scholarships, Funding and Financial Support Without IELTS
In Europe, several scholarships assist Bangladeshi students in paying their tuition and living expenses. Even some of the largest ones allow students to apply without IELTS if they demonstrate English skills in another way.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees: It is a European Union scholarship that takes care of fees, travel and living expenses. An MOI, or an English-taught degree, is accepted as evidence in most courses.
- DAAD (Germany): Provides full and partial scholarships. In numerous instances, an applicant may use an MOI certificate.
Other popular options:
- Stipendium Hungaricum: Government scholarship in Hungary accepts MOI.
- Italy regional scholarships: A great number of provinces provide grants for foreign students, but are not strict on English proficiency.
- Poland governmental scholarships: English waivers may frequently be permitted.
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship | Country | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Erasmus Mundus | Multiple | MOI, Eng-taught degree, Alt. test | Full tuition, stipend, travel |
| DAAD | Germany | MOI possible, varies by programme | Full/partial tuition, allowance |
| Stipendium Hungaricum | Hungary | MOI, Eng-taught background | Tuition, monthly grant |
| Italy regional | Italy | MOI, native speakers, internal tests | Fees, living allowance |
| Poland Gov’t | Poland | MOI. Interview, Eng-taught proof | Fees/allowance |
Visa, Immigration and Post-Study Opportunities Without IELTS
In Europe, the visa offices frequently accept MOI or IELTS substitutes. This will simplify the process of Bangladeshi students filling out their applications with the help of a local.
Most of the European embassies in Bangladesh, such as Germany, Italy, Poland and Hungary, accept MOI, TOEFL or internal university exams. This implies that students are able to obtain a study visa without having to take IELTS.
There are opportunities for post-study work in Europe without IELTS as well. Other countries, such as Germany, provide the EU Blue Card pathway to skilled labour. Graduates are in a position to seek permanent residency or long-term permits, even when they did not take IELTS.
Step-by-step Guide: How to apply without IELTS?
These are just some of the steps students can take to start their journey:
- Check if eligible (DO you have an MOI, English-taught degree, or can you pass another test?)
- Choose your country, university and programme. Use online sources such as Study Portals or Scholarship Portals.
- Prepare documents including MOI, academic documents, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Reference (LOR) and financial papers.
- Apply online to the university and await the confirmation of admission.
- When accepted, request a visa at the corresponding embassy. They may ask to see the MOI.
- In case your visa is approved, go to Europe. Attend welcome classes, register with the local authority and plan for your future.
Application Flowchart Table
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Confirm you have MOI/alternative |
| 2 | Select university and a course |
| 3 | Gather document (MOI, transcripts, SOP) |
| 4 | Submit application |
| 5 | Apply for a student visa |
| 6 | Arrive and register in Europe |
Students’ Life And Support in Europe Without IELTS
When Bangladeshi students enter Europe without IELTS, they tend to question what life in the university is like. There is nothing wrong with excitement and some nervousness. Europe is a friendly study destination for students from Bangladesh and other countries. Universities have numerous support services that assist international students with their language, studies and with their daily needs.
Most universities provide free English classes and tutorial services to enable students to improve their language skills even after their arrival. The student centres are also available, where they advise you on visas, banking, health insurance, and acclimatising to local life. In case a student has a problem with English conversation, assistance can be given.
Clubs and social groups unite students. There are active Bangladesh student communities in Germany, Poland and Hungary, among other countries. These groups assist the newcomers to settle down by giving tips and organising events. Social programmes are also run in universities to enable students to learn local customs and meet local friends.
Job centres in universities have part-time job lists and resume and interview support. Within the course of studies, students are allowed to work a specific number of hours per week. In case students intend to remain after graduating, career counselling is available for post-study work opportunities in Europe without IELTS. In general, European students have a comfortable life with useful resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which European countries accept MOI instead of IELTS?
MOI is accepted in numerous universities, such as:
– Germany
– France
– Poland
– Hungary
– Sweden
– Finland
– Latvia
– Portugal
– Spain
– Malta
Which universities do not require IELTS but allow Duolingo or TOEFL?
Duolingo or TOEFL has been accepted in place of IELTS in many universities in Germany, Sweden, Finland, Spain, France and Italy.
How do I obtain an MOI certificate at my university?
Ask the head office or registrar of your previous institution to provide it. The MOI has to be official and declare that you studied English.
Do Bangladeshi students receive scholarships without IELTS?
Yes. There are numerous scholarships, including Erasmus Mundus and Stipendium Hungaricum, in which MOI or evidence of an English-taught background is required.
Will not taking IELTS have any impact on my visa application?
No, as long as you present acceptable English documentation, such as an MOI or some other test, then most European embassies will process your student visa.
Are internal English tests by universities reliable?
University exams are made to be understandable and unbiased. They are most likely as dependable as regular English exams.
Will it be more difficult to study in Europe without IELTS?
No, it is not complicated as long as one can pass such requirements as MOI or some other English tests.
Conclusion
The decision to study in Europe without IELTS provides Bangladeshi students with an additional opportunity and relieves stress. There are numerous opportunities with MOI, other English exams, and scholarship aid. Remember, many institutions allow you to apply to European universities without IELTS, saving both time and money. Begin early, browse through all the programmes, and never fail to check out official university websites. Keep in mind that you can travel to Europe, it can be cheap and rewarding with the proper choice.
