If you are searching for Scholarships in Germany Without IELTS, you are not alone. Germany has become one of the top study destinations for international students because of low or zero tuition fees, world class universities, and many fully funded scholarships. The good news is that many German scholarships and universities do not strictly require IELTS. Instead, they often accept other forms of English proof.

Most students think without IELTS means no English requirement at all. That is not correct. German universities still need proof that you can study in English. However, you can usually submit alternatives like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter, proof of a previous English taught degree, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, or sometimes an internal university interview.

This guide explains everything step by step. You will learn what without IELTS really means, which alternatives are accepted, and a detailed list of 20 Scholarships in Germany Without IELTS that you can apply for in 2026.

What “Without IELTS” Really Means (Important)

Many rejections happen because students misunderstand this phrase.

“Without IELTS” usually means:

• IELTS is not mandatory
• Another English test is accepted
• MOI letter can be used
• Or the university sets its own language assessment

It does not mean you can apply without any English proof.

Most Accepted IELTS Alternatives in Germany

German universities commonly accept:

• MOI (Medium of Instruction) letter
• Previous English-taught degree certificate
• TOEFL
• Duolingo English Test
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge English tests
• University interview or internal test
• German language certificate (for German-taught programs)\

List of Scholarships in Germany Without IELTS (2026)

1) DAAD EPOS Scholarship

Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully funded
Covers: Tuition, stipend, travel, insurance

This is one of the most famous German scholarships. Many EPOS programs accept MOI or other English proof instead of IELTS.

Best for: Development studies, engineering, public policy, health, environment
Tip: Work experience is often required

2) DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)

Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully funded

Focuses on future leaders in politics and governance. Many partner universities accept MOI or alternatives.

3) DAAD Study Scholarships for Master’s (All Disciplines)

Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition + stipend

A broad scholarship for many fields. Language rules depend on the host university, and IELTS is often replaceable.

4) DAAD Research Grants (PhD)

Level: PhD/Research
Funding: Fully funded

Supervisor approval is more important than IELTS. Many universities accept MOI or English interviews.

5) Deutschlandstipendium

Level: Bachelor’s/Master’s
Funding: €300 per month

This is a merit-based scholarship offered through German universities. The scholarship itself does not ask for IELTS. Language proof follows the university’s admission rules.

6) Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship

Level: Master’s/PhD
Funding: Monthly stipend + support

Strong for students interested in leadership and politics. English alternatives are usually accepted.

7) Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Scholarship

Level: Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD
Funding: Stipend + benefits

Focuses on social justice, sustainability, and democracy. IELTS is not always mandatory.

8) Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Scholarship

Level: Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD
Funding: Monthly stipend

Great for socially active students. Language requirements depend on your program.

9) Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung Scholarship

Level: Master’s/PhD
Funding: Stipend

Often focuses on academic excellence and social engagement. MOI may be accepted.

10) Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully funded

Some programs are hosted partly in Germany. Many accept MOI or other tests instead of IELTS.

11) SBW Berlin Scholarship

Level: Bachelor’s/Master’s
Funding: Fully funded (tuition + living)

Targets talented students with financial need. Language alternatives are often allowed.

12) Humboldt Foundation Research Fellowship

Level: Postgraduate/Research

Great for researchers. IELTS is rarely required. Academic excellence and research plan matter more.

13) KAAD Scholarship

Level: Master’s/PhD
Funding: Full support

Designed for students from developing countries. MOI is commonly accepted.

14) Bayer Foundation Fellowship

Level: Research/Master’s/PhD

Focus on science, medicine, and engineering. Language proof depends on host institution.

15) Heidelberg University Scholarships

Level: Master’s/PhD
Funding: Tuition waivers + grants

Many English programs accept MOI or alternatives.

16) RWTH Aachen University Scholarships

Level: Master’s/PhD

Offers departmental and merit funding. Many courses accept English-taught degree proof.

17) University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships

Level: Bachelor’s/Master’s

Provides semester support grants. IELTS is not always compulsory

18) Technical University of Munich Scholarships

Level: Master’s/PhD

Offers TUM merit and international student awards. Many programs accept MOI.

19) University of Stuttgart Scholarships

Level: Master’s

Offers funding for engineering and technical students. Language waivers may apply.

20) Goethe-Institut Language Course Scholarships

Level: Language/Preparation

Good for students planning German-taught degrees. Not IELTS based.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany Without IELTS

Step 1: Choose your level and field

Be clear about:

• Bachelor / Master / PhD
• Your subject
• Career goals

Step 2: Shortlist English taught programs first

Do not start with scholarships.

First:

• Find programs taught in English
• Check if MOI/alternatives are accepted
• Then match scholarships

Step 3: Prepare a strong MOI letter

Your MOI must include:

• University letterhead
• Statement that your degree was fully taught in English
• Stamp + signature
• Dat

Step 4: Prepare documents

You usually need:

• Passport
• CV
• SOP/Motivation letter
• Transcripts
• Recommendation letters
• Language proof
• Experience certificates

Step 5: Apply to the university first

Most scholarships require admission first. Always apply early.

Step 6: Apply for scholarships separately

Some are automatic, others need separate applications like DAAD or foundations.

Step 7: Prepare for interviews

Many German scholarships include interviews. Be ready to explain:

• Your goals
• Why Germany
• How the scholarship helps your country

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Thinking no English proof is required
• Sending weak MOI letters
• Copy-pasting the same SOP
• Ignoring deadlines
• Applying randomly without focus

Frequently Asked Questions