Master's Degree: After Graduation or After Work?
Career decisions are never easy. One of the major career decisions that often brings a student a crossroads is – th…
The most important criterion for beginning your application process for universities abroad is said to be proficiency in the English language. It can be difficult to achieve the ideal score on an English proficiency test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL, depending on the university or program you choose. Because of this, colleges all around the world have made it very simple to enroll in courses without passing an English competency test. You did read that correctly. Now you can study abroad without taking the IELTS or TOEFL as long as you meet the other conditions. So read further to find out about universities in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia that don’t have a TOEFL requirement.
The United States
Being an English-speaking country, universities in the United States (US) usually expect you to provide IELTS or TOEFL scores for admission of students who come from non-English speaking countries. But there are a few universities that may waive this requirement if you fulfill some other prerequisite of theirs.
| College/University | Requirement |
| University Of Arkansas | - You will be required to take the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) before the course begins |
| University Of Colorado | - Show that English is your native language OR - Pursue at least 1 year of education at any educational institute in the US |
| State University of New York | You will be required to take the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) before the course begins |
| Drexel University | - University Preparation Summer Program (UPREP) - Bridge Program These are two conditional admission programs offered by Drexel University for international students who do not meet the language requirement |
| University of Iowa | Students who are qualified but don’t meet the English language criteria are nonetheless admitted to the university |
| California State University | The applicant must have completed a degree program lasting at least three years in an institution where English is the primary language of teaching. |
The United Kingdom
While most colleges in the UK need an English proficiency test for admission, there are some you can get admission into without a TOEFL.
| College/University | Requirements |
| University Of Bristol | English requirements depend on the course |
| Robert Gordon University | Accepts if you have scored 65% or above in Indian state board’s, ICSE, and CISCE 12th standard English |
| University Of Bolton | English requirements depend on the course |
| University of Warwick | Substitute tests such as CAE, PTE, and Trinity Integrated Skills in English |
| London Southbank University | English requirements depend on the course |
Canada
Canada is a very common choice for students looking to study abroad. And if you also have similar plans in mind, here are some universities you can consider which don’t have a TOEFL requirement
| College/University | Requirements |
| University of Saskatchewan | Before beginning the study of the desired specialization, enroll in a university’s intensive English language program |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador | Candidates who don’t get the required proficiency exam scores can enroll in the university’s St. John’s or Grenfell campuses’ intensive English programs. Additionally approved are candidates who have passed an e-proctored English exam or an interview. |
| Memorial University | - Duolingo – An English proficiency test that uses computer adaptive technology to analyze your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills - CanTest – A standardized English proficiency test that is used to determine whether you can satisfy the language criteria for professional licensing organizations or the admission standards of Canadian post-secondary institutions - Pearson Test of English (PTE) – More than 3000 universities and colleges in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK recognize the PTE exam as proof of English language proficiency |
| The University of Winnipeg | - English Language Program (IELP) – a language course created to assist people who wish to advance their proficiency in the English language. - Duolingo – An English proficiency test that uses computer adaptive technology to analyze your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills - Pearson Test of English (PTE) – More than 3000 universities and colleges in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK recognize the PTE exam as proof of English language proficiency |
| Seneca College | - You must complete an English language training course at a facility like the English Language Institute. - You must complete two academic years at an English-speaking university. |
Suggested: Mistakes to Avoid in Toefl
Australia
Australia is an excellent choice for one to study and gain exposure. Here are some universities to check out that don’t have TOEFL requirements.
| College/University | Requirements |
| University of Queensland | Take on a full-time English course |
| University of Adelaide | If an international student successfully completes a Pre-enrolment English Program (PEP), this university will accept them. |
| University of South Australia | - Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) – A certificate of language proficiency known which is accepted all over the world. The test is meant to be used in both academic and professional settings - Pearson Test of English (PTE) – More than 3000 universities and colleges in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK recognize the PTE exam as proof of English language proficiency |
| Macquarie University | Do an English program before your studies start |
Suggested: How To Score 110+ In TOEFL
Things To Keep In Mind While Requesting TOEFL Waiver
Each university has a set of standards that you must adhere to prove your proficiency in the English language. Based on this, you need to decide whether to write a TOEFL waiver letter. So, start by looking at their criteria. Students from non-English-speaking countries are the target demographic for the TOEFL test requirement. However, if you’re from one of these countries but hold a degree from a native English-speaking country, you might be exempt right away. Institutions typically accept a letter of pardon from someone who attended an English-speaking university or worked for a multinational corporation with operations or ownership in an English-speaking country. Here are some things to be mindful of when drafting your waiver letter.
1. Use A Comprehensible Format
A letter of waiver is formal in nature. Make it clear and simple to read. Sort through your content. Do not over-format the document. It might mislead the reader. Pick a legible font. It should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion, just like any other letter.
Suggested: Everything To Know About TOEFL
2. Make The Purpose Of Your Letter Clear
The purpose of the letter ought to be clear from the start to the reader. This means that the opening few phrases should clearly state the purpose. Make sure that the requests’ justifications are clear as well. The requirements vary between colleges. Explain how you satisfy the criteria for granting the waiver.
3. Concise Writing
If a few sentences can adequately support your argument, then use them. You don’t need a lengthy letter to persuade the reviewer. Don’t forget to share information that is pertinent to your cause.
Conclusion
There are many universities across the world that have alternatives to IELTS or TOEFL scores for international admissions which makes studying abroad an achievable dream. You don’t need to stop yourself because of a low IELTS or TOEFL score and can go to these universities for a waiver
Want help with your Study Abroad Journey?
Get expert suggestions on universities and program options that align with your profile and goals. Schedule a call with MastersBuddy, our experts will recommend you the best options out there!
Dhruvin Jain
Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Articles: 20
Need Assistance in getting into your dream university?
Begin your Study Abroad Journey, with us.
