Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS for Nigerian Students (Updated Guide)
Many Nigerian students want to study abroad but get discouraged because of the cost of IELTS. The good news is: you don’t need IELTS for many fully funded scholarships across Europe, Asia, and even the UK.
Below is a clean, updated list — with official links clearly added as “(Check official website)” for easy navigation.
1. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
Germany remains one of the best places Nigerians study without IELTS. Many universities accept a Letter of English Proficiency or WAEC/NECO English.
Benefits:
- Fully funded
- Monthly stipend
- Free tuition
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
Application Link:
(Check official website)
https://www.daad.de/en/
2. Türkiye Burslari Scholarship (Turkey)
One of the most generous, fully funded scholarships in the world — and no IELTS required.
Benefits:
- Tuition-free
- Monthly stipend
- Free accommodation
- International student insurance
- Return flight ticket
- Free Turkish language school
Application Link:
(Check official website)
https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/
3. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship)
Most Chinese universities allow Nigerians to submit WAEC/NECO or an English Proficiency letter instead of IELTS.
Benefits:
- Fully funded
- Free accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
Application Link:
(Check official website)
https://www.campuschina.org/
4. Hungarian Government Scholarship (Stipendium Hungaricum)
Another top fully funded program that does not require IELTS for many programs.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Free dormitory or housing allowance
- Health insurance
Application Link:
(Check official website)
https://stipendiumhungaricum.hu/
5. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
This is where many Nigerians get confused — Chevening DOES NOT require IELTS.
The only condition is: your chosen UK university must accept WAEC/NECO or other alternatives.
Benefits:
- Fully funded 1-year master’s
- Return flights
- UK visa fee covered
- Monthly living allowance
- Networking and leadership opportunities
Application Link:
👉 (Check official website)
https://www.chevening.org/
General Requirements for No-IELTS Scholarships
Most programs will ask for:
- WAEC/NECO English result
- English Proficiency Letter
- Academic transcripts/certificates
- Passport
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Medical certificate (for some)
How Nigerian Students Can Apply Without IELTS
Step 1: Get an English Proficiency Letter
Request one from your secondary school or university.
Step 2: Prepare your documents early
Transcripts, certificates, passport, recommendations.
Step 3: Apply on the official website
(links already provided above)
Step 4: Be ready for interviews
Some schools test your spoken English via Zoom.
Why You Should Apply Without IELTS
- Saves ₦100k–₦150k IELTS fee
- Faster application process
- Many fully funded programs
- Easier access for English-speaking countries
You should also read – Complete Guide to Student loans for Nigeria students
Read – Study Abroad Checklist for Nigerian Students”
