Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK Without IELTS for 2026 for International Students

If you dream of studying in one of the world’s strongest education destinations but the IELTS test stands in your way, then this guide is for you. In this practical article, you will discover the top fully funded scholarships in the UK Without IELTS for 2026, and how you can study in the UK without IELTS through alternative English-proficiency pathways, with official links for each scholarship so you can verify the requirements and details before applying.

The United Kingdom has more than 160 universities offering over 50,000 academic programs across all fields, with a strong global academic reputation and high employability outcomes for graduates. For this reason, studying in the United Kingdom without IELTS 2026 has become a major goal for thousands of international students seeking high-quality education with full or near-full funding.

You can also explore the Reach Oxford Scholarship in the UK

Details About Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK Without IELTS

• Country: United Kingdom
• Degrees Covered: Bachelor’s – Master’s – PhD (depending on each scholarship)
• Funding Type: Fully funded or partially funded scholarships
• Eligible Applicants: All nationalities (requirements vary by program)
• Application Deadlines: Differ by scholarship (official links must be checked frequently)

British universities and the UK government offer a wide range of scholarships that fully cover tuition fees, provide monthly living stipends, health insurance, and round-trip airfare in many major programs, especially government-funded ones such as Chevening, Commonwealth Scholarships, Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, and others.

For regular updates on scholarships and academic opportunities, follow our official platforms:

What Does “Studying in the United Kingdom Without IELTS” Actually Mean?

It is important to understand that “without IELTS” does not mean that UK universities ignore English-language proficiency. Instead, it usually means one of the following:

1. Acceptance of Alternative English-Language Proof (Medium of Instruction – MOI)

Many UK universities accept an official certificate from your previous university stating that the language of instruction was English. This is known as MOI, and it can be accepted instead of IELTS for certain programs and certain countries.

2. Acceptance of Other English Tests

Such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, or internal university English tests.

3. Pre-sessional English Programs

Some universities offer admission on condition that the student completes an intensive English program inside the university before the academic program begins. Passing this course waives the need for IELTS.

4. Specific Country- or University-Based Exemptions

Some universities (such as Aston University for certain categories of graduates) may grant exemptions from English tests based on the strength of the previous institution or years of study in English.

Therefore, studying in the United Kingdom without IELTS 2026 usually means:

Applying to programs and scholarships that accept alternative official English-language proof, not eliminating the language requirement entirely.

This is why you must always read the English Language Requirements page for each program before submitting your application.

You can also explore the Scholarships in Australia Without IELTS

Why Are Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK So Important?

Choosing a fully funded scholarship in the UK allows you to:

• Receive full tuition coverage, which is normally high for international students.
• Obtain a monthly living stipend that covers accommodation, food, and basic transport (as in Chevening, Rhodes, Gates Cambridge).
• Receive round-trip airfare in many government programs (Chevening, Commonwealth, QECS in other Commonwealth countries).
• Get health insurance and visa support.
• Join a powerful alumni network that helps with employment, research collaboration, and future funding.
• Benefit from world-class academic reputation: many UK universities rank among the top 50 globally according to QS 2025.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the United Kingdom 2026 (With Options to Apply Without IELTS Using Alternatives)

1. Chevening Scholarships 2026 (United Kingdom)

Type: Fully funded – One-year Master’s
Provider: UK Government (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office – FCDO)

Chevening is one of the most prestigious government scholarships worldwide, offering fully funded one-year Master’s degrees at any accredited UK university.

Funding (as listed on the official Chevening website):

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living stipend
• Round-trip airfare to the UK
• Visa fees
• Travel costs to official Chevening events

English-Language Requirements:
Chevening does not require a specific English exam. It accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE, and others. Many partner universities also accept MOI or alternative proof if your previous studies were in English. However, each university sets its own final requirement, so you must verify the language requirement on the program’s official page.

Official Website: Chevening.org

2. Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 (United Kingdom)

Type: Fully funded – Master’s and PhD
Provider: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), funded by the UK Government

Commonwealth Scholarships offer around 700–800 fully funded postgraduate scholarships annually to students from Commonwealth countries.

Funding Includes:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance
• Round-trip international flights
• Additional research or thesis allowances (depending on program)

English Requirement:
While CSC provides general guidelines, the specific English-language requirement is set by the host university. Many partner universities accept MOI or alternative tests, especially for Master’s and research programs.

Official Links:

• CSC portal

• Commonwealth page on Study UK (British Council)

3. Clarendon Fund Scholarships 2026 (University of Oxford)

Type: Fully funded – Master’s and PhD
Oxford’s competitive Clarendon Fund offers over 200 fully funded scholarships yearly.

Funding Includes:

• Full tuition and college fees
• Annual living stipend to cover Oxford living costs

English Requirement:
Oxford requires proof of English via IELTS, TOEFL, or approved alternatives. In rare cases, alternative evidence may be accepted depending on the department or college. Always check the specific program’s English requirements.

Official Website: Clarendon Fund

4. Reach Oxford Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Type: Fully funded – Bachelor’s degree
For students from low-income countries unable to study in their home country.

Funding Includes:

• Full tuition fees
• Annual living stipend
• One round-trip airfare per academic year

English Requirement:
Oxford accepts multiple English tests, not just IELTS. In specific exceptional cases, alternative evidence may be considered depending on the college.

Official Website: University of Oxford – Reach Oxford Scholarship

5. Rhodes Scholarship 2026 (University of Oxford)

Type: Fully funded – Master’s and PhD
One of the world’s most prestigious scholarships, awarded to exceptional academic and leadership-driven students worldwide.

Funding (according to the official site):

• Full Oxford tuition
• Annual living stipend (~£20,400 for academic year 2025–2026, around £1,700 per month)

English Requirement:
Rhodes scholars must meet Oxford’s English requirements. Alternatives may be accepted in specific cases depending on country and program, but Oxford makes the final decision.

Official Website: Rhodes Trust

6. Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 (University of Cambridge)

Type: Fully funded – Master’s and PhD

Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship offers around 75 full scholarships annually for outstanding students outside the UK.

Funding Includes:

• Full tuition at Cambridge
• Monthly living stipend
• Round-trip airfare
• Additional research or conference support (in some cases)

English Requirement:
Cambridge accepts various tests, and the university states that IELTS is not the only option. Some applicants may qualify for exemptions if their previous education was fully in English.

Official Website: Gates Cambridge

7. Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS)

(Not always in the UK but part of the Commonwealth scholarship ecosystem)

Type: Fully funded – Two-year Master’s in a low- or middle-income Commonwealth country

Funding Includes:

• Full tuition
• Monthly stipend
• Round-trip airfare
• Research allowances

Official Website: ACU – QECS

UK Universities That Commonly Accept MOI or Alternatives to IELTS

Many UK universities now show more flexibility in accepting Medium of Instruction (MOI) or other alternatives, especially when previous education was fully in English. Examples include:

1. University of Plymouth
2. University of Portsmouth
3. University of Greenwich
4. Swansea University
5. University of Bolton
6. University of Northampton
7. Northumbria University
8. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
9. Aston University
10. Birmingham City University
11. London South Bank University

How to Benefit From These Scholarships If You Don’t Have IELTS

1. Obtain a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter

Request an official MOI letter from your previous university stating that all instruction and exams were conducted in English.

2. Prepare a Strong CV and Motivation Letter

Prestigious scholarships such as Chevening, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge prioritize leadership, impact, and achievements—not grades alone.

3. Choose a Clear and Purposeful Program

Most scholarship applications ask:
Why this field? How will it benefit your home country or community?

4. Check Deadlines Early

• Chevening: Typically August–November

• Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, Clarendon, Commonwealth: Vary by region and university

5. Do Not Wait Until the Last Moment

You need time for:
Translation, MOI, recommendations, passport renewal, experience certificates, and writing strong essays.

You can also explore the Fully Funded Germany Scholarships

Summary: How to Use This Guide Effectively

1. Choose 2–3 scholarships that match your academic level (example: Chevening + Commonwealth + Gates Cambridge).
2. Select 5–7 UK universities that may accept MOI or alternatives to IELTS, and carefully review their English-language requirements.
3. Begin preparing MOI, translated documents, CV, and recommendation letters immediately.
4. Always use the official links provided here as your final source of truth for fees, conditions, and requirements.
5. Avoid unrealistic claims such as “guaranteed acceptance”—no one can guarantee admission. You can only increase your chances with a strong, early, and well-prepared application.

For regular updates on scholarships and academic opportunities, follow our official platforms: