Study in Asia Without IELTS is wonderful opportunity. Do you dream of studying abroad but feel limited by language test requirements like IELTS? Great news—many Asian universities now offer fully and partially funded scholarships without the need for IELTS. These scholarships aim to attract bright, global talent by valuing academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities over standardized language tests.
From Japan to South Korea, China to Singapore, and Thailand to Malaysia, students can now pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs through a variety of funding opportunities that do not require IELTS scores.
Also Read: Fully Funded Singapore Government Scholarship 2026
Why Study in Asia Without IELTS?
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Diverse Opportunities: Asia is home to many top-ranked universities and research institutions.
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No IELTS Needed: Universities accept alternative English proficiency proof (e.g., MOI – Medium of Instruction).
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Fully Funded Scholarships: Cover tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, and even airfare.
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Global Recognition: Degrees from Asian institutions are globally recognised and highly respected.
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Affordable Lifestyle: Countries like China, Malaysia, and Thailand offer a lower cost of living.
Also Read: Fully Funded SNU Global Scholarship 2025 in South Korea
Summary of Study in Asia Without IELTS
Feature | Details |
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Host Region | Asia (Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Malaysia, etc.) |
Eligibility | International Students |
Degree Levels | Bachelor, Master, PhD |
Funding | Fully Funded and Partially Funded |
IELTS Requirement | Not Mandatory |
Deadline | Varies by Program |
Also Read: Tobe Maki Scholarship 2025 in Japan
Top Scholarships in Asia Without IELTS 2025–26
1. ADB-JSP Scholarship – Thailand
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Institution: Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)
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Programs: Master’s
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Funding: Full tuition, accommodation, airfare, and monthly allowance
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Deadline: Varies by academic intake
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Duration: 1–2 years
2. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) – Malaysia
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Programs: Master’s, PhD
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Funding: Full tuition, monthly stipend
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Deadline: June 2025
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Duration: Up to 3 years
3. KAIST Undergraduate Scholarships – South Korea
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Programs: Bachelor’s
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Funding: Full tuition, monthly allowance, medical insurance
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Deadline: September 2025
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Duration: 4 years
4. SINGA PhD Awards – Singapore
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Programs: PhD in Science & Engineering
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Funding: Tuition, monthly stipend, airfare
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Deadline: December 2025
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Duration: 4 years
5. MEXT Scholarship – Japan
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Programs: Bachelor, Master, PhD
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Funding: Tuition, airfare, accommodation, monthly stipend
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Deadline: May 2025
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Duration: 4–5 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)
6. NPU President’s Scholarships – China
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Programs: Bachelor, Master, PhD
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Funding: Full tuition, living expenses, housing
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Deadline: June 2025
7. VISTEC Graduate Awards – Thailand
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Programs: Master’s, PhD in Science & Technology
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Funding: Full support, including stipend and accommodation
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Deadline: July 2025
8. SIPGA Research Internships – Singapore
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Programs: Pre-PhD Internship
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Funding: Monthly stipend, lab access
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Deadline: Rolling Applications
9. Schwarzman Scholars Program – China
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Institution: Tsinghua University
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Programs: Master’s in Global Affairs
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Funding: Full funding, including travel and personal expenses
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Deadline: September 2025
Also Read: (€10,000) Belgium Master Mind Scholarship 2025-2026
Application Process For Study in Asia Without IELTS: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose the Scholarship
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Explore country-specific programs (e.g., MEXT, SINGA, KAIST).
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Check if IELTS is waived or replaced by alternatives.
Step 2: Review Eligibility and Requirements
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Visit the official scholarship website.
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Confirm academic background and English proficiency alternatives (MOI, TOEFL, etc.).
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
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Academic transcripts
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Statement of purpose/motivation letter
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Letters of recommendation
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Passport copy
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Proof of English proficiency (if required)
Step 4: Complete Online Application
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Follow the official application instructions.
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Upload documents carefully.
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Review
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Double-check the deadline and submit early.
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Some programs may include interviews or further documentation.
Also Read: WTO Young Professional Program 2026 in Switzerland – Fully Funded
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q1: Can I apply for these scholarships without IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes, many scholarships accept alternatives like Medium of Instruction letters or internal English assessments.
Q2: Are these scholarships fully funded?
Yes, most of the scholarships listed here cover full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Q3: Who is eligible to apply?
International students with strong academic records, research interests, or leadership potential.
Q4: Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, you can apply to multiple scholarships, but follow the unique guidelines for each one.
Q5: What is the success rate for these scholarships?
Highly competitive, but worth applying with a strong academic profile and a clear personal statement.
Also Read: DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026 at University of Freiburg
Conclusion
Studying in Asia is now more accessible than ever, even without IELTS. These fully and partially funded scholarships open the door for students worldwide to pursue higher education in globally recognised institutions. Whether you’re interested in technology, science, business, or the arts, there’s a scholarship.
Start preparing your documents, research your target universities, and take the first step toward a bright academic future in Asia, without the stress of IELTS.