Studying in Australia has always been a dream for students across the globe. But one of the biggest challenges international students face is the IELTS requirement. In 2025 many universities and institutions in Australia are now offering scholarships without needing IELTS. This is great news for students who have strong academic records but struggle with language test scores.
In this article we’ll explore the top scholarships in Australia for 2025 that do not ask for IELTS. You’ll also learn about their eligibility criteria benefits deadlines and how to apply.
Why Study in Australia Without IELTS?
Australia is one of the most popular countries for international education. It has world-ranked universities a strong research environment and a multicultural society. Removing the IELTS barrier means more opportunities for students from non-English-speaking countries.
Instead of IELTS many universities now accept:
- English Proficiency Letters from previous institutions
- TOEFL PTE Duolingo or other tests
- In some cases online interviews or internal English tests
University of Queensland Scholarships 2025
The University of Queensland (UQ) offers several scholarships in 2025 without IELTS. Students can submit proof of past education in English.
Popular scholarships at UQ:
- UQ International High Achievers Scholarship
- Science International Scholarship
- Destination Australia Scholarships
Benefits include partial or full tuition fee coverage. You also get access to campus resources research labs and career support
University of Adelaide Global Citizens Scholarship
The University of Adelaide is welcoming international students without IELTS. If your last degree was taught in English or you have other test scores like TOEFL or Duolingo you can apply.
The Global Citizens Scholarship covers:
- Up to 30% tuition fee reduction
- Entry into undergraduate and postgraduate courses
- Multiple intakes in 2025
University of South Australia (UniSA) Scholarships
UniSA is a modern university with strong global rankings. They allow English proficiency letters from previous schools instead of IELTS.
Some top scholarships here include:
- Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship
- Research Training Program (RTP) for PhD students
- UniSA International Merit Scholarship
PhD students can get full tuition living stipend and research allowances
Macquarie University Scholarships 2025
Macquarie University in Sydney is offering scholarships that do not need IELTS if you have:
- English-medium education background
- Other accepted English tests
- A good academic score
Macquarie Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is the most famous. It provides:
- Up to AUD 10000 as tuition support
- Both bachelor’s and master’s degree support
- Flexible start dates throughout the year
University of New South Wales (UNSW) Scholarships
UNSW is known for innovation and top-tier research. They accept alternatives to IELTS such as:
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English (Advanced)
- Proof of past education in English
Their International Scholarships in 2025 include:
- UNSW Global Academic Award
- UNSW International Scientia Coursework Scholarship
Benefits range from full tuition fee coverage to partial grants. These awards are highly competitive so early application is key.
University of Western Australia (UWA) Grants
UWA is now more open to international students by accepting non-IELTS options. If your school certifies that English was the medium of instruction you are eligible.
Scholarships offered:
- Global Excellence Scholarship
- UWA Fogarty Foundation Scholarship
Students can save up to AUD 45000 over their degree. These scholarships are available for undergraduate postgraduate and research programs.
Australian National University (ANU) Scholarships
ANU is among the top-ranked universities in the world. The university allows several alternatives to IELTS like:
- PTE
- TOEFL
- Letter from previous university
In 2025 ANU offers:
- ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- ANU Research Scholarships for PhD candidates
Research-based students can expect full tuition monthly stipends and other research benefits.
Deakin University Scholarships Without IELTS
Deakin has campuses in Victoria and is friendly to international students. If you studied in English before you don’t need IELTS.
Scholarships for 2025:
- Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Deakin International Scholarship
You can get up to 50% fee reduction access to campus clubs career services and internship opportunities
How to Prove English Proficiency Without IELTS
Most universities accept:
- A Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your last institution
- Transcript or degree showing English as the language of education
- Other test scores like TOEFL PTE or Duolingo
- In some cases interviews or foundation programs
Always check the university website for their latest English language policy.
Tips to Apply for These Scholarships
- Start early Most deadlines fall between March and September 2025
- Prepare academic documents Transcripts recommendation letters personal statement
- Include MOI certificate if skipping IELTS
- Write a strong motivation letter
- Double-check deadlines on the university websites
Common Fields Covered by These Scholarships
You can apply to a wide range of subjects including:
- Engineering and IT
- Business and Economics
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Education and Social Work
- Environmental Studies
- Law and International Relations
Both coursework and research degrees are available.
Additional Funding Sources in Australia
Apart from university scholarships you can also check:
- Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
- Endeavour Scholarships
- Research Council Grants
- Private institution scholarships
- Government Aid from your home country
Some of these may still require language proof but many accept alternative methods
