Let’s talk about how to study in the USA without IELTS. You aspire to study in the USA—the land that shapes dreams and shapes history.
You dream of relocating to any of the states in the United States, pitching your tent there as an international student, and pursuing your educational dreams.
But there’s just one problem—IELTS.
You’ve heard stories of candidates who failed the IELTS on several attempts, and you’re dreading even trying.
And that’s why you’re here, asking how to study in the USA without IELTS.
Not only would we answer that question in this article, but we’ll also discuss other closely related topics, such as:
- Cheapest universities in the USA for international students without IELTS
- Universities in the USA without IELTS and application fees
- Community colleges in the USA for international students without ielts
Ready? Let’s begin with the top secret—how to study in the USA without IELTS—2025 update!
Table of Contents
What is IELTS?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to study in the USA without IELTS, let’s briefly discuss more about IELTS.
IELTS is an acronym for International English Language Testing System. It’s used by English-speaking countries to determine a person’s English language proficiency, particularly those born and raised in countries where English is not their first language.
Also read: What Is a Good SAT Score for Ivy League?
When taking an IELTS for academic purposes, the essence is to prove to the school that you’re capable of learning and interacting in the English language.
IELTS is organized and managed by the British Council, IDP Education Limited, and Cambridge English, an assessment body under the University of Cambridge.
Writing the IELTS can be a tedious and expensive process, and that’s why students often ask how to study abroad without taking IELTS.
While most universities in the USA, UK, and other predominant English-speaking countries require IELTS as part of their admissions process, it’s not always mandatory. In the next section, we’ll explore how to study in the USA without IELTS.
How to Study in the USA without IELTS 2025
Can you really study in the USA without IELTS? How can you bypass the almighty English proficiency test while applying for admission in the United States?
Yes! It’s possible. Not all schools in the US require candidates to take IELTS. Some use alternative English proficiency testing systems like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, or even their own unique internal English tests.
So if you’re wondering how to study in the USA without IELTS, simply take the following steps:
- Conduct thorough research on your school of choice; find out if they accept alternative English proficiency tests, as you may be required to take at least one test.
- For candidates applying from Nigeria, ensure you have your original WASSCE certificate holding your English Language results, as you may be asked to submit this in lieu of taking an English proficiency test.
- Enroll in English summer programs in the USA. For example, some of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students without IELTS may mandate candidates to take the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) or other beginner courses.
- Get a reference letter from your previous learning institutions, verifying that all your courses were taken in the English language. You can attach this as a supporting document when submitting your application.
Also read: 15 Cheapest Schools in Canada for International Students
Note that if you’re applying from a country where English is the nation’s first language, you will not be required to take any English proficiency test at all.
Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students Without IELTS
Studying in the USA as an undergraduate or postgraduate can be quite expensive, particularly for international students.
Tuition for international students can be as high as $70,000 in the best schools in the U.S.
Are you planning to continue your academic journey in the U.S. and searching for the cheapest schools in the USA for international students without IELTS? Let’s get you connected with some affordable U.S. schools that don’t require IELTS.
| No. | Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students Without IELTS | Tuition Range Per Semester | Alternative Test System |
| California State University | $17,750.24 – $20,126.24 | Duolingo | |
| State University of New York | From $11,240 | IELP | |
| Rice University | From $31,437 | Duolingo | |
| San Diego State University | Learn more | TOEFL, Duolingo, etc. | |
| University of Arkansas | From $27,758 | PTE-A, iTEP, ACT, etc | |
| University of South Florida | From $17,324 | PTE-A, TOEFL, GRE Verbal & Duolingo | |
| University of Buffalo | From $33,800 | PTE-A, Duolingo, TOEFL | |
| University of New Orleans | From $14,290 | Duolingo, TOEFL | |
| University of Iowa | From $33,751 | Duolingo | |
| Northwood University | Learn more | EIKEN, ELS, PTE Academic, ACT, etc. |
Also read: How to Write a Supplemental Essay | Full Guide
Universities in the USA Without IELTS and Application Fee
Aside from waiving IELTS, some universities in the U.S. also waive application fees, particularly for nationals or residents of the U.S.
This waiver may be general or based on certain factors, such as financial challenges, physical challenges, academic excellence, etc.
There are over 2,000 universities and colleges in the USA without IELTS and application fees, and here are some:
- Case Western Reserve University
- Michigan Technological University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Colorado State University
- University of New Haven
- Denison University
- University of Missouri
- Harvard University
- Furman University
- University of Dayton
- Baylor University
- Tulane University
- Trinity University
Also read: 15 Cheapest Universities in The UK for International Students
Community Colleges in the USA for International Students Without IELTS
Community colleges are public institutions that offer associate degrees, diplomas, and certifications in academic and vocational fields.
They are affordable, with flexible admission requirements. Students often use community colleges as a stepping stone to universities, gaining a diploma or a certification before transferring to Universities for an undergraduate degree.
Some community colleges waive IELTS for international students, particularly if the student can demonstrate English proficiency in either of the following ways:
- Evidence that they have completed their previous education in one or more English-speaking schools
- Taking and excelling in the college’s English placement test
- A high TOEFL score or other equivalent English test score
- Enrolling in the school’s Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
Some community colleges in the USA for international students without IELTS include:
Also read: 10 Cheapest Universities in Finland for International Students
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to the USA Without IELTS For Work?
Yes, you can work in the USA without taking the IELTS, if it’s not included as part of the employment criteria. If it’s merely stated that an English proficiency test score is required, you can take other English proficiency tests like TOEFL or Duolingo tests.
Is it Possible to Study in the USA Without IELTS?
Yes, it’s very possible to study in the USA without IELTS. Some of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students without IELTS include the California State University, State University of New York, Rice University, San Diego State University, University of Arkansas, University of South Florida, University of Buffalo, etc.
Do I need IELTS for a USA Student Visa?
You may not need IELTS for a USA student visa, unless it is explicitly required in the visa application requirements.
Also read: How to Write SSP Essay | Full Guide
Conclusion: Study in the USA Without IELTS 2025
With this clear and detailed guide on how to study in the USA without IELTS 2025, you can confidently start your application journey without worrying about IELTS.
IELTS is an optional testing system. And while it’s one of the most popular, there are other testing systems like TOEFL, PTE-Academic, and even the Duolingo English test.
This article also covered the cheapest universities in the USA for international students without IELTS, helping you discover affordable universities in the U.S.
And if you’ve decided you’ll still take the IELTS, you can learn more about the IELTS exam dates, requirements and syllabus for 2025, as well as the IELTS exam fee in Nigeria.
Good luck! Stay connected to this log for more informative guides.
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References
- www.shiksha.com – Study in USA Without IELTS and TOEFL in 2025-26
- www.afterschoolafrica.com – How do I study at US universities without IELTS?
- www.securemyscholarship.com – List of Universities in USA Without Application Fee in 2026
- www.niche.com – 2025 Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America
