Australia is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students because of its top-quality education system, globally recognized degrees, post-study work opportunities, and multicultural environment. But one major concern for students from non-English-speaking countries, especially India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Nigeria, is the IELTS requirement.
The good news is that many Australian universities now allow students to study without IELTS — using alternative English proficiency proofs.
In this article, you’ll discover how to study in Australia without IELTS in 2025, the top universities that accept students without IELTS, alternative tests and documents you can use, and a step-by-step application guide.
📌 Is It Really Possible to Study in Australia Without IELTS?
Yes, it is possible. Many top universities and colleges in Australia accept international students without IELTS if they meet one of the following criteria:
- You studied in an English-medium school
- You submit TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo, or Cambridge English test scores
- You complete the university’s English Language Preparation Program (ELPP)
- You have work experience in an English-speaking environment
- You are from an English-speaking country (as per the university’s list)
Let’s now look at the universities that offer this flexibility.
🎓 Top Australian Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS (2025)
1. University of Queensland (UQ)
- Alternative Tests Accepted: TOEFL, PTE, CAE, or previous English-medium education
- Foundation English Pathway Available: Yes
- Top Courses: Engineering, Business, Medicine
- Website: uq.edu.au
UQ allows international students to study without IELTS if they’ve completed schooling in English or meet UQ’s alternative test requirements.
2. University of Adelaide
- Alternatives Accepted: TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo
- English Waiver: Possible with 3+ years of English-medium study
- English Language Centre: Yes (ELI pathway)
- Website: adelaide.edu.au
Students who fail to meet the minimum English score can enroll in the Academic English course before their degree begins.
3. University of Southern Queensland (USQ)
- IELTS Not Mandatory: If educated in English for past 5 years
- Accepts Other Tests: TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English
- Top Programs: Agriculture, Nursing, Data Science
- Website: usq.edu.au
USQ is known for flexibility in admissions and allows English-medium students to apply without IELTS.
4. Macquarie University
- Alternatives Accepted: Duolingo, PTE, TOEFL, MOI Certificate
- English Preparation Program: Available
- Top Courses: IT, Business, Psychology
- Website: mq.edu.au
Students from countries where English is the language of instruction may submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter to bypass IELTS.
5. Bond University
- Alternatives Accepted: TOEFL, Cambridge English Test, PTE
- Waiver: Granted to students with 3+ years of English-medium education
- Top Courses: Law, Business, Sports Science
- Website: bond.edu.au
Bond University provides strong support to international students and accepts a wide range of English proficiency alternatives.
✅ English Tests Accepted Other Than IELTS
| Test Name | Minimum Required Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 79 – 90+ |
| PTE Academic | 58 – 65+ |
| Duolingo | 105 – 115+ |
| Cambridge English | 176 – 185+ |
Each university has different requirements, so check their official websites before applying.
📝 How to Apply to Australian Universities Without IELTS (2025)
Step 1: Shortlist the University and Course
Choose a university that accepts alternatives to IELTS and offers your preferred program.
Step 2: Check Alternative English Proficiency Options
- Use Duolingo / TOEFL / PTE if IELTS is not available
- Or submit an MOI Certificate if you studied in English
- Or opt for the university’s English preparation course
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
- 10th & 12th-grade mark sheets (or graduation certificates for PG)
- Passport copy
- English test score OR Medium of Instruction certificate
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Resume (for PG or work-ex students)
Step 4: Apply Online
Apply directly through the university website or with help of an education consultant.
Step 5: Accept Offer Letter
If accepted, you’ll receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter.
Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
You must provide proof of:
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
- Financial funds for tuition + living
- English proficiency (Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE, or waiver docs)
🎓 Courses You Can Study in Australia Without IELTS
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, IT)
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Computer Science
- Bachelor of Arts / Journalism / Psychology
- Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality
- Bachelor of Law (LLB)
💰 Scholarships for International Students
Here are some scholarships to apply for in 2025:
- Australia Awards Scholarship – Full funding + stipend
- University of Sydney International Scholarship – Covers tuition & living
- Macquarie Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship – Up to AUD $10,000
- UQ Global Scholarships – Up to AUD $15,000
- Deakin International Merit Scholarship – 25–50% tuition discount
Apply early and check individual university portals for deadlines.
🧳 Post-Study Work Opportunities in Australia
After completing your degree, you can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa (PSW):
- 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates
- 3–4 years for regional university graduates
- Eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after working in skilled jobs
Courses in IT, healthcare, engineering, and education are in high demand in Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
💬 Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate – What Is It?
If you completed your studies in English, ask your school or college to issue an MOI Certificate stating that your education was conducted in English.
It should be:
- On official letterhead
- Signed and stamped by the principal or HOD
- Clearly mention subjects taught in English
Many Australian universities accept MOI as a substitute for IELTS.
✍️ Final Words
Studying in Australia without IELTS is absolutely possible in 2025. Many top universities accept alternative tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE, and some even offer admissions based on your Medium of Instruction certificate.
Choose the right university, prepare your documents early, and apply before deadlines. With the right guidance and strategy, you can begin your Australian education journey without the hassle of taking IELTS.