Looking to study in Portugal without IELTS in 2025-2026? You’re in luck! Portugal is rapidly gaining popularity among international students for its affordable education, diverse academic offerings, and flexible English language requirements.
Many Portuguese universities now allow students to apply without IELTS, offering alternatives like Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates, Duolingo English Test, and university-specific interviews to assess English proficiency.
Why Choose Portugal Without IELTS?
Portugal’s world-class universities, rich culture, and affordable living costs make it a top destination. For 2025–26, many institutions are making admission more accessible by accepting IELTS alternatives so that students can apply stress-free.
- Affordable tuition & living costs
- Diverse programs in English
- Beautiful weather & scenic landscapes
- Scholarships & funding options available
- Growing international student community
Universities in Portugal Without IELTS 2025-26
Many top universities in Portugal accept alternative English qualifications:
- University of Porto
- University of Lisbon
- University of Coimbra
- NOVA University Lisbon
- University of Aveiro
- University of Minho
- Catholic University of Portugal
Accepted Alternatives to IELTS:
Portuguese universities offer several ways to prove your English proficiency:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate – Proof you studied in English
- Duolingo English Test – Fast, online, and accepted by many institutions
- TOEFL / PTE / Cambridge (C1/C2) – Common alternatives
- University Interviews / Internal Exams – Language assessment at the institution
- Previous Education in English – Waiver for students from English-speaking countries or schools
Scholarships to Study in Portugal 2025-26:
1. Portuguese Government Scholarships
- Type: Fully Funded or Partially Funded
- Host: Ministry of Education / DGAE
- Coverage: Tuition fee support, living allowance (varies)
- Levels: Undergraduate & Graduate
- More Info
2. Erasmus+ Program
- Type: Fully Funded
- Host: EU / Partner Universities
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs
- Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
- Visit Erasmus+
3. University of Porto Scholarships
- Type: Merit-Based & Need-Based
- Coverage: Tuition fee reductions, monthly stipends
- More Info Here
4. Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Scholarships
- Type: Fully/Partially Funded
- For: Students from Armenian or Portuguese-speaking backgrounds
- Official Website
5. NOVA University Lisbon Scholarships
- Type: Merit-Based
- Coverage: Partial tuition waivers
- More Info
6. University of Coimbra Scholarships
- Type: Partially Funded
- Coverage: Discounts for international students
- Check Here
How to Study in Portugal Without IELTS?
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Shortlist IELTS-Free Universities: Research universities in Portugal that accept MOI or alternative tests.
- Get MOI Certificate from Previous Institution: Obtain proof that your past education was in English.
- Use Alternatives Like Duolingo / TOEFL / PTE: Take these tests if required by the university.
- Apply for Pre-sessional English Courses: Some universities offer language preparation courses before the main program.
- Request IELTS Exemption: Contact the university to ask if you qualify for a waiver based on your background.
- Check with Admissions Office: Confirm accepted tests and exemption policies directly with the institution.
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