Study in Portugal Without IELTS 2025-2026 | Scholarships

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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