Many students want to study in South Korea but worry about the IELTS test. The good news is you can study in Korea without IELTS if you meet certain rules. Many top universities and scholarships accept English school certificates or other tests instead.
This guide lists the main universities and scholarships that accept IELTS waivers in 2026. It explains what you can use instead.
Can You Study in Korea Without IELTS?
Yes, you can.
Most Korean universities accept other English proofs if your previous education was in English.
This is called a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate.
You can get this letter from your university or college confirming that all your classes were taught in English.
It works as a strong replacement for IELTS or TOEFL.
Documents That Can Replace IELTS
If you do not have IELTS you can still apply by sending one of these:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
→ A letter from your last university saying English was the study language. - English Proficiency Certificate given by your department or school office.
- Proof you studied in an English speaking country like the UK, USA, Canada or Nigeria.
- Interview in English conducted by the university.
- Other English tests like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or Cambridge (some accept these).
Always attach your MOI on official letterhead with a university stamp or signature.
Top Korean Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS (2026)
Here are some of the well-known universities that allow admission without IELTS if you provide an MOI or other English proof:
| University Name | IELTS Requirement | Accepted Alternatives |
| KAIST | Optional | MOI Certificate or English Interview |
| POSTECH | Optional | MOI Certificate + Interview |
| UST | Waiver for MOI Holders | English Proficiency Certificate |
| Hanyang University | Optional | MOI or Duolingo |
| Korea University | Optional | MOI or Internal Test |
| Yonsei University | Optional | MOI or Online English Interview |
| Ewha Womans University | Optional | MOI Certificate |
| Seoul National University (SNU) | May waive | MOI + Departmental Approval |
These universities prefer English-taught applicants, so your MOI is usually enough.
Scholarships That Accept Students Without IELTS (2026)
1️⃣ Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
No IELTS needed.
You can apply with:
- MOI Certificate, or
- English test result (optional)
If you pass the embassy or university interview in English, that’s enough proof. Apply now for GKS Scholarship 2026.
2️⃣ KOICA Scholarship
For government officials and professionals.
IELTS is not required if your degree was taught in English.
Just attach an MOI or letter from your ministry or employer confirming English use.
Apply Now For KOICA Scholarship 2026 | Study Free in South Korea.
3️⃣ KAIST International Scholarship
KAIST doesn’t require IELTS if you studied in English.
They may do a short English interview online before selection.
Apply Now For KAIST Scholarship 2026.
4️⃣ UST Scholarship
Accepts MOI Certificates.
Students with research experience or English-taught degrees don’t need IELTS.
Apply for UST Scholarship 2026.
5️⃣ AKS Fellowship
IELTS not mandatory.
You must prove English ability through your proposal, past studies, or interview.
Apply AKS Fellowship 2026 | Research in Korean Studies (Fully Funded).
How to Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
Ask your university’s Head of Department, Registrar, or Exam Office for this document.
It should include:
- Your full name and registration number
- Degree title and duration
- A sentence like: “This is to certify that the medium of instruction during the entire course was English.”
- Date, signature, and university stamp
Keep both digital and printed copies. Most Korean universities accept scanned MOIs.
Common Mistakes Students Make
❌ Submitting MOI without a signature or stamp
❌ Using personal or handwritten letters
❌ Sending outdated English test scores
❌ Ignoring the official admission page of the university
Always double-check your university’s official requirement before sending the documents.
Real Tips from Students
✔ Mention your English-medium education clearly in your personal statement.
✔ Attach your MOI as a PDF with your transcripts.
✔ If possible, add your high-school English grades as extra proof.
✔ If they ask for an interview, speak clearly and confidently — that’s your “live IELTS.”
✔ Save embassy and university email confirmations for reference.
Quick Summary Table
| Scholarship / University | IELTS Needed? | Alternative |
| GKS Scholarship | ❌ No | MOI or Interview |
| KOICA Scholarship | ❌ No | MOI or Ministry Letter |
| KAIST Scholarship | ❌ No | MOI or English Interview |
| UST Scholarship | ❌ No | MOI or English Proof |
| AKS Fellowship | ❌ No | MOI or Proposal |
| Hanyang University | ❌ No | MOI or Duolingo |
| Yonsei University | ❌ No | MOI |
| POSTECH | ❌ No | MOI |
Final Words
You don’t need IELTS to study in Korea. What matters most is your communication skill and proof of English education. If your past degree was in English, you already qualify for many programs.
Attach your MOI, stay confident, and apply early. Scholarships like GKS, KOICA, KAIST, and UST open doors for students from every country — even without IELTS.