How to Study in France without IELTS?
In recent years, French institutions have increasingly shifted towards offering a wide range of English-taught courses for Indian students. Despite this, many students choose not to take the IELTS exam, as there are alternative ways to demonstrate their English language proficiency.
In this blog, we explore these alternative pathways, including French universities that offer an IELTS waiver.
Importance of IELTS Score for France
- In France, many institutes offer higher academic courses (bachelor’s and master’s) in the English language.Â
- Due to the global recognition of the IELTS exam, several French universities are now accepting IELTS scores for providing admissions and scholarships to international students.
- However, if international students are not willing to submit an IELTS score, then there are several other ways by which they can prove their proficiency in the English language.
- In short, studying English-taught courses in universities in France without IELTS is not impossible.
How to Study in France without IELTS?
As discussed above, there are several other ways to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s in France without IELTS.
Other English Language Proficiency Test
This is the more common approach among international students to pursue higher studies in universities in France without IELTS. Non-native English speakers can demonstrate their proficiency by attempting one of the following tests.
- TOEFL iBT
- PTEÂ
- Duolingo
- Cambridge English Test
Submitting Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
- If Indian applicants have completed their previous education (bachelor’s/master’s only) in academic settings where the English language was the only mode of instruction and examinations, then they are required to submit an MOI certificate.Â
- Most of the French Institutes, such as NEOMA Business School, ISC Paris, EBS Paris, Rennis Business School, Université Grenoble Alpes, etc., accept admissions on MOI certificate.
University Specific Examinations
- Some of the French institutes conduct internal assessments to evaluate the English language proficiency skills of Indian applicants before granting them admission.Â
- These institutes are École Polytechnique, Sciences Po, INSEAD, HEC Paris, etc.
Pathway or Preparatory Courses
- If candidates are applying for an English-taught program, then the university offers a pathway to demonstrate language proficiency (e.g., an interview or a preparatory course) to waive the IELTS requirement.
- Examples of such institutes include SKEMA Business School, Université Paris-Dauphine, KEDGE Business School, École de Management de Normandie, etc.
Recommendation From Previous Professor/Employer
In some cases, French universities may utilise a letter of recommendation from a professor or employer who can vouch for your English proficiency, which may be enough to waive the IELTS requirement.
Study in France without IELTS: Required Documents
French universities offering admission without IELTS require international students to submit one of the following documents to fulfill the IELTS waiver conditions.
- Proof of Other English Language Proficiency Test Score (TOEFL iBT/PTE/Duolingo, etc.)Â
- MOI CertificateÂ
- Letter of Recommendation
| English Language Proficiency Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80-100 |
| PTE | 45-60 |
| Cambridge English Test | Grade B |
| Duolingo | 100-110 |
List of Universities without IELTS in France
The following is a table highlighting the list of some of the French universities without IELTS.
- NEOMA Business School
- ISC Paris
- EBS Paris
- Rennis Business School
- Université Grenoble Alpes
- École Polytechnique
- Sciences Po
- INSEAD
- HEC Paris
- Université Paris-Dauphine
- KEDGE Business School
Applying for a French Study Visa without IELTS
It is entirely possible to apply for a French study visa without IELTS. If the French university to which you are applying has accepted your application, it indicates that you have met the English language requirements through alternative means.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
The IELTS requirement in French higher institutions varies depending on the university, study level, and courses. The English-taught courses in French universities require international applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language.Â
Apart from IELTS, they can do so by alternative means such as providing other English language proficiency test scores, submitting an MOI certificate, enrolling in preparatory courses, etc.
FAQs
Is it possible to study in France without IELTS?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to study in France without IELTS, provided that you have fulfilled the requirement of English language proficiency through alternative mediums, depending on the university.
Which French universities offer admissions without IELTS?
Some of the French universities, such as NEOMA Business School, ISC Paris, EBS Paris, Rennis Business School, INSEAD, HEC Paris, Université Paris-Dauphine, etc., offer IELTS waivers.
Is IELTS mandatory for a French study visa?
No, IELTS is not mandatory to obtain a French study visa, as there are several other alternative ways through which prospective students can prove their English language proficiency. These are also accepted by French institutions.
Which European countries are best for pursuing higher education without IELTS?
Countries such as France, Germany, the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands are considered the best European study-abroad destinations as they host the world’s popular universities, provide exceptional student satisfaction, and offer a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle for international students.
Are there scholarships available in France without IELTS?
Scholarships such as the Eiffel Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, and Emile Boutmy Scholarship are offered to international students without any requirement for the IELTS exam.
