Every year, millions of students from around the world receive fully-funded scholarships to study at top universities in the United States. These universities have flexible admission requirements that allow them to offer waivers and other options to represent a student’s proof of English proficiency, such as MOIs.
Apart from the flexible entry requirements, the US is home to some of the world's best universities that offer quality education in every field of academic discipline. Students can apply their knowledge and skills in renowned industries located in the US through research, internships, and part-time or full-time employment.
In this article, we will introduce you to some of the top universities in the USA where you can apply to study without submitting IELTS scores.
General Admission Requirements to Study in the USA
Official transcripts from high school. Scores from standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Graduate applicants are often asked to submit a statement of purpose or personal statement. Recommendations from educators, professors (academic references), or supervisors.
A copy of your passport bio-data page, a resume containing applicable work experiences, skills, and published papers (if any) and the completed university application form.
How to Study in the USA without IELTS
Applicants from non-English speaking countries need to demonstrate their fluency in English, which is the official language of communication and writing in the United States. This is in addition to other admission requirements.
Students from these countries who don't have IELTS can choose the English Language for Internationals (ELI) program provided by US universities. These universities offer conditional admission to students who want to study their programs of choice and need training in speaking and writing in English, usually during their first year of study.
Note that applicants from English-speaking countries or those who have completed their first degree or diploma in an institution where the language of instruction is English do not need to submit IELTS scores. These students will be offered admission without any conditions.
List of Top Universities in USA to Apply without IELTS
1. University of Delaware
Ranked 89th among the nation's top universities by the U.S. News and World Report in 2023, the University of Delaware holds a prestigious status. International students hailing from non-English speaking nations need not concern themselves with the expense of taking the IELTS exam before applying for admission.
The university extends conditional admissions to individuals who lack IELTS scores or possess low scores. Such applicants are instead offered enrollment in the university's English Language Institute, where they receive comprehensive instruction in American English, covering speaking, reading, listening, and writing skills.
Graduate applicants, on the other hand, are encouraged to join the Graduate CAP program at the English Language Institute, granting access to 39 distinct disciplines. Adherence to admission terms is crucial before progressing to full-time study in their desired fields.
2. University of Wisconsin Stout
Ranked 69th in the U.S. News and World Report's 2022 listing, the University of Wisconsin Stout stands as one of the premier public universities in the Midwest. Renowned for its exceptional education quality in areas such as engineering, marketing, computer and information sciences, health professions, mathematics, and more, the university provides opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Aspiring scholars who wish to study at this esteemed institution without IELTS scores can do so by enrolling in the university's English as a Second Language Program (ESL). These students will be conditionally admitted and upon completing the ESL program and meeting stipulated criteria, they can seamlessly transition to pursuing their chosen courses full-time.
Additionally, the University of Wisconsin Stout accepts alternative English language proficiency scores instead of the IELTS exam:
A minimum score of 48 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) and a minimum of at least 95 points on the Duolingo English Test
3. Loyola University Chicago
Regarded as one of the premier and largest Catholic institutions in the United States, Loyola University Chicago holds the 103rd position among national universities in the United States, as per the US News and World Report 2022 rankings.
The university offers an array of prominent fields of study, including marketing, nursing, engineering, criminal justice, biological sciences, and more, wherein international students can apply without the need for an IELTS score.
Those lacking an IELTS score have the option to partake in the university's English Language Learning Program (ELLP) for one or more semesters, allowing them to pursue their desired course. Importantly, applying for the English Language Learning Program does not necessitate an IELTS score.
4. California State University Fresno
Recognized for its exceptional educational standards and affordability, California State University Fresno holds the 337th rank according to Times Higher Education rankings. Offering diverse disciplines, ranging from engineering and law to physics and astronomy, arts, performing arts, and design, the university extends conditional admission to both undergraduate and graduate students without the requirement of an IELTS score.
Those granted conditional admission will be enrolled in the American English Institute on the Fresno Campus for a year, enabling them to meet program requirements before proceeding with their intended coursework. Instead of an IELTS score, the university accepts other English language competency indicators such as a PTE test score of 53 or higher and a Duolingo English test score of at least 105.
5. Rice University
Renowned across the globe, Rice University stands as a prestigious institution renowned for pioneering research and advanced scientific disciplines, encompassing areas like space science, economics, nanotechnology, mechanical engineering, biochemistry, and more.
Its stature is reflected by its top ranking in material science by Times Higher Education in 2010 and its 27th position among the world's finest universities according to the QS World Ranking 2023.
Rice University extends the opportunity for both undergraduate and graduate students to receive conditional admission without the requirement of an IELTS score. Enrolling in the one-year English as a Second Language Program, students can fulfill the graduation criteria and subsequently continue with their chosen academic pursuits.
6. University of New Orleans
Distinguished as the hub of Cyber Defense Research by both the US National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, the University of New Orleans provides a nurturing academic environment coupled with a wealth of scholarships.
Garnering a place among the top 1,000 universities globally, as per the Center for World University Rankings, the institution offers a comprehensive array of disciplines, including liberal arts, education, hotel management, restaurant and tourism, engineering, and more.
For those lacking IELTS scores, the university offers an Intensive English Language program and the possibility of conditional admission. Students seamlessly transition into their desired fields of study after fulfilling the stipulated English language requirements.
Rice University similarly acknowledges Duolingo test scores of 115 or higher from students seeking full admission, effectively waiving the IELTS requirement.
7. University of Colorado Boulder
Recognized for its pioneering research in geology, quantum physics, aerospace engineering, and ceramics, the University of Colorado Boulder stands as a beacon of innovation. The institution secures the 99th spot among US national universities, as indicated by the US News and World Report's 2022 rankings.
For students embarking on conditional admission sans IELTS scores, a commitment to English classes at the University of Colorado International English Center for a year is required. Fulfillment of English requirements paves the way for dedicated pursuit of their chosen academic paths. A Duolingo score of 105 or higher is an acceptable substitute for the IELTS requirement.
8. University of Arkansas
Eminent for its groundbreaking research and fostering a student-friendly social atmosphere, the University of Arkansas boasts distinction. Noteworthy disciplines encompass biomedical science, veterinary science, engineering, journalism, and more.
The university captures the 162nd position among US national universities, as appraised by the US News and World Report's 2022 rankings. Generous conditional admission is extended to students bereft of IELTS scores.
To meet English language prerequisites, these students can enroll in the Intensive English Language Program, subsequently transitioning into full-time studies. Alternatively, students can choose to supplement their study programs with 1-6 credit hours of English and cultural studies courses.
Alternative English proficiency test scores, when IELTS scores are unavailable, encompass:
A minimum Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 58, a minimum score of 90 or above on the Duolingo English Test and a minimum internet-based TOEFL score of 79.
9. Drexel University
Drexel University is highly praised by many for delivering top-notch education and practical engagement in various specialized domains to its students.
The university extends a unique opportunity for students to engage in paid employment across diverse companies for 18 months. For those lacking an IELTS qualification, there exists a possibility of receiving a conditional acceptance to pursue their chosen program of study.
It is possible to meet the prerequisites for the English language by enrolling in the Intensive English program at the university and completing the requisite terms before transitioning into their preferred full-time course of study.
Alternative English proficiency test scores that are acceptable instead of IELTS encompass:
A minimum score of 50 or above on the Pearson Test of English and a minimum score of 110 or above on the Duolingo English test.
10. University of Dayton
The University of Dayton, a Catholic institution, is renowned for its research capabilities and the quality of education it imparts. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses, including engineering, law, finance, and accounting.
Students who do not possess IELTS scores have the option to partake in the University's Intensive English Program for seven weeks during each academic year. Full-time students benefit from a comprehensive 21-hour instructional schedule every week.
Additionally, recognized language tests comprise:
A minimum overall score of 4.5 in the International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP) and a minimum score of 105 or above on the Duolingo English Test.
International students who encounter challenges in achieving the desired IELTS scores can now embark on their studies in prestigious U.S. universities without apprehension. Any of the aforementioned alternatives present a viable and promising path to pursue.