Study In The US Without IELTS

Reading Time 5 minutes/Published 10-12-2021

Every student dreams of studying abroad, discovering different cultures, and learning from top universities. However, there are specific requirements to study in the USA that students should be aware of. So, you can understand the need for better IELTS preparation to get admissions to top universities in the USA. However, there are ways to study in the US without IELTS, and here we will discuss some of them.

Every student dreams of studying abroad, discovering different cultures, and learning from top universities. However, there are specific requirements to study in the USA that students should be aware of. 

For example, the University of Colorado offers admission at a minimum of a 5.5 band IELTS score. At the same time, the Florida Institute of Technology expects a band score of 6.0 from international students. 

So, you can understand the need for better IELTS preparation to get admissions to top universities in the USA. However, there are ways to study in the US without IELTS, and here we will discuss some of them.

 

What is IELTS?

The IELTS or International English Language Testing System is a test designed to assess your native English language proficiency. This test assesses your ability to listen, read, write and speak the English language within the range of grade 1-9. After achieving predefined scores, it helps you study in the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.

There is no passing or failing in the IELTS. IELTS is backed by international institutions like the British Council, Cambridge Assessment English, and IDP: IELTS Australia.

The question that arises often is whether one can study in the US without IELTS. Well, here are some practical ways.

 

How to Study in the USA Without IELTS?

IELTS is an international language proficiency test designed to allow students from all over the world to study in countries like the USA. However, it is an intensive exam that takes place over three hours and demands higher English proficiency. Therefore, for any student who wants to study in the USA, IELTS is important but not the only resort.

 

English Language Assessments

If you plan to study in the USA, IELTS is not the only option for the language proficiency test. For example, the GRE or Graduate Record Examination is an excellent alternative to IELTS if you want to study in the USA

GRE has two sets of tests: a standard and a subject test. Many graduate programs across the US require students to take generalized and standard GRE tests. Apart from GRE, you can also take other English language assessments like, 

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • CAE (Cambridge Assessment English)
  • C1 Advanced 

TOEFL, at its core, is similar to IELTS with fundamental English assessment tests. At the same time, CAE needs in-depth knowledge of the language and can be far more challenging. It is based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). 

Similarly, C1 Advanced is also an essential Cambridge English Qualification widely accepted across the world. However, the types of tests other than IELTS accepted also depend on the university you are applying to.

 

10 Colleges Offering Admission Without IELTS

  • California State University, Los Angeles – The university only requires proof of English as a primary language for higher secondary or graduation for admission instead of IELTS.
  • Auburn University The university allows admission to students that have taken the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test with Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing exam (ACT).
  • National Louis University – One of the earliest private universities in the USA, it allows you to study in the USA without IELTS. They only require proof of English as your primary language in senior secondary or bachelor’s degree.
  • University of Colorado Boulder – This university accepts the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to IELTS. You can also take direct admissions if you have already studied for two years in other English-speaking countries like the UK or Australia.
  • State University of New York – It is one of the best options if you want to study in the USA without IELTS because it offers two alternative options for English language assessments – Intensive English Language Programs (IELP) and English as a Second Language (ESL).
  • University of Delaware – Instead of IELTS, you can take their internal program Academic Transition (AT) for full-time admission after meeting specific requirements. 
  • Rice University – Located in Texas and Houston, Rice University has an admission committee that assesses your application and decides whether to admit a student for the academic year or not without the need for IELTS.
  • University of Dayton – It is another private university located in Ohio that provides admissions without IELTS by asking students to take up the IELP test.
  • Drexel University – You can take admission at the Drexel University without IELTS by either choosing a University Preparation Summer Program (UPREP) or an internal bridge program.
  • University of Arkansas – It provides conditional admission for students without IELTS by taking an IELP test or English proficiency classes for the first six months.

Conclusion 

You can study in the USA without IELTS. However, it depends on the program you apply to and the university requirements. Here, it becomes vital for you to understand that English will be at the core of every alternative to IELTS. Now that you know alternatives to IELTS, it’s time to start preparing for your admissions and study in the US

To get more information about studying abroad please visit The WorldGrad.