Undergraduate Scholarships in the USA 2026
No IELTS Required - Fully Funded Options Available
Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but the costs of tuition, travel, and living expenses can be overwhelming. The good news is that several top American institutions offer fully funded undergraduate scholarships without requiring IELTS for the 2026 intake.
Why Study in the USA?
- Some of the world's best universities
- High-quality learning environments
- Strong career pathways after graduation
- Generous undergraduate scholarships
- No-IELTS options through alternative English proof
Many U.S. universities accept English-medium instruction certificates, Duolingo English Test, or other alternatives instead of IELTS.
Top Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in USA (No IELTS Required)
1. Berea College Scholarship (Fully Funded, No IELTS Required)
Berea College is the only university in the United States that offers 100% funding for all admitted international undergraduate students in their first year.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Free housing in the first year
- Free meals
- Paid on-campus jobs to cover personal expenses
IELTS Requirement
Not required. Students can submit:
- English-medium instruction letter
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL alternatives
Berea is highly competitive, but one of the best pathways for international students without IELTS.
2. University of Dayton Merit Scholarships (No IELTS Required)
The University of Dayton offers generous merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students.
Benefits
- Up to $30,000 per year
- Renewable for four years
- No tuition fee for the application
IELTS Requirement
Not required if the applicant provides:
- Proof of English-medium schooling
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL alternatives
3. Clark University Global Scholars Program (No IELTS Needed With Alternatives)
Clark University offers a prestigious undergraduate scholarship for outstanding international students.
Benefits
- $15,000–$25,000 per year
- Additional need-based aid is available
- Renewable for 4 years
IELTS Requirement
Not mandatory. Clark accepts:
- English-medium instruction certificate
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL
4. University of New Orleans (Undergraduate Scholarships, No IELTS If Educated in English)
International students are eligible for academic scholarships for Bachelor's studies.
Benefits
- Significant tuition reduction
- Renewable annually
- Access to on-campus jobs
IELTS Requirement
IELTS is not required for students who can present an English-medium instruction certificate.
Other U.S. Universities Accepting Students Without IELTS
Many universities in the USA do not strictly require IELTS for undergraduate admissions. They often accept:
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English
- English-medium instruction letters
Additional institutions where undergraduate applicants can study without IELTS:
- California State University system
- University of Arkansas
- State University of New York (SUNY) campuses
- Drexel University
- University of Southern Maine
General Eligibility Requirements
- High school diploma
- Strong grades
- English proficiency proof (no IELTS required if you have alternatives)
- Personal statement
- Recommendation letters
- Valid passport
Some scholarships also require leadership activities or community involvement.
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Secondary school certificate
- English-medium instruction letter
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose
- Financial documents (if needed)
Official Sources
Final Thoughts
Pursuing undergraduate studies in the USA without IELTS is entirely possible through these scholarship programs and universities accepting alternative English proficiency proofs. With proper preparation and by meeting the eligibility criteria, international students can access world-class American education with substantial financial support for the 2026 academic year.