What is IELTS and Why is it Important for Scholarships?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams in the world. For Pakistani students seeking to study abroad, IELTS often plays a crucial role in both admission and scholarship selection.

Understanding IELTS Format and Band Scores

IELTS tests your English proficiency across four skills:

• Listening

• Reading

• Writing

• Speaking

The total score ranges from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user). Most scholarships require a minimum band score, usually between 6.0 and 7.5, depending on the country and level of study.

Role of IELTS in International Scholarship Applications

For international institutions, especially in English-speaking countries, IELTS proves that you can:

• Understand academic lectures

• Write research papers

• Engage in classroom discussions

• Thrive in an English-only environment

That’s why many top scholarships list IELTS scores as a mandatory requirement.

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Do All Scholarships Require IELTS for Pakistani Students?

Not necessarily. While most international scholarships require English proof, not all of them insist on IELTS specifically.

IELTS-Exempt Scholarships

Some scholarships accept:

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates

• TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test (DET)

• In rare cases, no English test if your university education was fully in English

Examples:

• Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

• Turkey Burslari

• Russian Government Scholarships (some programs)

Scholarships Where IELTS is Mandatory

Scholarships in Canada, UK, Australia, and some EU countries often make IELTS non-negotiable—especially if you’re applying for fully funded programs.

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Minimum IELTS Score Required for Top Scholarships

Let’s break down the average IELTS band requirements by region:

Scholarships in the UK

• Chevening Scholarship: Minimum IELTS 6.5, with no less than 5.5 in any module

• Commonwealth Scholarships: Usually require IELTS 6.5–7.0

• Some UK universities might waive IELTS if your Bachelor’s was taught in English

Scholarships in Canada

• Most require IELTS 6.5 overall, especially for Master’s and PhDs

• Some competitive scholarships like Vanier CGS and Lester B. Pearson expect higher English standards

Scholarships in Australia

• Australia Awards: IELTS 6.5 or higher

• University-specific awards often require IELTS 7.0 for postgraduate programs

Scholarships in Europe

• DAAD (Germany): IELTS 6.5–7.0

• Swedish Institute Scholarships: IELTS 6.5 minimum

• Netherlands and Hungary programs usually require IELTS or equivalent proof

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IELTS Requirement vs English Proficiency Alternatives

Can You Apply with TOEFL or Duolingo?

Yes, many scholarships and universities accept:

• TOEFL iBT (Score of 80–100+)

• Duolingo English Test (Score of 105–120)

• PTE Academic (Score of 58–65+)

However, always check the scholarship’s official website to confirm.

Medium of Instruction Letters – Are They Accepted?

Some universities will accept a letter confirming that your previous degree was taught in English. But for scholarships, especially those from governments, MOI is rarely enough on its own.

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Top Scholarships That Require IELTS (and Their Score Criteria)

Chevening Scholarship (UK)

• IELTS 6.5+ overall

• One of the most prestigious scholarships

• Requires unconditional admission to a UK university

DAAD (Germany)

• IELTS 6.5+

• English-taught master’s and PhD programs

• Required even for German-taught courses if applying from Pakistan

Fulbright Program (USA)

• Accepts TOEFL, not IELTS

• Note: IELTS is not applicable for U.S. scholarships like Fulbright

Australia Awards

• Minimum IELTS 6.5

• No band lower than 6.0

• Test results must be recent (within 2 years)

Commonwealth Scholarships

• IELTS 6.5 or equivalent

• Also accepts TOEFL or PTE in some cases

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Tips to Score High in IELTS for Scholarship Eligibility

Preparing for Academic vs General IELTS

Always choose the Academic IELTS if you're applying for:

• Scholarships

• University admissions

• Postgraduate programs

Best Online Resources and Mock Test Platforms

Here are free and paid resources that help you prepare efficiently:

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IELTS Waiver Conditions for Pakistani Students

Cases Where IELTS May Be Waived

Some universities waive IELTS if:

• You studied for at least 2–3 years in an English-speaking institution

• You provide a Medium of Instruction letter

• You have TOEFL/Duolingo scores instead

Universities Accepting Alternatives to IELTS

• University of Alberta (Canada) – may accept Duolingo

• Some UK universities accept MOI on a case-by-case basis

• Australian regional universities sometimes waive IELTS for certain applicants

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Cost of IELTS in Pakistan and Available Test Centers

Test Fee and Frequency

• IELTS cost in Pakistan (2025): PKR 65,000–75,000

• Offered 3–4 times a month in most cities

Where to Take IELTS in Pakistan

Available in major cities:

• Islamabad

• Lahore

• Karachi

• Peshawar

• Quetta

Authorized centers: British Council and AEO Pakistan

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When and How to Book IELTS for Scholarship Applications

Best Time to Take IELTS for 2025 Intakes

You should take IELTS at least 6–8 months before scholarship deadlines. For Fall 2025 intake:

• Take IELTS by October 2024 – January 2025

• Most scholarships close by March–May 2025

How to Send IELTS Scores to Universities

• Choose up to 5 institutions to send your scores for free

• Additional score reports cost extra

• Use the TRF (Test Report Form) or have British Council/AEO send it electronically

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FAQs – IELTS Requirement for Scholarships for Pakistanis

1. Is IELTS mandatory for all scholarships abroad?
Not all, but most major scholarships in the UK, Canada, and Australia require it.

2. What’s the minimum IELTS score for scholarships?
Usually between 6.0 and 7.5, depending on the scholarship.

3. Can I use Duolingo instead of IELTS?
Yes, if the university and scholarship body accept it. Always confirm from official websites.

4. How long is the IELTS score valid?
IELTS scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

5. Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?
Yes, through programs that accept alternatives or waive language requirements.

6. Does Fulbright require IELTS?
No, Fulbright requires TOEFL, not IELTS.

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Conclusion: Start Preparing Today for Global Opportunities

The IELTS requirement for scholarships for Pakistanis is a gateway, not a barrier. With the right preparation, planning, and dedication, Pakistani students can easily meet the IELTS criteria and unlock fully funded opportunities around the world.

Start your IELTS prep early, understand what each scholarship demands, and aim for a score that not only meets but exceeds the minimum. Your dream of studying abroad on a scholarship starts with a high band score.