IELTS is the most commonly accepted English test, but it's not always required. Many European universities accept alternatives — and some don't require a language test at all if your previous degree was taught in English.

Universities That Accept Alternatives to IELTS

Duolingo English Test (DET)

Growing in acceptance since COVID. Costs $65 (vs. $250+ for IELTS) and can be taken at home. Accepted at:

• Many German universities (TUM, LMU, Heidelberg)
• Several Dutch universities
• Some Finnish and Swedish universities

TOEFL

Accepted almost everywhere IELTS is. Some universities even prefer it. Score requirements are typically 80–90 (iBT).

Cambridge Certificates (CAE/CPE)

Widely accepted across Europe, especially in the UK, Netherlands, and Scandinavia. They never expire, unlike IELTS (2-year validity).

Countries Where No Test May Be Needed

If your Bachelor's was taught in English, many universities waive the language requirement:

• Germany — Many universities accept a letter from your previous university confirming English-medium instruction
• Netherlands — Common to waive for English-medium Bachelor's graduates
• Sweden — Accepts previous English-medium education as proof
• Finland — Similar policy at most universities

Programs in Local Languages (No English Test)

Another route: study in the local language. Programs taught in Czech, Polish, or German at public universities are often tuition-free, and language requirements focus on the local language instead.

How to Check

On Masterix, each programme page lists language requirements when the university publishes them. Use the programme search to filter by language of instruction and check individual requirements.