No GRE, No TOEFL: Scholarships in the US and UK You Didn’t Know Existed

For many international students, the requirement of GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores can be a significant barrier when applying for scholarships and higher education programs in the US and UK. Fortunately, there are a growing number of scholarships and universities that do not require these tests for admission, especially for students who meet certain academic and professional criteria.

In this article, we will explore scholarships in the US and UK that don’t require the GRE or TOEFL, providing international students with an opportunity to pursue higher education without worrying about these additional test requirements.

Why Some Scholarships Don’t Require GRE or TOEFL

Before diving into the details of the available scholarships, it’s essential to understand why some programs choose not to require the GRE or TOEFL. There are several reasons why institutions and scholarship programs may waive these requirements:

1. Focus on Holistic Admissions: Many universities and scholarship programs have moved toward a more holistic approach to admissions. This means they evaluate candidates based on multiple factors, including academic performance, work experience, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and personal statements.
2. Alternative Proof of English Proficiency: Some universities recognize other forms of English proficiency beyond the TOEFL, such as proof of prior education in English, interviews, or other language assessments.
3. Eliminating Barriers for International Students: For students from countries where the GRE or TOEFL exams are not commonly available, waiving these tests can make international education more accessible. It ensures that talented students are not excluded due to the lack of resources to take these exams.
4. Stress on Practical Experience: Certain programs, especially those in the arts, business, and some STEM fields, prioritize practical experience over standardized test scores, as real-world experience can often be a better predictor of success than exam performance.

Top Scholarships in the US Without GRE or TOEFL Requirements

1. The Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most well-known and prestigious scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing graduate degrees in the US. The program provides full funding for master’s and PhD studies and is open to students from over 160 countries.

• No GRE Required: While the TOEFL may still be required for non-native English speakers, the GRE is not mandatory for all fields of study. Many social sciences, arts, and humanities programs under the Fulbright scheme do not require GRE scores.
• Eligibility: Applicants must have a strong academic record and relevant work experience, with a focus on community service and leadership potential.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance.

The Fulbright Program emphasizes leadership potential and academic excellence, making it a great option for students looking to study in the US without the pressure of standardized tests.

2. The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

The Emerging Global Leader Scholarship at American University in Washington, D.C. is designed for high-achieving international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: The program does not require the GRE for admission or scholarship eligibility. For English proficiency, the university may accept alternative evidence, such as prior education in English, or a personal interview.
• Eligibility: Students from developing countries with leadership experience and a commitment to community development.
• Coverage: Full tuition, fees, and living expenses.

This scholarship is perfect for students who aspire to be future leaders in their communities and who are seeking opportunities for advanced education in the US without the need for standardized test scores.

3. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program offers full scholarships for graduate studies in development-related fields at universities in the US and other countries. It is aimed at students from World Bank member countries, particularly those from low and middle-income countries.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: While some universities may still ask for proof of English proficiency, the GRE is not required for this scholarship program. Students may be able to waive the TOEFL requirement if they have previously completed their undergraduate studies in English.
• Eligibility: Applicants must have a relevant academic background in fields such as economics, public policy, education, or health, and demonstrate a commitment to development in their home countries.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowances.

The World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program focuses on developing future leaders in international development and offers a flexible admissions process that doesn’t rely on GRE scores.

4. The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program offers a year of graduate-level study and professional development in the United States for experienced professionals from countries with developing or emerging economies.

• No GRE Required: This fellowship does not require GRE scores. Applicants are judged based on their professional achievements and leadership potential.
• Eligibility: Applicants must have a minimum of five years of professional experience and demonstrate the ability to contribute to social change and development in their home countries.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowances.

The Humphrey Fellowship Program provides opportunities for professionals in fields such as public health, law, and urban planning to study in the US and gain valuable skills without the need for GRE or TOEFL scores.

5. The PEO International Peace Scholarship Fund

The PEO International Peace Scholarship is available for international women who wish to pursue graduate studies in the US and Canada. The scholarship offers financial assistance to students who have been accepted into an accredited university.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: The program does not require GRE scores, and the TOEFL requirement may be waived based on the applicant’s background and previous education in English.
• Eligibility: Female students from outside the US and Canada who are pursuing graduate studies in any field.
• Coverage: The scholarship provides partial funding for tuition and living expenses.

The PEO International Peace Scholarship is a great option for women from developing countries who wish to pursue graduate education in the US without the burden of standardized testing.

Top Scholarships in the UK Without GRE or TOEFL Requirements

1. The Chevening Scholarship

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship program, offering full funding for one-year master’s degrees at UK universities. The scholarship is aimed at students with leadership potential who aspire to contribute to their home countries’ development.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: Chevening does not require GRE scores, and the TOEFL requirement may be waived if you have prior academic qualifications in English.
• Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate strong leadership skills, academic excellence, and a clear vision for their future careers.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs, and additional allowances.

The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious programs for international students, and it does not rely on standardized tests like the GRE or TOEFL for admission.

2. The University of Oxford’s Rhodes Scholarship

The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most distinguished scholarships for international students. It offers full funding for graduate studies at the University of Oxford in the UK.

• No GRE Required: The Rhodes Scholarship does not require GRE scores. While the university may ask for proof of English proficiency, applicants can often meet this requirement through other means, such as prior education in English.
• Eligibility: The scholarship is open to students from a variety of countries, including those from developing nations, who are pursuing graduate studies at Oxford in a wide range of subjects.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel allowances, and other benefits.

The Rhodes Scholarship is designed to nurture young leaders who can make significant contributions to global and social change. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a world-class education in the UK without standardized testing hurdles.

3. The Commonwealth Scholarships

The Commonwealth Scholarships are available to students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue master’s and PhD degrees in the UK.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: These scholarships do not require the GRE, and the TOEFL requirement can be waived for students who have completed prior academic qualifications in English.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country and have a strong academic record.
• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances.

The Commonwealth Scholarships are a great option for students from developing countries seeking to study in the UK in a variety of STEM and humanities fields without the requirement of standardized testing.

4. The University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships

The Think Big Scholarships at the University of Bristol offer funding for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. These scholarships are available to students from any country, including those from developing nations.

• No GRE or TOEFL Requirement: The program does not require GRE scores, and the TOEFL requirement may be waived for applicants who have previous studies in English.
• Eligibility: Students must meet the academic criteria for the course they wish to study and have a demonstrated financial need.
• Coverage: Partial or full tuition fee waivers.

The Think Big Scholarships are ideal for students from developing countries who want to study at the University of Bristol without the pressure of standardized exams.

Conclusion

For international students, pursuing higher education in the US or UK can be an exciting and life-changing opportunity. However, the GRE and TOEFL requirements often present barriers to students from developing countries. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available in both countries that do not require these tests.

Programs like the Fulbright Program, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships provide generous funding and support for students from developing nations to study in the US and UK without the need for standardized tests. Whether you are interested in graduate studies, leadership development, or global networking, these scholarships open the door to world-class education opportunities.

If you are an aspiring student from a developing country, take advantage of these scholarships and make your dream of studying in the US or UK a reality.