Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for Africans – No IELTS Required

Studying in the USA is a dream for many African students seeking world-class education and career opportunities.

 

In 2025, numerous fully funded scholarships are available specifically for Africans that do not require IELTS scores, making it easier to pursue higher education without the hurdle of English proficiency tests.

Here’s a detailed guide on fully funded scholarships in the USA for Africans without IELTS requirements, including eligibility, benefits, and application tips.

Why Study in the USA Without IELTS?

Many top U.S. universities and scholarship programs waive IELTS requirements if applicants can prove English proficiency through alternative means, such as:

• Completion of prior education in English-medium institutions

• University-specific language assessments

• Other accepted English tests like TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE

This flexibility opens doors for talented African students who may not have taken IELTS but have strong academic records and English skills.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the USA for Africans Without IELTS in 2025

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Eligibility: Open to international students from over 160 countries, including African nations.

• Benefits: Covers full tuition, airfare, living stipend, health insurance, and accommodation.

• IELTS: Not mandatory if you provide proof of English-medium education.

• Level: Masters and PhD programs.

• Why apply: Prestigious and highly competitive scholarship that supports academic and cultural exchange.

2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

• Eligibility: Mid-career professionals from eligible countries.

• Benefits: Tuition, living expenses, and professional development funding.

• IELTS: Waived for candidates with prior English-medium education.

• Level: Non-degree fellowship for professional development.

• Why apply: Ideal for professionals seeking leadership training in the USA1.

3. University of Florida Scholarships

• Eligibility: International students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs.

• Benefits: Tuition, living expenses, and academic costs fully covered.

• IELTS: Waived if alternative English proficiency criteria are met.

• Why apply: Strong academic reputation with diverse research opportunities1.

4. University of Maryland Scholarships

• Eligibility: International students for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees.

• Benefits: Full tuition and living expense coverage.

• IELTS: Not required if other English proficiency proofs are provided.

• Why apply: Offers extensive funding and support for international students1.

5. Clark University Global Scholars Program

• Eligibility: First-year international undergraduates.

• Benefits: $15,000 to $25,000 per year for four years.

• IELTS: Not required if prior education was in English.

• Why apply: Merit-based with no separate application needed for scholarship consideration.

6. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

• Eligibility: International students with strong academic records.

• Benefits: Full tuition, room, and board.

• IELTS: Waived for students with English-medium education.

• Why apply: Designed to support future global leaders.

7. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

• Eligibility: International graduate students.

• Benefits: Full tuition, living stipend, and airfare.

• IELTS: Waived if English proficiency is demonstrated through other means.

• Why apply: Prestigious scholarship supporting graduate studies at Stanford.

8. University of Houston Scholarships

• Eligibility: International students for all degree levels.

• Benefits: Covers tuition and living expenses.

• IELTS: Waived under specific conditions.

• Why apply: Multiple funding programs available for diverse fields1.

General Eligibility Criteria for No-IELTS Scholarships

• Proof of English proficiency through previous education in English or alternative tests.

• Strong academic records and leadership potential.

• Relevant application documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

• Some scholarships target specific fields, countries, or career stages.

What Does “Fully Funded” Really Cover?

A fully funded scholarship means you won’t pay a cent for:

• Tuition fees (up to $60,000/year)

• Accommodation and meals

• Books and academic materials

• Health insurance

• Monthly stipend for personal expenses

• Round-trip airfare

• Visa and SEVIS fees

Can You Study Without IELTS in the USA?

Yes, and here’s how:

• English proficiency waiver if your previous education was in English.

• Submitting an alternative like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or PTE.

• Some universities accept a letter from your school certifying English proficiency.

• Certain programs waive the requirement entirely for African applicants.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for Africans – No IELTS Required

Let’s go deep into the top options you should consider:

MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (MCF)

Host Universities: University of California Berkeley, Arizona State University, Michigan State University, and others.

Degree Levels: Undergraduate & Graduate

Coverage:

• Full tuition

• Monthly stipend

• Accommodation

• Travel and visa support

• Leadership and career development training

No IELTS? You only need proof that your previous education was in English. Most MCF partner universities offer a waiver.

Pro Tip: Tailor your essays to highlight community impact and leadership potential.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Degree Level: Master’s and PhD

Eligibility: Open to all African countries

Coverage:

• Tuition and fees

• Books and materials

• Living expenses

• Return airfare

• Health insurance

No IELTS? Many U.S. embassies accept alternative tests or offer waivers for English-speaking countries.

Timeline: Apply through the U.S. embassy in your country between February and May.

AAUW International Fellowships (Women Only)

Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral

Target Group: African women committed to returning to their home country

Benefits:

• $20,000 – $50,000 per year

• Living expenses and child care allowance

• Research support and academic mentorship

No IELTS? Accepts Duolingo, TOEFL, and in many cases, academic transcripts in English.