10 New USA Universities Without IELTS for Spring 2026 Admissions

If you’re an international student dreaming of studying in the United States but feel uncertain about the IELTS exam—relax! Many top-tier U.S. universities have now made it easier by not requiring IELTS as a mandatory test for English proficiency. Instead, they accept a range of alternatives such as TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE Academic, and even English-medium education waivers (MOI).

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 trusted universities in the U.S. that you can confidently apply to for Spring 2026 intake—without the burden of IELTS.

You Can Apply for Admissions Without IELTS in following 10 American Universities for Spring 2026 Intake

For international students aiming to pursue higher education in the U.S. without the IELTS, several universities offer diverse and flexible language proficiency alternatives for Spring 2026 admissions. Here’s a curated list of institutions that prioritize accessibility and provide various pathways to demonstrate English language competency.

1# University of Colorado Boulder

Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the University of Colorado Boulder offers a world-class education with a refreshing approach to language requirements. Students can demonstrate their English proficiency through alternative tests, making the application process smoother and more accessible.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (iBT minimum 75) or Duolingo (minimum 120).
• Waiver Conditions: Applicants who’ve completed two (02) or more years of study in an English-medium institution, especially a U.S. institution, may be eligible for a waiver.
• Requirements: https://www.colorado.edu/graduateschool/admissions/where-begin/international-students/english-proficiency-requirements.

2# Drexel University

Located in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, Drexel University is known for its co-op programs and innovative learning. They extend their forward-thinking approach to admissions by offering a range of widely accepted language tests, along with supportive pathways for conditional admission.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (minimum 90), PTE (61), Duolingo (110–115), or Cambridge English scores.
• Support Programs: Offers conditional admission through programs like FCBP and summer pathways for those who don’t meet direct criteria.
• Requirements: https://www.online.drexel.edu/support/international-students.aspx

3# University of Dayton

The University of Dayton, a welcoming campus in Ohio, emphasizes accessibility and student success. Their flexible language requirements are designed to help international students seamlessly transition into their academic programs, even offering a dedicated program for those who need a little extra support.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (minimum 80), Duolingo (110), PTE (60), or iTEP (4.0).
• Support Programs: Provides an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) for applicants with scores just below the minimum requirements.
• Requirements: https://udayton.edu/apply/international/graduate/toefl.php

4# University of New Orleans (UNO)

Embrace southern charm and academic opportunity at the University of New Orleans. UNO understands the diverse backgrounds of international students, offering conditional admission and a variety of accepted language tests to ensure a straightforward application process.

• Accepted Alternatives: Duolingo (100–105), TOEFL (79), or PTE (58).
• Admission: Offers conditional admission for students who meet these alternative scores.
• Requirements: https://www.uno.edu/admissions/apply-international/requirements

5# University of Delaware

A prestigious institution with a rich history, the University of Delaware provides a dynamic academic environment. Their flexible language proficiency options, including an academic transitions program, underscore their commitment to welcoming a diverse international student body.

• Accepted Alternatives: Duolingo (minimum 110), TOEFL iBT (minimum 79), or Cambridge English scores.
• Pathway: Proficiency can also be proven through their Academic Transitions program.
• Requirements: https://www.udel.edu/apply/undergraduate-admissions/requirements/international-students/

6# Rice University

One of the nation’s leading private research universities, Rice University, located in Houston, maintains high academic standards while offering flexibility for international applicants. While selective, they provide clear alternatives to IELTS, recognizing various forms of English proficiency.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (minimum 90 for graduates, 100 for undergraduates) or Duolingo (115–130).
• Waiver Conditions: May waive the requirement completely for graduates of English-medium universities.
• Requirements: https://graduate.rice.edu/admissions/language-proficiency-requirements

7# University of Iowa

Discover a comprehensive educational experience at the University of Iowa, a vibrant public research university. They offer a broad spectrum of accepted language proficiency exams, ensuring that students have multiple avenues to demonstrate their English skills.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (minimum 80–81), Duolingo (105–110), or an on-campus English Proficiency Evaluation (EPE).
• Additional Consideration: SAT or ACT scores may be considered in some cases.
• Requirements: https://grad.admissions.uiowa.edu/english-proficiency-requirements

8# Northwood University

For students with a passion for business and a global mindset, Northwood University offers a practical and accessible education. This Michigan-based university streamlines the application process with straightforward language requirements and common waiver opportunities.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (61 for undergraduate, 80 for graduate), Duolingo (110), or PTE scores.
• Waiver Conditions: Waivers are often granted to students with previous English-medium instruction.
• Requirements: https://international.northwood.edu/admissions/english-proficiency-policy/

9# California State University System (e.g., Long Beach, Los Angeles)

The extensive California State University (CSU) system, home to many popular campuses like Long Beach and Los Angeles, opens its doors to international students without requiring IELTS. Their various accepted tests and pathway programs make pursuing higher education in California more attainable.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (80), Duolingo (120), or PTE (58).
• Pathway: Admission can also be gained through their Intensive English Program (IEP) pathway programs.
• Requirements: https://www.calstatela.edu/admissions/english-language-proficiency

10# University of Arkansas

Experience the spirit of the Ozarks at the University of Arkansas, a dynamic research institution offering a wide array of programs. They provide flexibility in demonstrating English proficiency, with options for conditional admission based on prior English-medium education.

• Accepted Alternatives: TOEFL (approximately 79–80), Duolingo (approximately 110), or PTE (approximately 60).
• Admission: English-medium education may also lead to conditional admission.
• Requirements: https://international-students.uark.edu/admissions/english-language-proficiency.php

Minimum Test Scores Accepted Instead of IELTS at Top 10 US Universities for Spring 2026 Intake

This table provides a clear and concise overview of the minimum English language test scores accepted by the top 10 U.S. universities that do not require the IELTS exam for Spring 2026 admission. Instead, these universities accept TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test (DET), and PTE Academic scores as valid alternatives. It also highlights any available waiver options, such as proof of English-medium instruction (MOI) or conditional admissions through intensive English language programs. This is especially helpful for international students looking for flexible and affordable ways to meet English proficiency requirements while applying to U.S. institutions.