Can I use a medium of instruction (MOI) certificate from my university instead of an IELTS score?
Yes, many universities accept a Medium of Instruction certificate instead of IELTS, but acceptance depends on your target country. The UK and Germany often allow it, the US and Canada accept it selectively, while Australia and New Zealand almost never do.
Yes, you can often use an MOI certificate to skip IELTS, but whether it works depends entirely on your target country and university. It proves your previous degree was fully taught in English, yet it is not a guaranteed universal substitute. Even after a university accepts your MOI, an embassy or visa officer can still ask for a standardised score.
How MOI Acceptance Varies by Country
| Country | How MOI Is Treated |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Many universities issue an IELTS waiver, but it must be stated on your CAS letter for the visa to be valid |
| Germany | Several universities accept it for English taught Master's programs, though embassy staff sometimes still ask for a test score at your visa interview |
| Canada and USA | Select universities like University of Saskatchewan or Drexel accept it, but competitive programs and strict visa streams usually still mandate a test |
| Australia and New Zealand | Almost never accepted for international applicants from non-native English speaking regions |
What Your MOI Letter Must Include, and Backup Options
- Official letterhead with the registrar or dean's stamp and physical signature
- Your full legal name and the exact title of the degree completed
- A clear statement confirming all lectures, coursework, and exams were conducted entirely in English
- If your target university rejects the MOI, ask about PTE Academic, the Duolingo English Test, TOEFL iBT, or the university's own internal English assessment
My Advice
Before you rely on your MOI certificate alone, email your target university's international admissions office and ask them to confirm in writing that the waiver will also appear on your visa documentation. If they hesitate or you are aiming for a competitive scholarship, book an IELTS or PTE slot as a backup rather than risk a late rejection.
Can you skip IELTS with your MOI or 12th English marks?
Check your waiver options free with a German admissions expert.
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