Which English test scores can I use instead of IELTS for universities in Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Finland?
Many European universities accept tests other than IELTS. Examples include TOEFL scores of 90 in Germany, 72 to 90 in France, 78 in Italy, 92 to 100 in the Netherlands, 72 to 80 in Spain and 92 in Finland, plus Cambridge or PTE in some cases. Requirements vary by course.
Not every European university asks for IELTS. Many accept TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English or a medium of instruction (MOI) certificate instead. The table below gives example scores from specific universities and should be treated as indicative only.
Example alternatives to IELTS by country
| Country | Example universities | Example alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | RWTH Aachen University, University of Hamburg | TOEFL 90; Cambridge C1 Advanced; MOI may be accepted for a fully English-taught 180-ECTS degree, but visa authorities may still ask for a test |
| France | Paris-Saclay University, University of Strasbourg | TOEFL about 72 to 90 depending on programme; TOEIC 785; MOI may be accepted; a 15 minute video interview may be needed for some waivers |
| Italy | University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano | TOEFL 78 (Politecnico di Milano); TOEFL ITP 543; DET 105; MOI may be accepted for a fully English-taught previous degree |
| Netherlands | University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology | TOEFL 92 to 100; Cambridge C1 180 to 190 depending on programme; MOI generally restricted |
| Spain | University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Madrid | TOEFL 72 to 80; Cambridge B2 First; some accept institutional English certificates or an online proficiency interview |
| Finland | University of Helsinki, Aalto University | TOEFL 92 on the 0-120 scale (tests from 21 Jan 2026 use the new scale); PTE 62; MOI generally accepted only for English-taught degrees |
What to check before applying
The English requirement can differ by programme even within one university. A university may accept an MOI certificate for one programme but ask for IELTS or another test for a different one.
My Advice
Use these scores as examples, not rules. Look up the exact English requirement for your programme, and ask the admissions office early if you plan to use an MOI certificate or a waiver.
Low percentage, study gap or no work experience?
Find out which Finland universities you still qualify for.
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