Studying abroad can be expensive, but scholarships make it more accessible. For many West African students, the challenge is often the language requirement. International scholarships and universities usually ask for English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. However, not everyone can afford the time or cost of these exams. The good news is that several countries and scholarship providers now accept WAEC English results as proof of English proficiency. This guide will show you the countries where you can use your WAEC English score to apply for scholarships without needing IELTS.
What Is WAEC English and Why It Matters
WAEC stands for the West African Examinations Council, which oversees the secondary school certificate exams in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia.
The English Language subject in WAEC is widely respected and graded rigorously. A credit pass (usually C6 or above) in WAEC English is considered by many universities and scholarship bodies as proof that you can study in English. This is particularly helpful for students who studied in English throughout secondary school and want to avoid extra language exams.
Many universities and scholarship bodies may also ask for a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous school confirming that your courses were taught in English. When combined with your WAEC English score, this often satisfies English language requirements.
Read: 5 UK Universities Offering the Easiest Scholarships for Nigerians
Countries That Accept WAEC English for Scholarships
Below are 10 countries where WAEC English is accepted by universities and scholarship providers, along with examples and specific details.
1. Germany
Germany is a top choice for international students because public universities are tuition-free. Several universities accept WAEC English results, especially when combined with an MOI letter.
- Example: University of Freiburg and other DAAD-supported institutions.
- Scholarship: DAAD Scholarships (especially for development-related postgraduate programs).
- Condition: You may need to submit an MOI letter alongside your WAEC result.
2. Canada
While most Canadian universities require IELTS, several schools waive it for students who have WAEC English and submit an MOI letter.
- Example: Brandon University, University of Manitoba, University of Regina.
- Scholarship: Canada-Commonwealth Scholarships, institutional entrance scholarships.
- Condition: A C6 or higher in WAEC English and an MOI letter is often required.
3. United Kingdom
The UK is one of the most flexible countries when it comes to English language requirements for West African students. Many universities accept WAEC English directly.
- Example: University of Portsmouth, University of Glasgow, University of Kent.
- Scholarship: Chevening, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships.
- Condition: Usually a minimum of C6 in WAEC English.
4. Norway
Public universities in Norway charge no tuition fees, and many accept WAEC English with supporting documents.
- Example: University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
- Scholarship: Quota Scheme, Erasmus+ opportunities.
- Condition: Submit an MOI letter in addition to your WAEC result.
Read: USA Community College Scholarships That Are Easier to Secure
5. Finland
Several Finnish universities now accept WAEC English, particularly for English-taught programs.
- Example: University of Helsinki, Tampere University.
- Scholarship: Finland Government Scholarship Pool, University-specific scholarships.
- Condition: MOI letter may be required depending on the program.
6. Sweden
Sweden offers fully funded scholarships through the Swedish Institute and many universities accept WAEC English.
- Example: Lund University, Uppsala University.
- Scholarship: Swedish Institute Scholarships.
- Condition: Some programs may still require MOI letter for confirmation.
7. Austria
Austria is another country with affordable education. Some universities accept WAEC English as long as it is supported by an MOI letter.
- Example: University of Vienna, TU Wien.
- Scholarship: Ernst Mach Grant, university-based scholarships.
- Condition: Must prove English instruction during secondary education.
8. Ireland
Some Irish universities accept WAEC English and offer generous scholarships.
- Example: Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork.
- Scholarship: Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship.
- Condition: MOI letter often required.
9. Cyprus
Universities in Cyprus frequently accept WAEC English and offer tuition discounts or partial scholarships to African students.
- Example: Near East University, University of Nicosia.
- Scholarship: Institutional scholarships and tuition waivers.
- Condition: Submit original WAEC results; MOI may or may not be needed.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia offers quality education at low cost and has universities that accept WAEC results in place of IELTS.
- Example: University of Malaya, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
- Scholarship: Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS).
- Condition: Must provide WAEC certificate and MOI letter from previous school.
Read: How to Secure Canadian Scholarships Without an Offer Letter
Tips for Using WAEC English to Skip IELTS
To successfully use your WAEC English in place of IELTS when applying for scholarships or admissions, follow these tips:
- Secure Your WAEC Certificate: Universities need the official certificate, not just online results.
- Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter: Ask your former school to write a letter confirming that English was the medium of instruction throughout your education.
- Apply to the Right Schools: Not all schools accept WAEC English, so check each university’s website or email their admissions team.
- Attach WAEC and MOI During Application: Upload both documents to avoid delays or rejections.
- Be Ready for English Interviews: Some programs may ask you to speak English in a virtual interview.
- Double Check Scholarship Criteria: Even if a school accepts WAEC English, some scholarships might still require IELTS.
WAEC English is more powerful than many students realize. If you earned a credit or higher in WAEC English, you already have a strong foundation to apply for scholarships abroad without needing IELTS. With the right supporting documents like an MOI letter and smart research into eligible universities, you can reduce your expenses and increase your chances of success. Whether you’re aiming for Europe, Canada, or Asia, many opportunities are open to you. Start preparing your documents early and apply to schools that recognize your qualifications. Your WAEC result could be your ticket to a fully funded international education.
