Can a Wi-Fi only iPad use a mobile Hotspot to get Internet access?
Yes, you can definitely use a mobile hotspot with the iPad. Make sure you get a version that connects with devices over WiFi, and you’ll be fine! (I.e. do not get a dongle that needs to be plugged into USB).

The connection process is slightly different than with an iPhone. It isn’t automatic, so you need to open Settings and look for the hotspot under WiFi and enter the password.

The only thing you’ll miss in comparison to the iPhone tethering is that the iPhone lets the iPad use its GPS for location updates. A mobile hotspot does not in the same manner give access to precise locations. Usually this is not a problem at all, unless you specifically want to use the iPad for navigation (GPS routing / mapping).