Many Bangladeshi students dream of studying abroad for its education, exposure, and career benefits. However, it can be overwhelming, considering that there is an entire world of foreign universities willing to accept students internationally. This guide will make studying abroad simple by outlining the best destinations, eligibility, scholarships, application processes, and opportunities after studying in Bangladesh. That’s where our Higher Study in Abroad Guide from Bangladesh comes in—simplifying the entire process for you.
Higher Study in Abroad Guide from Bangladesh
Why Study Abroad?
The benefits of foreign studies are:
- Quality Education – Has access to degree-awarding affiliated institutions and credible advanced research-entitled facilities.
- Global Exposure – Connect with students from different regions and cultures.
- Better Career Prospects – Boosts employment opportunities with international qualifications.
- Scholarships and Financial Aids – It is easier to receive generous scholarships from many universities as International students.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) – Some countries allow International Graduates to apply for PR after studying in the country.
Top Destinations for Bangladeshi Students
A number of countries are known to be the most popular choices to the students from Bangladesh. Here are the best options:
- United States (USA)
- It is home to the top-ranked universities and institutions, particularly the Ivy League.
- Scholarships like Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, and other university-specific grants are available.
- It requires TOEFL/IELTS and standardized tests like SAT, GRE, and GMAT.
- Offers post-study work opportunities through OPT( Optional Practical Training) and H-1B visas.
- United Kingdom (UK)
- One-year Master’s programs and three-year Bachelor’s programs are available.
- Some universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI).
- Offers post-study work opportunities through the Graduate Route visa.
- Scholarships: Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT scholarships.
- Canada
- Lower tuition than the US and UK.
- Easier PR through Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry.
- IELTS is required.
- Available scholarships: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, university-specific awards.
- Australia
- Stronger Research Facilities and top-rank Universities.
- International students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight.
- PR through skilled migration programs.
- Australia Awards, Destination Australia, and university-funded scholarships.
- Hungary
- Schengen country with low tuition fees.
- Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship covers Stipendium Hungaricum tuition and living expenses.
- Some universities do not require IELTS for admission.
- Bangladeshi students have a high visa success rate.
- Malaysia
- Low tuition and living expenses.
- No IELTS is needed for many universities.
- Recognized universities with global pathways and other countries.
- Students have part-time job prospects.
- Germany
- There are free or low education fees for public universities.
- Tuition-free for the majority of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
- Strong connections with the industry guarantee high employability.
- Available for Bangladeshi students- DAAD Scholarships.
- Malta
- No IELTS requirement for admission.
- Lower tuition fees and cost of living.
- Easiest country in Europe for PR.
- Studying while working part-time.
Eligibility Criteria
Each country and university has its entry criteria, but the general ones are as follows:
- Academic Qualifications: Set GPA requirements that differ from country to country and university to university.
- English Language: IELTS and TOEFL, and some universities might accept MOI or other forms of tests.
- Required Exams: SAT, GRE, GMAT for some of the more demanding universities.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A coherent SOP that details the study objectives and career vision.
- Recommendation Letters: Usually 2-3 letters from professional or educational contacts.
- Evidence of Financial Resources: A sponsored visa or proof of scholarship is enough for some.
Application Procedure
The application procedures will differ from one country to the next, but the sequence will generally be the same.
Step 1: Research & Shortlist Universities
- Identify a country and a university first, based on your available budget, your career objectives, and the subject you prefer.
- Assess the ranking and the courses offered by the university.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
- Academic Record and Remarks.
- Proof of English Competency.
- Recommendation letters, statement of purpose.
- Resume/CV (if need be).
- Passports and ID cards.
Step 3: Upload the application online
- Create an account on the university’s website; alternatively, use the UCAS (UK), Common App (USA), or Studielink (Netherlands) portals.
- Process the application payment (if this is required).
Step 4: Participate in Interviews (If Needed)
- Certain universities or embassies may need to interview candidates prior to admitting them.
Step 5: Admission Letter
- If your application is a success, an official offer letter will be sent from the university.
Step 6: Student visa application
- Prepare visa documents, which include the letter of acceptance, financial documentation, and health check certificates.
- Book a visa interview at the relevant embassy (if necessary).
- Visa application service charge must be paid.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships centre Bangladeshi students can access some scholarship options, such as:
- Fulbright Scholarship (USA)
- Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)
- Chevening Scholarship (UK)
- DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
- Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
- Australia Awards (Australia)
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Canada)
- Erasmus Mundus (Europe)
Cost of Studying Abroad
Cost of Studying Abroad The amount differs depending on the country and the university. The following are the average annual expenses for education, based on recent information from 2020:
- USA: $20,000 – $50,000
- UK: £10,000 – £25,000
- Canada: CAD 15,000 – CAD 35,000
- Australia: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000
- Germany: Free to €10,000
- Hungary: $5,000 – $10,000
- Malaysia: $4,000 – $10,000
Living expenses are estimated to be from $5,000 to $15,000 per year depending on lifestyle and location.
For Students Seeking Employment:
Here are some work conditions offered to international students in some countries:
- USA: On campus (F1 visa only) – 20 hours per week.
- UK: During term – 20 hours, out of term – full-time.
- Canada: During breaks – full-time, other times – 20 hours per week.
- Australia: 48 hours per fortnight
- Germany: 120 complete or 240 half work days annually.
Post-Study Work and PR Options:
- USA: H-1B visa and OPT (1-3 years).
- UK: 2 years for bachelor’s or master’s degree, 3 years for PhD under Graduate Route.
- Canada: leads from PGWP (up to 3 years) to PR pathways.
- Australia: Post-study work visa (2-4 years) leading to PR grant.
- Germany: 18-month job seeking visa on payment post-graduation.
Studying from Bangladesh exposes students to a myriad of options. Although it may seem daunting, having the correct map, research, and assistance enables pupils to facilitate their desired academic and professional pathways. The appropriate country must be selected, alongside budget scholarships and adequate visa requirements.
