How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad from Bangladesh: 2026

How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad from Bangladesh: 2026

Many Bangladeshi students have a dream of walking down the campus of a prestigious university abroad, with eyes carrying the gleam of unlocking a better future with higher education abroad. This dream is alive in the hearts of many students.

But for many, this dream hits a wall of financial constraints. Tuition, travelling and living in a foreign country are very expensive and may feel like an impossible barrier. The majority of families are not able to do it themselves.

But now, the wall has a door.

Yes, we are talking about financial aid and scholarships. These scholarship opportunities enable brilliant students to study abroad and achieve a dream which would have seemed out of reach.

Through proper planning, mentorship, and powerful applications, Bangladeshi students can grab these opportunities. Many already have. You too can go for it. In fact, reports indicate that there has been an increase in the number of Bangladeshi students by 26% in the United States alone. This demonstrates the great interest and desire of the Bangladeshi youth to get a world-class education, return home with a degree and make a difference to the nation.

If you want to know how to get scholarship to study abroad from Bangladesh, this blog will guide you step by step. You will get to know more about what kind of scholarships are available, the best programs in each country, how to apply, and how to succeed. BHE UNI is here to take care of you with each step.

Types of Scholarships - Find Your Ideal Funding

You need to be aware of the existing types of scholarships before you apply. Various scholarships are established for different needs. Some consider academic performance. Others look at financial needs. There are some that are specifically targeting students of particular countries, such as Bangladesh.

Here are the main types:

Merit-Based Scholarships

These apply to students with a good academic history. You can be qualified by a high GPA, good test scores, or by being good in sports or arts. As an example, you can apply when your GPA is higher than 4.5 or when your IELTS/GRE scores are excellent. Merit scholarships are awards of talent and hard work.

Need-Based Scholarships

These target students who cannot afford tuition and living costs. You have to show financial records to establish your family income. Such postgraduate scholarships are available in many international organisations and universities.

Government Scholarships

A large number of governments are providing full scholarships for international students. These include:

• Fulbright (USA)
• Chevening (UK)
• Commonwealth (UK and others)
• DAAD (Germany)

They usually pay tuition, living expenses, travel and health insurance.

University-Specific Scholarships

There are numerous universities with their scholarships. Others are automatic upon application. Others would need a different application. As an example, the University of Toronto has the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship.

Subject-Specific Scholarships

You might have subject scholarships if you study science, engineering, business, or development. They are commonly funded by universities or organisations which are interested in that field.

Country-Specific Scholarships

There are also scholarships available to students from Bangladesh and other countries. As an example, Australia Awards frequently focus on developing countries.

Private and Organisational Scholarships

Non-profit organisations, companies and international bodies also give financial assistance. These can be of lesser value yet useful.

Fully Funded vs Partial Scholarships – What Can You Really Expect?

Many Bangladeshi students search only for “fully funded scholarships” and feel disappointed when opportunities seem limited. The reality is:

• Fully funded scholarships are highly competitive
• Partial scholarships are far more common
• Smart Bangladeshi students often combine multiple funding sources successfully

What is a fully funded scholarship?

A fully funded scholarship usually includes:

• 100% tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance
• Health insurance
• Travel or airfare
• Research or accommodation support (for some programs)

Common examples for Bangladeshi students include: Fulbright (USA), Chevening (UK), Commonwealth (multiple countries), Erasmus Mundus (Europe), and DAAD (Germany).

These are best suited for students with:

• Strong academic performance
• Clear goals for study
• Leadership experience
• Excellent English or strong test scores

What is a partial scholarship?

Partial scholarships may cover:

• A portion of tuition (25%, 50%, 75%)
• A fixed amount (e.g., CAD 5,000 or GBP 3,000)
• A one-time grant
• The first-year tuition only (renewable in later years)

These are easier to get and can be combined with:

• Family contribution
• Bank education loans
• Part-time work abroad
• Graduate assistantships (USA/Canada)
• On-campus employment

Which one should you apply for?

You should apply for both:

• Fully funded awards - Aim high
• Partial/university scholarships - Secure backup options

Bangladeshi students often receive multiple offers when they apply widely and early.

Types of Scholarships Provided to Bangladeshi Students

Scholarship type	Eligibility criteria	Coverage	Best for
Merit-based	High GPA, test scores and achievements	Partial or full tuition	High-achieving students
Need-based	Financial need and income proof	Tuition and living expenses	Students with low-income backgrounds
Government-funded	Varies by programme	Full funding	Those seeking fully funded options
University-specific	Admission to certain universities	Tuition waivers or discounts	Targeting specific institutions
Subject-specific	Enrolled in a particular field	Partial or full	STEM, business, arts, humanities
Country-specific	For Bangladesh	Varies	Bangladeshi students applying abroad
Private/NGO	Individual organisation rules	Partial support	All types of students

Tip: Submit an application to more than one type. There are a lot of students who get multiple offers.

Top Scholarship Programs for Bangladeshi Students (Country-Wise Guide)

Scholarship opportunities differ from country to country. Below is a structured, updated and detailed country-wise list that covers the most reliable funding options for Bangladeshi students.

USA – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Level: Master’s and PhD
• Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, health insurance, airfare
• Highlight: One of the best opportunities for Bangladeshi applicants

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship

• Level: Non-degree (professionals)
• Benefits: Living costs, professional development, tuition
• Best for: Professionals with 5+ years’ experience

University Merit Awards

• Many US universities offer automatic or separate merit scholarships based on GPA, SAT/GRE, and extracurricular achievements.

USA Tips for Bangladesh:

• Start preparing 12–18 months early
• Strong SOP + Recommendations = Higher chance
• Show leadership and long-term goals related to Bangladesh

UK – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Chevening Scholarship

• Level: Master’s
• Benefits: Full tuition, monthly allowance, airfare
• Focus: Leadership & contribution to Bangladesh

Commonwealth Scholarship

• Level: Master’s and PhD
• Benefits: Full funding including travel and living costs
• Extremely popular among Bangladeshi students

GREAT Scholarship

• Level: Master’s
• Benefits: Partial funding at selected UK universities

UK Tips:

• Strong academic background + community work helps
• Write a Bangladesh-focused future plan in your essays

Canada – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship

• Level: PhD
• Benefits: CAD 50,000 annually for three years

Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto)

• Level: Undergraduate
• Benefits: Full tuition, books, residence, and incidental fees

Provincial/University Scholarships

• Many Canadian provinces offer awards for international students

Canada Tips:

• Strong academics + volunteer work increase chances
• Consider applying for research assistantships

Australia – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Australia Awards Scholarship

• Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
• Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, travel

Research Training Program (RTP)

• Level: Master’s by research & PhD
• Benefits: Tuition + monthly stipend

Australia Tips:

• Many universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction)
• IELTS alternatives available depending on institution

Europe – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programmes

• Level: Master’s
• Benefits: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel
• Extremely competitive among Bangladeshi graduates

DAAD Scholarship (Germany)

• Level: Master’s and PhD
• Benefits: Tuition-free study, stipend, insurance

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship

• Level: PhD and Postdoctoral
• Benefits: Tuition, monthly stipend, insurance

Asia – Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

MIS (Malaysia International Scholarship)

• Level: Postgraduate
• Benefits: Tuition + living allowance

SINGA (Singapore International Graduate Award)

• Level: PhD (STEM fields)
• Benefits: Full tuition + monthly stipend

Fully Funded Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

Scholarship	Destination	Level	Benefits	Deadline
Fulbright	USA	Master’s/PhD	Fully funded	Feb–Oct each year
Chevening	UK	Master’s	Fully funded	Aug–Nov each year
Australia Awards	Australia	UG/PG	Fully funded	Feb–Oct
Erasmus Mundus	Europe	Master’s	Fully funded	Oct–Jan
DAAD	Germany	Master’s/PhD	Fully funded	Aug–Oct
Swiss Govt. Excellence	Switzerland	PhD/Postdoc	Fully funded	Sep–Dec
Vanier	Canada	PhD	CAD 50,000/year	July–Nov
Pearson	Canada	Undergraduate	Full funding	Aug–Sept
MIS	Malaysia	Postgraduate	Tuition + stipend	May–June
SINGA	Singapore	PhD	Full funding	Jan & Aug

Common Mistakes Bangladeshi Students Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Many strong applicants miss opportunities due to avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common issues:

1. Applying too late

Most top scholarships close 8–12 months before the intake.
Start preparing at least one year early.

2. Sending the same SOP to every university

Admission officers can tell when an SOP is generic.
Write programme-specific, country-specific statements.

3. Not contacting professors for research programmes

For PhD and research-based master's, email supervisors early.

4. Ignoring partial or university scholarships

Many students only target fully funded awards and miss easier options.

5. Weak recommendation letters

Select teachers/employers who know you well and can describe your impact.

How It Works: A Step-By-Step Guide From Research to Acceptance

The initial steps of applying for a scholarship will be confusing. However, when you have a timeline, it is not so hard. An effective plan helps you stay organised. The following is a complete guide for Bangladeshi students who wish to study overseas.

12-18 Months Prior - The Research Stage

This is the most significant phase. A lot of students procrastinate and miss opportunities. At this point, you should:

• Create a list of your favourite countries and universities.
• Examine their websites for scholarship opportunities.
• Compare living expenses, tuition fees and scholarship benefits.
• Get ready for language exams such as the IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.
• In case of necessity, enrol in the GRE or GMAT.

A study calendar is also a good idea to make. Note down the deadlines on paper or on a phone app. One of the primary reasons why students lose scholarships is when they miss deadlines.

12-9 Months Prior - Gathering and preparing documents

Your documents are quite essential. The universities will simply not consider an application when something is missing. During this time:

• Collect all SSC, HSC and university transcripts.
• Get transcripts certified by the education board or UGC, in case it is necessary.
• Get documents translated into English in case they are in Bangla.
• Ensure that your passport has a validity of two years or above.

You also need to begin to work on your CV. Include extracurricular activities, voluntary work or research projects. A good CV demonstrates that you are an active and talented person beyond studies.

9-6 Months Before - Writing and Recommendations.

This is the writing stage. The majority of students take weeks or even months to write their Statement of Purpose (SOP). The SOP is where you have a chance to narrate your story. Keep it clear and honest.

You should explain:

• Why are you interested in studying abroad?
• What will you be learning?
• How will you use that in Bangladesh?

Meanwhile, request your teachers, professors, or employers to write you recommendation letters. Select individuals who are familiar with you and can outline your best qualities.

6-3 Months Before - University and Scholarship Applications.

Now it is time to apply. Do not apply to a single or two programs. Try at least 10-15. The more you apply, the more opportunities you have. Submit online applications ahead of time. Before clicking submit, always check the spelling, attachments and documents.

A lot of scholarships also require a separate application form. As an example, Erasmus needs a university application and a scholarship application.

3-0 Months Before - Interviews and Visa Preparation

You might be interviewed in case you are shortlisted. Practice typical questions such as:

• Why have you selected this country/university?
• What benefits will this scholarship provide you?
• What is your post-graduation plan?

Be certain and keep your answers straightforward.

As soon as you receive an offer, get ready to apply for a visa. Prepare your financial documents, scholarship letter and admission letter. You should apply at least 2-3 months prior to the commencement of classes.

Essential Document Checklist (Expanded)

• Academic transcript (SSC, HSC, Bachelor's, in case necessary).
• Test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT).
• Passport (valid for 2+ years).
• Letter of recommendation (2-3 letters).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Personal essay (if required).
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Evidence of extracurricular activities or work experience.
• Bank statements (for need-based scholarships or visa).
• Health certificates (sometimes required).

Alternative Funding Options: Beyond Traditional Scholarships

There are also instances when scholarships do not pay it all. You may need extra support. Here are options:

Education Loans

Some Bangladeshi banks like One Bank and Shahjalal Islami Bank Limited provide education loans for studying abroad from Bangladesh. International lenders like MPOWER and Prodigy Finance also offer loans.

Part-Time Work

In most of the country, students are permitted to work 20 hours a week. This assists in meeting living expenses.

Assistantships

The USA and Canada are among the countries where research and teaching assistantships are prevalent. These come with stipends.

Work-Study Programs

There are paid campus jobs in some universities.

Crowdfunding

The community assists some students in raising funds online.

Overcoming Common Challenges - Solutions for Bangladeshi Applicants

Bangladeshi students encounter certain peculiar issues. Here are some solutions:

• Visa Delays: US visas may take 258 days, so make sure you apply very early.
• Monetary Evidence: Have your bank statements on hand and correct.
• English Tests: In case IELTS is not easy, there are universities that accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates.
• Cultural Adaptation: Participate in student organisations overseas. Stay in touch with the Bangladeshi community.
• Academic Gaps: Be prepared to change the teaching styles. Use online resources prior to visiting.

If you are still uncertain about it, then you can visit the best education consultancy in Dhaka for study abroad.

Success Strategies - Proven Tips from Scholarship Awardees

These are tips given by students who have won scholarships:

• Begin research and applications early. Apply to 15-20 scholarships.
• Write program-specific SOPs.
• Show leadership and community service.
• Form good relationships with teachers to get recommendation letters.
• Use friends or mentors to practice interview questions.
• Write how your education will benefit Bangladesh in the future.
• Make your Bangladeshi identity work to your advantage.

Bonus Strategies to Stand Out as a Bangladeshi Applicant

• Highlight any work that benefits your local community
• Show how your studies will contribute to Bangladesh’s development
• Mention leadership roles at school, university, or volunteer organisations
• Show consistency: same goals in SOP, CV, and recommendations
• Demonstrate that you researched the scholarship in depth

Why Choose BHE UNI - Your Partner in Scholarship Success

It is difficult to apply for scholarships. Many students feel lost. BHE UNI assists the student step-by-step.

• Expert Counselling: These are experts who have specialised in assisting the Bangladeshi students to secure scholarships.
• Success Stories: Hundreds of students have studied abroad and have been assisted.
• Complete Guidance: From research, SOP writing, to the visa application process.
• University Partnerships: Good relationships with international universities.
• Personal Strategy: All students are provided with individual plans.
• After Acceptance: Support will also be given even after admission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the simplest scholarship to acquire among Bangladeshi students?

There is no easy scholarship. However, the partial and university-specific scholarships are less competitive.

Will I be able to receive a scholarship with a low GPA?

Yes. There are scholarships based on essays, extracurriculars or financial requirements. You must apply for need-based or particular scholarships.

How can I study abroad without IELTS from Bangladesh?

Certain colleges are accepting MOI letters or evidence of an English study background. Others do not require IELTS as long as you hold a degree in English.

What are the top countries to grant full scholarships?

The most completely funded scholarships are available in the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

When should I start applying?

You have to begin 12-18 months prior to your desired session.

Do I need to pay back scholarships?

No. Scholarships are free. Loans have to be paid eventually, whereas scholarships are subsidies.

How can I increase my chances?

Early application, good recommendation, preparation of good SOPs and wide application are recommended.

Over to you

Studying overseas is an experience of a lifetime. With the help of scholarships, Bangladeshi students can now afford quality higher education in other countries. In this guide, you have learned about how to get scholarship to study abroad from Bangladesh, the best programs, the steps to apply, and the additional funding programs.

You also read about the challenges and success strategies of actual students. This is not an easy job, but with some planning and guidance, it can be done. Thousands of Bangladeshi students have already received financial assistance.

You can be one of them. Take action today. Research, prepare documents, and apply. BHE UNI can assist you in achieving your dream of studying abroad with a scholarship.

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