Public universities in Bangladesh play a central role in shaping the country’s higher education landscape. These institutions, funded by the government, are known for their academic excellence, affordable tuition, and a wide range of programs that attract thousands of students each year. With over 50 public universities, including iconic names such as the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Jahangirnagar University, Rajshahi University, and Chittagong University, they collectively educate the majority of the nation’s graduates.
What sets these universities apart is their strong emphasis on research, cultural development, and nation-building, while maintaining accessibility for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. From medical universities like Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) to specialised institutions such as Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, the public sector covers nearly every academic discipline.
For students and parents planning for 2026 admissions, understanding the strengths of public universities is essential. They remain the backbone of Bangladesh’s academic system, producing influential leaders, researchers, and professionals who drive progress nationally and globally.
Overview of Public Universities in Bangladesh
Public universities in Bangladesh have a rich history and have been growing steadily over the years. Established by the government, they provide accessible and affordable higher education. They offer many programs and have become vital institutions in Bangladesh's education system.
All the public universities in Bangladesh provide quality education to students at an affordable cost. They make a big impact on the country's education sector by offering a wide range of programs and plenty of research opportunities.
Criteria For Ranking
When we rank universities, we look at several key things to ensure they're top-notch. Here's a simple breakdown of what we consider:
Quality of Education
The quality of education depends on the teachers' expertise and the quality of the courses. A university with high-quality education helps students succeed in their knowledge.
Education Structure
This is about how the courses and programs are organised. It includes a variety of programs offered and how easy it is for students to follow.
Student Services
Good student services help students handle challenges and maximise their university experience. So, we've assessed the extra support that universities provide. For example, career advice, counselling, and study facilities.
Reputation and Accreditations
A strong reputation and proper accreditations show how respectable a university is. This covers how well-regarded the university is and whether it has official approvals for its quality.
Top 10 Public Universities in Bangladesh
Here is a list of the top 10 public universities in Bangladesh and their details.
1. University of Dhaka
Dhaka University (DU), established in 1921, is the first-ever public university in Bangladesh. Often referred to as the "Oxford of the East", DU has played a significant role in the country's history.
DU is located in the heart of the capital city and offers a vibrant campus life. Its commitment to quality education and research has earned it recognition among the top universities in South Asia.
For students pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), DU is considered a top public university in Bangladesh for BBA. Similarly, for those interested in law, DU stands out as the best public university in Bangladesh for law.
Notable alumni include the Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Key Departments
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Business Studies
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Law
Notable Features
- Extensive research collaborations
- Renowned alum network
- Special programs in various disciplines
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: Government subsidised (BDT 15,000 on average).
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1921
- Total Programs: Over 80 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 37,000
- Total Faculty: About 2,000
- Location: Nilkhet Rd, Dhaka 1000
2. Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) is a top public university in Bangladesh. Established in 1962, it is recognised for producing the nation’s leading engineers, architects, and technologists. Located in Dhaka, BUET features modern laboratories, comprehensive libraries, and cutting-edge research facilities.
BUET stands out as the top public university in Bangladesh for CSE. It offers rigorous academic programs that attract the country's brightest minds. For its academic and research excellence, it is frequently ranked among the top engineering schools in Asia.
Key Departments
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Architecture
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE)
Notable Features
- Strong industry connections
- Cutting-edge research projects
- Competitive admission process
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 2000-2500 on average (annually)
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1962
- Total Programs: Approximately 30 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Around 10,000
- Total Faculty: About 600
- Location: Polashi, Dhaka 1000
3. Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology
Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) is another top public university in Bangladesh. Established in 1968, CUET maintains high academic standards and focuses on practical engineering education. Graduates from this university contribute significantly to national development as engineers or technologists.
Located in Chittagong City, the university provides a serene campus environment with comprehensive facilities.
Key Departments
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Petroleum and Mining Engineering
Notable Features
- Emphasis on practical training
- Collaboration with industries
- Active research community
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: Around BDT 7,000 per semester.
- Undergraduate Duration: Typically 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1968
- Total Programs: Around 20 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 5,000
- Total Faculty: About 400
- Location: Raozan, Chittagong
4. Jahangirnagar University (JU)
Founded in 1970, Jahangirnagar University is known for its lush green campus. It has the fourth-largest campus and is Bangladesh's only full-fledged residential university. It is also notable for its contributions to different fields and diverse programs.
Situated in Savar, near Dhaka, JU offers a peaceful learning environment with ample facilities. The university is highly regarded for its research output and quality of education. However, it's quite far from the city.
Key Departments
- Department of Mathematics
- Biological Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Business Studies
- Law
Notable Features
- Residential campus
- Active cultural scene
- Strong research initiatives
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 7000 per semester
- Undergraduate Duration: Typically 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1970 (started functioning fully in 1972)
- Total Programs: Over 50 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 15,000
- Total Faculty: About 800
- Location: Savar, Dhaka
5. Khulna University
Established in 1991, Khulna University is known for its focus on research and innovation in various disciplines. The university offers quality education and vibrant research cultures. Located in Khulna, it offers modern facilities and a scenic campus. This is one of the student politics-free universities in Bangladesh.
Key Departments
- Science, Engineering and Technology
- Life Science
- Management and Business Administration
- Social Science
Notable Features
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary research
- Strong community engagement
- Innovative teaching methods
- Very good student accommodation facility
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 8,000 on average
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1991
- Total Programs: Around 30 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: 6,033+
- Total Faculty: 400
- Location: Gollamari, Khulna
6. Khulna University of Engineering and Technology
Another top Engineering and Technology-based university in Bangladesh is KUET. Established in 2003, it's one of the leading public universities in the southwestern region of BD.
KUET has strong engineering programs and practical approaches to education. Located in the centre of Khulna, it provides advanced laboratories and research facilities.
Key Departments
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Industrial and Production Engineering
Notable Features
- Strong emphasis on research and development
- Industry partnerships
- Modern campus facilities
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: Around BDT 9,000
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs, 2-3 years for Ph.D
- Established: 2003
- Total Programs: Around 20 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 6,000
- Total Faculty: About 400
- Location: Fulbarigate, Khulna
7. Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
Established in 1986, SUST is one of the most reputable universities in Bangladesh. It was the only university of its kind when it started its journey in 1991. It's also the pioneer in introducing the semester system and credit-based education in Bangladesh.
SUST strongly emphasises innovative teaching methods and research excellence. Located in Sylhet, the university has a large, beautiful campus with comprehensive facilities.
Key Departments
- Applied Sciences and Technology
- Social Sciences
- Business Studies
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
Notable Features
- Emphasis on research and innovation
- Strong IT infrastructure
- Diverse academic programs
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 7,500 per semester.
- Undergraduate Duration: Typically 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1986
- Total Programs: Over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: 8596+
- Total Faculty: About 500
- Location: Kumargaon, Sylhet
8. Rajshahi University
Rajshahi University is the third-largest Bangladeshi university. Established in 1953, it's the second oldest university (initially a college) in BD. It currently has ten faculties with 60 departments.
RU has a rich history of contributing to education and culture in the country. Often referred to as the "Education City" of BD, RU offers modern facilities to its students. From large libraries to laboratories and residential halls, students can have a great experience here.
Key Departments
- Arts
- Science
- Social Sciences
- Business Studies
- Law
- Engineering
Notable Features
- A beautiful and spacious campus
- Strong focus on research
- Cultural and extracurricular activities
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: Around BDT 5,000 to BDT 10,000 per semester.
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years for master's programs
- Established: 1953
- Total Programs: Over 60 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 28,000
- Total Faculty: About 1,200
- Location: Matihar, Rajshahi
9. Bangladesh University of Professionals
Founded in 2008, BUP is Bangladesh's youngest public university (31st). It started with the aim of fostering a disciplined and professional academic environment. Despite being a relatively new institution, BUP has quickly gained a reputation for its quality of education.
Located in Dhaka, BUP offers modern facilities and a well-structured campus run by the armed forces.
Key Departments
- Business Studies.
- Security and Strategic Studies.
- Science and Technology.
- Arts and Social Sciences.
- Medical Studies.
Notable Features
- Strong emphasis on discipline and professionalism
- Collaboration with the military and civilian sectors
- Specialised programs in security studies
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 1,50,000-200000
- Undergraduate Duration: 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-2 years (for Master's programs)
- Established: 2008
- Total Programs: Around 20 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: 2,845+
- Total Faculty: About 300
- Location: Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka
10. Islamic University of Technology
IUT, established in 1981, is a subsidiary organ of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It aims to produce skilled professionals in the fields of engineering and technology for the OIC member states. Situated in Gazipur, IUT has a beautiful campus with modern educational and research facilities.
Key Departments
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial and Production Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Technology Management
- Technical Education
Notable Features
- International student body
- Strong research and development programs
- Modern campus with advanced laboratories
Overall Details
- Tuition Fee: BDT 12,000 per semester.
- Undergraduate Duration: Typically 4 years
- Postgraduate Duration: 1-1.5 years for master's programs
- Established: 1981
- Total Programs: 8 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Total Students: Approximately 3,500
- Total Faculty: About 200
- Location: Board Bazar, Gazipur
All Public Universities in Bangladesh
Currently, there are 59 public universities in BD. The total number of seats in public universities in Bangladesh exceeds 5,500. Here is a full list:
|
|
University Name
|
Location
|
Established Year
|
Website
|
|
1
|
University of Dhaka
|
Dhaka
|
1921
|
www.du.ac.bd
|
|
2
|
University of Rajshahi
|
Rajshahi
|
1953
|
www.ru.ac.bd
|
|
3
|
Bangladesh Agricultural University
|
Mymensingh
|
1961
|
www.bau.edu.bd
|
|
4
|
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology
|
Dhaka
|
1962
|
www.buet.ac.bd
|
|
5
|
University of Chittagong
|
Chittagong
|
1966
|
www.cu.ac.bd
|
|
6
|
Jahangirnagar University
|
Savar, Dhaka
|
1970
|
www.juniv.edu
|
|
7
|
Islamic University, Bangladesh
|
Kushtia
|
1979
|
www.iu.ac.bd
|
|
8
|
Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
|
Sylhet
|
1986
|
www.sust.edu
|
|
9
|
Khulna University
|
Khulna
|
1991
|
www.ku.ac.bd
|
|
10
|
Islamic University of Technology
|
Gazipur
|
1978
|
www.iutoic-dhaka.edu
|
|
11
|
Bangladesh Open University
|
Gazipur
|
1992
|
www.bou.ac.bd
|
|
12
|
Military Institute of Science and Technology
|
Dhaka
|
1998
|
www.mist.ac.bd
|
|
13
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University
|
Gazipur
|
1998
|
www.bsmrau.edu.bd
|
|
14
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University
|
Dhaka
|
1998
|
www.bsmmu.ac.bd
|
|
15
|
Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science & Technology University
|
Dinajpur
|
1999
|
www.hstu.ac.bd
|
|
16
|
Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University
|
Tangail
|
1999
|
www.mbstu.ac.bd
|
|
17
|
Patuakhali Science and Technology University
|
Patuakhali
|
2000
|
www.pstu.ac.bd
|
|
18
|
Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
|
Dhaka
|
2001
|
www.sau.edu.bd
|
|
19
|
Khulna University of Engineering & Technology
|
Khulna
|
2003
|
www.kuet.ac.bd
|
|
20
|
Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology
|
Chittagong
|
2003
|
www.cuet.ac.bd
|
|
21
|
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology
|
Rajshahi
|
2003
|
www.ruet.ac.bd
|
|
22
|
Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology
|
Gazipur
|
2003
|
www.duet.ac.bd
|
|
23
|
Jagannath University
|
Dhaka
|
2005
|
www.jnu.ac.bd
|
|
24
|
Comilla University
|
Comilla
|
2006
|
www.cou.ac.bd
|
|
25
|
Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University
|
Mymensingh
|
2006
|
www.jkkniu.edu.bd
|
|
26
|
Noakhali Science and Technology University
|
Noakhali
|
2006
|
www.nstu.edu.bd
|
|
27
|
Sylhet Agricultural University
|
Sylhet
|
2006
|
www.sau.ac.bd
|
|
28
|
Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University
|
Chittagong
|
2006
|
www.cvasu.ac.bd
|
|
29
|
Jashore University of Science and Technology
|
Jessore
|
2007
|
www.just.edu.bd
|
|
30
|
Begum Rokeya University
|
Rangpur
|
2008
|
www.brur.ac.bd
|
|
31
|
Pabna University of Science and Technology
|
Pabna
|
2008
|
www.pust.ac.bd
|
|
32
|
Bangladesh University of Professionals
|
Dhaka
|
2008
|
www.bup.edu.bd
|
|
33
|
Bangladesh University of Textiles
|
Dhaka
|
2010
|
www.butex.edu.bd
|
|
34
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University
|
Gopalganj
|
2011
|
www.bsmrstu.edu.bd
|
|
35
|
University of Barisal
|
Barisal
|
2011
|
www.bu.ac.bd
|
|
36
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University
|
Chittagong
|
2013
|
www.bsmrmu.edu.bd
|
|
37
|
Islamic Arabic University
|
Dhaka
|
2013
|
www.iau.edu.bd
|
|
38
|
Rangamati Science and Technology University
|
Rangamati
|
2014
|
www.rmstu.edu.bd
|
|
39
|
Rabindra University, Bangladesh
|
Sirajganj
|
2017
|
www.rub.ac.bd
|
|
40
|
Bangamata Sheikh Fojilatunnesa Mujib Science & Technology University
|
Jamalpur
|
2017
|
https://bsfmstu.ac.bd/
|
|
41
|
Chittagong Medical University
|
Chittagong
|
2016
|
www.cmu.edu.bd
|
|
42
|
Rajshahi Medical University
|
Rajshahi
|
2017
|
www.rmu.edu.bd
|
|
43
|
Sylhet Medical University
|
Sylhet
|
2018
|
www.smu.edu.bd
|
|
44
|
Sheikh Hasina University
|
Netrokona
|
2018
|
https://shubd.net/
|
|
45
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Digital University
|
Kaliakoir
|
2018
|
www.bdu.ac.bd
|
|
46
|
Khulna Agricultural University
|
Khulna
|
2019
|
www.kau.edu.bd
|
|
47
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Aviation and Aerospace University
|
Lalmonirhat
|
2019
|
www.bsmraau.edu.bd
|
|
48
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman University
|
Kishoreganj
|
2020
|
bsmru.ac.bd
|
|
49
|
Habiganj Agricultural University
|
Habiganj
|
2020
|
www.hau.ac.bd
|
|
50
|
Chandpur Science and Technology University
|
Chandpur
|
2020
|
www.cstu.ac.bd
|
|
51
|
Sheikh Hasina Medical University
|
Khulna
|
2020
|
www.shmu.ac.bd
|
|
52
|
Sunamganj Science and Technology University
|
Sunamganj
|
2020
|
www.sstu.ac.bd
|
|
53
|
Bogura Science and Technology University
|
Bogura
|
2020
|
www.bstu.ac.bd
|
|
54
|
Lakshmipur Science and Technology University
|
Lakshmipur
|
2020
|
www.lstu.ac.bd
|
|
55
|
Kurigram Agricultural University
|
Kurigram
|
2022
|
www.kuriau.edu.bd
|
|
56
|
Mujibnagar University
|
Meherpur
|
2022
|
N/A
|
|
57
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman University, Naogaon
|
Naogaon
|
2022
|
N/A
|
|
58
|
Thakurgaon University
|
Thakurgaon
|
2022
|
N/A
|
|
59
|
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Pirojpur
|
Pirojpur
|
2022
|
N/A
|
Factors to Consider When Choosing a University in Bangladesh
When choosing a university, make sure the programs match your interests and career goals. Look at the courses offered, faculty expertise, and research opportunities.
Tuition fees and living expenses are also important to consider. So, check the cost of tuition, availability of scholarships, and financial aid options of a university.
Most public universities provide a beautiful campus life. But still check out the availability of extracurricular activities, clubs, and other facilities of your chosen university.
Most public universities provide a beautiful and great campus life. But still, check the availability of extracurricular activities at your chosen university.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public universities are in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh has 55 public universities as listed by the University Grants Commission (UGC). This count includes institutions across categories like general, engineering, agricultural, and medical universities. Newer universities established after 2020 may increase this number, but official UGC records cite 55 as of 2025.
Is DUET a public university?
Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology (DUET) is a public university established in 2003 under a government act. It specialises in engineering and technology education for diploma graduates and is funded and regulated by the Bangladeshi government.
How many seats are available in public universities in Bangladesh?
Public university seats vary by institution. For example, DUET offers 810 undergraduate seats annually, while larger universities like Dhaka University accommodate 37,000 students. Exact nationwide totals are not specified, but institutions collectively enrol hundreds of thousands of students annually.
Is BUP a public university?
Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) is a public university founded in 2008. It focuses on professional disciplines and is governed by the UGC. BUP is recognised for its structured academic programs and military-affiliated management.
Which is the first public university in Bangladesh?
The University of Dhaka (DU), established in 1921, is Bangladesh’s first public university. Known as the “Oxford of the East,” it offers over 80 programs and has a historic role in national education.
Which is the largest public university in Bangladesh by area?
The University of Chittagong is the largest by area, spanning 2,312 acres. It is followed by Bangladesh Agricultural University (1,200 acres) and Rajshahi University (753 acres).
Conclusion
Choosing public universities in Bangladesh is more than a matter of affordability; it is a decision that shapes future opportunities. These institutions are respected for their academic tradition, diverse faculties, and contributions to research and national development. From historic centres like the University of Dhaka and Rajshahi University to specialised hubs such as BUET for engineering and BSMMU for medical studies, the public sector offers unmatched access to higher education across disciplines.
For students preparing for higher studies, the advantages are clear: lower tuition fees compared to private alternatives, broad academic resources, and access to influential alumni networks. At the same time, these universities face challenges, including high competition for admission and limited seats, which only underline the value of securing a place.
As Bangladesh continues to expand its educational infrastructure, public universities remain the backbone of the system, producing graduates who lead in law, medicine, engineering, business, and the arts. For families planning ahead, these institutions represent not just education, but a pathway to long-term success.