Public Universities in Bangladesh: UGC List 2026 & Top 10

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.

Best Departments by University

The best public university in Bangladesh depends on the subject. A single ranking cannot answer every student’s question. BUET may be the strongest choice for engineering, but a student interested in law, agriculture, medicine or business should look at a different set of universities.

For engineering, BUET remains the most competitive and recognised option for many students. CUET, KUET, RUET and DUET are also strong choices for technical education. For business, law, arts, social sciences and many science subjects, the University of Dhaka is still one of the most preferred public universities because of its history, alumni network and central location.

Subject Goal	Strong Public University Options	Why Students Prefer Them
Engineering	BUET, CUET, KUET, RUET, DUET	Strong technical reputation and competitive admission
CSE	BUET, SUST, DU, CUET, KUET, RUET	High demand in software, AI, data and technology jobs
BBA / Business	DU, BUP, JU, JnU	Strong alumni and professional networks
Law	DU, RU, JnU, CU	Long academic tradition and legal career pathways
Agriculture	BAU, SAU, BSMRAU	Specialised agricultural teaching and research
Medical / Health	BSMMU and public medical universities	Strong focus on postgraduate medical education
Textiles	BUTEX	Direct link with Bangladesh’s textile and apparel sector

A practical example: if a student wants CSE, they may first dream of BUET. But if they also get SUST, CUET or KUET, those can still be strong routes into software, data or tech careers. The university name matters, but the department, skill-building and student’s own work matter too.

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) is the best public university in Bangladesh. Established in 1921, it 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 another best university in Bangladesh 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 (Approx.)
• 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. (Approx.)
• 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 (Approx.)
• 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. (Approx.)
• 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

Bangladesh currently has 59 public universities listed by the University Grants Commission. These include general universities, engineering universities, agricultural universities, medical universities and specialised institutions for textiles, maritime studies, aviation, digital technology and professional education. Students should use the UGC public university directory as the official reference before applying.

Here’s the thing: a list of 59 universities is helpful, but it can also confuse students. A CSE applicant should not read the list the same way as someone applying for agriculture, law or medicine. For example, BUET, CUET, KUET, RUET and DUET matter more for engineering, while BAU and Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University are more relevant for agriculture-focused students.

For 2026/2027 applicants, use the list below as a starting point. Then check three things: whether the university offers your preferred department, whether admission is open for the current session, and whether the campus has suitable halls, transport and student support.

	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.

Campus life also matters. Check the availability of residential halls, libraries, clubs, sports facilities, cultural activities and transport before choosing a university.

Hostel & Accommodation Availability

Hostel and accommodation should be part of the university decision, especially for students moving from another district. Public universities often have residential halls, but a hall seat is not always guaranteed in the first year.

City-based universities such as DU, BUET, BUP and Jagannath University may require some students to consider private hostels, shared flats or family accommodation. Large campus-based universities such as Jahangirnagar University, Rajshahi University and Chittagong University may offer a more residential student experience, but students should still check hall rules before admission.

Accommodation Option	Best For	What to Check
University hall	Lower-cost campus life	Seat availability, rules and priority
Private hostel	Students without hall seats	Rent, food, distance and security
Shared flat	Senior students or groups	Utility bills, transport and safety
Family accommodation	Students with relatives nearby	Commute time and study space

A parent may look only at tuition fees, but living cost can quietly become the bigger expense. Rent, food, transport and coaching can add up quickly, especially in Dhaka.

Admission Test Dates & Process

Public university admission in Bangladesh usually starts after HSC results and continues through university-wise or cluster-based admission systems. Most students apply online, download admit cards, sit for unit-based admission tests, check merit lists, submit subject choices and then complete final admission.

For Dhaka University, the official undergraduate admission portal for the 2025–2026 academic session has already published special migration and final admission payment notices. That shows one important point for future applicants: the admission process does not end on test day. Students may still need to follow migration, subject allocation and payment updates after results are published.

For 2026/2027 applicants, last year’s dates should only be used for planning. Do not treat them as final. Admission dates can shift depending on HSC results, university decisions and national schedules.

Step	What Students Need to Do
Check eligibility	Match SSC/HSC group, GPA and subject requirements
Apply online	Submit form, photo and application fee
Download admit card	Print or save it before the test date
Sit admission test	MCQ, written, drawing, practical or viva may apply
Check result	Follow merit list and waiting list updates
Choose subject	Submit preferred departments based on rank
Complete admission	Pay fees and submit required documents

Think about it this way: getting a good score is only one part of the process. A student also needs to track deadlines carefully, because missing a migration or payment notice can cost them a seat.

Seat Availability and Competition

Seat availability is one of the biggest reasons public university admission feels so competitive in Bangladesh. A student may qualify for a university but still miss their preferred department because subject allocation depends on merit position, available seats and subject choice.

BUET gives a clear example. For the 2025–26 undergraduate cycle, reports said admission would be granted across 13 departments under five major faculties, with a total of 1,309 seats. The same reporting noted reserved seats for small ethnic group candidates and architecture.

That number explains why students should not only ask, “Can I get into BUET?” A better question is, “Can I get into my preferred BUET department?” CSE, EEE, architecture and other high-demand subjects usually require stronger merit positions.

University / Area	Available Figure	What It Means
BUET undergraduate seats	1,309 seats reported for 2025–26	Highly competitive
BUET departments	13 departments reported	Department choice depends on merit position
Dhaka University	Seats vary by unit and subject	Check the official DU admission portal
Other public universities	Changes every year	Follow each university admission circular

The mildly surprising part? A less famous university can sometimes be the smarter choice if it gives you the department you actually want. Subject fit often matters more than brand name after graduation.

Government Quota System Explained

The government quota system in public university admission gives eligible students access to reserved consideration under specific categories. The exact categories can vary by university and admission year, so students should always check the latest circular before applying.

Common quota categories may include freedom fighter quota, ethnic minority quota, disability quota and other university-specific categories. Dhaka University’s admission portal includes support areas related to photo and quota issues, which is a reminder that students should follow the official portal and notices carefully when applying.

Quota Area	What Students Should Check
Freedom fighter quota	Who is eligible under the latest circular
Ethnic minority quota	Required certificate and accepted communities
Disability quota	Accepted proof and document format
Special community quota	Whether the category applies that year
University-specific quota	Rules may differ by university

The short answer is simple: quota does not usually mean automatic admission. Students still need to meet eligibility rules, sit for the admission test and submit correct documents within the deadline. One missing certificate can create a real problem, even for a qualified student.

Scholarships, Stipends and Financial Support

Public universities in Bangladesh are already more affordable than most private universities, but many students still need help with books, food, transport, admission fees and accommodation. That is where scholarships, stipends and financial support become important.

Students may find support through university funds, government programmes, department-level assistance, merit scholarships and need-based aid. The Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust is an official government body for education assistance, so students should monitor its official notices and services for scholarship-related updates.

Support Type	Who It Helps	What to Prepare
University stipend	Current students with merit or financial need	Result, income certificate and application form
Government assistance	Eligible students from lower-income families	Guardian income proof and academic records
Merit scholarship	High-performing students	GPA, semester result or admission merit
Department aid	Students in specific faculties	Department notice and recommendation
External foundation support	Students meeting donor criteria	Documents vary by organisation

Keep scanned copies of your certificates, NID or birth certificate, guardian income certificate and admission documents ready. Scholarship deadlines often feel sudden, and students who prepare early usually move faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many public universities are in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh has 59 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 59 as of May 2026.

How many seats are there in public universities in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh has about 65,000 seats in public universities. Depending on the year and how institutions are counted, the total is usually estimated in the 60,000 to 70,000 range. Seat numbers can change each admission cycle slightly.

How many public universities are in Dhaka?

There are 9 public universities in Dhaka city. UGC’s official university directory includes Dhaka-based public institutions such as the University of Dhaka, BUET, and Jagannath University, and commonly cited compilations based on the UGC list put the total for Dhaka City at 9.

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.

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).

What is the admission process for Dhaka University?

Dhaka University admission usually includes online application, admit card download, unit-based admission test, result publication, subject choice, migration and final admission payment. For the 2025–26 session, DU’s official admission portal published special migration and final admission payment notices, so applicants should keep checking the portal even after results are published.

Which public university is best for engineering in Bangladesh?

BUET is generally considered the best public university for engineering in Bangladesh. CUET, KUET, RUET and DUET are also strong public engineering universities, especially for students interested in CSE, EEE, civil, mechanical or related technical subjects.

What is the BUET admission cut-off score?

BUET does not follow one fixed cut-off score that stays the same every year. Admission depends on eligibility, test performance, merit position, department choice and available seats. For the 2025–26 cycle, reports said BUET had 1,309 seats across 13 departments, so students should treat admission as highly competitive.

Are there scholarships at public universities in Bangladesh?

Yes, public university students may receive scholarships, stipends or financial assistance through university funds, government programmes and other organisations. Students should monitor their university notice board and official government education assistance sources such as the Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust.

Which public university is best for CSE in Bangladesh?

BUET is usually the top choice for CSE in Bangladesh. SUST, DU, CUET, KUET and RUET are also strong options, depending on admission results, location, facilities and career goals.

Is IUT a public university?

IUT is not a regular Bangladeshi public university like DU, BUET or RU. It is an international university connected with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, located in Gazipur, and is often compared with public engineering universities because of its academic focus.

Which is the largest public university in Bangladesh?

The University of Chittagong is commonly considered the largest public university in Bangladesh by campus area. However, “largest” can also mean student number, number of departments or academic reach, so the answer depends on what the student is comparing.

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.