Scholarship for Bangladeshi Students in Europe

Erasmus Mundus Scholarships offer an excellent opportunity for Bangladeshi students to study in Europe. Here's an overview of the program:

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process 

• Eligibility criteria depend on the specific Erasmus Mundus program. Generally, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Minimum Language Proficiency in English is required (tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
• Applicants must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a CV, and a statement of purpose.
• A minimum of two years of work experience is required. (if required)
• The application process usually involves applying directly to the Erasmus Mundus program through their online portal. Deadlines vary but are often in the fall for programs starting the following academic year.

Popular Erasmus Mundus Programs in Europe

• Erasmus Mundus offers a wide range of programs covering various fields such as engineering, social sciences, humanities, and more.
• Some popular programs include the International Master in Security, Intelligence, and Strategic Studies (IMSISS), European Master in Renewable Energy (EUREC), and Master in Advanced Robotics (EMARO).

Key Advantages of Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

Financial Support: Erasmus Mundus Scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and insurance. It provides a monthly allowance that reduces the financial burden for Bangladeshi students.

International Experience: Students can study in multiple countries, gaining exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives.

High-Quality Education: Erasmus Mundus programs are known for their excellence in teaching and research, providing students with a top-notch education.

DAAD (The German Academic Exchange Service) is another popular scholarship in Europe for Bangladeshi students. It offers students to pursue Masters, PhDs, and research stays across various European disciplines. Two years of work experience (minimum) is required.

How to Apply for DAAD Scholarships

• Interested Bangladeshi students can apply directly to DAAD scholarship programs through the DAAD portal or university websites.
• Application requirements typically include academic transcripts, LOR (letters of recommendation), CV, SOP, and proof of language proficiency (usually German or English).
• Deadlines can vary based on the different programs, but they are usually in the fall for programs starting the following academic year.

Notable Universities in Germany Offering DAAD Scholarships

• Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
• Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
• RWTH Aachen University

3. British Chevening Scholarships

How to Apply for British Chevening Scholarships

• Bangladeshi students interested in Chevening Scholarships can apply online through the Chevening website during the application period. Typically, it opens in August and closes in November.
• The applicants must complete an online application form providing essential documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a CV, and an SOP outlining career goals and leadership potential.
• Applicants must also show English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Shortlisted applicants are invited for an interview as part of the selection process for British Chevening Scholarships.

Notable Universities in the UK Hosting British Chevening Scholars

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• London School of Economics and Political Science
• University of Edinburgh

Eligibility Criteria

• Bangladeshi citizenship or permanent residency.
• A bachelor's degree or equal qualification from an identified institution.
• Proficiency in English or the language of instruction required by the host country.
• There could be some additional requirements specified by the Fulbright Commission or the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.

Application Process

• Bangladeshi students interested in Fulbright Scholarships can apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.
• The application process typically involves submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a project proposal or study plan.
• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English and may need to take standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
• In the selection process, candidates who make it to the shortlist are often asked to attend interviews.

Prominent U.S. Universities Offering Fulbright Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Columbia University
• University of California, Berkeley

Other European Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

5. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

• The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships support international students in pursuing research or postgraduate studies in Switzerland.
• Benefits include full or partial tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and health insurance coverage.
• Programs are available in various fields, including engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
• Scholarships enable students to benefit from Switzerland's renowned academic institutions and research facilities.

6. Eiffel Excellence Scholarships

• This is granted by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to support international students studying in France.
• Benefits include full financial support, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance.
• The program prioritizes excellence and aims to attract top talent to French universities and institutions.
• Eiffel Scholars have access to various master's and doctoral programs in various disciplines.

7. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

• MSCA is one of the popular fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students. It offers funding opportunities for doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and experienced researchers to research in Europe.
• Benefits include competitive salaries, research expenses, and career development training.
• MSCA programs promote interdisciplinary research and international collaboration, providing opportunities to work with leading European research institutions.

8. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals

• The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for master's programs in Sweden, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants.
• Scholarships are available in various fields, including sustainable development, innovation, and social sciences.
• Recipients gain access to Sweden's vibrant academic and research community, known for its innovation and sustainability initiatives.

9. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• The Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports outstanding international students in pursuing postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge, UK.
• Benefits include full financial support, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Scholarships are given out in accordance with a candidate's academic standing, capacity for leadership, and dedication to enhancing the lives of others.

10. Netherlands Fellowship Programs (NFP)

• The Netherlands Fellowship Programs provide scholarships for professionals from developing countries, including Bangladesh. It offers short courses for master's and Ph.D. studies in the Netherlands.
• Scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, insurance, and living allowances.
• NFP programs focus on capacity building and knowledge exchange. It contributes to sustainable development in the student's home countries.

General Eligibility Requirements for Bangladeshi Students

• Bangladeshi citizenship or permanent residency status.
• Typically, a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Scholarship without IELTS in Europe is impossible. Proficiency in English or the language of instruction required by the host country is demonstrated through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
• Completion of any additional eligibility criteria specified by the scholarship program or host institution.

Tips for Creating a Compelling Scholarship Application

Research: Research the scholarship program and host institution to understand their values, objectives, and expectations.

Tailor your application: Customize your application materials, including your statement, CV, and study/research proposal, to align with the scholarship's requirements and objectives.

Highlight achievements: Showcase your academic achievements, leadership experiences, extracurricular activities, and relevant professional achievements.

Obtain strong recommendations: You can request a letter of recommendation from your professors, employers, or supervisors who can testify to your educational abilities and character.

Necessary Documents and Deadlines

• Personal Statement
• CV/Resume
• Academic Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Language Proficiency Test Scores
• Study/Research Proposal

Application Deadlines

Be mindful of application deadlines, which may vary depending on the scholarship program or host institution. To prevent any last-minute problems, submit your application before the deadline.

Diverse Academic Opportunities and International Exposure: Europe is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities. Those universities offer a wide range of academic programs across various fields. Studying in Europe gives students access to diverse teaching methods.

Cultural Enrichment and Language Learning Benefits: Europe boasts a rich cultural heritage that provides students with opportunities for artistic exploration and immersion.

Career Prospects and Networking Advantages: Graduates of European universities are highly desired by employers worldwide due to their rigorous academic standards.

"Receiving the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity for me. Studying in Europe has exposed me to cutting-edge research, diverse perspectives, and a global network of peers. The scholarship covered my tuition fees and living expenses. It has significantly improved my academic and personal growth."

"At first, I didn’t know how to get a scholarship in Europe. But later, I learned about DAAD, which offers me a master's degree in Germany without financial constraints. The scholarship provided financial support and facilitated that improved my academic life.”

Testimonial from Fatima Ahmed, Chevening Scholarship Recipient

"My affection for entrepreneurship has led me to study at a prestigious university in the United Kingdom. Thanks to the Chevening Scholarship. This scholarship provided me with financial stability, mentorship, and access to a community of scholars and professionals.”

"The Fulbright Scholarship has catalyzed my academic development. It enabled me to conduct research at a leading university in Europe, collaborate with experts in my field, and contribute to innovative projects. The scholarship supported my studies and encouraged cultural exchange and cross-cultural understanding.”

Tips for Successful Scholarship Applications

Start your scholarship by researching various European scholarship opportunities for Bangladeshi students. Consider factors such as eligibility criteria, application requirements, deadlines, and the specific benefits each scholarship program offers.

Highlight Academic Achievements and Extracurricular Activities

Highlight your academic achievements, including high grades, awards, scholarships, and academic honors, in your scholarship application. You can also showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, community service, sports, or cultural activities.

Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Tailor your statement to each scholarship program, addressing specific prompts or questions in the application guidelines. Also, highlight your academic and career goals.

Secure Strong Recommendation Letters

Choose recommenders who know you and can speak to your educational abilities, work ethic, and potential for success. Request recommendation letters before the application deadline to give your recommenders much time to write and submit them.

Yes, there are scholarships specifically designed for Bangladeshi female students, depending on the program and eligibility criteria.