Studying in the UK offers world‐class education and diverse cultural experiences. I know you dream of studying at top UK universities and gaining global career opportunities. Every year, thousands of Bangladeshi students apply for a UK scholarship for Bangladeshi students to unlock these benefits.
Financial barriers are real. Tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses can be overwhelming. Scholarships reduce this burden and open doors to full funding or partial funding options.
Top 5 Reasons to Study in the UK:
- Academic excellence and strong academic merit
- Global networking and career advancement
- Exposure to diverse cultures and leadership development
- Lower tuition fee burdens through available scholarships
- Access to cutting‐edge research and UK education experts
Types of UK Scholarships Available for Bangladeshi Students
Government-Funded Scholarships
UK government programs, such as Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarships, support master’s and PhD studies. Chevening is a flagship program that covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses. Commonwealth Scholarships offer full funding to excellent Bangladeshi students who meet strict eligibility criteria and have strong leadership qualities.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many UK universities offer scholarships based on academic merit and financial need. Options include the Clarendon Fund at Oxford, Gates Cambridge Scholarships, and GREAT Scholarships at institutions like Aston University and the University of Manchester. These awards often cover full tuition or provide partial funding.
Private/Organizational Scholarships
Scholarships from private organizations and partnerships with the British Council also exist. Programs such as the British Council Women in STEM and the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships target emerging leaders in social sciences and STEM. They help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes visa costs.
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship | Level | Funding (Coverage) | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | Master’s (1-year) | Fully funded (tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, etc.) | Early November |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Master’s & PhD | Fully funded (tuition, stipend, return airfare) | Varies by scheme |
| GREAT Scholarships (Bangladesh) | Master’s (1-year) | Partial (£10,000 toward tuition) | Varies by university |
| British Council Women in STEM | Master’s (STEM fields) | Fully funded (tuition, stipend, travel, visa/health fees) | Varies |
| Reach Oxford Scholarship | Undergraduate (3–4 yr) | Fully funded (tuition, living allowance, annual airfare) | Oct (admission) & Feb (scholarship) |
| Rhodes Scholarship | Postgraduate (Oxford) | Fully funded (tuition, stipend for 2+ years) | August/Sept |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Master’s & PhD | Fully funded (tuition, generous stipend) | December/January |
| Clarendon Fund (Oxford) | Master’s & PhD | Fully funded (tuition & annual grant for living costs) | January |
| Univ. of Westminster Int’l Scholarships | Undergraduate & Master’s | Fully funded (tuition, accommodation, living expenses) | May |
| Nottingham Developing Solutions | Master’s (1-year) | Partial (50% or 100% tuition fee waiver) | Mid-April |
| Bristol “Think Big” Scholarships | Undergraduate & Master’s | Partial (£5,000–£20,000 tuition reduction) | March/April |
| Sussex Chancellor’s International | Master’s | Partial (50% tuition fee waiver) | May |
| Sheffield International Merit | Undergraduate & Master’s | Partial (50% tuition waiver) | May |
| Manchester Global Futures Scholarships | Undergraduate & Master’s | Partial (£8,000/year for UG; £8,000 for PG) | April |
| Imperial President’s PhD Scholarship | PhD | Fully funded (tuition, ~£25k stipend + £2k research fund) | Jan/Mar |
Additional Scholarship Tables
Key UK Government Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students (2025-26)
| Scholarship Name | Study Level | Key Eligibility Criteria | Benefits Covered | Application Deadline (Expected) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarships | Master’s | Bangladeshi citizen, return commitment, 2 years work experience, qualifying undergraduate degree, and apply to 3 UK courses | Tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, allowances | November 2024 |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Master’s, PhD | Commonwealth citizen (including Bangladesh), academic excellence, and financial need demonstration | Tuition fees, airfare, living expenses | Varies by scholarship type |
| GREAT Scholarships | Master’s (MA) | Bangladeshi citizen residing in Bangladesh, bachelor’s degree, offer letter from a UK university, English proficiency | £10,000 toward tuition fees | May-June 2025 (Varies by University) |
Key University-Specific Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students (Focus on Top Universities)
| University Name | Scholarship Name | Study Level | Key Eligibility Criteria | Brief Description of Benefits | Application Deadline (Expected) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | Clarendon Fund Scholarships | Postgraduate | Open to all nationalities; based on academic merit | Full tuition, college fees, living expenses | January (Varies by course) |
| University of Oxford | Rhodes Scholarship | Postgraduate | Varies by constituency; academic excellence and leadership | Full course fees, annual stipend | July-October (Varies) |
| University of Cambridge | Gates Cambridge Scholarships | Postgraduate | Non-UK citizens; outstanding academic ability and leadership | Full tuition, living expenses, travel allowance | December/January |
| University of Cambridge | Cambridge Trust International Scholarships | Postgraduate | Non-UK/Ireland citizens; high ranking by department | Tuition fee, annual stipend, immigration health surcharge | Varies by course |
Key Non-Governmental and Charitable Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students
| Scholarship Name | Study Level | Key Eligibility Criteria | Brief Description of Benefits | Application Deadline (Expected) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wolfson Foundation Scholarships | Postgraduate | International students; eligible for Bangladeshi applicants | Around £20,000 funding | Varies |
| British Council’s Scholarships for Women in STEM | Postgraduate | Women from specified countries (including Bangladesh), STEM background, financial need | Full tuition, living stipend, visa and health coverage | March-April (Varies) |
| A.S. Hornby Educational Trust Scholarships | Postgraduate | Experienced English language teachers from Bangladesh | Covers full costs in the UK (stipend, fees, travel) | October |
| Charles Wallace Bangladesh Trust Scholarships | Postgraduate | Bangladeshi professionals seeking advanced studies | Partial funding to cover living costs and research | Varies |
Eligibility Criteria: Are You Qualified?
Academic Requirements
You must have strong academic records. A good GPA and high IELTS/TOEFL scores are essential. Your undergraduate degree should show academic excellence and achievement.
Country-Specific Conditions
You must be a Bangladeshi student with Bangladeshi citizenship or permanent residency. Some scholarships may require that you return to your home country after your master’s degree. Age limits may also apply.
Soft Skills and Experience
Leadership qualities, extracurricular activities, and community involvement matter. Many schemes, like Chevening, require two years of work or volunteer experience. Strong letters of recommendation and a clear personal statement boost your chances.
Checklist: Key Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum GPA and academic merit
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Bangladeshi citizenship/residency
- Leadership experience and community service
- Complete application form and statement of purpose
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Research and Shortlist
Begin by researching on trusted portals and university websites. Use scholarship databases from the British Council and UK education experts. Shortlist available options that match your profile and academic interests.
Prepare Essential Documents
Gather your transcripts, letters of recommendation, passport copy, and English test scores. Write a clear personal statement. Fill out the application form with care.
Write a Winning Application
Tailor your essays to show your leadership qualities and career goals. Use a strong statement of purpose and highlight extracurricular activities. Avoid generic essays and missing details.
Submit and Follow Up
Submit your scholarship application before the deadline. Track your applications and follow up with the respective UK universities or national nominating agencies.
Timeline:
- Chevening: Deadline in November
- GREAT Scholarships: Deadlines vary from March to May
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Typically December deadlines
Overcoming Challenges: Tips for Success
Financial Hurdles
Budget carefully for uncovered costs such as travel expenses and books. Consider part funding options and external grants to ease financial burden.
Competition and Preparation
Prepare early to stand out among outstanding students. Work on your leadership skills and academic excellence. Maintain clear, concise personal statements.
Cultural and Logistical Barriers
Plan for visa processes and cultural adjustments. Reach out to UK education experts and join alumni networks for support.
Pro Tips
Apply to multiple scholarships. Seek mentorship and proofread all documents meticulously.
“Start early—the best applications take time!” – A successful scholarship recipient
Benefits Beyond Financial Support
Career Advancement
Scholarships can increase your earning potential after graduation. You gain access to global networks and UK work experience that boost your resume.
Personal Growth
Studying abroad in the United Kingdom develops your leadership potential and expands your worldview. You gain exposure to diverse social sciences, arts, and STEM fields.
Long-Term Impact
A UK scholarship for Bangladeshi students helps you contribute to the development of your home country. As you learn in top UK universities, your skills support Bangladesh’s progress.
Success Stories: Inspiration from Bangladeshi Scholars
Case Study 1
A Chevening recipient from Dhaka earned a master’s degree at a prestigious UK university. His academic excellence and leadership qualities impressed the selection process and helped him secure full funding.
Case Study 2
A GREAT Scholarship winner balanced studies and part-time work in London. She used her scholarship application to showcase her potential and leadership skills.
Testimonial: “My scholarship opened doors I never imagined.” – Anonymous alum
Resources and Next Steps
Essential Websites
Consult portals from the British Council, Chevening, and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for the latest updates.
Local Support
Reach out to educational consultancies, alumni networks, and your local UK embassy for guidance. Your community and social media groups can also help.
Final Checklist
Remember to:
- Research thoroughly
- Prepare all necessary documents
- Submit your application on time
- Follow up with institutions
Conclusion: Your Path to a UK Education
I encourage you to begin your search for a UK scholarship for Bangladeshi students today. Start early, target the right scholarships, and lean on your support network to guide you. Every strong application and well-prepared document brings you closer to your dreams.
Your journey is both personal and transformative. May your academic excellence and leadership qualities shine, and may you use your success to benefit Bangladesh.
“Begin your scholarship search today—your future self will thank you!”
UK Scholarships (FAQs)
Can I work in the UK on a student visa?
Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Are there scholarships for undergraduates?
Yes, many options exist, such as the Reach Oxford Scholarship and University of Westminster International Scholarships.
What if my grades aren’t perfect?
Emphasize your leadership qualities, strong personal statement, and extracurricular activities. Consider need-based scholarships.
How to get a 100% scholarship in the UK?
Explore fully funded scholarship programs such as Chevening, Rhodes, Commonwealth, and Clarendon Fund available in the UK. Maintain excellent academic records, strong leadership skills, and relevant work experience to enhance your application. Follow each scholarship’s official guidelines carefully and submit all required documents well ahead of deadlines.
Can I get a 50% scholarship in the UK?
Many prestigious UK universities and private organizations offer scholarships that provide 50% tuition fee reductions. Review the specific eligibility requirements and detailed funding options on the official pages of individual universities.
How much does it cost to study in the UK from Bangladesh?
Tuition fees for international students in the UK range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year. On average, living expenses in the UK typically cost between £10,000 and £15,000 each year. Overall study costs depend on the chosen university, course, and lifestyle choices in the UK.
How many Bangladeshi Students can go to UK every year?
Recent statistics suggest that approximately 3,000 to 5,000 Bangladeshi students pursue higher education in the UK every year. The exact number varies with updated immigration policies and changing university admission trends across the UK. Official student enrollment figures are published annually by UK government agencies and international education organizations.