Studying abroad can change your life, but the cost of tuition, travel and living can feel impossible for many families in Bangladesh. The good news is that several governments and organisations offer scholarships that Bangladeshi students can apply for, and some of them are fully funded.
This guide lists major scholarships open to Bangladeshi students, what level they cover, how to apply and tips to improve your chances. Details change every year, so always confirm the latest rules and deadlines on the official website before you apply.
Quick Overview
| Scholarship | Country | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarships | UK | One-year master’s |
| Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships | UK | One-year master’s |
| Commonwealth PhD Scholarships | UK | PhD |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | USA | Master’s |
| MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship | Japan | Undergraduate, master’s, PhD and more |
| Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | South Korea | Undergraduate and postgraduate |
| Australia Awards | Australia | Mainly postgraduate |
| DAAD Scholarships | Germany | Mainly postgraduate |
| Chinese Government Scholarship | China | Undergraduate to PhD |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s | Europe | Master’s |
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Chevening is the UK government’s international scholarship programme for future leaders. It funds one-year taught master’s degrees at UK universities. Bangladesh is an eligible country.
Key requirements include:
- At least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience after your undergraduate degree
- An undergraduate degree that lets you enter a UK master’s programme
- Applications to three eligible UK university courses
- A commitment to return to Bangladesh for at least two years after the award
The 2027–28 round is already closed. Applications usually open again in the second half of the year, so watch the official Chevening channels. We explain the rules in detail in our separate Chevening requirements guide.
2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (UK)
These scholarships are for students from eligible Commonwealth countries, including Bangladesh, who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. They fund a one-year taught master’s degree.
According to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, the award covers return airfare, full tuition fees, a monthly stipend and a study travel grant. Applicants usually need at least an upper second-class degree (2:1) or equivalent.
Important: you cannot apply directly to the Commission. You must first apply through a nominating body in your country, then complete the online application. For the 2027/28 intake, applications closed on 20 October 2026.
3. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (UK)
The Commission also funds doctoral study for students from eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. As with the master’s awards, you apply through a nominating body. Strong research proposals linked to development in your home country are important.
4. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright programme funds master’s degrees in the United States for young professionals. In Bangladesh it is run through the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.
The embassy’s Fulbright call for applications lists requirements such as:
- A four-year bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record
- At least two years of full-time professional experience in your field
- No previous U.S. degree or foreign master’s degree (a Bangladeshi master’s is acceptable)
- Strong English test scores (the listed minimum was TOEFL iBT 90 or IELTS 7.0)
- Bangladeshi citizenship and residence in Bangladesh when applying
5. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
The Japanese government’s MEXT scholarship is one of the most popular options for Bangladeshi students. The Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh lists several categories:
- Research Student: for master’s and PhD study
- Undergraduate Student: for applicants aged 17 to 21 with HSC or equivalent
- College of Technology Student: similar age and schooling rules
- Teacher Training Student: for school teachers with at least five years’ experience
Selection through the embassy usually includes written exams and an interview. Some universities in Japan also nominate MEXT students directly.
6. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
The Korean government’s GKS programme supports international students for undergraduate and graduate degrees, and normally includes a Korean language training year. Applications are made through Korean embassies or directly through participating universities, depending on the track. Read our full guide to the Global Korea Scholarship for details.
7. Australia Awards
Australia Awards are long-term development scholarships funded by the Australian government for students from partner countries. They mainly support postgraduate study and expect awardees to return home and contribute to development. Check the Australia Awards website for the current list of eligible countries and fields.
8. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers many scholarships for international students and researchers. Some programmes are aimed at professionals from developing countries who want to study development-related master’s degrees. Many public universities in Germany also charge low or no tuition fees, which makes Germany attractive even with partial funding.
9. Chinese Government Scholarship
The Chinese government funds international students at many Chinese universities, from bachelor’s to PhD level. Some courses are taught in English. For more information, see our guide to scholarships in China.
10. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (Europe)
Erasmus Mundus programmes are joint master’s degrees offered by groups of European universities. Students usually study in two or more countries. Scholarships are available to students from any country, including Bangladesh, and are applied for through each programme directly.
Documents You Will Usually Need
- Passport
- Academic certificates and transcripts (SSC, HSC, bachelor’s, master’s)
- English test results (IELTS or TOEFL), if required
- Statement of purpose or personal essays
- Two or more recommendation letters
- CV or resume
- Research proposal (for PhD and research awards)
- Proof of work experience (for awards like Chevening and Fulbright)
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Start a year early. Many big scholarships have long application processes.
- Read the eligibility rules carefully. Do not waste time on awards you do not qualify for.
- Prepare for English tests early. A good IELTS or TOEFL score opens many doors.
- Write strong, honest essays. Show your goals and how you will help Bangladesh.
- Build experience. Work, research and volunteering strengthen most applications.
- Apply to several scholarships. Competition is high, so do not rely on one.
- Use only official websites. Avoid agents who promise guaranteed scholarships for a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best fully funded scholarship for Bangladeshi students?
There is no single best one. Chevening, Commonwealth, Fulbright and MEXT are among the best known. The right choice depends on your level, subject and experience.
Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?
Some programmes accept other proof of English, and some countries (like Japan, Korea and China) may focus on other language requirements. But many major awards still ask for IELTS or TOEFL, so it helps to have a score.
Are there undergraduate scholarships for Bangladeshi students?
Yes. MEXT, GKS and the Chinese Government Scholarship all include undergraduate options. Read our guide to fully funded undergraduate scholarships for more.
Conclusion
Bangladeshi students have real chances to study abroad with full funding. Choose scholarships that match your level and goals, prepare documents early, and write honest, focused applications. Always check deadlines and rules on official websites, because they change every year.
