How can I apply for government scholarships in Bangladesh?

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How can I apply for government scholarships in Bangladesh for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, both domestically and internationally? Please outline the general process, including where to find official information, the typical eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application steps. Also, mention any major scholarship programs I should be aware of, such as those offered by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or other government bodies.

To apply for government scholarships in Bangladesh, you must follow a structured process primarily managed by various government ministries and educational boards. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide:

1. Identify the Relevant Scholarship

Government scholarships are offered by different entities for various levels of education:

  • Primary and Secondary Education: Scholarships are provided by the Ministry of Education, Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education, and upazila/ district education offices. Examples include the Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust scholarships, stipends for secondary students, and merit-based scholarships.
  • Higher Education: Scholarships are offered by the Ministry of Education, University Grants Commission (UGC), and specific universities. Examples include the National Science and Technology (NST) Fellowship, Bangabandhu Fellowship, and scholarships for MSc/PhD research.
  • Technical and Vocational Education: Managed by the Ministry of Education and Directorate of Technical Education.
  • Special Groups: Scholarships for minorities, disabled students, and freedom fighters’ descendants are offered by respective ministries.

2. Check Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility varies by scholarship but generally includes:

  • Bangladeshi citizenship.
  • Financial need (family income below a threshold, often BDT 100,000–200,000 annually).
  • Academic merit (minimum GPA/class standing).
  • Enrollment in a recognized institution.
  • Specific criteria for gender, region, or community (e.g., minorities, tribal groups).
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3. Gather Required Documents

Commonly needed documents:

  • Completed application form (online or paper-based).
  • Academic transcripts and certificates (previous and current).
  • Proof of income (e.g., parent’s/guardian’s salary certificate, tax return, or affidavit).
  • National ID card (student and parent/guardian).
  • Birth certificate.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Recommendation letters (for higher education scholarships).
  • Admission letter (if applicable).
  • Proof of special status (e.g., freedom fighter certificate, disability certificate).

4. Application Process

  • Online Application: Many scholarships (e.g., Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust) require online registration via dedicated portals (e.g., www.pmeducationtrust.gov.bd). Fill out the form, upload documents, and submit.
  • Offline Application: For some scholarships, collect forms from:
    • Educational institutions (schools/colleges/universities).
    • District or upazila education offices.
    • Ministry offices.
  • Submit the completed form with documents to the designated authority (e.g., head of institution, district education officer).

5. Submission Timeline

  • Scholarships are typically announced through:
    • Official government websites (e.g., Ministry of Education, UGC).
    • Notices in educational institutions.
    • National newspapers and online portals.
  • Adhere strictly to deadlines, which often align with the academic year (e.g., applications open in January–March for annual scholarships).

6. Selection Process

  • Applications are scrutinized by committees (e.g., institutional, district, or national levels).
  • Selection based on merit and need; sometimes includes written tests or interviews.
  • Lists of selected candidates are published on official websites or displayed at institutions.

7. Disbursement of Funds

  • Scholarships are usually disbursed through bank transfers or institutional channels.
  • Maintain a bank account for direct deposits.

8. Key Government Scholarship Programs

  • Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust: For poor but meritorious students from primary to higher education. Apply online via their portal.
  • Secondary Education Stipend Project: For secondary students (classes 6–12). Apply through schools.
  • National Science and Technology (NST) Fellowship: For MSc and PhD researchers in science and technology. Apply via UGC or NST portal.
  • Bangabandhu Science and Technology Fellowship: For talented students in science and technology at the university level.
  • Scholarships for Minorities and Tribal Students: Managed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs or Social Welfare Ministry.
  • Scholarships for Children of Freedom Fighters: Administered by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs.
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9. Important Tips

  • Regularly check official websites for updates:
  • Ensure all documents are authentic; false information can lead to disqualification.
  • Seek assistance from your educational institution’s scholarship cell or administrative office.
  • For rural areas, contact upazila education officers for guidance.

10. Contact for Help

  • For queries, reach out to:
    • Ministry of Education: Phone +88-02-9559333.
    • UGC: Phone +88-02-9114700.
    • Local education offices or institutional authorities.

By following these steps and staying informed through official channels, you can successfully apply for government scholarships in Bangladesh.

Published: October 6, 2025