Study in the UK Guide for Bangladesh Students

Bangladesh students have chosen the UK as their preferred study abroad destination for many years. The UK is home to some of the world's best universities, which offer high-quality education, world-class facilities, and an exceptional student experience.

The UK education system is known for its excellence in providing high-quality, internationally recognised learning. All over the world, a UK degree is highly regarded for its emphasis on practical skills, which are highly valued in the job market. Because of this, many employers worldwide are eager to recruit graduates from UK universities, which can be a significant advantage for Bangladesh students who want to work abroad.

The UK is also a multicultural country, and this diversity is reflected in its universities. International students from all over the world come to study in the UK, which creates a rich cultural experience for students. In addition to the academic and cultural benefits, studying in the UK offers Bangladesh students opportunities to improve their English language skills. English is the language of instruction at a UK university, and students will quickly improve their writing, listening, speaking and reading skills.

Keep reading ahead to find out all the information you need as a Bangladeshi student to study in the UK. If you wish to start your application process, book a free consultation with SI-UK experts today.

Studying in the UK from Bangladesh | What to Know

UK Visa for Bangladeshi Students

To study in the UK, international students over 16 years old must obtain a Student Visa. The visa application process for Bangladeshi students includes the following steps:

• Apply for a place at a UK institution and receive a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS).
• Complete the online application form, pay the visa application fee, and book an appointment at a visa application centre in Bangladesh.
• Attend the visa application centre in person to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) and submit supporting documents, which include the CAS, passport, and proof of financial support.
• Wait for the visa decision, which can take up to three weeks or longer during peak application periods.
• Collect the visa from the visa application centre or receive it by courier.

- Is it difficult to get a UK visa as a Bangladeshi student?

The visa application process can vary depending on individual circumstances, and it is advisable to consult the UK government's official website or an SI-UK visa advisor for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa requirements and application procedures.

UK Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

UK universities offer a wide range of scholarships for Bangladeshi students. These scholarships can help alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad and make studying in the UK more accessible.

Types of scholarships available include those funded by the UK government, including Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarships, whilst The Charles Wallace Bangladesh Trust offers to fund students who wish to take up master's degrees in arts, humanities and social sciences, one of the many Bangladesh-specific scholarships available across the country. Enquire with an SI-UK consultant to find out what is available at your time of application.

UK University Entry Requirements for Bangladeshi Students

UK universities generally require Bangladeshi students to have completed a high school education and obtained a qualification equivalent to UK A-levels. Bangladesh's most commonly accepted qualifications are the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and the Alim exam for Islamic Studies.

• For undergraduate degrees, Bangladeshi students must have completed the HSC with a minimum of 60% overall or an equivalent qualification.
• For postgraduate courses, Bangladeshi students must have completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or above or equivalent. Again, it's important to check the specific entry requirements for each course.

In addition to academic qualifications, Bangladeshi students may also need to demonstrate English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test.

Foundation Courses for Bangladeshi Students

Students whose current educational qualifications are insufficient to gain direct entry to a Bachelor's degree in the UK can study a foundation course. These courses act as a bridge between the existing qualifications and the entry requirements needed by UK universities.

Popular UK Degrees for Bangladeshi Students

Bangladesh students studying in the UK pursue a wide range of degree courses. However, certain degrees are particularly popular, including business, engineering, computer science, and law programmes.

Which UK universities have the most Bangladeshi students?

According to the data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the top UK universities with the highest number of Bangladeshi students are:

1. University of East London: 1,710 
2. Queen Mary University of London: 1,320
3. University of Westminster: 1,160
4. University of Salford: 1,045
5. University of Central Lancashire: 950

Bangladesh Student Societies at UK Universities

International student societies at UK universities are student-run organisations that provide support and a sense of community for overseas students studying in the UK. These societies also aim to promote the culture and heritage of each particular country and are a great way to meet like-minded friends from your home country.

The activities and events organised by Bangladesh student societies vary depending on the university and the society's goals. However, common activities include cultural events such as food festivals, musical performances, and traditional performances. Many societies also organise social events such as movie nights, game nights, and outings to local attractions.

Bangladesh National Celebrations in the UK

All major and minor Bangladesh national celebrations are celebrated in the UK, including:

• Independence Day commemorates the day when Bangladesh declared independence from Pakistan in 1971.
• Language Martyrs' Day commemorates the 1952 Bengali Language Movement, which led to the recognition of Bengali as a state language of Pakistan.
• Victory Day commemorates the day when Bangladesh achieved victory over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.
• Eid al-Fitr, a major Muslim festival celebrated at the end of Ramadan.
• Eid al-Adha, a major Muslim festival that commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

UK Cities with Large Bangladeshi Communities

London has the largest Bangladeshi population in the UK, with significant communities in Tower Hamlets, Newham, and other boroughs. Brick Lane in East London is known for its vibrant Bangladeshi community and numerous curry houses. Major Bangladeshi populations exist in other UK cities such as Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, and smaller locations such as Bradford and Luton.

Study in the UK

If you want to join the many Bangladeshi students already studying in the UK, don't wait anymore and arrange a free consultation with the experts of SI-UK today.