Studying abroad is expensive, but scholarships can make it affordable. Here are ten real scholarships that Bangladeshi students can apply for in 2026, with details on what they cover and how to apply.
1. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Fully funded Master's and PhD scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries, including Bangladesh. Covers tuition, living allowance, airfare, and thesis expenses. Applications typically open in August and close in October each year. You need a strong academic record and relevant work experience.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
The UK government's global scholarship program. Fully funded for one-year Master's degrees at any UK university. Covers tuition, living expenses, flights, and a settling-in allowance. You need at least two years of work experience and must return to Bangladesh for at least two years after completing your degree. Applications usually open in August.
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's (Europe)
Funded by the European Union, these scholarships cover Master's programs taught across multiple European universities. The scholarship includes tuition, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance. Bangladesh is classified as a Partner Country, which means higher scholarship amounts. Deadlines vary by program, but most fall between October and January.
4. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service offers scholarships for Master's and PhD students. Monthly stipends of around EUR 934 for Master's students, plus health insurance and travel costs. Since many German public universities charge no tuition, this scholarship essentially covers your entire cost of studying. Applications usually close in October for the following academic year.
5. Australia Awards Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships from the Australian government for students from developing countries. Covers tuition, return airfare, a living allowance, health insurance, and an introductory academic program. Bangladesh is an eligible country. Applications close around April each year, and the scholarship is for Master's and PhD programs.
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Worth CAD 50,000 per year for three years, this is one of Canada's most prestigious doctoral scholarships. Open to international students pursuing a PhD at a Canadian university. You need a strong research proposal and academic record. Nominations go through the university, so apply to your program first and then ask about Vanier nominations.
7. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Provides full funding for Bangladeshi students to pursue Master's or PhD degrees in the United States. Covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance. The program is highly competitive. Applications open in February through the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.
8. University-Specific Scholarships (Canada)
Many Canadian universities offer their own scholarships for international students. The University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, and others have entrance scholarships ranging from CAD 5,000 to full tuition waivers. Check each university's financial aid page when you apply. Some are automatic (based on grades), while others require a separate application.
9. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Full funding for postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge. Covers tuition, living allowance, and airfare. Extremely competitive, with only about 80 scholars selected worldwide each year. You apply through the university's graduate admissions process and are automatically considered.
10. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
Offers EUR 10,000 per year toward tuition for one-year Master's programs in Ireland. Not fully funded, but a significant help with costs. Ireland's tech industry and post-study work visa (up to 24 months) make this a strong option for IT and business students.
Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application
Start early. Most competitive scholarships have deadlines six to twelve months before the program starts. Get your IELTS scores and academic documents ready well in advance.
Write a specific, personal statement. Scholarship committees read thousands of generic essays. Talk about your actual experiences, what drives you, and exactly how the degree will help you contribute back home.
Ask for recommendation letters from people who know your work well, not just the most senior person you can find. A detailed letter from a supervisor who worked with you daily is worth more than a vague one from a department head.
If you want help identifying which scholarships match your profile and timeline, book a free consultation with our team.
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