Scholarships in the USA for Bangladeshi Students

So, you’ve been dreaming of studying in the USA—one of the world's most prestigious educational hubs—but there’s one massive hurdle in your way: cost. Let's be real here, studying in the U.S. can be pricey, and without proper financial planning, it might feel like a dream slipping through your fingers. But fear not! Scholarships are here to save the day. And if you’re a Bangladeshi student looking to pursue your degree in the U.S., you’re in luck. The USA offers a ton of scholarships for international students like you, making your dream education within reach.

This guide is packed with everything you need to know about scoring scholarships in the U.S., including stats, entry requirements, and expert tips on how to stand out as an applicant. Let’s dive right into it!

Why Study in the USA? 

The United States boasts a jaw-dropping 5,000+ colleges and universities, making it the top study destination for students around the world. But it’s not just about the numbers—the U.S. education system consistently ranks as one of the best globally. Whether you’re eyeing a top-tier Ivy League school or a community college, the country offers unmatched diversity in programs and a wealth of career opportunities.

According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, over 50 U.S. universities are listed among the top 100 globally. Universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT aren’t just names—they’re powerhouses for academic research, innovation, and a strong global alumni network.

Quick Stats:

• 5,000+ colleges and universities across the country
• 50+ universities in the top 100 of the QS rankings
• The U.S. is home to 1 million international students annually, with about 8,000–10,000 Bangladeshi students currently studying across various programs.

Types of Scholarships Available for Bangladeshi Students

Let’s break down the scholarship options available to you as a Bangladeshi student into easy-to-understand categories:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships These are the big ones! Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. If your GPA is high and you’ve aced your standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT, you’re in the running. Plus, merit scholarships aren’t restricted to just your academic record—your extracurriculars, leadership skills, and volunteer work can make you shine.    
2. Need-Based Scholarships Financial hardship doesn’t have to be the end of your dream to study abroad. Need-based scholarships are designed for students who show significant financial need. You’ll typically need to provide documentation to show your family’s income level, but these scholarships can cover a huge chunk of your expenses, sometimes even including tuition, housing, and meals.
3. University-Specific Scholarships Almost every U.S. university offers its own set of scholarships for international students. From full-ride scholarships to partial awards, these can be a game-changer. Check each university’s official website to find out more about specific scholarship programs you might qualify for.
4. External Scholarships These are scholarships offered by organizations, companies, and even governments (both from the U.S. and Bangladesh!). They’re usually more competitive, but the perks are amazing. Think programs like The Fulbright Scholarship, Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship, and many more.
5. Field-Specific Scholarships Certain scholarships are aimed at students pursuing degrees in specific fields like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), business, medicine, and law. For example, if you're into computer science or engineering, you'll find a plethora of scholarships because the U.S. wants top talent in those fields.

Top Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students in the USA

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

This is one of the most well-known scholarships out there. It’s funded by the U.S. government and offers full scholarships for graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world, including Bangladesh. The Fulbright covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Open to students applying for a Master’s or Ph.D. program. Candidates should have a strong academic record and demonstrate the potential for leadership in their field.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is essential. Scores from standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL are typically required.
• Experience: Relevant professional or academic experience can be advantageous.

Award Amount:

• Tuition Coverage: Full coverage of tuition fees.
• Living Expenses: A generous living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
• Travel Costs: Round-trip airfare to and from the U.S.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance during the program duration.

Application Deadline:

• When to Apply: The application cycle usually opens in March and closes in June each year. Specific dates can vary by country, so it’s essential to check the Fulbright website or the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh for the exact deadline.

2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

This fellowship isn’t a traditional degree program but rather an opportunity for experienced professionals to develop leadership skills and foster knowledge exchange. This non-degree program still allows for academic study at U.S. universities.

Eligibility:

• Professional Experience: Applicants must be mid-career professionals with at least five years of significant experience in their field.
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to public service are crucial.
• Language Proficiency: Strong English language skills are required.

Award Amount:

• Tuition Coverage: Full coverage of tuition fees and academic expenses.
• Living Expenses: A stipend to cover housing, food, and other living costs.
• Travel Costs: Airfare to and from the U.S., and possibly additional travel within the U.S.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance throughout the fellowship period.

Duration:

• Program Length: The fellowship lasts for 10 months, typically starting in August.

Application Deadline:

• When to Apply: Applications are generally due in October of the year preceding the start of the program.

3. The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Though not limited to the U.S., many awardees use this scholarship to study at U.S. universities. This scholarship covers the full cost of a Master’s degree in development-related fields.

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Applicants must be from developing countries and hold a Bachelor’s degree. They should apply for a Master’s program in development-related fields.
• Experience: At least three years of relevant work experience in a development-related field.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized test scores or academic records.

Award Amount:

• Tuition Coverage: Full tuition fees for the Master’s program.
• Living Expenses: A monthly stipend to cover living costs.
• Travel Costs: Round-trip airfare to and from the host university.
• Health Insurance: Coverage for health insurance during the study period.

Application Deadline:

• When to Apply: Applications are usually due in May each year. Specific deadlines are announced on the program’s website.

4. The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)

The UGRAD program provides one-semester scholarships to undergraduate students from underrepresented groups for non-degree study at U.S. institutions.

• Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in an undergraduate program.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition, airfare, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.

5. AAUW International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. If you’re a Bangladeshi woman pursuing a full-time Master’s or Ph.D. in the U.S., this is a stellar option.

• Eligibility: Women pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies.
• Award Amount: $18,000 (Master’s), $20,000 (Ph.D.)
• Application Deadline: Typically around December 1st.

U.S. University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Here are a few top institutions that Bangladeshi students should keep on their radar:

1. Harvard University Scholarships

Harvard offers need-based scholarships to international students. Depending on your family’s financial situation, the scholarship could cover up to 100% of tuition fees.

• Average Scholarship Amount: $10,000–$60,000/year

2. Stanford University Scholarships

Like Harvard, Stanford provides need-based financial aid to students. Their aid packages typically include grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid.

• Average Award Amount: Can cover up to 100% of tuition based on financial need.

3. Columbia University’s International Students Financial Aid

Columbia offers a variety of scholarships for international students based on both merit and need. Scholarships range from partial to full coverage.

• Average Award Amount: Varies; typically around $25,000–$50,000/year.

4. Yale University Scholarships

Yale has one of the most generous financial aid systems in the world. They meet 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans.

• Average Scholarship: Full tuition coverage depending on financial need.

5. University of Southern California (USC) International Scholarships

USC offers several scholarships, including the Trustee Scholarship and Presidential Scholarship, both of which are available to international students.

• Award Amount: Varies, with full-tuition scholarships available for top candidates.

Admission and Scholarship Application Requirements for Bangladeshi Students

For Undergraduate Programs:

1. GPA: Minimum of 3.0 in SSC and HSC.
2. Test Scores:
   • SAT: Aim for a score of 1200+.
   • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0, but many top-tier universities will expect 7.0 or higher.
   • TOEFL: Minimum 80 on the internet-based test (iBT), but try for 100+ to stand out.

For Graduate Programs:

1. CGPA: Minimum 2.5 in your Bachelor’s.
2. Test Scores:
   • GRE/GMAT: GRE scores of 300+ or GMAT scores of 600+ are considered competitive.
   • IELTS/TOEFL: Same as for undergraduates, but 7.0 on the IELTS or 100+ on TOEFL iBT is preferable.
3. Additional Documents:
   • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
   • Letters of recommendation
   • Research papers (for Ph.D. programs)

Scholarships from Bangladeshi Organizations and Government

Aside from U.S.-based scholarships, several organizations in Bangladesh also provide financial support to students pursuing degrees abroad, including the U.S.

1. The Prime Minister’s Fellowship Program (PM Fellowship)

This prestigious fellowship is aimed at supporting talented Bangladeshi students in pursuing Master’s and Ph.D. programs at renowned global institutions, including those in the U.S. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel.

• Eligibility: High-achieving students planning to pursue graduate degrees.
• Award Amount: Full or partial coverage of tuition and living expenses.

2. Bangladesh Scholarship Council (BSC)

The Bangladesh Scholarship Council partners with international organizations to provide scholarships for Bangladeshi students. They offer a wide range of scholarships, including those for students going to the U.S.

• Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students.
• Award Amount: Varies; often provides partial scholarships for living and tuition costs.

3. The Ministry of Education (Bangladesh) Scholarships

The Ministry of Education offers scholarships to support talented students in pursuing higher education overseas. Students studying in the U.S. are eligible to apply for these grants.

• Eligibility: Merit and need-based.
• Award Amount: Varies; typically supports tuition and living expenses.

Cost Breakdown

Studying in the U.S. can be expensive, but let’s break it down with some real numbers to see how scholarships can help ease the financial burden.

Average Annual Cost for International Students in the USA:

• Tuition and Fees: $20,000 to $50,000+
• Living Expenses (Housing, Meals, etc.): $10,000 to $20,000
• Health Insurance: $1,500 to $2,000
• Books and Supplies: $1,000
• Travel and Miscellaneous Expenses: $2,000

So, without any scholarships, you’re looking at a total of $35,000 to $75,000 per year. Yikes, right?

But here’s where scholarships come in handy. Let’s say you receive a merit-based scholarship that covers half your tuition at a private university, which charges $40,000/year. That’s $20,000 saved on tuition alone. Add a need-based scholarship that helps cover your living expenses to the tune of $10,000/year, and you’re already cutting your costs by a significant margin.

Many students use external scholarships to cover the remaining expenses, like books and health insurance, which means you could end up paying much less than you originally thought.

Part-Time Work and Assistantships

On top of scholarships, international students on F-1 visas can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) on-campus during the academic year. Many universities offer research assistantships (RA) and teaching assistantships (TA), which not only provide a monthly stipend but often include full or partial tuition waivers.

• Average stipend for RAs and TAs: $15,000 to $30,000 per year (depending on the university and location).

Assistantships are highly competitive, but if you secure one, it can significantly reduce your financial burden. And the best part? It’s related to your field of study, so you’re not just working to pay the bills—you’re gaining valuable experience too.

The Role of SEVIS Fee and Visa Costs

To study in the U.S., you’ll need to pay a SEVIS fee for your F-1 visa application. The current SEVIS fee for F-1 visa applicants is $350. While this is a one-time fee, make sure to factor it into your budgeting.

Additionally, there’s the U.S. visa application fee, which costs $160. These fees aren’t typically covered by scholarships, so you’ll need to account for them separately.

Success Stories

It’s inspiring to know that many Bangladeshi students have successfully secured scholarships and are now thriving at top U.S. universities. Take Fahim Rahman, for example. Fahim was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study environmental engineering at Stanford University, and his research now focuses on sustainable water systems in developing countries.

Then there’s Sadia Chowdhury, who won the AAUW International Fellowship and is now pursuing her Ph.D. in molecular biology at Harvard University. She’s become a trailblazer for women in STEM and has spoken at multiple global conferences.

Their stories remind us that with determination, the right resources, and a little financial help, you too can achieve your academic dreams.

FAQs

1. Can I get a scholarship for studying at a community college in the USA?

While scholarships at community colleges are generally smaller than those at four-year institutions, they do exist. Many community colleges offer need-based aid and merit-based scholarships for international students. Additionally, you can transfer to a four-year university after completing your associate degree and apply for larger scholarships at that point.

2. What are the most common eligibility criteria for scholarships in the USA?

Most scholarships require a combination of academic excellence (high GPA), strong IELTS/TOEFL scores, and SAT/GRE/GMAT scores. For certain merit-based scholarships, universities look at extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and community involvement. For need-based scholarships, demonstrating financial need is essential.

3. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s highly encouraged. Applying to multiple scholarships can significantly increase your chances of receiving funding. Just make sure to tailor your applications for each scholarship’s requirements and avoid submitting the same generic essay to all.

4. Do I need to have a research background to apply for graduate scholarships in the USA?

While having research experience can strengthen your application for graduate scholarships, it’s not always required. Scholarships like the Fulbright and certain university-specific awards place a strong emphasis on research potential. However, for many scholarships, strong academic records and clear career goals are sufficient.

5. How do I find scholarships for specific universities in the USA?

Many universities list their scholarship opportunities on their official websites. Check the financial aid or scholarships page for international students at each university. Websites like InternationalScholarships.com and FastWeb can help you find scholarships tailored to specific institutions.

6. What GPA do I need to be eligible for scholarships in the USA?

This varies depending on the scholarship. Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), but more competitive scholarships may ask for a higher GPA, like 3.5 or above. Always check the specific scholarship's eligibility criteria.

7. Are there scholarships for Bangladeshi students who haven’t taken standardized tests like the SAT or GRE?

Yes, many universities in the USA offer scholarships based on other factors, such as high school GPA, extracurricular achievements, or community service. Some universities are even test-optional, meaning they don't require SAT or GRE scores for admission or scholarships.

8. What is the process for applying to U.S. scholarships from Bangladesh?

The process usually involves:

• Researching scholarships and their eligibility criteria.
• Preparing required documents like academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and test scores.
• Submitting the application online via university portals or scholarship platforms.
• In some cases, an interview or additional documentation (like a portfolio) may be required.

9. How much money can I receive through a U.S. scholarship?

Scholarship amounts vary greatly. Some scholarships cover only part of your tuition, while others may cover full tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and even travel costs. Prestigious awards like Fulbright and university-specific full-ride scholarships can cover most, if not all, expenses.

10. Can I work part-time while on a scholarship in the USA?

Yes, international students on F-1 visas can work part-time on-campus (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during breaks. Some scholarships, like research assistantships (RA) and teaching assistantships (TA), may even offer stipends, which allow you to earn while gaining experience.

11. How do I apply for a U.S. student visa after receiving a scholarship?

Once you’ve secured a scholarship and gained admission to a U.S. university, you’ll receive an I-20 form from your institution. You’ll then need to apply for an F-1 student visa by paying the SEVIS fee ($350) and DS-160 application fee ($160). Afterward, you will attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh, where you’ll need to show your scholarship award letter, financial documents, and I-20 form.

12. What happens if I lose my scholarship?

This depends on the scholarship. Some scholarships, particularly merit-based ones, require you to maintain a certain GPA or meet other performance criteria. If you don’t meet those criteria, you could lose the scholarship. However, you may have the opportunity to appeal or regain eligibility in the future.

13. When should I start applying for scholarships?

Start as early as possible! Most scholarship applications open at least a year before your intended start date in the U.S. Begin researching scholarships during your junior year of high school (for undergraduates) or final year of your bachelor’s degree (for postgraduates). Deadlines can vary, so be sure to stay organized.

14. Are there scholarships that cover living expenses in addition to tuition fees?

Yes, many scholarships, such as the Fulbright and some university-specific scholarships, cover not only tuition but also living expenses, health insurance, and travel. Additionally, some scholarships like assistantships (RAs and TAs) provide stipends to cover housing and food costs.

15. Can I apply for scholarships after I’ve started studying in the USA?

Yes, many universities offer scholarships or financial aid for current students based on academic performance or involvement in the university community. It's also worth looking for external scholarships that accept applications from students already studying in the U.S.