Scholarships for International Students

Several scholarships are available to international students. Some of the most popular include government scholarships (e.g., Chevening, Fulbright) and university scholarships (e.g., Monash, Deakin). Some private organisations also offer scholarships, such as MPOWER and the Mastercard Foundation. Scholarships are essential for international students, as they significantly reduce the cost of studying and living abroad. Common types of scholarships for studying overseas include fully and partially funded scholarships, merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and country-specific scholarships. Many top study-abroad destinations offer scholarships to Bangladeshi students, including the USA, the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. To apply for an international scholarship, research and apply early, and ensure you adhere to all timelines. The standard eligibility criteria for a scholarship are completion of a higher secondary diploma, an excellent academic record, and genuine financial need. It is thus essential to work on maintaining a consistent, exceptional academic performance and submit the desired proof of financial need to boost your chances of scholarship acceptance.

Why Scholarships are Important for International Students?

Scholarships for international students are a valuable form of gift aid from the host institution, making top-quality education abroad more affordable and accessible to Bangladeshi students. They significantly reduce the cost of studying and living overseas and enhance employability prospects by highlighting students' merit to prospective recruiters. 

Here are some more reasons in which the importance of scholarships comes forth for students aspiring to study abroad:

• Reduces overall costs: Scholarships are an effective way to reduce the high cost of tuition and other study-abroad expenses. Most scholarships provide full-cost coverage for international students, while others significantly reduce costs.

• Add merit to your resume: Study abroad scholarships let employers know the potential strengths of a student (especially in the case of merit-based scholarship programs). This, in turn, enhances students' career prospects.

• Boost student confidence: By validating students' achievements and strengths, scholarships build self-confidence and further motivate them to perform even better.

Types of Scholarships for International Students

The top scholarship programs available abroad vary widely depending on different factors. Some of the most popular options available to Bangladeshi students include merit-based, need-based, country-specific, and fully funded scholarships.

• Merit-based: These are based on academic performance and generally award exceptional brilliance in GPA scores, extracurricular activities, and other related academic functions.

• Need-based: They are generally made available to students from Bangladesh who have a proven record of financial hardship. Many private universities abroad offer need-based scholarships to help students from weaker economic backgrounds access top-quality education.

• Country-specific: These scholarships are made available only to students from some specific countries.

• Fully funded: As the name suggests, this program provides complete (100%) coverage for tuition costs, housing, travel expenses, etc., for Bangladeshi students. They significantly help lower the cost of studying and living abroad.

Popular Scholarships by Study Destination

Some of the most popular scholarship programs offered by study-abroad destinations include the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships in the UK, the Australia Awards in Australia, and the Lester B. Pearson and Vanier Scholarships in Canada. One of the top scholarships in the USA for international students is the Fulbright Scholarship. 

Scholarships vary in eligibility requirements and benefits. The table below lists some of the top scholarships available to Bangladeshi students from the USA, the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

How to Apply for International Scholarships?

When applying for an international scholarship, research is key. Identify the best available options across different study abroad destinations. Work on building a strong academic profile and submit your application well in advance to avoid rejection. 

Given below is a step-by-step procedure on how to apply for scholarships overseas:

• Find the best available scholarships: You can identify the top options on university websites, government portals, or platforms like LinkedIn. Find the ones that best align with your academic and career goals.

• Check eligibility: Every scholarship program has different eligibility criteria. Ensure you meet the basic requirements before applying.

• Gather the documents: Compile all required documentation for the scholarship application. These include a completed application form, SOP, LORs, academic transcripts, a valid passport, standardised test scores, an updated CV, etc.

• Craft a practical application: Tailor your application to align with the eligibility requirements for the scholarship program that you are applying to. Highlight your strengths, and, for need-based scholarships, show proof of genuine financial need to build your case.

Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships - What’s the Difference?

One of the most significant differences between fully-funded and partial scholarships is that while the former covers “all” costs for the students incurred in studying and living abroad, the latter only covers “a portion of” the total cost. 

Fully funded scholarships, as the name suggests, offer full coverage of studying and living costs, such as tuition fees, housing, travel, airfare, etc. Partial scholarships, on the other hand, generally cover only a portion of the total cost, primarily tuition. 

Check the table below to understand the primary differences between the two types of scholarships to make an informed decision:

Common Eligibility Criteria to Receive a Scholarship

Academic merit and a genuine need for financial support are standard criteria for scholarship eligibility abroad. Additionally, exceptional performance in extracurriculars, academic or professional recommendations, and nationality are widely accepted as eligibility criteria.

Listed below are some of the widely accepted international student requirements when applying for an international scholarship:

• Merit-based: Required GPA scores/high grades

• Need-based: Proof of low family income, such as salary slips and tax returns

• Extracurricular activities: Participation in sports, research, clubs, or community service

_{Note: Eligibility criteria may vary by country and scholarship program. Always check the exact requirements for the program you intend to apply for.}

How to Improve the Chances of Getting a Scholarship for International Students?

Maintaining a consistently brilliant academic record is one of the surest ways to win scholarships abroad. Also, building a strong academic profile helps you stand out from the competition. Given below are some more tips on getting a scholarship as a Bangladeshi student:

• Build an impressive academic profile.

• Work on building your extracurriculars as well.

• Tailor your application; keep it unique. 

• Adhere to the deadlines. 

How IDP Can Help You Apply for Scholarships

IDP Education can simplify the scholarship application process for Bangladeshi students. We help at every stage - from the research to the application process. Your dream of studying abroad comes true with our end-to-end support in international scholarship applications.

FAQs on Scholarships for International Students

1. How can Bangladeshi students apply for scholarships abroad?

Students from Bangladesh can apply for multiple scholarships abroad by checking out the top available options on university and government websites or seeking guidance from study abroad experts, such as IDP Education.

2. When is the best time to apply for global scholarships?

The ideal time to apply for international scholarship programs is 8-12 months before your program's start date.

3. Do scholarships cover living and travel costs abroad?

Yes, fully-funded scholarships generally cover the cost of living and travel expenses abroad. Coverage of different scholarship programs may vary.

4. Are full scholarships offered to students from Bangladesh?

Yes, Bangladeshi students can access fully funded scholarships abroad; however, eligibility depends on the provider (government, private organisation, or university).

5. What GPA is needed for scholarships abroad?

Most universities prefer a GPA of at least 3.0, and many require a GPA of at least 3.85, to apply for international scholarships.

_{Updated on 22 January, 2026}