US Scholarships FAQ for Bangladeshi Students

Question 1

Can I apply to US universities with only HSC (Higher Secondary Certificate)?

Accepted Answer

Yes — for undergraduate programs. Your HSC + SSC results are used to assess academic readiness. Most universities require SAT or ACT for undergrad, but many have test-optional policies. For graduate programs (Masters/PhD), you need a Bachelor's degree.

Question 2

Does my Bangladeshi CGPA convert to the US GPA system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The standard formula is: US GPA = (your CGPA ÷ your scale) × 4.0. So if your CGPA is 3.75 on a 5.0 scale (like BUET or IUT), that equals 3.0 US GPA. For official applications, WES evaluations may differ slightly but this formula is widely accepted.

Question 3

Do I need the SAT or GRE to apply to US universities from Bangladesh?

Accepted Answer

For undergraduate: SAT/ACT is typically required, though many universities went test-optional. For Masters/PhD: GRE is often recommended but not always required. GMAT is required for MBA programs.

Question 4

Can I apply to US universities if my CGPA is below 3.0?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but your options narrow significantly. A US GPA equivalent below 3.0 typically means fewer full scholarships (most require 3.0+). Focus on state universities and teaching assistantships, and strengthen your application with a strong SOP, research experience, and recommendation letters.

Question 5

Are Bangladeshi students eligible for Fulbright scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Bangladesh is an active Fulbright partner country. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds Masters and PhD study in the USA. Applications typically open in March and close in June for the following year's program. Apply through the US Embassy in Dhaka.

Question 6

What documents do Bangladeshi students need for US university applications?

Accepted Answer

Core documents: Official transcripts (attested by your university, Ministry of Education, and apostilled), IELTS/TOEFL score report, Passport copy, Statement of Purpose (SOP), 3 recommendation letters, CV/Resume. Start attestation early — it can take 4–8 weeks in Bangladesh.

Question 7

What IELTS score do I need for a full scholarship to study in the USA?

Accepted Answer

Typically 7.0 or higher for full scholarships at strong universities. Some full scholarships accept 6.5 IELTS (University of Alabama, Wayne State, etc.). Score 7.5+ if targeting top-30 QS schools.

Question 8

Can I work while on an F-1 student visa in the USA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with restrictions. On-campus work: up to 20 hours/week during semester, unlimited during holidays. Off-campus work (CPT): allowed for internships part of your curriculum. OPT (Optional Practical Training): 12 months of full-time work after graduation, plus 24 additional months for STEM programs (total 36 months for CS, Engineering, etc.).

Question 9

What is an F-1 student visa and how do I get one from Bangladesh?

Accepted Answer

F-1 is the US nonimmigrant student visa. After getting your I-20: 1. Pay SEVIS fee ($350). 2. Complete DS-160 form online. 3. Schedule interview at US Embassy Dhaka. 4. Attend with passport, DS-160, SEVIS receipt, I-20, bank statements. Approval rate for Bangladeshi grad students with scholarships is very high.

Question 10

What is OPT and how does it help Bangladeshi graduates in the USA?

Accepted Answer

OPT (Optional Practical Training) lets you work in the USA for 12 months after graduation. STEM students (CS, Engineering) get an additional 24-month extension — total 36 months of work authorization. Apply through your university's international office before graduation.

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