Why Dhaka families are increasingly using scholarships

Dhaka and other Bangladeshi cities now host many English‑medium and international schools following Cambridge or IB curricula. Fees are high for most households, so scholarships and fee concessions are critical for broadening access.

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1. Key scholarship types

• Academic scholarships for high performance in IGCSE/O Levels, national exams or scholarship tests.
• A Level / senior‑school awards for strong candidates entering Grade 11–12.
• Fee waivers and concessions for families with lower incomes.

Talent scholarships exist but are less common than academic and need‑based schemes.

Examples of Bangladeshi schools with scholarship programmes

Dhaka:

• International School Dhaka – Offers academic scholarships, typically 10–40% fee reduction. Applications usually November–January for the following academic year. Also offers sibling discounts (typically 5–10% per additional child).
• American International School Dhaka – Academic excellence scholarships available, typically 10–35% of tuition. Applications often due October–December.
• Mastermind School – Merit scholarships, usually 10–30% coverage. Applications typically November–January.
• Scholastica – Academic scholarships typically 10–35% fee reduction. Applications often October–December.

Chittagong:

• Chittagong Grammar School – Academic excellence scholarships, typically 10–30% of fees. Applications usually November–January.
• International School Chittagong – Merit scholarships available, usually 10–25% coverage.

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2. Typical percentage of tuition covered

Based on the schools listed above, typical coverage ranges are:

• Academic scholarships: 10–40% tuition discount, with higher percentages (up to 50%) for senior‑school awards in competitive A Level streams.
• Bursaries: Partial relief, often smaller percentage but significant for families.

Full 100% awards are unusual and reserved for exceptional circumstances or foundation initiatives.

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3. Eligibility and odds

Schools typically look for:

• Strong grades and upward academic trajectory.
• Good behaviour and attendance.
• For concessions: transparent evidence of financial need.
• For sporting/talent scholarships: evidence of high‑level performance (competition results, portfolios, graded exams, coach references).

Competition levels:

• Premium schools receive many applications; competition is strong (see school examples above for specific requirements).
• Bursaries are competitive and require demonstrated financial need.
• Sporting scholarships are limited and often require national‑level representation or equivalent achievement.

Scholarship slots are limited, so competition can be strong in popular Dhaka schools.

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4. Application process and timing

Usual steps:

1. Check the scholarship or fee‑concession policy on each school’s website.
2. Compile report cards, certificates and references.
3. Submit application forms before deadlines (often late spring or summer for the next academic year).
4. Sit entrance/scholarship tests and attend interviews where required.

Planning 9–12 months ahead gives families more choice.

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5. Duration and renewal

• Awards are generally valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
• Renewal conditions usually include maintaining grades and good conduct.

Always clarify whether a scholarship is fixed for a key stage or re-assessed annually.

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How Tutopiya supports Bangladeshi families

Tutopiya helps students in Bangladesh by:

• Strengthening IGCSE/O Level and A Level performance through 1‑to‑1 online tutoring.
• Preparing students for high‑stakes subject exams that scholarship committees closely watch.
• Helping families align school‑scholarship planning with later university scholarship opportunities.

If you’re exploring international school scholarships in Dhaka, Tutopiya can help your child achieve the exam results and study habits that make a strong application.