University Options in Dhaka for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Dhaka offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Dhaka

American universities:

• North South University (NSU) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, Bangladesh’s top private university, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences
• BRAC University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences

Other international programmes:

• University of Dhaka – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), Bangladesh’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Technology

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• University of Dhaka – established 1921 (over 104 years); 40,000+ students; Bangladesh’s top public university, English-medium programmes available
• North South University – established 1992 (over 33 years); 25,000+ students; Bangladesh’s top private university, well-established
• BRAC University – established 2001 (over 24 years); 10,000+ students; well-established private university
• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology – established 1962 (over 63 years); 6,000+ students; well-established engineering university

Note: Dhaka’s international programmes and English-medium offerings are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 24–104+ years and have 6,000–40,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Bangladesh’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• University of Dhaka – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Bangladesh’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• North South University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Bangladesh’s top private university, highly competitive, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences
• BRAC University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences

Other universities:

• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established engineering university, strong in Engineering, Technology
• Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences
• East West University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-BBB depending on the programme. Competitive programmes may require AAB or higher.

IBDP: Typically 24-30 points minimum, with higher points (30+) for competitive programmes. Some programmes require specific Higher Level subjects.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Bengali language proficiency for programmes taught in Bengali.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams, interviews, or essays.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Local universities:

• University of Dhaka: BDT 50,000–200,000 per year (approximately USD 450–1,800). Public university, significantly lower fees.
• North South University: BDT 300,000–600,000 per year (approximately USD 2,700–5,400). Private university, higher fees.
• BRAC University: BDT 250,000–500,000 per year (approximately USD 2,250–4,500). Private university.
• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology: BDT 100,000–300,000 per year (approximately USD 900–2,700). Public university.

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme and university type (public vs private). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (university-specific scholarships) that can cover 10–50% of tuition. Bangladeshi citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Dhaka?

• Quality education – home to Bangladesh’s top universities
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Cultural experience – immerse in Bangladeshi culture while studying
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Manufacturing, Textiles, IT, Finance, Engineering
• Affordable cost of living – more affordable than many other major cities
• Strategic location – Bangladesh’s capital, commercial hub

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Bengali enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for university-specific entrance exams
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Bangladeshi citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC)
• Cost of living – Dhaka is moderately affordable; factor in accommodation and living costs
• Visa requirements – ensure proper student visa documentation

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.