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Brac University and SOAS University of London Launch Joint PhD Program

Brac University and SOAS University of London Launch Joint PhD Program to Tackle Global Development Challenges

In a landmark move to foster research-led solutions to pressing global development issues, Brac University (Bangladesh) and SOAS University of London (UK) have jointly launched a pioneering PhD program in the political economy of development. The initiative, grounded in equity and mutual collaboration, aims to cultivate a new generation of globally engaged scholars committed to transformative development research.

The program is a collaboration between Brac Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) and SOAS’s Departments of Economics and Development Studies. It reflects a deepening of the long-standing academic relationship between the two institutions and represents Brac University’s first doctoral-level partnership with an international university.

Students enrolled in the joint PhD will engage with critical areas such as sustainable governance, inclusive economic growth, and social development. The program is designed with flexibility and inclusivity at its core—students can choose to be based in Dhaka or London and will be jointly supervised by faculty from both universities. Extensive fieldwork opportunities will be available through Brac’s research and operational infrastructure across Bangladesh.

Since planning began in mid-2023, both institutions have worked closely to develop an international quality assurance framework, ensuring the academic rigour and global relevance of the programme. By removing barriers to accessibility, the collaboration particularly aims to expand doctoral-level opportunities for students in Bangladesh and other parts of the Global South.

The program officially launched on June 16, 2025, with simultaneous ceremonies held at SOAS in London and Brac University’s Merul Badda campus in Dhaka. In London, the signing ceremony featured Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of Brac University’s Board of Trustees, and Professor Adam Habib, Vice-Chancellor of SOAS, with Her Excellency Abida Islam, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the UK, in attendance as an honorary guest.

In Dhaka, the celebration was led by Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, and attended by key dignitaries including Professor Syed Muhammed Abul Faiz, Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh; Her Excellency Sarah Cooke, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh; and representatives from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education and the British Council.

Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, praised the initiative, calling it “a wonderful collaboration” and wishing it “a grand success.”

Tamara Hasan Abed noted, “This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to promote equitable development through evidence-based research. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for students—both Bangladeshi and international—to engage deeply with real-world development challenges.”

SOAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Habib added, “Our collaboration reflects a shared vision to break down barriers to research and support inclusive approaches to global development. Together, we’re creating a platform for scholars to shape the policies of tomorrow.”

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Brac University PhD

Brac University

Brac University Launches Bangladesh’s First PhD Program Among Private Universities in Partnership with SOAS University of London

Dhaka, June 16 – Brac University is set to launch Bangladesh’s first-ever PhD program among private universities, marking a historic milestone in the country’s higher education sector. The inaugural ceremony for the joint PhD program with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London will take place on Monday evening at Brac University’s permanent campus in Merul Badda, Dhaka.

This announcement has been officially confirmed by both Brac University and the Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC). High-ranking officials from both institutions are expected to attend the launch event.

This is the first time a private university in Bangladesh has received approval to offer a PhD program. The initiative comes just a month after UGC Chairman Professor Dr. S. M. A. Faiz stated that only capable private institutions would be permitted to offer doctoral degrees following a rigorous assessment of their academic standards and research capabilities.

For years, there has been growing demand for PhD opportunities in private universities in Bangladesh, but the UGC had been cautious, citing the need for strict quality control and institutional readiness. Brac University’s partnership with SOAS University of London a globally recognized research institution, positions this new program as a significant step forward for research and innovation in the country.

This collaborative PhD program is expected to boost international academic cooperation, enhance research output and establish a global standard for doctoral studies in Bangladesh’s private higher education sector.

While the official 2025 guidelines are yet to be fully released, based on international PhD programs standards and Brac’s past practices, you’ll likely need:

  • Master’s degree (with strong academic performance)
  • Research proposal (aligned with faculty interests)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent if required)
  • Possibly GRE or other standardized tests (based on SOAS guidelines)

Bright Admission Coaching can assist you with:

✅ Application Strategy

  • Choosing your research topic and aligning it with Brac/SOAS faculty.
  • Understanding the joint degree structure and expectations.

✍️ Academic Writing Support

  • Guidance on writing a compelling SOP and research proposal.
  • Editing services for academic writing and recommendation letters.

📚 Test Prep

  • Preparation for IELTS, GRE (if needed), or internal admission assessments.

🎯 Mock Interviews & Profile Building

  • Simulated interviews based on PhD admission panels.
  • Advice on publishing papers or improving your academic CV.

If you’re serious about pursuing your PhD at Brac University, Bright Admission Coaching can offer personalized guidance to increase your admission chances.

🔗 Want their updated contact details or a recommended study plan? Let us know — we can help draft one for you!

Would you like a sample SOP, research proposal outline or study timeline customized for Brac University program PhD admissions?

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2025 Festival of Australia Campaign by Study Australia

Festival of Australia Campaign by Study Australia

Here’s a refined overview of the Festival of Australia 2025 campaign by Study Australia:

🎉 What is the Festival of Australia?

  • A free government‑hosted event designed to showcase Australian student life and study opportunities.
  • Offers immersive AR demonstrations, interactive sessions with top Australian universities, alumni stories and a taste of Aussie cuisine.

🧭 Who Should Attend?

  • Students from Grade 8 through postgraduate research
  • Parents and educational organizations exploring study-abroad options
  • Ideal for anyone curious about studying in Australia!

✅ Why Attend?

  • Gain clarity on admission processes, English requirements, scholarships, visas, and living in Australia
  • Interact directly with university reps—on the spot and post-event follow-up available

🗓️ Upcoming Dates (2025)

  • 26 JuneDhaka, Bangladesh
  • Other regional events in Coimbatore (20 June), Kolkata (24 June), Colombo (29 June)

🧬 Bonus Around Australia

  • International students gain legal protections under the ESOS Act
  • Median graduate salary is approximately A$65,000
  • Australia is the birthplace of landmark innovations such as penicillin, the cervical cancer vaccine, Wi‑Fi, Google Maps, ultrasound and cochlear implant

✅ What to Do Next

  1. Register now—attendance is free!
  2. Attend the Dhaka event on 26 June 2025
  3. Explore further support for applications and university contacts during and after the event
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United International University Admission

The latest Admission Notices from United International University (UIU):

Here is a structured summary of the UIU (United International University) Admission Dates and Procedures for Summer 2025 Trimester and Fall 2025 Semester based on the official note:

🗓️ UIU Admission Dates

Summer 2025 Trimester

SchoolProgramsForm DeadlineExam TypeExam DateTimeResult DateClass Starts
School of Science & EngineeringBSCSE, BSDS, BSEEE, BSCEJuly 9, 2025 (11:50 PM Online)Written TestJuly 11, 202510:00 AMJuly 14, 2025 (5:00 PM)July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MSCSE-Do-Viva Voce-Do-9:00 AM-Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Business & EconomicsBBA, BBA in AIS, BSECO-Do-Written Test-Do-10:00 AM-Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MBA-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
EMBA, MSECO-Do-Viva Voce-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Humanities & Soc. Sci.BSSEDS, BSSMSJ, BA in English-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MDS-Do-Viva Voce-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Life SciencesBSBGE (Biotechnology & Genetic Eng.)-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)

Fall 2025 Semester

SchoolProgramForm DeadlineExam TypeExam DateTimeResult DateClass Starts
School of Life SciencesB. PharmJuly 9, 2025 (11:50 PM Online)Written TestJuly 11, 202510:00 AMJuly 14, 2025 (5:00 PM)August 19, 2025 (Tuesday)

🧪 Admission Test Details

  • Undergraduate Programs: Written test per department syllabus.
  • MBA:
    • 1-hour test with:
      • English (Grammar, Reading Comprehension)
      • Mathematics (Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry)
      • Short essay
  • EMBA, MSCSE, MSECO, MDS: Viva Voce only Candidates must bring academic certificates, transcripts, and job experience documents.

📝 Application Process

  • Online Application: https://admission.uiu.ac.bd/
  • Offline Form Collection:
    • At UIU Admission Office (Sat–Wed, 9 AM – 4 PM)
    • Fee: Tk. 1,000 for one school; Tk. 500 for each additional school

⚠️ Note

The following universities’ graduates are not eligible to apply:

  • America Bangladesh University
  • Darul Ihsan University
  • Queens University
  • IBAIS University

Would you like help with specific program requirements or scholarship details?

UIU Admissions FAQs:

United International University Admission General Questions

  1. What programs are offered at United International University?
    Undergraduate: BBA, BSc (CSE, EEE, Civil, Data Science, Economics, Biotechnology & Genetics, Pharmacy), BSS (Media & Journalism, Environment & Development Studies), BA (English)

Graduate: MBA, EMBA, MS (Economics), MDS, MSc (CSE)

.

  1. Minimum qualifications for UIU undergraduate admission?
    SSC & HSC: ≥ GPA 2.5 each, or total GPA ≥ 6.0 if one grade is 2.0

    .

O-Level: ≥ 5 subjects, average ≥ 2.5; A-Level: ≥ 2 subjects, average ≥ 2.0

.

For Engineering/Data Science: Physics & Math in HSC/A-Level required

.

GPA 5.00 in HSC (except Pharmacy) → Direct admission (test waived) at United International University

.

  1. Requirements for UIU B.Pharm?
    SSC+HSC combined GPA ≥ 8.0; Science GPA ≥ 3.5.

Chemistry & Biology ≥ 4.0; Physics & Math ≥ 3.5 (with Math course during B.Pharm if needed)

.

O/A-Level: B in Chemistry & Biology; C in Physics & Math.

Admission test score required.

  1. Graduate admissions qualifications?
    Undergraduate degree (relevant discipline) with GPA ≥ 2.0/4.0; M.Sc CSE also demands science group at HSC.

UIU undergrads with ≥ CGPA 2.0 are test‑exempt.

EMBA requires ≥ 2 years’ work experience

  1. Trimester/Semester system?
    Three trimesters per year (Spring, Summer, Fall).

Two semesters per year for semester‑based programs.

📝United International University Application & Admission Procedure

  1. Can I apply if my HSC result isn’t published yet?
    Yes, if you appeared and pass the entrance test. Final HSC results must be submitted before admission day; otherwise fee is non‑refundable.
    .
  2. Where and how can I apply?
    On‑campus: Purchase form at UIU Admission Office (Sat–Wed, 9 AM–3 PM) for Tk 1,000.

Online: Submit and pay the same fee via admission.uiu.ac.bd

  1. Do I need documents at form submission?
    Not initially. Bring academic transcripts, certificates, and (for grad/EMBA) work‑experience documents at the viva/interview stage.
  2. What’s the UIU admission test like?
    Undergrad: written test (plus viva for certain programs).

Graduate: mainly viva voce.

Students with GPA 5 in HSC or equivalent qualifications are exempted from the United International University admission test.

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Brac University CSE Admission Requirements

MDRS – Mars Desert Research Station in Utah

The minimum qualifications and admission process for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program at Brac University:

📚 Academic Requirements

1. SSC and HSC (or Equivalent)

  • Minimum GPA: 3.5 in both SSC and HSC (including additional subjects).
  • Subject Requirement: Minimum ‘B’ grade in Physics and Mathematics in HSC.

2. O-Level and A-Level

  • O-Level: Minimum GPA 2.5 (in 5 subjects).
  • A-Level: Minimum GPA 2.5 (in 2 subjects).
  • Subject Requirement: Minimum ‘C’ grade in Physics and Mathematics in A-Level.

3. IB-DP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme)

  • Minimum Total DP Score: 24
  • Subject Requirements: At least score of 5 in both Math and Physics (either HL or SL).

4. Others

  • Candidates with 12 years of schooling from a reputed institution may apply (must contact admissions@bracu.ac.bd before applying).
  • Schooling must be completed in 2022 or later.
  • “E” grades are not accepted.
  • GED and foundation programs are not eligible.

🔄 Break in Study

  • A study gap of up to 3 years is acceptable.
  • For gaps longer than 3 years, approval must be obtained by emailing admissions@bracu.ac.bd.

🌍 International Applicants

  • Must submit verified/attested academic documents.
  • Must get equivalence certificates from the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Dhaka.

🔁 Credit Transfer

  • Possible after passing the admission test.
  • Must follow Brac University’s credit transfer policy.

📝 Brac University Admission Test Components (CSE Program)

SectionTopics
English CompositionWritten Essay
English MCQGrammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
Mathematics MCQGeneral Mathematics
Higher Math & Physics MCQAdvanced topics from HSC level
  • Note: You must pass each section separately to qualify.

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Make sure you check eligibility before applying.
  • Application fees are non-refundable.
  • First-choice applicants will be given preference at Brac University.
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Appellate Division Orders 15% Income Tax on Private Universities in Bangladesh

Private Universities Now Legally Bound to Pay Income Tax After Supreme Court Verdict

Appellate Division of the Bangladesh Supreme Court

Overview

The Appellate Division of the Bangladesh Supreme Court has officially mandated that all private universities must pay a 15% income tax, overturning a previous High Court verdict. This ruling confirms the legal obligation of private universities to comply with the tax, effective immediately.

What the Ruling Says

  • The full verdict, now published on the Supreme Court’s official website, declares that no exemptions or reductions apply to private universities.
  • The Appellate Division concluded that the previous High Court decision was incorrect, and income tax applies uniformly under the law.
  • The ruling affirms that private universities fall under the category of taxable entities per National Board of Revenue (NBR) notifications.

Background and Timeline

  • June 28, 2007: NBR issued the first notice imposing 15% income tax on private universities.
  • July 1, 2010: A second NBR notification extended this tax to other private higher education institutions like medical, dental, engineering, and IT colleges.
  • 46 writ petitions were filed by universities challenging this policy.
  • February 2021: The Appellate Division granted leave to appeal against the High Court ruling.
  • February 27, 2025: Final judgment delivered by Justice Borhan Uddin, affirming the tax.
  • June 2023: Supreme Court barred tax collection temporarily pending appeal outcome.

Statements from Legal Authorities

  • Attorney General AM Amin Uddin stated: “The universities must now pay the 15% income tax. This does not affect students since VAT is not involved. The owners will bear this cost.”
  • Senior Advocate AF Hasan Arif represented the writ petitioners during the appeal.

Implications for Private Universities

  • Private Universities must adjust their financial practices and begin paying the 15% income tax on all generated income.
  • Non-compliance could result in penalties from the NBR (National Board of Revenue).
  • Though student tuition fees are not directly taxed, operational costs may indirectly impact fee structures in the future.

Conclusion

This ruling ends a long-standing legal battle and sets a clear precedent: private universities in Bangladesh must comply with a 15% income tax policy. While students are not directly taxed, the financial burden now shifts entirely to university authorities.

Updated: 13 June 2025

Note: The ruling has sparked 46 writ petitions filed by various private universities regarding the collection of income tax.

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Daffodil International University with Purdue University Fort Wayne

Daffodil International University with Purdue University Fort Wayne

In spring 2024, leaders from Daffodil International University (DIU) in Bangladesh visited Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW) and were inspired by PFW’s Honors Program. A chance meeting with Farah Combs, director of the program, led to an international academic partnership that is now shaping a new honors program overseas.

From Fort Wayne to Dhaka: A Global Academic Exchange

During a campus tour, DIU officials spent time with Combs at PFW’s Helmke Library, where she introduced them to the structure, benefits, and student success outcomes of the Honors Program. A few weeks later, Combs was asked to help DIU build a similar program. She agreed, joining Professor Ahmed Mustafa—a longtime partner of DIU and professor of biology at PFW—and Dean Ron Friedman on a June 2024 visit to DIU’s campus in Dhaka.

Launching DIU’s Honors Program in 2025

Since that visit, Combs has worked closely with DIU’s new honors director to implement best practices from PFW. She is scheduled to return to Bangladesh in July 2025 to celebrate the grand opening of the program.

“I’ve loved every minute of it,” Combs shared. “Having a highly regarded university working to model something we do speaks volumes about our campus, faculty, and students.”

A Signature Program with Global Impact

During a recent visit to PFW, DIU Chairman Sabur Khan, who also founded the university, praised the collaboration. “This will be one of the signature programs of our university. It will help students meet requirements for U.S. graduate programs,” Khan said. The visit followed Khan’s attendance at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Indianapolis with 20 DIU delegates.

PFW Honors Program: A Model of Excellence

With over 400 students enrolled, the PFW Honors Program offers a dynamic academic environment, selective admission based on academic achievement, and unique learning experiences. Highlights include small-group discussions, exclusive seminars, and access to speakers through the Omnibus Speaker Series.

Longstanding Ties with DIU

Professor Mustafa was honored by DIU in 2022 as “A True Friend of Daffodil International University.” DIU also named the Tazkera and Golam Mustafa Center for Teaching & Learning after his parents, inspired by PFW’s Center for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching.

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15 Private Universities in Bangladesh hold all three positions: VC, Pro-VC and Treasurer

Private University in Bangladesh

UGC Data on Private Universities in Bangladesh

• 101 private universities lack VC, Pro-VC and Treasurer positions.
• 15 private universities hold all three positions: Independent University, Bangladesh; International University of Business Agriculture and Technology; International Islamic University Chittagong; American International University-Bangladesh; East West University; University of Development Alternative; Southeast University; Daffodil International University; Stamford University Bangladesh; City University; Uttara University; Varendra University; Notre Dame University Bangladesh; Canadian University of Bangladesh and University of Global Village.

Date: 10 June 2025

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Independent University, Bangladesh Admission Requirements

Independent University, Bangladesh

Undergraduate Admission Requirements for Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB):

🎓 About IUB

  • Established in 1993
  • Known for academic excellence, dynamic campus life, and high employability of graduates
  • Offers strong student support through clubs, sports, research, accommodation, scholarships, and career services

📋 General Admission Requirements

🔹 SSC & HSC (or equivalent)

  • Total GPA: Minimum aggregate GPA of 7.0
  • Minimum GPA in each exam: 3.0

🔹 O Level & A Level

  • O Level: 5 subjects with min GPA 2.5
  • A Level: 2 subjects with min GPA 2.0

🔹 International Qualifications

  • Accepted: International Baccalaureate, US High School Diploma, or 12-year equivalent degrees
  • Equivalence certificate from Ministry of Education required

🔬 Subject-Specific Requirements

ProgramRequirements
EngineeringO Level & HSC: Math and Physics (Grade B in HSC)
Microbiology, Biochemistry, BiotechnologyBiology (min Grade B in O-Level or HSC)
Environmental ScienceChemistry/Physics preferred (O-Level or HSC)
Pharmacy– SSC & HSC: Aggregate GPA ≥ 8.00 (Min GPA 3.5 in each)
Chemistry & Biology: GPA ≥ 4.00 (5-point scale)
Math & Physics: GPA ≥ 3.5
– O/A-Level: B in Chemistry/Biology, C in Math/Physics
– Missing Math? Must take a 3-credit Math course later

📅 Admission Periods

  • Autumn: July – Early September
  • Spring: November – Mid-January
  • Summer: Mid-March – Mid-May

✳️ Admission Test Exemptions

Exempt if you have:

  • SAT-1: ≥ 1000 AND
  • TOEFL: ≥ 550 (paper) / 213 (computer) / 80 (internet) OR
  • IELTS: ≥ 5.5

🔄 Credit Transfers

  • Eligible if:
    • CGPA ≥ 3.00
    • Each course grade ≥ B-
    • Overall CGPA ≥ 2.50
    • Courses align with IUB curriculum
  • Department review required

⚠️ Note

  • All certificates will be verified
  • False documentation will lead to disciplinary actions
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AIUB Computer Club: vTutor

AIUB Computer Club: vTutor

The vTutor MOS Bangladesh Championship 2025 – National Round was successfully held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB). Organized in collaboration with the AIUB Computer Club, the event brought together top students aged 13 to 22 from educational institutions all over Bangladesh.

This highly anticipated national-level competition tested participants’ skills in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint, aligning with global MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) standards. Following rigorous university-level qualifiers, the national round surpassed all expectations in both intensity and participation.

The event kicked off at 9:00 AM with an inspirational opening and general briefing by Kazi Shamim, Co-Founder & Chief Learning Officer of vTutor. His message set a positive tone for the day, encouraging students to excel.

Participants were then assigned to their specific exam rooms across three separate exam slots, designed to efficiently manage the competition flow.

By 5:00 PM, the competition concluded, celebrating a full day of digital skill-building, learning, and recognition. The vTutor MOS Bangladesh Championship 2025 not only served as a platform for young talents to shine but also marked a significant step toward digital empowerment in Bangladesh.