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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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Best Universities in Los Angeles for International Students

California State University Campus

Here’s a list of the best universities in Los Angeles for international students, based on support services, cultural diversity, global reputation, career opportunities and international student life:

🌍 Top Choices for International Students

🥇 1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

  • Why it’s great:
    • Globally ranked, with a large international student body
    • Dedicated Dashew Center for international students
    • Strong STEM, business, arts and humanities programs
    • Great on-campus housing and support
    • Located in safe, upscale Westwood area

🥈 2. University of Southern California (USC)

  • Why it’s great:
    • International students make up ~25% of student body
    • Renowned global alumni network (especially in Asia)
    • Top programs in business, film, engineering, and computer science
    • Excellent career support and Office of International Services (OIS)
    • Downtown LA location offers vibrant urban experience

🥉 3. Loyola Marymount University (LMU)

  • Why it’s great:
    • Smaller class sizes and personalized attention
    • Strong business, communication, and liberal arts programs
    • Close to LAX, with beautiful and safe campus in West LA
    • Friendly and inclusive atmosphere

🎨 4. Otis College of Art and Design

  • Why it’s great:
    • Great for students pursuing fashion, digital media, and fine arts
    • Internationally recognized programs
    • Personalized faculty mentorship and global exposure in the art scene

🏛 5. California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA)

  • Why it’s great:
    • Affordable tuition for international students
    • Culturally diverse campus with strong ESL support
    • Practical and career-focused education
    • More commuter-based but still welcoming

💼 Honorable Mentions (Best for Niche Fields)

  • Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) – Best for international architecture students
  • FIDM Los Angeles – Best for fashion design and business of fashion
  • Mount Saint Mary’s University – Strong for nursing/health sciences and women-centered support
  • Occidental College – Great liberal arts experience with close faculty interaction

🧭 Key Factors to Consider

  • Visa & OPT support: UCLA and USC have top-tier international offices.
  • CPT/OPT career placement: USC has excellent connections to tech, film, and business sectors.
  • Campus safety & environment: LMU and UCLA are in safer areas.
  • Affordability: Cal State LA is budget-friendly but less internationally renowned.

Would you like help comparing tuition costs, visa support or best majors per school for international students?

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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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Study in France for International Students: Scholarships, Costs, Visa and Work Opportunities

Study in France for International Students: Scholarships, Costs, Visa and Work Opportunities

🎓 Study in France for International Students: Scholarships, Costs, Visa and Work Opportunities

Looking to study in France? With world-class education, low tuition fees, and generous scholarships, France is one of the top destinations for international students. This guide covers everything you need to know about higher education in France—from application procedures to work opportunities and permanent residency.

📚 Why Study in France?

  • 99% literacy rate among EU countries
  • Home to globally ranked universities
  • Government subsidized tuition
  • Welcoming to international students
  • Path to EU permanent residency

📝 Eligibility Requirements

Undergraduate (License)

  • Minimum 60–65% in previous degree
  • DAP (Demande d’Admission Préalable) required for international students

Master’s & PhD

  • Relevant academic background
  • PhD: research experience + published work
  • MBA: 3–5 years of work experience + GRE/GMAT

🗣️ Language Requirements

  • Courses in English (TOEFL/IELTS required)
  • Courses in French require DELF/DALF certification
  • Learning French improves job and study opportunities

💶 Cost of Studying in France

Public University Tuition Fees (2025-2026)

ProgramSubsidized FeeActual Cost
Bachelor’s€175/year€2,850/year
Master’s€250/year€3,879/year
Engineering€618/yearVaries
PhD€391/yearSubsidized

Private Institutions

  • Range from €6,000 to €18,000/year

Most universities ask for only the first year’s fee upfront.

🎓 Top Universities & Institutes in France

  • Écoles Centrales – Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes
  • National Polytechnics – Toulouse, Grenoble, Bordeaux
  • University of Technology – Compiègne, Belfort, Montpellier
  • Elite Institutions – Collège de France, EHESS, CNAM

Popular Subjects:
Management, Engineering, Fashion, Design, Agronomy, Art, Culture, Business, Environment

🧾 Application Process

Platforms

  • Parcoursup (French students)
  • DAP (Oct 1 – Dec 15, 2025) – Mandatory for international undergraduates
  • Campus France – For Masters, PhD, and general application
  • Campus Art – Arts, Fashion, Music, Architecture (Oct 1 – Feb 28)

Required Documents

  • Application form + Campus France approval
  • Passport + photos
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of funds (€615/month minimum)
  • Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or DELF/DALF)
  • Medical certificate + Police clearance
  • SOP, CV, Reference letters (for PG/PhD)

🎓 Top Scholarships in France for International Students

  • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
  • Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
  • Université de Lyon Masters Scholarship
  • Université Paris-Saclay International Scholarship

Scholarships usually cover:

  • Full/partial tuition fees
  • Monthly living allowance
  • Travel & health insurance

🛂 Student Visa for France

Documents Required

  • Visa application form
  • Passport + photo
  • Offer letter from a French university
  • Proof of financial means (€615/month)
  • Accommodation confirmation
  • Medical insurance (min. €30,000)
  • Language certificate

💼 Work Opportunities for Students

  • 20 hours/week during the semester
  • Unlimited work during holidays
  • Approx. €800–€1,200/month (part-time jobs)
  • Work experience builds a strong network and résumé

🏡 Post-Graduation Job & PR Opportunities

  • Stay in France to search for a job (APS visa)
  • Work 3.5 years in a registered French company
  • Paying income tax is mandatory for PR calculation
  • Once PR is obtained: Free travel across 26 EU countries

🌍 Conclusion: Why France is Ideal for Higher Studies

France combines academic excellence, affordable tuition, and global career opportunities. With options for scholarships, student work, and future PR, France is a smart choice for Bangladeshi and other international students.

If you’d like, Bright Admission Coaching can help you:

  • Draft a SOP
  • Prepare a scholarship application
  • Review your CV
  • Simulate an interview for admissions or visa
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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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What are the Funding options for International Students in Canada

Scholarships in Canada for International Students 2025

Top Funding Opportunities for International Students in Canada (2025 Guide)

Are you an international student planning to study in Canada? Good news — Canada offers a wide range of scholarships, financial aid, and funding options for international students. In this 2025 guide, we cover the best funding opportunities for undergraduate, master’s and PhD students in Canada.

🎓 University-Based Scholarships in Canada

Canadian universities offer numerous merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These include:

  • Entrance Scholarships: Automatically awarded to students with high academic achievement at the undergraduate or graduate entry level.
  • In-Course Scholarships: Given to students who excel academically after their first year.
  • International-Only Scholarships: Many schools reserve a portion of scholarships exclusively for international students.
  • Graduate Fellowships: Offered to students with strong academic records and research experience.

Top universities offering scholarships:

  • University of Toronto
  • McGill University
  • University of British Columbia
  • University of Alberta

🧪 Research and Teaching Assistantships (RA & TA)

Postgraduate and doctoral students can work as:

  • Research Assistants (RA): Assist with academic research projects.
  • Teaching Assistants (TA): Help with grading, labs, or tutoring undergraduate students.

Benefits:

  • Monthly stipends
  • Tuition waivers
  • Valuable academic experience

These assistantships are available at most research-intensive Canadian universities and are an excellent source of funding for graduate students.

🏛️ Government and External Scholarships

Canada’s federal and provincial governments, along with external organizations, offer high-value scholarships for international students.

✅ Notable Canadian Government Scholarships:

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD): Up to CAD $50,000/year
  • Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS): Up to CAD $15,000/year
  • Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: Up to CAD $70,000/year
  • Canada-ASEAN SEED Program: Short-term academic scholarships for students from ASEAN countries

These awards are highly competitive and emphasize academic excellence and research potential.

🏫 Fully Funded Research-Based Graduate Programs

Some Canadian universities offer fully funded master’s and PhD programs that cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Living expenses
  • Accommodation
  • Health insurance

Top universities offering fully funded programs:

  • University of Toronto
  • McGill University
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Waterloo

These programs are ideal for students pursuing research in STEM, social sciences and other academic fields.

💸 Need-Based Financial Aid for International Students

A few Canadian universities offer financial aid based on demonstrated need, including:

  • University of Toronto – International Student Financial Aid Program
    • Requires application with documentation of financial need
    • Open to students who show both need and academic promise

Note: Financial aid is limited and competitive, so early application is recommended.

🔍 Final Thoughts: How to Find Scholarships in Canada

International students looking to study in Canada can access generous funding through university scholarships, assistantships, and government programs. To increase your chances of securing funding:

  • Maintain a high GPA
  • Gain research experience
  • Prepare strong application documents (SOP, references, CV)
  • Apply early — deadlines can be 6–12 months before your program starts

Conclusion: Funding opportunities for international students in Canada are both abundant and varied. With strong academic performance, research involvement and proper preparation, international students can secure substantial financial support for their studies. Whether through scholarships, assistantships or financial aid, Canada provides a welcoming environment for talented students from around the world to pursue their educational goals.

📚 Start your journey with Bright Admission Coaching.

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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.

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Independent University, Bangladesh and Chittagong Independent University Trust

Independent University, Bangladesh and Chittagong Independent University trust member, S M Al-Husainy

S M Al-Husainy founder trustee of Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 94. He breathed his last while undergoing treatment at the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute in Mirpur, Dhaka.

Born in 1930, Al-Husainy was a visionary leader whose contributions were instrumental in shaping higher education in Bangladesh. As a key member of the Education, Science, Technology and Cultural Development Trust (ESTCDT), he played a central role in the establishment of IUB. He served as Chairman of the university’s former governing council and later as a member of its board of trustees. He also held the position of Chairman of the board of trustees at Chittagong Independent University (CIU).

Al-Husainy’s distinguished career in public service included serving as secretary to the government in several ministries, a member of the Planning Commission and chairman of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission. His contributions to national development spanned decades and disciplines.

He also held prominent leadership roles in a number of national organizations. He was chairman of Micro Industries Development Assistance and Services (MIDAS), chairman of Swanirvar Bangladesh and director of Micro Industries Finance Ltd. Additionally, he served as Chairman of the Bangladesh Chapter of the Society for International Development (SID), Vice President of the National Heart Foundation and a Member of the Executive Committee of Dhaka Ahsania Mission.

A committed advocate for policy dialogue and professional excellence, Al-Husainy was a Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) and a former President of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB), where he served for three years.

IUB community – including members of the board of trust, ESTCDT, faculty, administration, students and alumni – mourns the loss of a revered mentor and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. We pray for the eternal peace of his departed soul.

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IUB Pharmacy: Bachelor of BPharm

Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) (Honours) – 4-Year Degree Program
Department of Pharmacy, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB)

The Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) is a comprehensive 4-year Honours degree program comprising 170 credits, offered by the Department of Pharmacy at IUB. The curriculum is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical experience across a wide range of pharmaceutical disciplines.

Students engage in intensive studies covering areas such as:

  • Basic and pharmaceutical chemistry
  • Clinical pharmacology (including hospital-based applications)
  • Community pharmacy practices
  • Toxicology
  • Pharmacy law and ethics
  • Drug use management and pharmacotherapy
  • Pharmaceutical dispensing
  • Other relevant pharmaceutical sciences

In addition to core and specialized pharmacy courses, students are also required to complete various Foundation courses mandated by the University to ensure a well-rounded academic experience.

Academic Structure:
The program follows a bi-semester academic calendar:

  • Spring Semester: January – June
  • Autumn Semester: July – December

Each semester spans six months and includes classroom lectures, laboratory sessions, continuous assessments, and final examinations.

The BPharm curriculum is fully approved by both the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Pharmacy Council of Bangladesh (PCB), ensuring compliance with national standards for pharmaceutical education and professional accreditation.