Last Updated: December 2025
Reading Time: ~15 minutes
Who This Is For: HSC/Diploma students, parents, and anyone researching study options in India
Planning to study in India after your HSC or Diploma? You're not alone — thousands of Bangladeshi students make this journey every year. But if you've been researching online, you've probably noticed the overwhelming amount of conflicting information out there.
As Bangladeshi students currently studying in India, we've been through this entire process ourselves — from choosing a university to getting a visa to settling into campus life. This guide shares everything we've learned, based on our experience and research.
What this guide covers:
- Eligibility and documents needed
- How to choose a university (with verification tips)
- Scholarships up to 60% (auto-calculated — no separate application)
- Step-by-step admission process (two options)
- Student visa requirements
- Actual costs in INR and BDT
- What to pack and what to do after arrival
- Degree validity in Bangladesh
Important: This is based on our experience and publicly available information. University policies, visa rules, and fees can change — always verify with official sources before making decisions.
📌 For Parents Reading This
We understand sending your child abroad is a big decision. This guide covers safety, costs, and verification — everything you need to evaluate. The sections on costs, degree validity, safety, and the fraud prevention checklist are especially relevant for you. If you have questions, you can reach out to us directly.
Why Bangladeshi Students Choose India for Higher Education
India has become one of the most popular study destinations for Bangladeshi students, and there are practical reasons for this.
Geographic proximity is the biggest factor. India is next door — flights are short and affordable, and you can visit home during breaks. Families can also visit more easily compared to destinations like Europe, Australia, or North America.
Cultural and linguistic familiarity makes adjustment easier. Food, festivals, and daily life share similarities. Many Indians understand Bengali, especially in eastern states. You won't feel completely foreign.
Lower costs compared to Western countries. Even with international student fees, studying in India costs a fraction of what you'd pay in the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia. When you add scholarships (which we'll cover below), it becomes even more affordable.
English-medium instruction at most universities means you can study without learning a new language first. IELTS is often not required at private universities.
Wide range of recognized universities offering programs in engineering, business, medicine, design, law, and more. Many are UGC-recognized and NAAC-accredited, which matters for degree validity.
From our experience, the biggest advantage is being close to home. Weekend trips during long breaks are possible, and families can visit more easily than if you were in Europe or Australia.
That said, India isn't perfect — there are challenges with adjustment, weather differences, and bureaucracy. But for many Bangladeshi students, the benefits outweigh the difficulties.
Am I Eligible? Basic Requirements for Bangladeshi Students
For Undergraduate Programs (After HSC/Diploma)
- Minimum education: HSC or equivalent Diploma from a recognized Bangladesh board
- Marks requirement: Typically 45-50% aggregate (varies by university and program)
- Age: Generally no strict upper limit for most programs
- English proficiency: Usually assessed through interview or application, not IELTS (for most private universities)
For Postgraduate Programs (After Bachelor's)
- Recognized Bachelor's degree
- Minimum marks: Usually 50%+
- Some programs (MBA, specialized Master's) may require entrance tests or work experience
Documents You'll Need (Initial Application)
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SSC Marksheet & Certificate | Academic verification |
| HSC Marksheet & Certificate | Eligibility confirmation |
| ID Proof (NID/Birth Certificate/Passport) | Identity verification |
| Passport-size Photos | Application forms |
| Valid Passport | Visa application (can apply later) |
Don't worry if you don't have a passport yet — you can apply for admission first and get your passport while waiting for the offer letter. Many students do this.
Choosing the Right University: What to Consider
Key Factors to Evaluate
Before choosing a university, verify these things:
- UGC (India) recognition — Check on ugc.gov.in. This is non-negotiable for degree validity.
- NAAC/NBA accreditation — Check on naac.gov.in. Higher grades (A++, A+, A) indicate better quality.
- Course availability — Does the university offer your specific program and specialization?
- Location and climate — North India (Delhi NCR, Punjab) has extreme seasons. Gujarat is milder.
- Fee structure and scholarship — Compare after-scholarship costs, not just headline fees.
- Hostel facilities — On-campus hostels are safer and more convenient for international students.
- Placement record — Important if you plan to work in India after graduation.
Universities Popular Among Bangladeshi Students
| University | Location | Known For | Scholarship for BD Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galgotias University | Greater Noida | Engineering, Management | 60% (Engineering), 50% (Others) |
| Sharda University | Greater Noida | Wide course range | 20-50% (GPA-based) |
| Chandigarh University | Punjab | Engineering, Placements | 35-50% (Marks-based) |
| Noida International University | Greater Noida | Affordable fees | 50% flat |
| Parul University | Gujarat | Medical, Paramedical | 50% flat |
Neutrality note: We're sharing universities where Bangladeshi students commonly study. This isn't a ranking — each university has different strengths. The right choice depends on YOUR course, budget, and preferences. Research each one before deciding.
How to Verify a University Is Genuine
- ✅ Check the UGC list of recognized universities
- ✅ Verify NAAC grade on naac.gov.in
- ✅ Look for official .ac.in or .edu.in domain (not .com or .org)
- ✅ Check for physical campus on Google Maps or YouTube
- ❌ Be wary of "guaranteed admission" claims — legitimate universities don't need to guarantee anything
Understanding Scholarships (The Good News)
Here's something many students don't realize: most universities offer automatic scholarships for Bangladeshi students based on your SSC/HSC marks. You don't need to apply separately — the scholarship is calculated when you apply.
Scholarship Comparison Table
| University | Engineering | Other Courses | Basis | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galgotias | 60% | 50% | Flat (automatic) | None |
| Parul | 50% | 50% | Flat (automatic) | None |
| NIU | 50% | 50% | Flat (automatic) | None |
| CU | 35-50% | 35-50% | SSC/HSC marks | Must clear all subjects |
| Sharda | 20-50% | 20-50% | GPA (3.0-5.0) | Program-specific |
Sharda University Scholarship Details
Sharda has the most complex scholarship structure:
GPA-based tiers:
- 3.0-3.4 GPA → 20% scholarship
- 3.5-5.0 GPA → 50% scholarship
Programs eligible for 50% scholarship: B.Tech (all), BBA (all), MBA (all), BCA, MCA, B.Com, B.Arch, B.Design, BA Film & Television, BJMC, LLB Integrated, and select B.Sc. programs.
Programs with limited/no scholarship:
- B.Sc. Nursing → 25% only
- MBBS, BDS, Pharmacy, MPT → No scholarship
Continuation requirement: To keep the scholarship from year 2 onwards, you must pass without backlogs and maintain 75% attendance.
Chandigarh University Scholarship Criteria
- 50%+ in both SSC & HSC → 50% scholarship
- 44-49% in both SSC & HSC → 35% scholarship
- Must have cleared all subjects (no fails)
Government Scholarships (ICCR)
The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) offers scholarships for international students, including Bangladeshis.
What's covered: Full tuition waiver, accommodation, monthly stipend, medical insurance. Recently, The Daily Campus reported that 550 Bangladeshi students received ICCR scholarships for the 2025 academic session, highlighting the strong educational bond between the two nations.
How to apply: Through the Bangladesh Ministry of Education or the A2A scholarship portal. Application period is usually December-February for the next academic year.
Important: Government scholarships are competitive with limited seats. Most students go with university scholarships which are automatic and easier. If you want to try for ICCR, apply early and keep university admission as a backup.
Important Scholarship Notes
- ✅ University scholarships are calculated automatically based on your marks
- ✅ No separate scholarship application required
- ⚠️ Applies to tuition fee only (not hostel, exam, or other fees)
- ⚠️ One scholarship per student (whichever is highest)
- ⚠️ Policies can change — confirm with university before finalizing
From our experience, the flat scholarship universities (Galgotias, Parul, NIU) are straightforward — you know exactly what you'll pay. For Sharda and CU, calculate carefully based on your actual marks.
Step-by-Step Admission Process
When to Apply (Admission Timeline)
| Intake | Application Period | Classes Start | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall (Main) | January - July | August/September | HSC result out in July |
| Spring | September - December | January/February | Gap year students |
Recommended timeline:
| Months Before | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 4-6 months | Research universities, compare scholarships |
| 3-4 months | Finalize choice, gather documents |
| 2-3 months | Apply, receive offer letter |
| 1-2 months | Pay fees, get visa documents, apply for visa |
| 2-4 weeks | Visa approval, book travel |
From our experience, start early — at least 3-4 months before your target intake. This gives buffer time if there are delays with documents or visa.
Option 1: Apply Through WBE (Free Support)
| Step | What Happens | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Send documents to WBE WhatsApp (SSC, HSC marksheets, ID proof, course preference) | Day 1 |
| 2 | WBE forwards to university — no charge | Day 1-2 |
| 3 | University reviews and sends offer letter to YOUR email | 3-7 days |
| 4 | Pay admission fee directly to university | After offer |
| 5 | Receive admission letter + payment receipt | 2-3 days |
| 6 | Send passport copy for visa documents | When ready |
| 7 | Receive bonafide + visa recommendation letter | 3-5 days |
| 8 | Apply for student visa | As per schedule |
| 9 | Travel to India after visa approval | — |
| 10 | Pay tuition fee at university | After arrival |
Why through WBE?
- ✅ Completely free — we don't charge students
- ✅ Help with payment transfer in BDT if needed
- ✅ Document guidance and support
- ✅ Experience-based advice from students who've done this
⚠️ Fraud Prevention & Verification Checklist
Read this before you pay anything. This protects you from common scams.
Offer letter verification:
- ✅ Offer letter must come from the university's official email domain (e.g., @sharda.ac.in), not Gmail/Yahoo
- ✅ Letter should include your name, course, intake, fee details, and university contact info
Payment safety:
- ✅ Always pay fees directly to the university (official bank account or payment portal)
- ✅ Never pay "admission fees" or "visa fees" in cash to unknown people
- ✅ After payment, you must receive an official payment receipt
- ✅ If paying in BDT through WBE, confirm the exact INR amount and get the university receipt
University legitimacy checks:
- ✅ Verify on UGC India and check NAAC accreditation
- ✅ Confirm through official university website and verified phone numbers
Red flags to watch for:
- ❌ "Guaranteed visa" or "guaranteed admission" claims
- ❌ Pressure tactics: "Pay today or lose your seat"
- ❌ Bank details shared only via WhatsApp without official verification
- ❌ Requests to pay to personal accounts
Option 2: Apply Directly (Your Choice)
Path A: Through university website
- Visit the official international admissions page
- Fill online application form, upload documents
- Pay application fee (if any)
- Wait for offer letter via email
- Proceed with payment and visa documents
Path B: Through Study in India Portal
- Register at studyinindia.gov.in
- Create your SII ID
- Browse courses and universities
- Apply to selected universities through the portal
- Track application status online
Both paths work — many students apply directly. WBE exists to help those who want guidance, but the choice is always yours.
Student Visa Process for Bangladeshi Students
Visa Type
You need a Student Visa (S visa), valid for your course duration. Apply at the Indian High Commission Dhaka or authorized visa application centers.
Documents Required
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Min 6 months validity, 2 blank pages |
| Visa Application Form | Online at indianvisaonline.gov.in |
| Passport Photos | As per visa specification |
| Admission/Offer Letter | Original from university |
| Fee Payment Receipt | Proof of admission fee paid |
| Bonafide Certificate | From university |
| Visa Recommendation Letter | From university |
| Financial Documents | Bank statement (min 6 months) showing sufficient funds |
| Academic Documents | SSC, HSC certificates |
Application Process
- Complete online application at indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Book appointment at High Commission or authorized visa center
- Submit documents and biometrics in person
- Pay visa fee
- Wait for processing (typically 5-15 working days)
- Collect passport with visa
Visa fee (approximate):
- Student visa fee: ~₹1,500 - ₹2,500 (varies by duration)
- Service/processing charge: Additional fees may apply
- Always verify current rates at indianvisaonline.gov.in — fees change periodically
From our experience, the most common reason for visa delays is incomplete documents. Double-check everything before your appointment. The bonafide certificate and visa recommendation letter from the university are critical — don't apply without them.
Total Costs: What You'll Actually Pay
Important: Currency & Payment
All university fees are charged in Indian Rupees (INR). However, students can pay in BDT — WBE can help convert and transfer at the current exchange rate.
Exchange rate reference:
- Approximate rate: 1 BDT = ₹0.69 - ₹0.72 INR
- Or: ₹1 INR = ৳1.39 - ৳1.45 BDT
- For quick math: Multiply INR by ~1.4 to get approximate BDT
- Rates fluctuate — always check before payment
University Costs (Per Year, After Scholarship)
| Expense | INR | BDT (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (after scholarship) | ₹80,000 - ₹2,50,000 | ৳1,12,000 - ৳3,50,000 |
| Hostel Fee | ₹50,000 - ₹1,00,000 | ৳70,000 - ৳1,40,000 |
| Exam/Registration Fees | ₹10,000 - ₹30,000 | ৳14,000 - ৳42,000 |
| Total University Costs/Year | ₹1,40,000 - ₹3,80,000 | ৳1,96,000 - ৳5,32,000 |
Monthly Living Costs (Greater Noida/Delhi NCR)
| Expense | INR/Month | BDT/Month (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Food (mess + outside) | ₹4,000 - ₹6,000 | ৳5,600 - ৳8,400 |
| Transportation | ₹500 - ₹1,500 | ৳700 - ৳2,100 |
| Mobile/Internet | ₹500 - ₹1,000 | ৳700 - ৳1,400 |
| Personal expenses | ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 | ৳2,800 - ৳5,600 |
| Monthly Total | ₹7,000 - ₹12,500 | ৳9,800 - ৳17,500 |
One-Time Costs
| Expense | INR | BDT (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa fee + processing | ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 | ৳4,200 - ৳7,000 |
| Flight ticket (one-way) | ₹8,000 - ₹15,000 | ৳11,200 - ৳21,000 |
| Initial setup (bedding, supplies) | ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 | ৳7,000 - ৳14,000 |
Payment Options
| Method | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Pay in INR | Direct bank transfer to university's Indian account |
| Pay in BDT | Through WBE — we help transfer to university at current exchange rate |
Important: Always pay directly to the university or through verified channels. Keep all receipts — you'll need them for visa and records. These are 2024-2025 estimates — confirm current fees with your target university.
From our experience, paying through WBE in BDT is easier for most families — no need to deal with international transfers directly. But you can also pay directly if you prefer.
What to Pack: Preparing for India
Documents to Carry (Originals + Photocopies)
| Document | Copies Needed |
|---|---|
| Passport with visa | Original + 5 copies |
| Admission letter | Original + 3 copies |
| Fee payment receipts | Original + 3 copies |
| SSC/HSC certificates | Original + 5 copies |
| Passport photos | 15-20 copies |
| Medical records (if any) | As needed |
Clothing & Essentials
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Winter clothing | Heavy jacket, sweaters, thermals (Nov-Feb: 5-10°C in North India) |
| Summer clothing | Light cotton clothes (Apr-Jun: 40°C+ in Delhi NCR) |
| Comfortable walking shoes | You'll walk a lot on campus |
| Electrical adapter | India uses Type C/D plugs (different from Bangladesh) |
| Medicines | Any regular medicines you take |
Money for Initial Days
- Carry ₹5,000-10,000 in cash for first few days
- International debit card (Mastercard/Visa) that works abroad
- Have a backup plan (someone who can send money if needed)
Don't overpack — you can buy most things in India at reasonable prices. Books, toiletries, and clothes are all available. Focus on documents and essentials.
From our experience, the biggest mistake is underpacking winter clothes. Greater Noida and Punjab get colder than Dhaka. If coming between November-February, bring proper warm clothing.
After Arrival: What to Do First
First Week Checklist
| Task | Deadline | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Complete university registration | Day 1-3 | Official enrollment |
| FRRO registration | Within 14 days | Legal requirement |
| Open Indian bank account | Week 1-2 | Easier fee payments |
| Get local SIM card | Day 1 | Communication |
| Medical check-up | As per university | Some universities require this |
FRRO Registration (Critical)
What: Foreigners Regional Registration Office — mandatory for stays over 180 days.
Required documents:
- Passport with visa
- Admission letter
- Passport photos
- Proof of residence (hostel letter from university)
- University bonafide
How: Start online at indianfrro.gov.in, then visit the FRRO office to complete registration.
⚠️ Warning: Don't skip or delay FRRO registration. Late registration results in fines (₹300/day) and can cause complications with visa extension. Do it within your first 14 days.
Safety Tips for New Students
General safety:
- Stay in university hostel initially (safer, connected community)
- Avoid isolated areas, especially at night
- Keep university security number saved
- Travel in groups when going to unfamiliar places
- Be cautious with strangers offering "help" or "deals"
Important contacts to save:
| Contact | Why |
|---|---|
| University security | 24/7 campus safety |
| Local police (100) | Emergency |
| Bangladesh Embassy Delhi | Passport issues, emergencies |
| Senior Bangladeshi students | Practical guidance |
Document safety:
- Keep photocopies of all documents
- Store digital copies in email/cloud
- Don't carry original certificates unnecessarily
- Keep passport in hostel locker
From our experience, most students have no safety issues. The key is awareness — stay connected with other Bangladeshi students, inform someone when traveling, and trust your instincts. Greater Noida has many international students, so you won't feel isolated.
Will My Indian Degree Be Valid in Bangladesh?
The Short Answer
Yes — degrees from UGC-recognized Indian universities are generally accepted in Bangladesh after completing the equivalence verification process.
Before You Enroll: Verification Checklist
Do this before paying any fees:
| What to Verify | How to Verify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| University is recognized | Check UGC India | Avoid unrecognized institutions |
| Accreditation quality | Check NAAC grade | Quality signal |
| Your program details | Confirm on university's official site + offer letter | Prevent confusion |
| Documents to save later | Keep syllabus, transcripts | Helps BD UGC equivalence |
Important: The safest approach is to verify recognition BEFORE paying any fee. After admission, fixing recognition problems becomes very difficult.
Bangladesh UGC Equivalence Process
After completing your degree:
- Apply at Bangladesh UGC (verify current website before applying — government portals change)
- Required: Original degree, transcripts, detailed syllabus
- Processing time: Several months (varies)
- Some fields may require additional verification
Important Exceptions
- Law degrees: May have limitations for Bangladesh Bar Council registration
- Medical degrees (MBBS): Requires separate BMDC registration process
- Nursing, Pharmacy: Check specific Bangladesh council requirements
From our experience, most graduates successfully get their degrees recognized. The key is studying at a properly UGC-recognized Indian university — verify this before you enroll, not after.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I study in India without IELTS?
Yes, you can study in India without IELTS. Most private universities (like Sharda, Galgotias, Chandigarh University) do not require IELTS scores for Bangladeshi students. They assess English proficiency through your previous academic records or a simple interview.
Q: Can I work while studying?
Student visa rules generally don't permit full-time employment. As noted in recent reports by The Daily Campus regarding low-cost higher education in India, international students are strictly prohibited from working full-time, and violating this can lead to legal complications. Some universities allow limited on-campus work or internships. Focus on studies first.
Q: Is a study gap accepted in Indian universities?
Yes, a study gap is accepted by most private universities in India. A gap of 2-5 years after HSC or Diploma is generally acceptable for undergraduate programs, provided you have a valid reason (like preparation, family issues, or work). Public universities may have stricter rules, so check beforehand.
Q: Is India safe for Bangladeshi students?
Generally, yes — thousands of Bangladeshi students study safely in India. Like any country, awareness matters. Stay in university hostels initially, be aware of your surroundings, and connect with senior students for guidance.
Q: What if I fail a subject?
Most universities allow re-examination. However, some scholarships (like Sharda's) require passing without backlogs to continue the scholarship. Understand your university's policy.
Q: Can my parents visit me?
Yes — parents can apply for a tourist visa to India through the Indian High Commission Dhaka or via indianvisaonline.gov.in. The process is straightforward.
Q: How do I send money from Bangladesh?
Universities accept international bank transfers. WBE can help with fee transfers in BDT if needed. Keep records of all payments.
Q: What if I want to change my university?
Transfers are possible but complicated — requires clearance from both universities and may affect your visa. Choose carefully initially.
Q: What's the weather like in Greater Noida/Delhi NCR?
Extreme seasons: Summers (April-June) reach 40°C+, winters (December-February) drop to 5-10°C, monsoon (July-September) brings rain. Pack for all seasons.
Q: Is halal food available?
Yes — halal food is available in most areas. University mess usually has vegetarian options. Many restaurants near universities cater to international students.
Q: Do I need to know Hindi?
Not for studies — classes are in English. Basic Hindi helps for daily life. Most students pick up conversational Hindi within months. Many Indians also understand some Bengali.
Next Steps: Ready to Start?
The "Verify → Ask → Decide" Approach
1. Verify
Research universities on official websites. Check UGC recognition. Read reviews from actual students. Don't trust claims — verify facts.
2. Ask
Have questions? Confused about something? Reach out — we're Bangladeshi students who've been through this process ourselves.
3. Decide
The choice is yours. We share information; you make the decision that's right for YOU.
If you'd like guidance from students who've done this journey, you can reach us on WhatsApp. We'll share what we know — no pressure, no charges for students, just honest guidance based on our experience.
Contact:
- WhatsApp: +8801611533385
- Website: westernbanglaedu.co.in
- Contact Us Page
Studying abroad is a big decision. Take your time, verify everything, and trust yourself to make the right choice.
This guide is published by Western Bangla Edu (WBE), a government-registered education guidance service run by Bangladeshi students studying in India. Trade License: 27691760016, Nawabganj, Dinajpur.
We don't guarantee admission, visa approval, or any specific outcome. We share our experience to help you make informed decisions. Always verify information with official sources.