Pursuing an MBBS degree can be a costly endeavor, but scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden. Bangladesh offers several scholarship opportunities for international students aiming to pursue a medical degree. Here’s a detailed look into the various avenues available.
Government Scholarships
The Government of Bangladesh, through its Ministry of Education and various international collaborations, offers scholarships to foreign students. One prominent program is the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Scholarship. This program is aimed at students from SAARC countries, providing them with financial assistance to study in Bangladesh.
Additionally, the Bangladesh government offers scholarships under bilateral agreements with several countries. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, and sometimes even a monthly stipend. It’s advisable to check with the Bangladeshi embassy in your home country for specific details and application procedures.
University Scholarships
Many Bangladeshi universities offer their own scholarships to attract international students. Institutions like Dhaka University, Bangladesh University of Professionals, and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University have various scholarship programs for meritorious students. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees and, in some cases, provide a living allowance.
Each university has its own criteria and application process for these scholarships. Generally, they are based on academic excellence, but some may also consider extracurricular achievements and financial need.
Private and Non-Governmental Organizations
Several private organizations and NGOs in Bangladesh also provide scholarships to international students. Organizations like the BRAC and Grameen Foundation are known for their educational initiatives. While these scholarships are highly competitive, they offer substantial financial support, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
International Scholarships and Grants
There are various international scholarships and grants available for students wishing to study in Bangladesh. Organizations like the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, Fulbright Program, and various country-specific educational foundations provide scholarships to students based on merit and need.
Application Tips
- Research Early: Start your scholarship search at least a year before your intended start date. Different scholarships have different deadlines, and the application process can be lengthy.
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure all your academic records, letters of recommendation, and other required documents are ready. These are crucial for the application process.
- Tailor Your Application: Write a compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your achievements, aspirations, and why you chose Bangladesh for your MBBS studies.
- Seek Guidance: Consult with educational counselors or advisors who can provide insights and help streamline your application process.
Conclusion
Obtaining a scholarship to pursue an MBBS degree in Bangladesh is indeed possible, with various options available from government programs, university scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations. With thorough research, timely application, and diligent preparation, you can secure the financial aid needed to achieve your medical education goals in Bangladesh.
Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College
Established in 1989 and approved by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College has earned recognition from the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and BDMC. Annually, approximately 50 candidates are admitted to pursue an MBBS degree along with a one-year internship. The college offers modern amenities, including excellent accommodation and security, while students can also engage in various extracurricular activities such as theater, sports, and drawing competitions.
Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College operates four expansive academic hospitals, exposing students to a wide range of urban and rural health issues. Equipped with the latest technology, the college ensures that every student has access to updated medical equipment. The curriculum includes language studies in Bengali and English, along with courses on Bangladesh’s history of freedom struggle, women’s development, and environmental studies. Additionally, subjects like Ayurveda, radiology, ENT, physiotherapy, and pediatrics are compulsory for students as per the syllabus.
The Medical Universities in Bangladesh are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), allowing Indian students to practice medicine in India after obtaining their medical degree. With the Ministry of Health sanctioning 50% of seats for foreign students, individuals seeking an economical MBBS degree can enroll in private medical colleges.
Facts about MBBS in Bangladesh
The academic standards and teaching methodologies in Bangladeshi medical colleges are considered average, with variations in infrastructure, facilities, and academics among private institutions.
As private colleges, they do not receive government subsidies, resulting in relatively high tuition fees.
Indian students, particularly from West Bengal and the northeastern states, favor Bangladeshi medical colleges due to linguistic similarities.
Due to similarities in education structure and curriculum with India, graduates from Bangladeshi medical colleges perform well in the FMGE of MCI screening tests.
Affiliations and Medical Programs at Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College
The college offers recognized medical programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels in various study areas.
Affiliated with the University of Dhaka, Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College maintains high academic standards.
Cost of Studying MBBS at Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College
The MBBS course fees at Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College fall within the medium range, significantly lower than those of Indian private medical colleges.
The breakdown of course fees is as follows:
| Year | Course Fee in USD |
|——|——————-|
| Year-1 | 4500 |
| Year-2 | 4500 |
| Year-3 | 4500 |
| Year-4 | 4500 |
| Year-5 | 4500 |
Admission Deadline and Eligibility Criteria
The application timing for admission to Bangladeshi universities is crucial, with intake typically in September.
The issuance of the Invitation Letter by the Ministry of Education, Bangladesh, takes approximately 4-8 weeks, and delayed applications may result in missing the opportunity to join with batch mates.
Eligibility requirements for Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College include scoring 70% in Class X and 60% marks in PCB in Class XII, with NEET 2022 qualification.
Indians at Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College
Indian students are drawn to Bangladeshi medical colleges due to their impressive performance in the MCI screening test and cultural connections.
However, students should consider the academic standards and tuition fees before opting for MBBS at Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College.
About Dhaka in Bangladesh
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, holds the distinction of being the largest city by area in the region. It serves as the preeminent political, cultural, and economic center of the country, boasting robust infrastructure, facilities, and academic institutions. As a “Beta-Global City,” Dhaka is home to the highest number of schools and colleges in Bangladesh.
Dhaka National Medical College
Dhaka National Medical College traces its origins back to the establishment of the Dhaka National Medical Institute in 1925, born out of the Non-Cooperation Movement against British rule and the subsequent boycott of British education. In 1994, it evolved into Dhaka National Medical College, commencing instruction in 1995.
The college’s mission, as stated on its official website, is to attain global acclaim for excellence in medical education, scientific research, and patient care. Over 2,000 medical professionals have commenced their careers after receiving training at Dhaka National Medical College, with 130 students enrolling in the 2019-20 session.
Operating across various departments such as Cardiology, Pediatrics, Dermatology, Neurology, Gastroenterology, and Surgery, among others, the college offers a comprehensive medical education. Its world ranking stands at 21,518th among universities worldwide and 41st in Bangladesh. The MBBS program, delivered entirely in English, spans five years.
Facts about MBBS in Bangladesh
Medical colleges in Bangladesh maintain a moderate academic standard, with variations in infrastructure, facilities, and teaching quality due to their private nature and lack of state funding. As private institutions, they do not benefit from government subsidies, resulting in relatively high tuition fees.
Indian students, particularly from West Bengal and the northeastern states, favor Bangladeshi medical colleges due to the linguistic affinity and similar education structure, which has facilitated their performance in the MCI screening test.
Cost of Studying MBBS at Dhaka National Medical College
The fee structure at Dhaka National Medical College falls within the medium range, significantly lower than that of Indian private medical colleges. The breakdown of the course fees is as follows:
| Year | Course Fee in USD |
|——|——————-|
| Year-1 | 3600 |
| Year-2 | 3600 |
| Year-3 | 3600 |
| Year-4 | 3600 |
| Year-5 | 3600 |
| Year-6 | 3600 |
Admission Deadline and Eligibility Criteria
The ideal time to apply for admission to Bangladeshi medical colleges is typically in September. However, due to potential variations caused by COVID-19 in 2022, it is advisable to remain updated with any changes.
Eligibility requirements for Dhaka National Medical College include obtaining a minimum of 60% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in Class XII. Applicants must have passed their 10th grade in 2018 or 2019 and their 12th grade in 2020 or 2022, and must have qualified for NEET 2022.
Indians at Dhaka National Medical College
Indian students are drawn to Dhaka National Medical College due to its impressive performance in the MCI screening test and the cultural affinity experienced by students from West Bengal and northeastern states. However, students should consider the academic standards and tuition fees before opting for MBBS at Dhaka National Medical College.
Postgraduate Options after MBBS
After completing MBBS, students may pursue medical postgraduate studies in India or take the NExT examination. However, given the competitive nature of postgraduate admissions in government medical colleges, students may also explore opportunities in private medical colleges, albeit at a significant cost.
About Tangail in Bangladesh
Tangail is recognized as the principal urban center of Tangail district, situated 98 kilometers northwest of the Dhaka region. It takes approximately 2 hours to commute from Dhaka’s bus terminal to Tangail. Given its close proximity to roadways and railways, students can easily access the college by bus or train.
Kumudini Women’s Medical College
Established in 1943, Kumudini Women’s Medical College is a women’s medical institution dedicated to promoting medical education among women. The college boasts a hospital building with 850 beds and provides essential amenities such as an auditorium, library, dental unit, canteen, and five multi-storied hostel buildings for students and faculty.
The MBBS program at Kumudini Women’s Medical College is recognized by the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council. The college offers theoretical and practical classes in various departments including anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, community medicine, and toxicology. Students are encouraged to participate in theater, sports activities, and other creative endeavors to hone their talents and enhance self-confidence.
Kumudini Women’s Medical College has a World Ranking of 13590th among over 40,000 universities, and a Country Ranking of 82nd in Bangladesh.
As the Ministry of Health has allocated 50% of seats for foreign students, individuals seeking to pursue an MBBS degree at Kumudini Women’s Medical College can enroll in this public medical institution.
Facts about MBBS in Bangladesh
– The academic standards and pedagogy in Bangladesh’s medical colleges are considered average.
– These colleges are privately funded, leading to variations in infrastructure, facilities, and academics.
– Tuition fees are substantially high due to the lack of government subsidies.
– Indian students, particularly from West Bengal and the northeastern states, are drawn to Bangladeshi medical colleges due to the linguistic and cultural similarities.
– Graduates from Bangladeshi medical colleges have performed well in the FMGE of MCI screening tests, owing to the similar education structure, curriculum, and academic patterns with India.
Affiliations and Medical Programs at Kumudini Women’s Medical College
Kumudini Women’s Medical College offers officially recognized programs such as Master’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, and Honors programs. The college is affiliated with the University of Dhaka and is listed in international directories such as FAIMER, USA, which facilitates competitive entrance examinations abroad.
Admission Deadline for Kumudini Women’s Medical College
Timing of application is crucial for admission to Bangladeshi Medical Colleges. Generally, the intake in these colleges occurs in September. However, for the year 2022, there might be some variation due to COVID-19, but rest assured, we at Moksh will handle any confusion for you.
It’s essential to apply on time because the issuance of the Invitation Letter by the Ministry of Education, Bangladesh takes approximately 4-8 weeks, based on which the Bangladeshi Consulate in India issues the visa. Delay in applying might result in missing out on joining with your batch mates.
Eligibility Criteria for Admission in Kumudini Women’s Medical College
To be eligible for admission to Kumudini Women’s Medical College, applicants need to score at least 60% marks in PCB in Class XII. For admission to the batch of 2022, Class X should have been passed in 2018 or 2019, and Class XII in 2020 or 2021. Additionally, candidates must have qualified NEET 2021.
Indians at Kumudini Women’s Medical College
Indian students are commonly found in Bangladeshi medical colleges for two main reasons. Firstly, the impressive passing ratio in the MCI screening test provides a sense of security to Indian students, making them confident about clearing the FMGE / NEXT / MCI screening test. Secondly, there is a linguistic and cultural connection that students from West Bengal and the northeastern states find in Bangladesh.
However, it’s important to consider the academic standards and hefty tuition fees while opting for MBBS at Kumudini Women’s Medical College.
PG Option after MBBS in Kumudini Women’s Medical College
After completing MBBS, many students aspire to pursue Medical PG in India or NExT. However, securing a PG seat, especially in government medical colleges, is highly competitive, with only about 1 out of 10 candidates succeeding. Additionally, the chances of getting a clinical specialty are even slimmer, with only about 1 out of 20 applicants succeeding. Consequently, the journey to PG can be challenging, and students often need substantial financial resources to secure a paid seat in a private medical college, which may cost millions!