India has always been a good choice for young Bangladeshi students in search of quality education with low costs. With renowned institutions such as the IITs, Delhi University, JNU and an increasing number of private and state universities, India, for students from Bangladesh, presents the ideal mix: academic excellence and cultural proximity.

One of the most sought-after schemes is the ICCR Scholarship – instituted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) which is a wing of the Government of India.

What is an ICCR scholarship?

The ICCR Scholarship is a full scholarship for international students in India which will cover a student’s tuition fees, monthly stipend (INR 18,000–25,000), hostel accommodation, and airfare (return ticket). 

The scholarship covers undergraduate, postgraduate, MPhil, and PhD degrees in a wide range of disciplines: engineering, humanities, law, commerce, fine arts, and much more.

Applications usually start in February each year through the A2A Scholarship Portal (https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in/)

Voices from Bangladeshi students

Sumaiya is studying at IIT Hyderabad. She says, “I had always dreamed of studying computer science at an international level. IIT Hyderabad gave me that. The ICCR scholarship made it happen. My family doesn’t have to pay anything.”

Riad is a CSE student at the University of Delhi. He says, “From studying in India, I gained exposure and a sense of confidence. The professor, the campus culture, and the diversity of students all contributed to my intellectual development. I could also travel to various parts of India during the semester breaks.

Best universities for ICCR-sponsored students

1. Delhi University (DU)
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
3. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
4. University of Hyderabad
5. IITs and NITs (in certain seats of ICCR quota)
6. Jadavpur University
7. Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan

Other opportunities beyond ICCR

If you miss the ICCR window, here are other options:

1. SAARC and BIMSTEC scholarships

These are scholarships from Indian universities to students of neighboring counties like Bangladesh.

2. Admission: Direct in Indian private colleges

Most of the Indian universities give 25%–50% scholarships to the Bangladeshi citizens. You can apply directly.

3. Self-financed Route

Much cheaper than in many other countries. Yearly costs can vary between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the programme and college you choose.

 Application tips

• Have your passport ready ahead of time.
• Draft a convincing Statement of Purpose (SoP).
• Express why India, why the course, and future plans clearly.
• Get recommendation letters from teachers.
• Scanned (not typed) copies of academic transcripts, certificates and passport-size photos.

Someone might ask, “Why choose India?” These are some possible answers:

• Cultural similarity with Bangladesh
• Affordable living and education
• Globally ranked institutions
• Easy air and land connectivity
• Vibrant campus life

India continues to be the most facilitating and rewarding destination for Bangladeshi students. With the help of the ICCR Scholarship or self-financed ones, it provides a global level of education just a stone’s throw away across the border.