Zahid was always among the top students in his school and college. Exams never rattled him. So, when the university admission season arrived, he walked into the test centres with quiet confidence. He had applied to several reputed public universities.

The results came out, but his name did not appear on any of the merit lists. “In school and college, I did quite well even with little studying. That gave me some confidence. But during the university admission period, that confidence turned into overconfidence,” he said.

The admission season passed, but for Zahid, the journey wasn’t over. He chose the path many others take—preparing for another year in the hope of cracking the test on his second attempt.

In Bangladesh, public university admission tests are very competitive. The exceptionally low tuition fees make them an attractive option for students. Each year, hundreds of thousands of students sit for a limited number of seats in public universities. The ones who do not make it must either choose a National University-affiliated college, which may lack resources, or a private university, which can be financially out of reach for many. The third option, giving it a shot again the following year, is commonly called ‘second time admission test’. It is often seen as a gamble worth taking. However, not all public universities give you a second chance.

A year of uncertainty

For most students, opting for a second attempt is not an easy decision. It often means sacrificing a year, facing social pressure, and living with uncertainty. For some, it also includes family members when they are not supportive enough.

Many second-time applicants struggle with seeing their friends move on – attending classes, posting campus photos on social media, and even graduating – while they stay behind. Zahid recalled, “The frustration is obvious, and for many, the family may not be supportive either. Some people even face hurtful comments from relatives and neighbours.

“However, these hardships are often a part of the journey. “You must keep yourself mentally strong by focusing on your goals,” said Zahid.

The bright side

While the first attempt often fails due to poor planning or unfamiliarity with the exam process, the second attempt tends to be more strategic. It gives students time to reflect, reassess, and prepare more effectively.

Hafizul Islam, a student of Government and Politics at Jahangirnagar University, said, “When I sat for the admission test for the first time, my preparation wasn’t very good. I didn’t enrol in any coaching centre or follow anyone’s advice. I studied on my own and didn’t get admitted to any university.

“In the second year, he changed his approach. “Second-timers usually complete a large part of their preparation during their first attempt. Many students miss out the first time simply because they don’t fully understand the process,” he explained. He emphasised the importance of identifying past mistakes, staying focused, following a study routine, and practising with real exam questions.

Zahid followed a similar path. “I made a list of the universities where I could sit for the admission tests a second time. I also listed the faculties I would apply to. Then I collected question banks for those subjects. I practised them well,” he said.

Coaching centres, mock exams, and mentors become crucial support systems for many second-timers. However, not everyone relies on expensive preparation. Zannatul Mawa, for example, now a student of Public Administration at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, chose a simpler route. “I only joined a coaching centre. I attended the classes of one dedicated teacher. That was all I did for preparation.”

Coping mechanisms and routines

Beyond academic preparation, second-time applicants must also rebuild their self-esteem and daily structure. A year without a fixed routine can easily become mentally exhausting and demotivating.

“During this time, it is common to feel down. As your friends start university and share their lives on social media, you might feel frustrated, not out of jealousy, but because of your situation,” Zahid said.”Instead of giving in to frustration, focus on your own studies,” he said, adding, “It’s important to follow a routine; doing so helps you move forward steadily. Having one or two supportive friends to occasionally vent or rant to can also help.Yesine Shuvo, a Finance student at the University of Chittagong, added another perspective. In his second year, he took a full-time job while preparing for exams. “After returning home from work, I practised mathematics and studied vocabulary.” His first attempt failed partly due to the lack of guidance. “I needed a mentor to show me the right path,” he said. For others choosing self-study, he suggested having a “strong and foolproof plan.”

These plans are often tailored to individual weaknesses. Hafizul suggested starting by recognising what went wrong the first time. “First, it is important to identify the mistakes from the first time and fix them. Then, follow a routine, study regularly by analysing the question bank, and take as many practice exams as possible.”

A path not for everyone

Despite the inspirational stories of eventual success, taking the admission test a second time isn’t the right choice for everyone. It requires discipline, mental resilience, and, in many cases, financial stability at home.”

Giving the admission test for the second time means falling behind by one year. So, if possible, it is better to get admitted to a good private university,” Mawa said. Her words reflect the sentiments of many who do not want to take the risk of another failed attempt.

Zahid acknowledged it too. “Since you are already taking a gap year, and public universities often face session jams, you may fall further behind. By enrolling in a private university, you can avoid that gap. But for those who do not have that option, they should make the most of the second chance.

“Second-time admission seekers often tread a fine line between ambition and practicality. For some, the decision pays off. For others, it may feel like a year lost. In all cases, the experience is formative.”

Actually, university admission depends on both study and a little bit of luck,” Mawa said. It is a sentiment echoed by many who sit through the process twice. While luck may not be in one’s control, mental and academic preparation certainly is.

And for students like Zahid, who came back down to earth after his first try, the second time was not just about getting into a university, it was about exploring himself again. “The struggle helped me grow. Looking back, it taught me resilience and shaped the way I approach challenges today,” he concluded.