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2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings: What Bangladeshi Students Should Know

2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings: What Bangladeshi Students Should Know

The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings are the world’s only rankings that measure how well universities are working toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—like quality education, gender equality, climate action and global partnerships.

For Bangladeshi students planning to study abroad or at home, these rankings show which universities are committed to real-world impact, not just academic results.

🌟 Why It Matters for You

  • 🎓 Focus on social good: The Impact Rankings highlight how universities improve society and the environment—not just publish papers.
  • 🌏 A global view with local relevance: Universities are ranked based on sustainability, inclusion, and community work—important values for today’s students.
  • 🎯 Choose based on purpose: If you care about climate, equality, or innovation, these rankings show which universities share your goals.

🏆 Bangladesh’s Top Performer

In the 2024 rankings:

  • Daffodil International University (DIU) ranked in the 301–400 global band—#1 in Bangladesh.
  • DIU scored especially high in:
    • SDG 4: Quality Education
    • SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
    • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
    • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

This reflects the university’s strong focus on inclusive education, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration.

🌍 Global Trends in the 2025 Rankings

  • 📅 Released: June 19, 2025
  • 🌐 Over 2,540 universities from 130+ countries took part
  • 🌏 Asian universities made up over half the list—great news for students considering nearby study destinations
  • 🥇 Western Sydney University (Australia) was ranked #1 in the world—for the 4th year in a row
  • 🇦🇺 Australia had 3 universities in the top 10, including Griffith and Tasmania

✈️ Study Abroad Insights for Bangladeshi Students

Looking to study in a country with strong sustainability values?

CountryStrong Impact Ranking PresenceGood for Bangladeshi Students?
Australia3 in global top 10✅ Yes — welcoming & scholarship-friendly
CanadaConsistently strong in SDG 4, 10✅ Yes — quality + diversity
MalaysiaGrowing SDG performance✅ Affordable + close by
UKStrong outreach & partnerships✅ Many Bangladeshi alumni

📌 What the Rankings Measure

CategoryWhat It Means
ResearchWork related to solving global problems
StewardshipHow eco-friendly and fair the campus is
OutreachImpact on the local and global community
TeachingCurriculum that supports global development

🎯 Final Thoughts

If you are a Bangladeshi student:

  • 📚 Use these rankings to find mission-driven universities
  • 🌐 Compare home and overseas options based on values, not just reputation
  • 🤝 Choose a university that aligns with your passion for change
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Daffodil International University with Powiślański University, Poland

Daffodil International University with Powiślański University, Poland

In a significant step to enhance global academic partnerships Prof. Katarzyna Strzała–Osuch Rector of Powiślański University, Poland and Prof. Daniel Roman Osuch are visiting Daffodil International University (DIU) from June 16–20, 2025, under the Erasmus+ Staff Exchange Program.

This official visit reinforces the strong collaboration between Powiślański University and DIU, with a new cooperation agreement signed to promote:

  • Dual degree programs
  • 2+2 and 3+1 academic pathway programs
  • Student internships and summer programs
  • Faculty exchange programs
  • Joint PhD programs in future

The delegates also explored the modern DIU campus and visited the Daffodil Institute of Social Sciences (DISS), which plays a pivotal role in social innovation and community engagement in Bangladesh.

Over the past few years, Powiślański University has been an active European partner of DIU through the Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility (ICM) framework, enabling numerous faculty and student exchange programs.

This visit marks a new chapter in international higher education cooperation between Poland and Bangladesh, promoting innovation, academic excellence, and cross-cultural learning.

Why This Matters for Students and Faculty

This collaboration offers expanded international opportunities for students and faculty members through mobility, joint research, and access to European higher education systems, contributing to global employability and academic development.

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Brac University Architecture Department with Aarong

Brac University Architecture Department with Aarong

Aarong Furniture Moodboard Idea Competition: Brac University Students Redefine Bangladeshi Furniture Design

The Aarong Furniture Moodboard Idea Competition was a pioneering industry-academia collaboration between Aarong and the Department of Architecture at Brac University (BU), aimed at inspiring young designers to create modern, culturally inspired furniture concepts.

Bridging Industry and Academia

The initiative was led by Tamara Abed, Managing Director of Brac Enterprises, as part of a strategic vision to connect academic creativity with real-world business innovation. The competition was organized by a team of BU faculty members: Shams Mansoor Ghani, Dr. Sajid bin Doza, Saimum Kabir, Md. Samiur Rahman Bhuiyan, Emmat Ara Khanam, Ahnaf Shakil Millat, Athena Rahman and Md. Rakibul Hasan.

Celebrating Bangladeshi Design and Culture

Participants in the interior design course were invited to create furniture mood boards that reflect aesthetic innovation, functionality and cultural identity aligned with Aarong’s brand values. Submissions featured themes such as:

  • Traditional Bengali motifs
  • Sustainable design materials
  • Minimalist and modern furniture concepts
  • Natural textures and spatial harmony

Esteemed Jury and Guests

The final judging was conducted by a joint panel of BU faculty and Aarong representatives, including:

  • Tanvir Hossain, Chief Business Officer
  • Rajesh Khajuria, Head of Design
  • Nil Ratan Karmakar, General Manager, Finance & Accounts

Competition Results

After a competitive evaluation process, the winners were announced:

  • 🥇 Winners: Nahin Sarker, Rabeya Khatun Shifa, and Safin Elham
  • 🥈 1st Runner-Up: Fatima Kamal Anonna, Meruna Rahman, Debjoti Barman Katha, and Azra Fariha Rima
  • 🥉 2nd Runner-Up: Eisha Sutar, Rizat Hasan, Faiza Jerin, and Saima Hoque
  • 🎖️ Commendation Recognition: Bebe Taramon, Parmina Arshad Shoily, Samia Hasan, and Moumita Datta

Fostering the Future of Furniture Design in Bangladesh

The Aarong-Brac University moodboard competition highlights the growing potential of Bangladeshi interior and furniture design, empowering students to turn ideas into impactful design concepts that celebrate heritage and embrace innovation.

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Brac University’s Joint PhD Program with SOAS Draws Regulatory Scrutiny

Brac University’s PhD Program with SOAS Sparks Regulatory Controversy

Introduction: Brac PhD Program Launch Raises Eyebrows

Brac University has drawn criticism by launching a joint PhD program with SOAS, University of London, despite the University Grants Commission (UGC) not yet finalizing policy allowing private universities in Bangladesh to offer doctoral degrees.

Ministry Approval Bypasses UGC Framework

The PhD program was approved by the Ministry of Education on June 1, just before the Eid holidays, bypassing UGC’s ongoing efforts to establish a regulatory framework. UGC Secretary Dr. Md. Fakhrul Islam confirmed he only learned of the approval on the day of the launch, June 16.

UGC and Higher Education Experts Raise Concerns

Dr. Fakhrul and other UGC officials argue that under the Private University Act 2010, no program can launch without UGC’s recommendation. The Act only recognizes undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, excluding PhD programs.

Professor A.B.M. Obaidul Islam of Bangladesh Open University, a member of the UGC subcommittee developing the PhD policy, called for an investigation into how approval was granted before the framework was completed.

UGC Policy Still in Development

UGC began drafting the PhD policy in June 2024, but an initial committee was dissolved in August. A new seven-member team is now reportedly close to finalizing the framework, which will cover faculty qualifications, research facilities, and publication standards.

Brac University and Ministry Officials Respond

Chairman Prof. S.M.A. Faiaz defended the move, describing the program as a joint research initiative under SOAS’s academic policies. He argued that delaying such programs could hold back private sector innovation in research for another decade.

Assistant Secretary Md Sultan Ahmed clarified that approval came from a senior adviser based on Brac’s January 7 application. Joint Secretary Mosammat Rokhsana Begum claimed no knowledge of the approval, as it occurred during her leave.

Implications for Private Universities in Bangladesh

The launch could set a precedent for other private universities to pursue similar programs before national policy is enacted. UGC officials warn this could lead to regulatory confusion, potential corruption, and weakened academic standards.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Higher Education Policy

The Brac-SOAS PhD program highlights the growing friction between institutional autonomy and regulatory oversight in Bangladesh’s evolving higher education system. As UGC finalizes its policy, this case may become a benchmark for future decisions affecting private universities and international academic partnerships.

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Brac University and SOAS University of London Launch Joint PhD Program

Brac University and SOAS University of London Launch Joint PhD Program to Tackle Global Development Challenges

In a landmark move to foster research-led solutions to pressing global development issues, Brac University (Bangladesh) and SOAS University of London (UK) have jointly launched a pioneering PhD program in the political economy of development. The initiative, grounded in equity and mutual collaboration, aims to cultivate a new generation of globally engaged scholars committed to transformative development research.

The program is a collaboration between Brac Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) and SOAS’s Departments of Economics and Development Studies. It reflects a deepening of the long-standing academic relationship between the two institutions and represents Brac University’s first doctoral-level partnership with an international university.

Students enrolled in the joint PhD will engage with critical areas such as sustainable governance, inclusive economic growth, and social development. The program is designed with flexibility and inclusivity at its core—students can choose to be based in Dhaka or London and will be jointly supervised by faculty from both universities. Extensive fieldwork opportunities will be available through Brac’s research and operational infrastructure across Bangladesh.

Since planning began in mid-2023, both institutions have worked closely to develop an international quality assurance framework, ensuring the academic rigour and global relevance of the programme. By removing barriers to accessibility, the collaboration particularly aims to expand doctoral-level opportunities for students in Bangladesh and other parts of the Global South.

The program officially launched on June 16, 2025, with simultaneous ceremonies held at SOAS in London and Brac University’s Merul Badda campus in Dhaka. In London, the signing ceremony featured Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of Brac University’s Board of Trustees, and Professor Adam Habib, Vice-Chancellor of SOAS, with Her Excellency Abida Islam, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the UK, in attendance as an honorary guest.

In Dhaka, the celebration was led by Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, and attended by key dignitaries including Professor Syed Muhammed Abul Faiz, Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh; Her Excellency Sarah Cooke, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh; and representatives from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education and the British Council.

Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, praised the initiative, calling it “a wonderful collaboration” and wishing it “a grand success.”

Tamara Hasan Abed noted, “This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to promote equitable development through evidence-based research. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for students—both Bangladeshi and international—to engage deeply with real-world development challenges.”

SOAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Habib added, “Our collaboration reflects a shared vision to break down barriers to research and support inclusive approaches to global development. Together, we’re creating a platform for scholars to shape the policies of tomorrow.”

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Brac University PhD

Brac University

Brac University Launches Bangladesh’s First PhD Program Among Private Universities in Partnership with SOAS University of London

Dhaka, June 16 – Brac University is set to launch Bangladesh’s first-ever PhD program among private universities, marking a historic milestone in the country’s higher education sector. The inaugural ceremony for the joint PhD program with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London will take place on Monday evening at Brac University’s permanent campus in Merul Badda, Dhaka.

This announcement has been officially confirmed by both Brac University and the Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC). High-ranking officials from both institutions are expected to attend the launch event.

This is the first time a private university in Bangladesh has received approval to offer a PhD program. The initiative comes just a month after UGC Chairman Professor Dr. S. M. A. Faiz stated that only capable private institutions would be permitted to offer doctoral degrees following a rigorous assessment of their academic standards and research capabilities.

For years, there has been growing demand for PhD opportunities in private universities in Bangladesh, but the UGC had been cautious, citing the need for strict quality control and institutional readiness. Brac University’s partnership with SOAS University of London a globally recognized research institution, positions this new program as a significant step forward for research and innovation in the country.

This collaborative PhD program is expected to boost international academic cooperation, enhance research output and establish a global standard for doctoral studies in Bangladesh’s private higher education sector.

While the official 2025 guidelines are yet to be fully released, based on international PhD programs standards and Brac’s past practices, you’ll likely need:

  • Master’s degree (with strong academic performance)
  • Research proposal (aligned with faculty interests)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent if required)
  • Possibly GRE or other standardized tests (based on SOAS guidelines)

Bright Admission Coaching can assist you with:

✅ Application Strategy

  • Choosing your research topic and aligning it with Brac/SOAS faculty.
  • Understanding the joint degree structure and expectations.

✍️ Academic Writing Support

  • Guidance on writing a compelling SOP and research proposal.
  • Editing services for academic writing and recommendation letters.

📚 Test Prep

  • Preparation for IELTS, GRE (if needed), or internal admission assessments.

🎯 Mock Interviews & Profile Building

  • Simulated interviews based on PhD admission panels.
  • Advice on publishing papers or improving your academic CV.

If you’re serious about pursuing your PhD at Brac University, Bright Admission Coaching can offer personalized guidance to increase your admission chances.

🔗 Want their updated contact details or a recommended study plan? Let us know — we can help draft one for you!

Would you like a sample SOP, research proposal outline or study timeline customized for Brac University program PhD admissions?

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2025 Festival of Australia Campaign by Study Australia

Festival of Australia Campaign by Study Australia

Here’s a refined overview of the Festival of Australia 2025 campaign by Study Australia:

🎉 What is the Festival of Australia?

  • A free government‑hosted event designed to showcase Australian student life and study opportunities.
  • Offers immersive AR demonstrations, interactive sessions with top Australian universities, alumni stories and a taste of Aussie cuisine.

🧭 Who Should Attend?

  • Students from Grade 8 through postgraduate research
  • Parents and educational organizations exploring study-abroad options
  • Ideal for anyone curious about studying in Australia!

✅ Why Attend?

  • Gain clarity on admission processes, English requirements, scholarships, visas, and living in Australia
  • Interact directly with university reps—on the spot and post-event follow-up available

🗓️ Upcoming Dates (2025)

  • 26 JuneDhaka, Bangladesh
  • Other regional events in Coimbatore (20 June), Kolkata (24 June), Colombo (29 June)

🧬 Bonus Around Australia

  • International students gain legal protections under the ESOS Act
  • Median graduate salary is approximately A$65,000
  • Australia is the birthplace of landmark innovations such as penicillin, the cervical cancer vaccine, Wi‑Fi, Google Maps, ultrasound and cochlear implant

✅ What to Do Next

  1. Register now—attendance is free!
  2. Attend the Dhaka event on 26 June 2025
  3. Explore further support for applications and university contacts during and after the event
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United International University Admission

The latest Admission Notices from United International University (UIU):

Here is a structured summary of the UIU (United International University) Admission Dates and Procedures for Summer 2025 Trimester and Fall 2025 Semester based on the official note:

🗓️ UIU Admission Dates

Summer 2025 Trimester

SchoolProgramsForm DeadlineExam TypeExam DateTimeResult DateClass Starts
School of Science & EngineeringBSCSE, BSDS, BSEEE, BSCEJuly 9, 2025 (11:50 PM Online)Written TestJuly 11, 202510:00 AMJuly 14, 2025 (5:00 PM)July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MSCSE-Do-Viva Voce-Do-9:00 AM-Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Business & EconomicsBBA, BBA in AIS, BSECO-Do-Written Test-Do-10:00 AM-Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MBA-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
EMBA, MSECO-Do-Viva Voce-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Humanities & Soc. Sci.BSSEDS, BSSMSJ, BA in English-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)
MDS-Do-Viva Voce-Do--Do-July 25, 2025 (Friday)
School of Life SciencesBSBGE (Biotechnology & Genetic Eng.)-Do-Written Test-Do--Do-July 22, 2025 (Tuesday)

Fall 2025 Semester

SchoolProgramForm DeadlineExam TypeExam DateTimeResult DateClass Starts
School of Life SciencesB. PharmJuly 9, 2025 (11:50 PM Online)Written TestJuly 11, 202510:00 AMJuly 14, 2025 (5:00 PM)August 19, 2025 (Tuesday)

🧪 Admission Test Details

  • Undergraduate Programs: Written test per department syllabus.
  • MBA:
    • 1-hour test with:
      • English (Grammar, Reading Comprehension)
      • Mathematics (Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry)
      • Short essay
  • EMBA, MSCSE, MSECO, MDS: Viva Voce only Candidates must bring academic certificates, transcripts, and job experience documents.

📝 Application Process

  • Online Application: https://admission.uiu.ac.bd/
  • Offline Form Collection:
    • At UIU Admission Office (Sat–Wed, 9 AM – 4 PM)
    • Fee: Tk. 1,000 for one school; Tk. 500 for each additional school

⚠️ Note

The following universities’ graduates are not eligible to apply:

  • America Bangladesh University
  • Darul Ihsan University
  • Queens University
  • IBAIS University

Would you like help with specific program requirements or scholarship details?

UIU Admissions FAQs:

United International University Admission General Questions

  1. What programs are offered at United International University?
    Undergraduate: BBA, BSc (CSE, EEE, Civil, Data Science, Economics, Biotechnology & Genetics, Pharmacy), BSS (Media & Journalism, Environment & Development Studies), BA (English)

Graduate: MBA, EMBA, MS (Economics), MDS, MSc (CSE)

.

  1. Minimum qualifications for UIU undergraduate admission?
    SSC & HSC: ≥ GPA 2.5 each, or total GPA ≥ 6.0 if one grade is 2.0

    .

O-Level: ≥ 5 subjects, average ≥ 2.5; A-Level: ≥ 2 subjects, average ≥ 2.0

.

For Engineering/Data Science: Physics & Math in HSC/A-Level required

.

GPA 5.00 in HSC (except Pharmacy) → Direct admission (test waived) at United International University

.

  1. Requirements for UIU B.Pharm?
    SSC+HSC combined GPA ≥ 8.0; Science GPA ≥ 3.5.

Chemistry & Biology ≥ 4.0; Physics & Math ≥ 3.5 (with Math course during B.Pharm if needed)

.

O/A-Level: B in Chemistry & Biology; C in Physics & Math.

Admission test score required.

  1. Graduate admissions qualifications?
    Undergraduate degree (relevant discipline) with GPA ≥ 2.0/4.0; M.Sc CSE also demands science group at HSC.

UIU undergrads with ≥ CGPA 2.0 are test‑exempt.

EMBA requires ≥ 2 years’ work experience

  1. Trimester/Semester system?
    Three trimesters per year (Spring, Summer, Fall).

Two semesters per year for semester‑based programs.

📝United International University Application & Admission Procedure

  1. Can I apply if my HSC result isn’t published yet?
    Yes, if you appeared and pass the entrance test. Final HSC results must be submitted before admission day; otherwise fee is non‑refundable.
    .
  2. Where and how can I apply?
    On‑campus: Purchase form at UIU Admission Office (Sat–Wed, 9 AM–3 PM) for Tk 1,000.

Online: Submit and pay the same fee via admission.uiu.ac.bd

  1. Do I need documents at form submission?
    Not initially. Bring academic transcripts, certificates, and (for grad/EMBA) work‑experience documents at the viva/interview stage.
  2. What’s the UIU admission test like?
    Undergrad: written test (plus viva for certain programs).

Graduate: mainly viva voce.

Students with GPA 5 in HSC or equivalent qualifications are exempted from the United International University admission test.

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Brac University CSE Admission Requirements

MDRS – Mars Desert Research Station in Utah

The minimum qualifications and admission process for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program at Brac University:

📚 Academic Requirements

1. SSC and HSC (or Equivalent)

  • Minimum GPA: 3.5 in both SSC and HSC (including additional subjects).
  • Subject Requirement: Minimum ‘B’ grade in Physics and Mathematics in HSC.

2. O-Level and A-Level

  • O-Level: Minimum GPA 2.5 (in 5 subjects).
  • A-Level: Minimum GPA 2.5 (in 2 subjects).
  • Subject Requirement: Minimum ‘C’ grade in Physics and Mathematics in A-Level.

3. IB-DP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme)

  • Minimum Total DP Score: 24
  • Subject Requirements: At least score of 5 in both Math and Physics (either HL or SL).

4. Others

  • Candidates with 12 years of schooling from a reputed institution may apply (must contact admissions@bracu.ac.bd before applying).
  • Schooling must be completed in 2022 or later.
  • “E” grades are not accepted.
  • GED and foundation programs are not eligible.

🔄 Break in Study

  • A study gap of up to 3 years is acceptable.
  • For gaps longer than 3 years, approval must be obtained by emailing admissions@bracu.ac.bd.

🌍 International Applicants

  • Must submit verified/attested academic documents.
  • Must get equivalence certificates from the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Dhaka.

🔁 Credit Transfer

  • Possible after passing the admission test.
  • Must follow Brac University’s credit transfer policy.

📝 Brac University Admission Test Components (CSE Program)

SectionTopics
English CompositionWritten Essay
English MCQGrammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
Mathematics MCQGeneral Mathematics
Higher Math & Physics MCQAdvanced topics from HSC level
  • Note: You must pass each section separately to qualify.

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Make sure you check eligibility before applying.
  • Application fees are non-refundable.
  • First-choice applicants will be given preference at Brac University.
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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.