North South University (NSU), Bangladesh’s premier private institution, has established itself as a beacon of educational accessibility through its comprehensive scholarship and financial aid programs. Since its inception in 1992, NSU has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring that financial constraints never prevent deserving students from accessing world-class education.

The university’s robust financial aid ecosystem has supported thousands of students, with BDT 369 crore disbursed in total financial aid since 1993. In the fiscal year 2023-2024 alone, 3,772 students received full or partial financial aid, demonstrating NSU’s dedication to educational equity and social responsibility.

Understanding NSU’s scholarship landscape is crucial for prospective students and their families planning their educational investment. With program costs detailed in our comprehensive NSU Undergraduate Program Cost Guide and NSU Graduate Program Cost Guide, scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and make quality education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.

This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of NSU’s scholarship programs, from merit-based awards and need-based assistance to specialized fellowships and work-study opportunities. Whether you’re a high-achieving student seeking recognition for academic excellence or a deserving candidate facing financial challenges, NSU’s diverse scholarship portfolio offers pathways to educational success.

NSU Financial Aid Overview and Impact

Comprehensive Aid Statistics (2023-2024)

NSU’s Financial Aid Office (FAO) operates through a high-powered committee that combines institutional, governmental, and private funding sources to create one of Bangladesh’s most robust financial assistance programs:

Aid Distribution Breakdown:

• Total Recipients: 3,772 students received financial assistance
• Full Scholarships: 845 students (22.4%) received 100% tuition waivers
• Substantial Aid: 399 students (10.6%) received 75% tuition waivers
• Moderate Support: 1,007 students (26.7%) received 50% tuition waivers
• Partial Assistance: 1,521 students (40.3%) received 25% tuition waivers

Special COVID-19 Response: NSU demonstrated exceptional institutional support during the pandemic by disbursing BDT 170 crore as COVID Special Waivers to all students, beyond regular scholarship programs. This unprecedented support helped students and families navigate unprecedented economic challenges while continuing their education.

Freedom Fighter Legacy Support: Since the implementation of the Private University Act 2010, NSU has provided full free studentships to 1,628 children of freedom fighters, honoring Bangladesh’s liberation war heroes and their families through educational opportunities.

Historical Financial Aid Impact

NSU’s long-term commitment to educational accessibility is evident in its cumulative impact:

• Total Aid Since 1993: BDT 369 crore disbursed in financial assistance
• Sustained Growth: Increasing scholarship budget allocation year over year
• Diverse Support: Aid programs spanning merit, need, and special circumstances
• Alumni Success: Scholarship recipients becoming successful professionals and giving back to society

This substantial investment in student support reflects NSU’s philosophy that education should be merit-based rather than economically determined, creating opportunities for talented students regardless of their financial background.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Admission Test Excellence Awards

NSU’s most prestigious scholarships reward exceptional performance in admission tests, recognizing students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential:

Top 10 Performers (100% Tuition Waiver):

• Complete tuition coverage for highest-scoring admission test candidates
• Automatic renewal based on academic performance maintenance
• Additional recognition through university honors programs
• Priority access to research opportunities and faculty mentorship

Top 100 Performers (Substantial Waivers):

• Significant tuition reductions for top-tier admission test scores
• Tiered waiver percentages based on rank and performance
• Academic excellence recognition through university publications
• Enhanced career counseling and placement support

Maintenance Requirements:

• 100% scholarship recipients: Minimum CGPA 3.25 maintenance requirement
• Partial scholarship recipients: Minimum CGPA 3.00 for 50-75% waivers
• Credit Requirements: Minimum credit completion per semester
• Semester Renewal: Timely application for scholarship renewal each semester

Academic Achievement Recognition

SSC and HSC Excellence Criteria:

• Perfect Performance: Students with SSC GPA 5.00 and HSC GPA 4.80 plus strong admission test scores qualify for 100% waivers
• Combined Excellence: Outstanding board exam results combined with admission test performance
• Consistent Achievement: Recognition of sustained academic excellence throughout secondary education
• Holistic Evaluation: Consideration of overall academic profile and potential

O-Level and A-Level Recognition:

• O-Level Requirements: 7 A grades in O-Level examinations
• A-Level Standards: 3 A grades in A-Level examinations
• International Curriculum: Special consideration for international educational backgrounds
• Admission Test Integration: Combined evaluation with NSU admission test performance

Student testimonials from Reddit highlight the accessibility of maintaining these scholarships: “Just graduated from NSU while having a 50% scholarship throughout my time there. You only need to maintain a 3.0… Very easy to maintain if you are even slightly serious.” This feedback demonstrates that scholarship maintenance requirements are achievable with consistent academic effort.

Graduate Program Merit Awards

Graduate Admission Excellence:

• Top 3 Performers: 50% or 25% tuition waivers for highest graduate admission test scores
• Program-Specific Recognition: Different award levels based on program competitiveness
• Research Component: Preference for candidates with research interests and potential
• Professional Experience: Consideration of work experience and career achievements

Alumni Achievement Awards:

• High CGPA Alumni: NSU graduates with CGPA ≥ 3.80 receive 50% waiver for graduate programs
• Institutional Loyalty: Recognition of continued academic relationship with NSU
• Career Success: Consideration of professional achievements post-graduation
• Mentorship Opportunities: Alumni scholarship recipients often become mentors for current students

Need-Based Financial Assistance

Comprehensive Need Assessment

NSU’s need-based aid program employs rigorous evaluation processes to ensure assistance reaches students who need it most:

Documentation Requirements:

• Family Income Verification: Tax returns, salary certificates, business income statements
• Asset Assessment: Property ownership, financial savings, investment details
• Dependency Verification: Number of dependents, family size, educational expenses for siblings
• Special Circumstances: Medical expenses, unemployment, business losses, or family emergencies

Evaluation Criteria:

• Income Thresholds: Specific family income limits for different aid levels
• Regional Considerations: Cost of living adjustments based on geographic location
• Comparative Analysis: Need assessment relative to other applicants
• Verification Process: Document authentication and background checks

Merit-Need Combined Awards

Dual Qualification Benefits: Students demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need receive enhanced consideration through combined evaluation criteria:

• Academic Threshold: Minimum academic standards for need-based consideration
• Financial Priority: Need-based students with higher academic achievement receive larger awards
• Comprehensive Support: Academic counseling combined with financial assistance
• Success Monitoring: Regular academic and financial progress review

Application Process:

• Unified Application: Single application covering both merit and need evaluation
• Supporting Documentation: Academic transcripts plus financial documentation
• Interview Process: Personal interviews for high-value combined awards
• Renewal Procedures: Annual renewal based on continued need and academic performance

Special Circumstances Support

Emergency Financial Assistance:

• Crisis Support: Immediate assistance for students facing sudden financial hardships
• Medical Emergency Aid: Special consideration for health-related financial burdens
• Family Crisis Response: Support for students affected by family emergencies or unemployment
• Natural Disaster Relief: Assistance for students affected by floods, cyclones, or other natural disasters

Flexible Payment Plans:

• Extended Payment Terms: Semester fee payment over extended periods
• Interest-Free Deferrals: Temporary payment deferrals without financial penalties
• Work-Study Integration: Combining employment opportunities with payment flexibility
• Graduate Payment Options: Post-graduation repayment plans for exceptional circumstances

Specialized Scholarship Programs

Freedom Fighter Quota (WoFF)

NSU’s Freedom Fighter Quota represents one of Bangladesh’s most significant educational honors, recognizing the sacrifices of liberation war heroes through their descendants’ education:

Comprehensive Coverage:

• Full Tuition Waivers: Complete coverage of tuition fees for eligible students
• Documentation Requirements: Valid freedom fighter certificates and genealogical verification
• Ongoing Support: Semester-wise application and renewal processes
• Academic Standards: Performance criteria ensuring scholarship maintenance

Historical Impact: Since 2010, NSU has provided full studentships to 1,628 children of freedom fighters, representing a substantial commitment to honoring Bangladesh’s independence struggle and supporting veterans’ families.

Application Process:

• Certificate Verification: Authentication of freedom fighter status through official channels
• Genealogical Documentation: Proof of direct descendant relationship
• Academic Requirements: Meeting minimum admission and performance standards
• Annual Renewal: Semester-wise reapplication ensuring continued eligibility

Sibling and Family Support Programs

Sibling Waiver Benefits:

• Simultaneous Enrollment: 25% tuition waiver for each sibling when multiple family members study concurrently at NSU
• Family Education Investment: Recognition of families investing in multiple children’s education
• Reduced Financial Burden: Substantial savings for families with multiple NSU students
• Flexible Application: Simple application process for qualifying families

Spouse Support Programs:

• Married Student Assistance: Special consideration for married couples both attending NSU
• Dual Career Support: Recognition of professional couples advancing their education together
• Family-Friendly Policies: Accommodation of family responsibilities and schedules
• Childcare Considerations: Additional support for students with dependents

Alumni-Funded Scholarships

NSU-BdAF Scholarship Program: The NSU-Bangladesh Alumni Foundation scholarship represents the strong bond between NSU and its graduates, funded by successful alumni giving back to their alma mater:

• Annual Awards: Two to three scholarships awarded each Fall semester
• Alumni Funding: Direct funding from successful NSU graduates
• Merit and Need: Combined evaluation criteria focusing on deserving students
• Mentorship Component: Alumni involvement in recipient guidance and career development
• Network Access: Connection to broader NSU alumni professional networks

Selection Criteria:

• Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance and potential
• Financial Need: Documented financial constraints requiring assistance
• Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership capabilities and community involvement
• Character Assessment: Evaluation of personal integrity and commitment to excellence

International and Research Fellowships

SIPG-NSU Policy Research Fellowship:

• Duration: Four-month intensive research fellowship
• Focus Areas: Policy research and analysis in contemporary issues
• Mentorship: Direct faculty mentorship and research guidance
• Honorarium: Monthly stipend supporting fellowship participation
• Professional Development: Research methodology training and academic skill enhancement
• Publication Opportunities: Potential for research publication and presentation

International Exchange Scholarships:

• Partner University Programs: Scholarships for semester exchange at international institutions
• Cultural Immersion: Full or partial funding for international educational experiences
• Academic Integration: Credit transfer and academic continuity assurance
• Global Networking: International student and faculty relationship building
• Career Enhancement: Global perspective development for career advancement

Graduate Assistantships and Work-Study Programs

Graduate Teaching and Research Assistantships

Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) Positions:

• Full Tuition Coverage: Complete tuition waiver plus monthly stipend
• Teaching Responsibilities: Undergraduate course assistance and lab supervision
• Faculty Mentorship: Close working relationship with faculty members
• Professional Development: Teaching experience valuable for academic careers
• Skill Building: Communication, leadership, and instructional design skills

Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) Opportunities:

• Research Integration: Direct involvement in faculty research projects
• Funding Sources: External grants and institutional research budgets
• Publication Potential: Co-authorship opportunities in academic publications
• Conference Participation: Research presentation at academic conferences
• Network Building: Professional relationships within research communities

Application Requirements:

• Academic Excellence: High undergraduate GPA and graduate admission test scores
• Research Interest: Demonstrated interest in academic research and teaching
• Faculty Recommendation: Strong recommendations from academic references
• Interview Process: Faculty interviews assessing teaching and research potential

Undergraduate Work-Study Programs

On-Campus Employment Opportunities:

• Administrative Support: Positions in various university departments and offices
• Academic Assistance: Peer tutoring, library assistance, and student support roles
• Technical Support: IT help desk, laboratory assistance, and equipment maintenance
• Event Management: University event planning and execution support
• Research Assistance: Undergraduate research support for faculty projects

Benefits and Compensation:

• Hourly Wages: Competitive compensation for work-study positions
• Flexible Scheduling: Work schedules accommodating academic commitments
• Skill Development: Professional experience and skill building opportunities
• Network Building: Professional relationships with faculty and staff
• Career Preparation: Work experience enhancing post-graduation employment prospects

Application and Selection:

• Merit-Based Selection: Academic performance and relevant skills evaluation
• Interview Process: Assessment of suitability for specific positions
• Training Programs: Job-specific training and professional development
• Performance Evaluation: Regular assessment ensuring quality performance and learning outcomes

Application Processes and Requirements

Merit-Based Scholarship Applications

Automatic Consideration: Most merit-based scholarships at NSU operate through automatic consideration based on admission test performance and academic credentials:

• Admission Test Integration: Top performers automatically considered for scholarships
• Academic Record Review: SSC, HSC, O-Level, and A-Level results evaluation
• No Separate Application: Merit scholarships awarded based on admission application materials
• Notification Process: Scholarship awards communicated with admission offers

Documentation Requirements:

• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions
• Admission Test Scores: Official NSU admission test results
• Certificate Verification: Authentication of academic credentials through proper channels
• Identity Documentation: National ID card, birth certificate, and passport (if applicable)

Need-Based Aid Application Process

Comprehensive Application Submission: General students of NSU seeking financial aid must fulfill the minimum criteria i.e. the undergraduate students must complete minimum 9 credits and maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.75 and graduate students 3.25 with 6 Credits.

Required Documentation:

• Financial Documentation: Family income certificates, tax returns, property valuations
• Academic Records: Current academic performance and credit completion verification
• Personal Statement: Detailed explanation of financial circumstances and educational goals
• Reference Letters: Character references from teachers, employers, or community leaders
• Supporting Evidence: Medical bills, unemployment certificates, or other relevant documentation

Application Timeline:

• Annual Applications: Financial aid applications typically due before academic year begins
• Semester Renewals: Continuing students must reapply each semester for aid continuation
• Document Updates: Regular update of financial circumstances and academic progress
• Deadline Compliance: Strict adherence to application deadlines for consideration

Special Program Applications

Freedom Fighter Quota Applications:

• Certificate Authentication: Verification of freedom fighter status through government channels
• Genealogical Proof: Documentation establishing direct descendant relationship
• Academic Eligibility: Meeting minimum academic standards for program admission
• Annual Submission: Yearly application renewal ensuring continued eligibility

Alumni Foundation Scholarship:

• Competitive Selection: Limited awards requiring competitive application process
• Essay Requirements: Personal statement articulating goals, challenges, and potential
• Interview Process: Personal interviews with alumni foundation committee members
• Reference Verification: Character references and academic performance evaluation

Research Fellowship Applications:

• Research Proposal: Detailed proposal outlining research interests and methodologies
• Faculty Endorsement: Sponsorship from faculty members in relevant departments
• Academic Credentials: Strong academic performance and research potential demonstration
• Timeline Commitment: Availability for full fellowship duration and requirements

Scholarship Maintenance and Renewal

Academic Performance Standards

Minimum CGPA Requirements: Student testimonials confirm the achievability of scholarship maintenance: “100% scholarship recipient… I was one of the top 15 scorers… to renew the waiver every semester, 100% waiver recipients must maintain min CGPA 3.25…”

Specific Requirements by Scholarship Level:

• 100% Scholarship Recipients: Maintain minimum CGPA 3.25 throughout program duration
• 75% Scholarship Recipients: Minimum CGPA 3.00 for renewal eligibility
• 50% Scholarship Recipients: Minimum CGPA 3.00 for continued support
• 25% Scholarship Recipients: Minimum CGPA 2.75 for undergraduate, 3.25 for graduate students

Credit Completion Standards:

• Undergraduate Students: Minimum 9 credits completion per semester
• Graduate Students: Minimum 6 credits completion per semester
• Full-Time Status: Maintenance of full-time student status throughout program
• Academic Progress: Satisfactory progress toward degree completion within reasonable timeframe

Renewal Application Procedures

Semester-by-Semester Renewal:

• Application Deadlines: Timely submission of renewal applications each semester
• Academic Record Review: Evaluation of previous semester performance and cumulative GPA
• Continued Eligibility: Verification of ongoing need (for need-based aid) or academic merit
• Performance Monitoring: Regular assessment of academic progress and scholarship compliance

Warning and Probation Systems:

• Academic Warning: Students falling below GPA requirements receive academic warning
• Probation Period: One semester opportunity to restore academic standing
• Support Services: Academic counseling and tutoring support during probation
• Scholarship Recovery: Possibility of scholarship restoration upon meeting requirements

Appeals Process:

• Circumstantial Considerations: Appeals for students facing extraordinary circumstances
• Documentation Requirements: Detailed documentation of circumstances affecting performance
• Committee Review: Faculty and administrative review of appeal submissions
• Reinstatement Procedures: Process for scholarship reinstatement following successful appeals

Long-Term Success Strategies

Academic Support Integration:

• Faculty Mentorship: Regular interaction with faculty advisors and mentors
• Peer Study Groups: Collaborative learning through organized study groups
• Tutoring Services: Access to academic support services and peer tutoring
• Time Management: Training in effective study habits and time management skills

Career Development Connection:

• Internship Opportunities: Connection to internship opportunities enhancing career prospects
• Professional Networks: Access to alumni networks and professional associations
• Leadership Development: Opportunities for student leadership and skill building
• Research Participation: Integration into research projects and academic activities

Financial Impact and Cost Savings

Scholarship Value Analysis

Understanding the financial impact of NSU scholarships requires comparing scholarship benefits against program costs outlined in our NSU Undergraduate Program Cost Guide and NSU Graduate Program Cost Guide.

Undergraduate Program Savings:

• 100% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 7,80,000 (BBA/Economics) to BDT 12,93,500 (Pharmacy)
• 75% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 5,85,000 to BDT 9,70,125 depending on program
• 50% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 3,90,000 to BDT 6,46,750 across different programs
• 25% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 1,95,000 to BDT 3,23,375 based on program selection

Graduate Program Savings:

• 100% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 2,14,500 (33-credit MS programs) to BDT 3,90,000 (MBA)
• 50% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 1,07,250 to BDT 1,95,000 across graduate programs
• 25% Tuition Waiver: Savings range from BDT 53,625 to BDT 97,500 depending on program choice

Return on Investment Analysis

Academic Investment Multiplier: Scholarship recipients often demonstrate higher academic performance and career achievement due to reduced financial stress and increased focus on studies:

• Enhanced Academic Focus: Reduced financial pressure allowing greater concentration on academics
• Leadership Opportunities: Scholarship recipients often engage in additional leadership activities
• Network Access: Connection to successful alumni and faculty through scholarship programs
• Career Acceleration: Enhanced career prospects through scholarship recognition and achievements

Long-Term Financial Benefits:

• Debt Avoidance: Elimination or significant reduction of educational debt burden
• Career Advancement: Enhanced career prospects leading to higher lifetime earnings
• Alumni Network: Access to successful professional networks enhancing career opportunities
• Giving Back: Many scholarship recipients become alumni donors, continuing the cycle of support

Family Financial Planning

Multi-Child Education Strategies:

• Sibling Waiver Benefits: 25% savings for families with multiple NSU students
• Staggered Enrollment: Strategic timing of sibling enrollments to maximize benefits
• Combined Planning: Integration of scholarships with family financial planning and savings
• Educational Investment: Viewing scholarships as investments in family human capital development

Economic Impact Assessment:

• Household Budget Relief: Immediate reduction in family educational expenses
• Opportunity Cost Savings: Ability to allocate family resources to other investments
• Risk Mitigation: Reduced financial risk associated with higher education investment
• Social Mobility: Enhanced opportunities for economic and social advancement

Success Stories and Alumni Impact

Scholarship Recipient Achievements

Academic Excellence Outcomes: NSU scholarship recipients consistently demonstrate exceptional academic performance and post-graduation success:

• Higher Graduation Rates: Scholarship recipients show superior completion rates compared to general student population
• Academic Honors: Disproportionate representation in Dean’s List and academic recognition programs
• Research Achievements: Significant participation in undergraduate and graduate research programs
• Leadership Roles: Active involvement in student government, clubs, and community service

Career Success Patterns:

• Employment Rates: Near-100% employment rates within six months of graduation
• Starting Salaries: Above-average starting salaries compared to general graduates
• Career Advancement: Faster promotion and leadership advancement in professional careers
• Entrepreneurship: Higher rates of successful venture creation and business ownership

Alumni Giving and Social Impact

Philanthropic Engagement: Many scholarship recipients become active alumni donors, creating sustainable support cycles:

• Alumni Foundation Participation: Active involvement in NSU-Bangladesh Alumni Foundation
• Scholarship Funding: Direct funding of new scholarships for current students
• Mentorship Programs: Voluntary mentorship of current scholarship recipients
• University Development: Participation in university growth and development initiatives

Professional Leadership:

• Corporate Leadership: NSU scholarship alumni in senior positions across major corporations
• Entrepreneurial Success: Successful startup founders and business leaders
• Public Service: Leadership roles in government, NGOs, and international organizations
• Academic Achievement: PhD graduates and faculty members at prestigious institutions

Social Responsibility:

• Community Engagement: Active participation in community development and social causes
• Educational Advocacy: Promotion of education access and quality in broader society
• Mentorship Culture: Commitment to supporting and guiding younger generations
• National Development: Contribution to Bangladesh’s economic and social development

Impact on University Community

Academic Environment Enhancement:

• Peer Learning: High-achieving scholarship students elevate overall academic standards
• Research Culture: Increased research participation and academic achievement
• Competitive Spirit: Healthy competition encouraging excellence across student body
• International Recognition: Enhanced university reputation through student achievements

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Economic Diversity: Scholarship programs ensuring representation across economic backgrounds
• Geographic Representation: Support for students from rural and underserved areas
• Merit Recognition: Pure merit-based opportunities regardless of economic status
• Social Integration: Inclusive campus community with diverse perspectives and experiences

Application Tips and Best Practices

Merit Scholarship Strategies

Academic Preparation Excellence:

• Consistent Performance: Maintain high GPA throughout SSC and HSC or O/A Level studies
• Admission Test Preparation: Intensive preparation for NSU admission test using our NSU Admission Preparation Guide
• Subject Balance: Strong performance across all subjects rather than specialization in limited areas
• extracurricular Achievement: Leadership roles and community service enhancing overall profile

Application Optimization:

• Documentation Quality: Ensure all academic documents are official and properly authenticated
• Timeline Management: Submit applications well before deadlines to avoid last-minute issues
• Information Accuracy: Double-check all information for accuracy and consistency
• Follow-Up Communication: Maintain communication with admissions office regarding application status

Need-Based Aid Applications

Documentation Preparation:

• Comprehensive Financial Records: Gather complete family financial documentation including income, assets, and expenses
• Professional Verification: Ensure all financial documents are properly certified and authenticated
• Circumstantial Evidence: Document any special circumstances affecting family financial situation
• Regular Updates: Keep financial information current throughout application process

Personal Statement Excellence:

• Authentic Narrative: Tell genuine story of financial circumstances and educational goals
• Specific Details: Provide concrete examples of financial challenges and their impact
• Future Vision: Articulate clear educational and career goals demonstrating scholarship value
• Gratitude Expression: Acknowledge scholarship opportunity and commitment to success

Interview Preparation:

• Story Consistency: Ensure oral presentation matches written application materials
• Question Anticipation: Prepare for common questions about financial situation and goals
• Professional Presentation: Dress appropriately and demonstrate maturity and seriousness
• Gratitude and Commitment: Express appreciation for opportunity and commitment to academic success

Specialized Program Applications

Research Fellowship Preparation:

• Faculty Relationships: Develop relationships with faculty members in areas of research interest
• Research Experience: Gain undergraduate research experience through independent studies or projects
• Proposal Development: Create compelling research proposals demonstrating feasibility and importance
• Academic Writing: Develop strong academic writing skills for proposal and application materials

Alumni Scholarship Applications:

• Network Engagement: Connect with NSU alumni through networking events and professional associations
• Leadership Development: Demonstrate leadership through extracurricular activities and community service
• Career Clarity: Articulate clear career goals and how NSU education supports achievement
• Impact Vision: Describe intended contribution to society and profession post-graduation

Frequently Asked Questions

Application and Eligibility

Q: How do I apply for NSU scholarships? A: Most merit-based scholarships require no separate application – you’re automatically considered based on your admission test performance and academic records. Need-based aid requires separate application with financial documentation. Visit the NSU Financial Aid Office for specific application procedures.

Q: When are scholarship applications due? A: Scholarship application deadlines typically coincide with admission application deadlines for each semester. Merit scholarships are awarded automatically, while need-based aid applications are usually due 2-3 months before semester begins. Check official NSU announcements for exact dates.

Q: Can international students apply for NSU scholarships? A: Yes, international students are eligible for merit-based scholarships based on admission test performance and academic credentials. Some programs may have specific eligibility criteria, so check with the Financial Aid Office for detailed requirements.

Q: What documents do I need for scholarship applications? A: For merit scholarships, your admission application documents suffice. Need-based aid requires family income certificates, tax returns, property valuations, academic transcripts, and personal statements explaining financial circumstances.

Scholarship Types and Benefits

Q: What percentage of students receive scholarships at NSU? A: In 2023-2024, approximately 3,772 students received financial aid ranging from 25% to 100% tuition waivers. This represents a significant portion of NSU’s student body, demonstrating the university’s commitment to accessibility.

Q: Can I receive multiple scholarships simultaneously? A: Generally, students receive one primary scholarship, though combinations may be possible. For example, sibling waivers can combine with merit or need-based aid. The Financial Aid Office evaluates each case individually for maximum benefit.

Q: Do scholarships cover expenses beyond tuition? A: Most NSU scholarships cover tuition fees only. However, graduate assistantships include stipends for living expenses, and some special fellowships provide additional honoraria or research funding.

Q: How much can I save with an NSU scholarship? A: Savings depend on your program and scholarship percentage. A 100% scholarship can save BDT 7.8-12.9 lakhs for undergraduate programs and BDT 2.1-3.9 lakhs for graduate programs. See our cost guides for detailed program pricing.

Maintenance and Renewal

Q: How difficult is it to maintain scholarship eligibility? A: Student feedback suggests maintenance is achievable with consistent effort. As one Reddit user shared: “Very easy to maintain if you are even slightly serious.” Requirements range from 2.75-3.25 CGPA depending on scholarship level.

Q: What happens if my GPA falls below requirements? A: Students receive academic warnings and probation periods to restore their standing. Academic support services, tutoring, and counseling are available to help students meet requirements and regain scholarship eligibility.

Q: Can I appeal scholarship decisions? A: Yes, NSU has appeals processes for both initial scholarship decisions and renewal denials. Appeals must include documentation of extenuating circumstances and are reviewed by faculty committees.

Q: Do I need to reapply for scholarships each semester? A: Yes, most scholarships require semester renewal applications. This ensures continued eligibility verification and allows for adjustments based on changing circumstances or academic performance.

Special Programs

Q: Who qualifies for Freedom Fighter quota scholarships? A: Direct descendants (children and grandchildren) of verified freedom fighters qualify for these prestigious scholarships. Applicants must provide official freedom fighter certificates and genealogical documentation proving relationship.

Q: How competitive are alumni-funded scholarships? A: NSU-BdAF scholarships are highly competitive, with only 2-3 awards given each Fall semester. Selection combines academic merit, financial need, leadership potential, and alignment with donor priorities.

Q: What work-study opportunities are available? A: Undergraduate positions include administrative support, peer tutoring, library assistance, and research help. Graduate students can apply for teaching and research assistantships offering full tuition waivers plus stipends.

Q: Can graduate students get full scholarships? A: Yes, through graduate teaching/research assistantships, top admission test performance, or high-achieving NSU alumni status. These programs offer complete tuition coverage and often include monthly stipends.

Conclusion and Action Steps

NSU’s comprehensive scholarship and financial aid programs represent one of Bangladesh’s most robust educational support systems, with BDT 369 crore disbursed since 1993 and 3,772 students receiving aid in 2023-2024 alone. These programs ensure that financial barriers never prevent deserving students from accessing world-class education.

The diversity of scholarship options – from merit-based recognition and need-based assistance to specialized programs for freedom fighter descendants and alumni-funded opportunities – creates pathways for students from all backgrounds to achieve their educational goals.

Immediate Action Steps for Prospective Students:

1. Assess Eligibility: Review merit and need-based criteria to identify applicable programs
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather academic transcripts, financial records, and supporting materials
3. Academic Excellence: Focus on admission test preparation using our NSU Admission Preparation Guide
4. Application Timing: Submit applications before deadlines, allowing time for document verification
5. Financial Planning: Use our cost guides to understand program investments and scholarship savings

For Current Students:

1. Maintain Performance: Focus on GPA requirements for scholarship renewal
2. Seek Support: Utilize academic support services to ensure scholarship maintenance
3. Explore Opportunities: Apply for specialized fellowships and work-study programs
4. Plan Renewals: Submit renewal applications promptly each semester

Long-Term Perspective:

NSU scholarships represent investments in Bangladesh’s future, creating educated leaders who contribute to national development and give back to future generations. The university’s commitment to accessibility through financial aid ensures that talent and determination, rather than economic circumstances, determine educational opportunities.

By understanding and leveraging NSU’s scholarship programs, students can access exceptional education, build successful careers, and join a network of accomplished alumni who continue supporting educational excellence for future generations.

For detailed program costs and financial planning, consult our comprehensive NSU Undergraduate Program Cost Guide and NSU Graduate Program Cost Guide to understand the full value of scholarship opportunities at North South University.