Studying in the UK from Bangladesh: HSC, refusals and visas
UK study visas are harder to get for Bangladeshi applicants than a year or two ago, and some UK universities have restricted recruitment from Bangladesh. This guide covers the figures, the English and TB rules that apply to a Bangladeshi passport, and how one university treats the HSC.
- A year costs from
- ~US$30,000 all-in
- Next intakes you can make
- May 2027, September 2027
- Published visa figure, Bangladeshi applicants
- Not published
- Work after graduating
- Graduate visa: 18 months if you apply from 1 January 2027 (2 years if you apply by 31 December 2026; 3 years after a PhD)
What is different from Bangladesh
Refusals for Bangladeshi applicants rose to about a quarter
ICEF, citing Nous Group analysis of Home Office data, reports a sponsored study visa refusal rate of about 26 percent for Bangladeshi students across Q4 2025 and Q1 2026, among the highest. The group figure does not predict an individual outcome. Source
Some UK universities restricted recruitment from Bangladesh
Bonikbarta, reporting in December 2025 with reference to the Financial Times, listed the University of Wolverhampton as not taking undergraduates from Bangladesh and Pakistan, with Sunderland, Coventry, Hertfordshire, Oxford Brookes and London Metropolitan also restricting at that time. These policies change; ask the university directly before applying. Source
Bangladesh is not exempt from the English requirement
Bangladesh is not on the GOV.UK exempt list, so you need an approved English test or, for a degree taught in English outside the UK, an Ecctis assessment code. Source
A TB test is required for Bangladeshi residents coming for 6 months or more
Bangladesh is on the GOV.UK TB test country list. If you have lived there for 6 months or more and are coming for 6 months or more, you need a chest x-ray at an approved clinic. The certificate lasts 6 months. Source
The HSC usually needs a foundation year (example: Manchester)
The University of Manchester says applicants with the Bangladesh Higher Secondary Certificate need a University-recognised foundation programme before an undergraduate course. It lists a minimum 65 percent overall for the INTO Manchester foundation, and 80 percent overall with 80 percent in Maths and Physics for its integrated science and engineering foundation year. Other universities differ. Source
Master's entry usually looks for a four-year bachelor's with a minimum GPA
Manchester says Bangladeshi applicants with at least a four-year bachelor's from a reputable Bangladeshi university are considered for master's courses, with a typical minimum of GPA 3.2 out of 4, which can vary by university and programme. Source
Funds and dependants
GOV.UK states funds of 1,529 pounds a month (London) or 1,171 pounds a month (outside London) for up to 9 months, held for at least 28 days. Since January 2024 most students on taught courses cannot bring dependants. Source
Your steps, in order
- Check on the university's own site that it is currently accepting applications from Bangladesh for your course and intake.
- Compare your HSC or bachelor's marks with the course's published minimum, and ask about a foundation year.
- Choose your English route: an approved test or an Ecctis code.
- Get the CAS from a licensed UK sponsor.
- Hold the required funds for 28 days in a row and keep bank statements clear and explainable.
- Book a TB x-ray at an approved clinic shortly before applying.
- Prepare a clear, honest explanation of why this course and university, since refusal rates are high.
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Get my free planQuestions Bangladeshi students ask
Why are UK universities restricting Bangladesh?
Bonikbarta reported in December 2025 that universities cited visa misuse concerns and tighter Home Office rules. Check each university's current policy.
Does the HSC allow direct entry to a UK bachelor's?
At the University of Manchester it does not; HSC holders need a foundation programme. Other universities may differ.
Do Bangladeshi applicants need a TB test?
Yes, if you have lived in Bangladesh for 6 months or more and are coming for 6 months or more.
Facts checked 18 October 2026. Rules change often — the official source linked beside each fact always wins over this page. We never promise admission or a visa.