A good number of prestigious private universities in Bangladesh are now offering high-quality education and contributing significantly to the country’s development. Their academic programs, research facilities, and international collaborations are creating leaders of the future.
Let us learn about the top 10 private universities of Bangladesh that are nurturing talents for the global job market and making meaningful contributions to society.
1. North South University
With a vision of creating a world-class education institution, North South University (NSU) commenced its journey in 1992. It is the first private university in Bangladesh, organized into four separate schools with various programs.
NSU prides itself on numerous MoUs with international institutions globally, ensuring its graduates can pursue higher studies abroad.
The leading private university enjoys one of the highest employability rates in the country, along with accolades in countless local and international competitions.
NSU Key Facts
- Website: https://www.northsouth.edu/
- Academic programs: https://www.northsouth.edu/academic/
- Tuition Fees: https://www.northsouth.edu/tuition-fees.html
- Campus addresses: Bashundhara, Dhaka-1229, Bangladesh
- Year of Establishment: 1992
- Vice Chancellor: Professor Atiqul Islam
- Number of Graduates (2023): 7,000 + students
- QS Rank 2024: World > 851-900 / Asia > 32
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 801-1000 / Asia > 192
Also read: Top 12 online learning platforms in Bangladesh
2. BRAC University
Brac University (BracU) is known for its top, world-class education, nurturing liberal arts, and fresh ideas in Bangladesh. Founded in 2001, under the BRAC umbrella, the university aims to instill in its students a commitment to working toward national development and progress, especially for the poor.
Founded by Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, KCMG, Chairperson Emeritus, Board of Trustees, the university ranks number 1 among universities in Bangladesh for Times Higher Education Rankings.
This top university is well-known for its Residential Semester (RS) which puts students in 4 months of experiential learning, helping them grow as holistic individuals.
BracU Key Facts
- Website: https://www.bracu.ac.bd/
- Academic programs: https://www.bracu.ac.bd/academics/programs
- Tuition Fees: https://www.bracu.ac.bd/admissions/tuition-and-fees
- Campus addresses: Kha 224 Bir Uttam Rafiqul Islam Avenue, Merul Badda, Dhaka
- Year of Establishment: 2001
- Vice Chancellor: Syed Mahfuzul Aziz
- Number of Graduates (2023): 4889 students
- QS Rank 2024: World > 1001-1200 / Asia > 281 – 290
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 801-1000
3. East West University
East West University began its journey in 1996. Currently, the institution offers a wide array of programs across 14 departments at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Its Executive Development Center (EDC) offers a graduate diploma program spanning 9 months supported by the Skills for Employment Investment Program (SEIP).
EWU is well-regarded for organizing top-caliber, international competitions and events to enhance their curriculum and education.
EWU Key Facts
- Website: https://www.ewubd.edu/
- Academic programs: Click here
- Tuition Fees: https://ewubd.edu/undergraduate-tuition-fees
- Campus addresses: A/2, Jahurul Islam Avenue, Jahurul Islam City, Aftabnagar, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh
- Year of Establishment: 1996
- Vice Chancellor: Professor Shams Rahman
- Number of Graduated Students (2023): 2351
- QS Ranking 2024: World > 1201-1400 / Asia > 451-500
- THE World Ranking 2024: No ranking available
4. American International University – Bangladesh
Formed in 1994, American International University – Bangladesh (AIUB) is dedicated to providing quality education and grooming future leaders in their respective fields.
Collaborating with partners and stakeholders across the world, AIUB has come into the limelight in academic programs and management services.
AIUB’s ISO Certification 9001-2008 for “Quality Management Operation System for the University” further proves its commitment to quality educational services.
AIUB Key Facts
- Website: https://www.aiub.edu/
- Academic programs: https://www.aiub.edu/faculties/fass/programs
- Tuition Fees: https://www.aiub.edu/future-Students
- Campus addresses: 408/1 (Old KA 66/1), Kuratoli, Khilkhet, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
- Year of Establishment: 1994
- Vice Chancellor: Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna
- Number of Graduate Students (2023): 4722
- QS Rank 2024: World > N/A / Asia > 238
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 1001+ / Asia > N/A
5. Independent University, Bangladesh
With a strong commitment to academic excellence, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) has established itself as one of the leading institutions in the country since 1993.
The university prides itself on an alumni network of nearly 15,000 graduates across the globe.
It consists of 5 separate academic schools, each offering a variety of opportunities for students to study, work, and develop themselves.
In addition, IUB sets itself apart from many other institutions through a focus on R&D for its faculties. IUB provides substantial financial and non-financial support to conduct extensive research.
IUB Key Facts
- Website: http://iub.ac.bd/
- Academic programs: Click here
- Tuition Fees: View here
- Campus: Plot 16, Block B, Aftabuddin Ahmed Road, Bashundhara Residential Area, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
- Year of Establishment: 1993
- Vice Chancellor: Tanweer Hasan, Ph.D.
- Number of Graduated Students (2023): 2349 students
- QS Rank 2024: Not ranked
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 1001+ / Asia > N/A
6. Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology
Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST) strives for a morally enriched society with universal access to education and resources. It was founded by Dhaka Ahsania Mission in 1995.
AUST follows the visionary ideals of its founder, Khan Bahadur Ahsanullah, an eminent educationist and social reformer.
The institution is credited with introducing the roll number system in public examinations. It also offers equal educational opportunities for all segments of society. One can observe this strategy through their comparatively more affordable tuition fees.
AUST Key Facts
- Website: https://www.aust.edu/
- Academic programs: https://www.aust.edu/academics
- Tuition Fees: http://admission.aust.edu/fees/
- Campus addresses: 141 & 142, Love Road, Tejgaon Industrial Area, Dhaka-1208.
- Year of Establishment: 1995
- Vice Chancellor: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fazli Ilahi- Till 2023
- Number of Graduated Students (2023): 2,238 students
- QS Rank 2024: World > N/A / Asia > 166
7. United International University
Established under the United Group, United International University (UIU) focuses on developing highly skilled and intellectual individuals who serve the community and South Asia region.
It commenced its journey in 2003, aiming to achieve international recognition through accreditation and joint degree programs with top universities worldwide.
Currently, it offers 10 undergraduate and 6 postgraduate programs under 3 schools. In addition, it offers 40 short, professional courses under its Continuing Education Center.
In a matter of 20 years, this top institution has been ranked high among the leading universities in Bangladesh. Also, it is one of the few local universities to get IEB and ACBSP accreditations.
UIU Key Facts
- Website: https://www.uiu.ac.bd/
- Academic programs: https://www.uiu.ac.bd/academics/
- Tuition Fees: View here
- Campus addresses: United City, Madani Ave, Dhaka 1212
- Year of Establishment: 2003
- Vice Chancellor: Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia
- Number of Graduate Students (2023): 3,954
- QS Rank 2024: World > 1201 – 1400 / Asia > 189
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 401-600 / Asia > NA
8. Daffodil International University
Established on January 24th, 2002, Daffodil International University (DIU) offers well-recognized programs based primarily on its IT-based traditions.
Currently, DIU is offering 38 undergraduate and graduate programs under 26 departments.
Recently, DIU topped among private universities & came 2nd in Bangladesh in the QS World Sustainability Rankings 2024.
This dream establishment of Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Founder & Chairman, of the Daffodil Family, thrives with one of the biggest campuses in the country. It measures around 150 acres of land at Savar, Dhaka.
DIU Key Facts
- Website: https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/
- Academic programs: https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/programs
- Tuition Fees: https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/tuition-fees
- Campus addresses: Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka- 1216
- Year of Establishment: 2002
- Vice Chancellor: Lutfar Rahman
- Number of Graduate Students (2023): 6164
- QS Rank 2024: World > 1201-1400 / Asia > 106
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 401-600 / Asia > Not ranked
9. University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
A creation of philanthropist Kazi Shahid Ahmed, the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) emphasizes a blend of traditional heritage and modern competencies in its curriculum. ULAB officially opened its doors in October 2004.
With a strong focus on Liberal Arts and Sustainable Development Goals, ULAB explores common ground with like-minded institutions and industries, locally and internationally.
The institution’s continued efforts toward communication, research, and Liberal Arts can be seen through the implementations of its Research Centers and Office of Faculty Research.
ULAB Key Facts
- Website: https://ulab.edu.bd/
- Academic programs: https://ulab.edu.bd/academics
- Tuition Fees: https://admissions.ulab.edu.bd/tuition-fees
- Campus addresses: 688 Beribadh Road, Mohammadpur, Dhaka – 1207, Bangladesh
- Year of Establishment: 2002
- Vice Chancellor: PROFESSOR IMRAN RAHMAN
- Number of Graduated Students (2021): 754 students
- QS Rank 2024: World > N/A / Asia > 258
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 801–1000 / Asia > N/A
10. University of Asia Pacific
Established in 1996, the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) aims to promote human and social development through improved educational opportunities and innovative programs that relate to the needs of emerging societies. The Foundation of Asia Pacific University funds UAP.
Currently, it has seven schools of disciples that include:
- Engineering
- Science
- Business
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- Medical
- Environmental Science & Design
- Law
Its Department of Architecture is coveted among many aspiring architects of the country.
UAP Key Facts
- Website: https://www.uap-bd.edu/
- Academic programs: https://www.uap-bd.edu/graduate.php
- Tuition Fees: View here
- Campus addresses: 74/A Green Rd, Dhaka 1205
- Year of Establishment: 1996
- Vice Chancellor: Prof. Qumrul Ahsan
- Number of Graduating Students (2019): 1128
- QS Rank 2024: World > N/A / Asia > 238
- THE World Ranking 2024: World > 1000+ / Asia > N/A
Final Words
The 10 renowned private universities above are undoubtedly shaping the education landscape of the country. There is still a lot of room for improvement and collaboration with international entities, especially for the other universities, looking to breakthrough in Bangladesh.
We hope private universities receive adequate support and funding to nurture future leaders of the country, and perhaps, the world.