Study Abroad Cost & Opportunity Guide For BD Students
Every year, over 60,000 Bangladeshi students fly abroad to pursue higher education. Popular destinations include the UK, Denmark, Sweden, and Australia — countries that not only offer world-class universities but also promising career opportunities.
The most common question parents and students ask is:
“Which of these countries is the most affordable?”
Below, we’ve created a detailed comparison table that highlights tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and post-study work options — so you can make the smartest choice for your future.
Cost & Opportunity Comparison on Study Abroad
Tuition Fees, Living Costs & Opportunities
| Country | Tuition Fees (per year) | Living Costs (per month) | Scholarships | Course Duration | Part-Time Work | Average Graduate Salary (per year) | ROI Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom (UK) | £10,000–£15,000 | £1,000–£1,200 (outside London) | High – Chevening, GREAT, university-specific | Bachelor’s: 3 yrsMaster’s: 1 yr | 20 hrs/week during term; full-time in holidays | £25,000–£35,000 | Shorter degrees save costs, global recognition, and strong employability |
| Denmark | €6,000–€12,000 | €700–€1,000 | Moderate – Government & institutional | Bachelor’s: 3–3.5 yrsMaster’s: 2 yrs | 20 hrs/week; 37 hrs/week in June–Aug | €30,000–€45,000 | Low tuition, high wage market, safe environment |
| Sweden | €7,000–€15,000 | €800–€1,200 | Very High – up to 100% funded | Bachelor’s: 3 yrsMaster’s: 2 yrs | 20 hrs/week; flexible working allowed | €28,000–€40,000 | Strong scholarships, research focus, and innovative job market |
| Australia | AUD $20,000–$30,000 | AUD $1,200–$1,500 | High – Australia Awards & uni grants | Bachelor’s: 3–4 yrsMaster’s: 2 yrs | 48 hrs/fortnight during study; full-time in breaks | AUD $50,000–$70,000 | Higher tuition but excellent salaries, PR pathways, long-term ROI |
Country Highlights
United Kingdom (UK) – High ROI for Students
- Tuition: £10,000–£15,000 per year
- Course Duration: 3 years for bachelor’s, 1 year for master’s
- PSW Visa: 2 years under Graduate Route
- Why the UK? Shorter programs save costs, provide global career recognition, and offer a strong Bangladeshi community in London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Denmark – Affordable European Choice
- Tuition: €6,000–€12,000 per year
- Living Costs: Around €700–€1,000 per month
- Scholarships: Offered by universities and the government for merit-based students
- Why Denmark? Safe, student-friendly, affordable compared to the UK or the USA, and a strong, innovation-driven education system.
Sweden – Scholarship-Rich Destination
- Tuition: €7,000–€15,000 per year
- Living Costs: €800–€1,200 monthly
- Scholarships: Swedish Institute and university scholarships cover up to 100%
- Why Sweden? Top choice for research and innovation, high-quality English programs, and a supportive student environment.
Australia – Popular & Work-Friendly
- Tuition: AUD $20,000–$30,000 annually
- Living Costs: AUD $1,200–$1,500 monthly
- Scholarships: Australia Awards, Destination Australia, and university-specific options
- PSW Visa: 2–4 years depending on degree (longer for Master’s by Research or PhD)
- Why Australia? Strong job market, higher part-time wages, multicultural cities, and PR opportunities.
Choosing the Right Country Matters
For Bangladeshi students, affordability isn’t just about low tuition — it’s about return on investment (ROI).
- UK → Shorter courses = less cost, quicker entry into careers.
- Denmark → Lower tuition compared to other Western countries.
- Sweden → Full scholarships can reduce expenses dramatically.
- Australia → Longer PSW and PR pathways secure future settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many Bangladeshi students study abroad each year?
Over 60,000 students leave Bangladesh annually for higher education.
2. Which is the cheapest option among the UK, Denmark, Sweden, and Australia?
Denmark and Sweden are generally more affordable due to scholarships and lower tuition fees.
3. Is the UK affordable for Bangladeshi students?
Yes, because shorter course durations and PSW visas balance out higher tuition.
4. Can I study in Denmark without IELTS?
Some universities accept alternative English proof, but IELTS is strongly recommended.
5. Does Sweden offer full scholarships?
Yes, Swedish Institute and university programs can cover 100% tuition plus living costs.
6. How much is the cost in the UK outside London?
On average, £1,000–£1,200 per month, depending on the city.
7. Can Bangladeshi students work part-time in Australia?
Yes, with flexible hours and higher wages compared to Europe.
8. Which country offers the longest post-study work visa?
Australia offers up to 4 years, depending on qualification.
9. Do UK universities accept Bangladeshi qualifications?
Yes, provided you meet the entry criteria for your chosen program.
10. Can I apply for PR after studying in Australia?
Yes, through skilled migration programs after completing your degree.
11. What is the average tuition fee in Sweden?
Between €7,000 and €15,000 annually, depending on program and university.
12. Which UK scholarships are best for Bangladeshi students?
Chevening, GREAT Scholarships, and many university-specific funding options.
13. Is Denmark safe for Bangladeshi students?
Yes, Denmark consistently ranks as one of the safest countries for international students.
14. How long is a UK master’s degree?
Most UK master’s degrees take just 1 year to complete.
15. What is OSHC in Australia?
Overseas Student Health Cover – mandatory health insurance for international students.
How Our Counsellors Can Help You
Applying to the UK, Denmark, Sweden, or Australia can feel overwhelming — from choosing the right university to securing scholarships and visas. Our experienced counsellors specialize in helping Bangladeshi students like you succeed.
Don’t wait! Register now and share your phone number and address. Our team will contact you with a personalized plan to start your study abroad journey.