Application Criteria

What are the eligibility requirements for the Ambassador Serajul Islam Future Leaders Scholarship Program?

To apply for the scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be admitted to a degree-seeking program at an accredited university in Bangladesh.

  • Demonstrate financial need through the provided personal statement.

  • Show academic excellence with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) from your last institution.

  • Be actively involved in community service, volunteer work, or other social justice initiatives.

  • Submit a complete application, including all required documents and a 500-word personal statement.

How long does the scholarship last?

The scholarship is awarded for one academic year at a time. It is renewable annually based on academic performance, community involvement, and continued enrollment in an accredited degree program. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and actively contribute to community service or leadership activities.

What does the scholarship cover?

The scholarship covers tuition fees, book allowances, and a stipend for living expenses. The total amount varies depending on the recipient's program and financial need.

How do I renew the scholarship?

To renew the scholarship, you must:

  1. Submit your academic transcript showing satisfactory progress.

  2. Provide proof of continued enrollment in your degree program.

  3. Write a brief self-reflection and community engagement report.

  4. Meet the foundation’s criteria for academic performance and community contributions.

What documents are required for the application?

Applicants must upload the following documents:

  • Proof of admission to a degree-seeking program (e.g., admission letter, enrollment confirmation).

  • Personal statement addressing academic journey, financial need, and views on Bangladesh’s foreign policy priorities.

  • Academic transcript from your most recent institution.

  • Updated resume or CV.

  • Proof of academic achievements, awards, or certifications (if applicable).

What should I include in my personal statement?

Your personal statement should be approximately 500 words and address the following:

  • Your academic journey and financial need.

  • Your views on Bangladesh’s top foreign policy priorities and how the country should navigate its geopolitical relationships as the new governance structure takes shape.

  • The importance of democracy and freedom, and how these values are reflected in your personal life and aspirations.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline for submitting your application is March 1, 2025 at 11:59pm Bangladesh Standard Time. Late submissions will not be accepted.

How will my application be evaluated?

Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria:

  1. Relevance to Themes: The alignment of your personal statement with the scholarship’s focus on leadership, governance, and foreign policy.

  2. Originality and Innovation: Fresh insights and innovative ideas in your application.

  3. Research Quality and Rigor: Evidence of well-researched and thoughtfully crafted responses.

  4. Practical Impact and Applicability: Demonstration of how your ideas can contribute to the development of Bangladesh.

  5. Clarity and Structure: Clear, concise, and well-organized submissions.

  6. Alignment with the Foundation’s Mission: Consistency with the values of democracy, leadership, and nation-building.

  7. Engagement and Presentation Style: Ability to convey complex ideas effectively and meaningfully.

When will I be notified of the results?

Applicants will be notified of the results by March 25, 2025. Awardee will be announced and recognized at the Foundation’s annual Empowering Bangladesh conference.

How do I submit my application?

Applications must be submitted via the online form on our website. Ensure all required fields are completed, and the necessary documents are uploaded before submission. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email.

Who can I contact for more information?

For further inquiries, please contact us at info@bdempowered.com or via the Contact Us page on our website.