Paving the Way to World-Class Education for Bangladeshi Students

Pursuing higher education is a pivotal moment in a student's life, marked by decisions that can shape their future. While local universities remain popular, an increasing number of Bangladeshi students are looking beyond borders, drawn by the wealth of opportunities that studying abroad offers. Securing a place at prestigious international universities, however, requires expert guidance and access to the latest information. Recognising this need, MH Global Group's sister concerns, AHZ and MIE Pathways, have positioned themselves as trusted mentors, dedicated to guiding Bangladeshi students through every step of their journey to global education.

"At AHZ and MIE Pathways, we pride ourselves on shaping academic journeys and go out of our way to ensure that our students have the best possible experience," said Golam Mortuza, Chief Executive Officer of MH Global Group.

AHZ – When UK is the Destination

According to the latest UNESCO data, 52,799 Bangladeshi students studied abroad in 2023, with 6,586 choosing the UK, making it the second most popular destination after the US. The UK consistently remains a top choice for Bangladeshi students pursuing higher education.

Two international students from Bangladesh began the journey of AHZ in 2012 in London, recognising the opportunity to support their fellow countrymen and women in leveraging a UK education. Their aspirations were not only to advance their own lives but also to uplift the communities around them. Their commitment to improving the world remains evident at AHZ to this day. Since its inception, the platform has assisted more than 25,000 students in enrolling at UK institutions.

"We support Bangladeshi students by providing them with a free platform to connect with UK institutions that are looking to recruit international students," said Mortuza.

As AHZ focuses exclusively on supporting students who wish to study at UK universities, it partners with over 130 universities and centres across the UK. The platform operates nine offices in Bangladesh and 50 more globally, offering a range of essential services for students planning to study abroad. To reach as many students as possible, AHZ, which has been shortlisted for the PIEoneer Awards, is continuously expanding its global presence by establishing new offices to better cater to students' needs.

Mahfuz Islam, currently pursuing an MSc in Infection and Immunity at the University of Chester as a January 2024 intake student, shared: "It was a sudden decision. Last August, I reached out to AHZ, and they provided me with a list of available options within a very short timeframe. The counsellor also helped me find a programme closely aligned with my current academic background and future plans." Mahfuz also expressed his gratitude for the assistance he received in securing an annual scholarship of £2,500. He noted: "They are efficient, qualified, and know exactly what they are doing."

Counselling is perhaps one of the most crucial services offered by AHZ. Mortuza explained that these sessions provide a comprehensive overview of studying in the UK, including information on costs, available part-time jobs, career opportunities post-study, the climate, and, importantly, popular Bangladeshi food options.

"Most of our counselling team are UK graduates. They provide first-hand insight into their lives as students in the UK. Our counsellors play a crucial role in shaping study journeys. Our counselling services are designed to provide personalised guidance and support, ensuring that students make informed decisions and successfully navigate the complex process of applying to UK institutions," said Mortuza.

In addition to students from English medium backgrounds, those from the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) also apply to UK-based universities. Mortuza highlighted that over the past few years, more UK university entry requirements now align with Bangladeshi national school and university qualifications. "This means that even more Bangladeshi students will have the chance to realise their dream of studying in the UK," he added.

When asked about special considerations, he further explained: "If an applicant falls short of the requirements, we offer academic foundation courses through our partner NCUK. This allows us to support students who want to proceed to UK institutions but haven't met the requirements. We also work with all the major UK-based foundation providers. These courses have lower entry requirements but provide students with the opportunity to upgrade their NCTB qualifications."

MIE Pathways – Connecting the Dots

Due to variations in educational systems, cultural orientation, or language, many students fall short in certain areas when applying to international universities. To fill these gaps, students may require certifications such as the International Foundation Year or International Year One. Through MIE Pathways' partnership with NCUK—a global pathway provider that collaborates with universities in major study destinations like the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia—students gain access to a wide range of educational opportunities worldwide.

MIE Pathways, home to the NCUK Bangladesh centre, currently offers three courses designed to provide aspiring students with pathways to leading universities. "NCUK qualifications are designed to prepare international students for university study with guaranteed entry to universities worldwide. This means students can start a qualification in Bangladesh and progress to 50+ leading universities globally," mentioned Mortuza.

NCUK International Foundation Year

Imagine a Bangladeshi student who has never been outside the country and is now facing the challenge of managing everything on their own. The concerns about adapting to a new culture and language, along with maintaining a strong academic profile, are equally daunting for both the student and their parents. The NCUK International Foundation Year equips students to enter undergraduate degree programmes at over fifty institutions. It offers students the opportunity to study in small classes, build their confidence, adapt to the culture of their chosen destination, enhance their English proficiency, and strengthen their academic profile—all within Bangladesh before advancing to a guaranteed university placement.

NCUK International Year One

The International Year One programme enables students to complete the first year of an undergraduate degree at the MIE Pathways Centre in Bangladesh and then directly advance to Year 2 at a partner university. Students can choose from five subject routes, with progression options available to over 300 degree programmes at 26 prestigious universities in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia.

NCUK Master's Preparation

The NCUK Master's Preparation programme offers students the opportunity to focus on specific areas of improvement without completing a full qualification that may not be necessary. The Master's Pre-Sessional, delivered over 10 weeks, is designed for international students aiming to enhance their English language and academic study skills to ensure they are well-prepared for a master's degree.

In addition to improving English language skills and academic study abilities, the Master's Preparation course provides students with the opportunity to complete a 5,000-word dissertation. This practice dissertation helps students understand the requirements of academic research and writing, offering valuable experience before starting their master's programme. Depending on their English language proficiency, students can choose between the standard 20-week Master's Preparation course or the 30-week Master's Preparation (Enhanced) programme.

AHZ and MIE Pathways – Connecting Students to Opportunities

AHZ and MIE Pathways organise various events throughout the year to raise awareness among students. During large-scale exhibitions, partner universities participate to showcase their offerings, while smaller events provide students with the opportunity to meet AHZ and MIE Pathways staff, university academics, and representatives.

Earlier this year, MH Global Group organised the International Career and Education Expo and Emerging Leaders Award 2024 event in Dhaka, providing support for higher education, career development, networking, recognition, and more.

MH Global Group was established in response to the increasing demand for services beyond placing students into UK universities. In line with this, MH's other initiative, MIE English Academy, offers English coaching and testing through IELTS centres, further expanding the range of services available to Bangladeshi students.

AHZ and MIE Pathways Services at a Glance:

Personalised Counselling: Ensuring that all students are matched with their specific requirements, whether it's course, location, or budget.

University and Course Selection: Our counsellors have extensive knowledge of available university courses. We offer information on rankings, faculty expertise, campus facilities, and student life to help students make informed decisions.

Application Guidance: Our counsellors provide step-by-step assistance throughout the application process, including filling out forms, writing personal statements, and gathering required documents.

Test Preparation: Through our MIE English team, we support students with coaching and testing at IELTS centres.

Funding and Scholarships: Our counsellors provide up-to-date information on scholarship opportunities and ensure that students meet the funding requirements of their chosen institutions.

Visa Support: Our counsellors and compliance teams assist students in preparing their student visa applications.

Pre-Departure: Once students receive their visas, we organise a pre-departure briefing covering accommodation, travel, cultural adaptation, and campus life expectations.