Documentation Guide

Ideal structure

1. Introduction — hook the reader with a specific moment or motivation
2. Academic background — relevant coursework, projects, research
3. Why this program — specific professors, courses, or research areas
4. Why this country — tie to career goals and global exposure
5. Career goals — short and long term, show clarity
6. Closing — concise summary and enthusiasm

Common mistakes

• Generic openings ("Since childhood I wanted to...")
• Copying templates verbatim from the internet
• Exceeding word limits (usually 500–1,000 words)

Who to ask

Professors who taught you directly and can speak to your academic ability. For work experience programs, ask supervisors who managed relevant projects.

How far in advance

Ask at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Professors are busy — give them your CV, SOP draft, transcript, and a bullet list of achievements to reference.

How many LORs per country/level

• USA/Canada Master's: typically 2–3 academic references
• UK Master's: 1–2 references
• PhD: 3 academic references, ideally including research supervisor

Education Board attestation

Take original transcripts/certificates to your education board office (Dhaka, Chittagong, etc.) with photocopies and application form. Processing: 3–7 days. Cost: ৳500–1,500 per document.

MOFA attestation/apostille

Submit board-attested documents to the Consular Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Segunbagicha, Dhaka. Processing: 5–10 working days. Cost: ৳200–500 per document.

Embassy legalization

Some countries (e.g., UAE, Saudi Arabia) require additional embassy authentication beyond MOFA. Check your destination embassy website. Processing: 3–7 days. Cost: ৳1,000–3,000.