East West University
East West University (EWU) was established in 1996 as one of the early private universities in Bangladesh, contributing to the expansion of higher education access beyond public institutions. The university has developed a reputation for quality liberal arts and professional education, attracting students seeking alternatives to traditional university options. EWU emphasizes broad-based education that develops critical thinking, communication, and ethical reasoning alongside professional skills. General education requirements expose students to humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences regardless of major, reflecting educational philosophies that value well-rounded intellectual development. This approach distinguishes EWU from more narrowly vocational institutions. The campus in Aftabnagar provides modern facilities in a planned development area of eastern Dhaka. Purpose-built academic buildings house classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and administrative offices designed for contemporary education. The campus environment promotes academic focus while remaining accessible from various parts of the metropolitan area. Faculty members combine academic credentials with professional experience, many holding advanced degrees from reputable universities in Bangladesh and abroad. The relatively small size compared to mega-universities allows closer student-faculty relationships and more individualized attention. Research activities, while developing, contribute to knowledge in fields aligned with faculty expertise.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
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- Retention Rate
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- Tuition (In-State)
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- Tuition (Int'l)
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Student Life & Environment
Student life at East West University centers on academic pursuits but includes plenty of opportunities for involvement beyond the classroom. Numerous clubs and organizations cover interests from debate and drama to technology and community service. The university hosts regular events including cultural programs, seminars, and competitions that bring together students from different departments. Sports facilities allow for recreational activities, though competitive athletics are less emphasized than at some Western universities. The student culture tends toward seriousness about academics, reflecting the competitive nature of the Bangladeshi job market and the investment families make in private university education. Study groups form naturally as students prepare for exams and work on projects together. The compact campus design makes it easy to run into classmates and build relationships. Social activities generally follow Bangladeshi cultural norms, with mixed-gender interactions occurring in appropriate contexts. Many students commute from home, as is typical in Bangladeshi universities, though some from outside Dhaka arrange housing nearby. The university cafeteria and nearby restaurants serve as gathering spots between classes.
Location & Surroundings
The Aftabnagar location offers advantages and challenges for East West University students. This eastern Dhaka neighborhood is primarily residential, providing a calmer atmosphere than the commercial centers of the city. However, Dhaka traffic means that commuting from other parts of the city can be time-consuming and unpredictable. Public transportation options include buses and auto-rickshaws, with ride-sharing apps increasingly popular among students. The immediate area around campus has developed considerably over the years, with restaurants, shops, and services catering to the student population. Housing options in the vicinity range from shared apartments to purpose-built student accommodations. Living costs in this area are reasonable even by Dhaka standards, which already offers excellent value. The climate is tropical with distinct seasons, including a hot and humid summer, monsoon rains from June through September, and a pleasant winter. Air quality varies throughout the year and across different neighborhoods. Dhaka itself offers all the experiences of a major South Asian capital, from historical sites and museums to restaurants and cultural events. The chaos and energy of the city takes some adjustment but many students come to appreciate its unique character.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at East West University falls in the mid-range for Bangladeshi private universities, representing a significant investment for most families but remaining accessible to the middle class. Fees vary by program, with engineering and business programs typically costing more than liberal arts options. International students pay somewhat higher rates. Living expenses in Dhaka can be kept remarkably low, with shared housing, local food, and public transportation costing a fraction of what students would pay in Western countries. The university career services office maintains relationships with employers and posts job listings for graduating students. The institution reputation opens doors at major Bangladeshi companies, banks, and multinational corporations operating in the country. The alumni network, while not as extensive as older institutions, provides connections for job seekers and young professionals. Many graduates continue to advanced degrees, with significant numbers pursuing master programs abroad in the UK, US, Australia, and elsewhere. The English-medium instruction and internationally oriented curriculum prepare students well for these transitions. Career outcomes vary by field, with business and engineering graduates generally finding employment quickly while liberal arts graduates may need more flexibility in their job search.
Campus Location
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