UGC Orders Suspension of Unapproved Branch Campuses and Study Centers in Bangladesh

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh has directed the suspension of all academic activities at branch campuses and study centers of domestic and foreign universities operating in the country without government and UGC approval.

The directive was issued on Monday through an order from the UGC’s International Collaboration Division. The institutions have been instructed to submit applications to the commission by April 25, 2026, to obtain official approval.

The order states that the commission has observed with deep concern that several domestic and foreign institutions are running branch campuses, study centers, and tutorial centers without proper authorization. A list of such unapproved institutions has already been received by the UGC authorities.

According to the “Regulations for the Operation of Branch Campuses and Study Centers of Foreign Universities or Institutions, 2014,” there are clear provisions for operating such educational activities in Bangladesh. Under Clause 4(3)(g) of these regulations, unapproved institutions must submit applications to the UGC by April 25, 2026, to obtain legal recognition.

The order, signed by UGC Director Ms. Jesmin Parvin, also states that all educational activities of the concerned institutions will remain suspended until the application process is complete. Failure to comply may result in legal action against the institutions for operating without approval.