UGC Warns Sudents of Fake Foreign University Branches

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a strong warning to students and parents, urging them not to enrol in unauthorised foreign universities reportedly operating illegal branch campuses in Bangladesh.

According to the commission, American World University (USA), Trinity University (USA), and the Spiritual Institute of New York (State University) have no approval from the government or the UGC to conduct any form of academic activity within the country.

In a recent investigation, the UGC discovered the existence of these institutions while verifying certificates submitted by two graduates of American World University and Trinity University to a commercial bank. Upon inquiry, it was confirmed that the institutions had been operating without authorisation, deceiving students with promises of internationally recognised degrees.

“None of these universities have submitted any approval requests or project proposals to the UGC or the Government of Bangladesh,” the commission said in an official statement.

The UGC emphasised that degrees or certificates issued by such institutions are invalid under existing laws, and anyone obtaining them would not be recognised by any public or private organisation in Bangladesh.

“These fraudulent entities lure students with promises of quick, affordable international degrees but, in reality, deliver worthless certificates that hold no academic or professional value,” the commission warned.

Illegal academic operations spreading

The UGC has identified a growing number of unauthorised foreign universities and institutes conducting academic operations in Bangladesh without legal approval. These institutions are allegedly offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes such as Bachelor’s, Master’s, MPH, MBA, MPhil, and PhD degrees through branch campuses, tutorial centres, and online study hubs.

The commission noted that these organisations often use misleading advertisements, fake accreditation claims, and unverified partnerships with local agents to attract unsuspecting students.

Action sought against fake institutions

To curb the spread of these illegal operations, the UGC has written to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Education, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), requesting immediate and coordinated action against those involved in establishing or promoting such fake universities.

The commission also urged students and guardians to verify the authenticity of any foreign university before enrolment. A list of recognised foreign university collaboration programmes is available on the UGC website, it added.

“Students should always check with the UGC before enrolling in any programme offered by a foreign university in Bangladesh. If a university or institute is not listed or approved, its degrees are considered illegal,” the statement clarified.

The UGC further warned that individuals or organisations facilitating these fraudulent academic activities will face strict legal consequences.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the quality and credibility of higher education in Bangladesh, stressing that it would continue monitoring and taking necessary measures to protect students from academic fraud and exploitation.