lifestyle
Holiday candles and fireplaces best enjoyed in moderation, experts say
From gingerbread and mulled wine to the scent of pine and fir, familiar aromas help define the holiday season. To recreate those festive moods, many people light candles, burn incense or use fireplaces at home. While these practices can add warmth and comfort, experts caution that moderation is key to protecting indoor air quality.
All flames release chemicals and tiny particles that can irritate the airways or contribute to longer-term respiratory problems if exposure is high, health specialists say. Still, there’s no need to abandon seasonal traditions altogether, according to Dr. Meredith McCormack, director of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Johns Hopkins University’s medical school.
“Clean air is fragrance free,” McCormack said, noting that enjoying holiday scents occasionally is fine, especially if they evoke nostalgia or comfort, as long as people take steps to limit pollution indoors.
Indoor air quality often worsens during winter because people spend more time inside and keep windows closed. The American Lung Association says indoor air can become more polluted than outdoor air when contaminants are trapped without proper ventilation. Fireplaces, gas appliances, candles, cleaning products and air fresheners can all release pollutants, including fine particles and nitrogen dioxide.
Experts share advice to reduce financial stress and curb holiday overspending
Health risks depend on the source and duration of exposure, as well as individual sensitivity. Children, older adults and people with asthma or heart and lung conditions are especially vulnerable. Symptoms such as coughing, headaches, shortness of breath or sneezing may signal poor air quality, and experts advise ventilating rooms or stopping use of pollutant-producing products if irritation occurs.
Simple steps can help reduce exposure, including opening windows when possible, using HEPA air purifiers, choosing products with fewer ingredients and running exhaust fans while cooking with gas stoves. Experts also recommend setting boundaries around indoor smoking.
“Even small improvements in air quality can lead to real health benefits,” McCormack said.
Source: AP
16 hours ago
Experts share advice to reduce financial stress and curb holiday overspending
The pressure to spend heavily on gifts, celebrations and travel during the holiday season can feel overwhelming, especially as many people face a tight job market, rising debt and persistently high prices.
Financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin said those feeling stretched are far from alone, urging people to be more intentional about their spending and to remember that showing care for loved ones doesn’t always require money. She noted that expectations fueled by nostalgia and social pressure often make the holidays more stressful than joyful.
What do you get when pumpkin pie collides with deep-dish pizza?
Experts say creating a clear budget is a crucial first step. Jennifer Seitz of family finance app Greenlight advised accounting for all seasonal costs — including travel, shipping and tips — and setting limits to avoid starting the new year in debt. Regular debt payments should also be included to prevent falling behind.
Shopping strategically can also help. Consumer expert Trae Bodge recommends seeking out sales, coupon codes, cash-back offers and browser extensions that automatically find discounts.
Bryan-Podvin also encourages people to identify what matters most by listing holiday expenses and prioritizing meaningful activities over obligation-driven spending. Setting boundaries, including declining events or gift exchanges, can reduce emotional and financial strain.
Finally, experts suggest creating low-cost traditions focused on shared experiences rather than purchases, which can often leave more lasting memories than expensive gifts.
Source: AP
1 day ago
Experts share strategies to cut holiday spending
The holiday season is a time for family and celebration, but it can also bring high expenses. From gifts to travel and groceries, costs can quickly add up, making budgeting essential, experts say.
Shopping expert Trae Bodge stressed the importance of saving wherever possible to avoid carrying debt into the new year.
Plan gifts early and shop smartKiersti Torok, known as Torok Coupon Hunter on social media, recommends planning gifts well in advance to take advantage of sales. She buys Christmas stocking treats right after Halloween and buys decorations on clearance after the holidays. “Waiting until a few days after Christmas, you can find items up to 75% off,” she said, often using these deals for birthdays later in the year.
Compare prices and use online toolsBodge advises comparing prices across stores, using coupons, signing up for emails, and leveraging browser extensions like PayPal Honey and Rakuten. While AI tools can suggest gift ideas, she says they are less reliable for up-to-date discounts. If an item isn’t on sale, look for a coupon or wait for a better deal.
Save on groceries with couponsFor those hosting holiday meals, using grocery coupons can significantly reduce costs. Torok recommends starting with one favorite store and using its app to get accustomed to couponing, then gradually comparing prices at other stores. Cash-back apps like Top Cash Back and Ibotta can further boost savings.
Buy in bulk and stock upGrocery expert Alli Powell suggests purchasing bulk items during holiday sales and freezing them for later use. This approach helps maximize savings and is useful year-round.
Be cautious with store credit cards and buy-now-pay-later dealsBodge warns that store credit cards and buy-now-pay-later offers are only wise if you can pay off balances promptly. Mismanaged, these options can lead to high interest charges and affect credit scores.
Flexible travel plans save moneyTravel expert Kyle Potter recommends booking flights first to maintain flexibility with dates and accommodations. Setting flight alerts on Google Flights can help track price changes and secure the best deals.
By planning ahead, comparing prices, using coupons, and remaining flexible, holiday spending can be managed without breaking the bank.
2 days ago
Don’t settle for a weak health savings account
Health savings accounts, paired with high-deductible health plans, are designed to ease medical costs. HSAs offer a rare triple tax advantage — contributions are pretax, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free. Yet many account holders don’t contribute the full amount allowed, and even fewer invest their HSA balances beyond basic savings accounts.
Low-income workers often struggle to fund HSAs, making the HDHP–HSA pairing less helpful for them, critics say. But even higher earners sometimes avoid maxing out their accounts, partly because many HSAs charge maintenance fees or additional costs for investing.
Unlike 401(k)s, HSAs can be freely moved between providers through transfers or rollovers. Here’s how to determine whether your HSA falls short — and what to do if it does.
High-value tax benefits can be undercut by costs
HSAs can outperform other tax-advantaged accounts, particularly for those expecting ongoing medical expenses. Even if used for non-medical purposes, HSAs still behave similarly to traditional 401(k)s or IRAs. But fees and limited investment options can significantly reduce their value, especially for small-account holders.
What do you get when pumpkin pie collides with deep-dish pizza?
Key items to review include:
Setup fees: Charges at account opening, sometimes covered by employers.Maintenance fees: Monthly or annual charges to keep an account active.Transaction fees: Costs tied to using HSA funds for medical payments.Savings-account interest: Crucial for those keeping money in cash; rates often rise with larger balances.Investment expenses: Fund fees, sales loads or management charges.Investment options: Ensure available funds align with your long-term strategy.How to leave a subpar HSA
If your employer-linked HSA has high fees or poor investment choices, you have three options:
1. Open your own HSA.If you’re enrolled in a high-deductible plan, you can contribute to an HSA of your choice and deduct those contributions on your taxes. This approach, however, requires more effort than automatic payroll deductions.
2. Transfer funds to a better HSA.Continue contributing via your employer, then periodically transfer money to another HSA with better offerings. Transfers have no tax implications and can be done multiple times a year.
3. Roll over funds to a different HSA.This works like a transfer, but you temporarily receive the funds yourself and must redeposit them within 60 days. Only one rollover is permitted every 12 months, and missing the deadline counts as an early withdrawal—with a 20% penalty if you're under 65.
Source: AP
4 days ago
Paris showcases royal jewels as city still reels from Louvre heist
A sparkling exhibition of royal jewels opened Wednesday in Paris, even as the city continues to absorb the shock of October’s audacious crown-jewel theft at the nearby Louvre Museum.
The four-minute robbery emptied cases in the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery, forcing its closure and raising concerns about the security of France’s cultural treasures. Meanwhile, the “Dynastic Jewels” exhibit at the Hôtel de la Marine — itself the site of a famous 1792 crown-jewel theft — is displaying diamonds, tiaras, and other historic pieces that survived revolutions and exile.
Spread across four galleries, the exhibition features over a hundred items from the Al Thani Collection, the Victoria and Albert Museum, King Charles III, Cartier, Chaumet, and French national collections. Highlights include the 57-carat Star of Golconda, Queen Victoria’s sapphire coronet and emerald tiara, Catherine the Great’s diamond dress ornaments, and a Cartier necklace crafted for an Indian ruler.
Gen Z and Millennials turn to sustainable, home-grown alternatives
While curators did not disclose security specifics, the Hôtel de la Marine was modernized with high-grade protections when it reopened in 2021. The Louvre, meanwhile, is upgrading surveillance and anti-intrusion systems after the theft, and none of the stolen items have been recovered.
Curator Amin Jaffer said the exhibit demonstrates how gemstones and ceremonial objects historically reflected identity, power, and prestige. Yet some Parisians feel the timing is sensitive. “People are still upset about the Louvre incident, and now there’s another jewel display opening nearby. It feels too soon,” said Alexandre Benhamou, a gift shop manager.
Despite the uneasy backdrop, curators hope visitors will appreciate the history, craftsmanship, and stories embedded in the treasures.
Source: AP
5 days ago
16,000 Dinosaur footprints in Central Bolivia offer glimpse into ancient behavior
Paleontologists have documented 16,600 dinosaur footprints in Bolivia’s central highlands, shedding light on the behavior of the massive creatures that roamed the region over 60 million years ago.
The footprints, located in and around the village and national park of Toro Toro in the Bolivian Andes, belong to theropods — the two-legged dinosaur group that includes Tyrannosaurus rex. The study, conducted over six years mainly by researchers from California’s Loma Linda University and published in PLOS One on Wednesday, marks the largest collection of theropod footprints ever recorded globally.
“There’s no other site in the world with such an abundance of theropod tracks,” said Roberto Biaggi, co-author of the study led by Spanish paleontologist Raúl Esperante.
The preserved prints reveal a range of dinosaur behavior, including attempts to swim. Scientists identified 1,378 marks showing claws scratching soft lake-bottom sediment just before rising waters covered them, protecting the impressions from erosion.
“These tracks provide a remarkable window into dinosaur life at the end of the Cretaceous,” said Richard Butler, a paleontologist at the University of Birmingham, who was not involved in the research.
Despite surviving millions of years, the footprints face modern threats. Farmers, quarry workers, and highway construction have disturbed the site over the decades, while the area remains virtually devoid of dinosaur bones, teeth, or eggs, unlike other South American fossil-rich regions. Researchers suggest the dinosaurs likely moved through the region rather than settling there permanently.
The range in footprint sizes indicates that giant theropods, around 10 meters (33 feet) tall, coexisted with much smaller dinosaurs, some only 32 centimeters (1 foot) tall at the hip. Footprints reveal behaviors skeletons cannot, showing when dinosaurs walked, ran, stopped, or turned.
Why so many dinosaurs congregated at Toro Toro remains unclear. Some experts suggest they visited an ancient freshwater lake, while others believe they may have been fleeing danger or searching for new habitats.
Biaggi noted that research at the site is ongoing, with more footprints expected to be discovered along the edges of the already uncovered areas.
6 days ago
Indonesia’s first giant panda cub squeals and squirms in new park footage
Indonesia’s first-ever giant panda cub is thriving, vocal, and feeding well, according to the conservation park where he was recently born.
Indonesian Safari Park on Sunday released photos and video of the tiny, fluffy cub nestled in an incubator and wriggling and squeaking as his mother held him close.
Hu Chun, a 15-year-old female panda, delivered the cub — named Satrio Wiratama, or Rio — on Nov. 27 at the park in Cisarua, West Java. The name reflects the shared commitment of Indonesia and China to protect endangered wildlife, the park said.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto officially announced the cub’s name on Thursday during a meeting with senior Chinese political adviser Wang Huning, displaying the newborn’s photograph.
The park says Rio is in stable condition, displaying strong cries, healthy nursing behavior, and consistent weight gain. Over the coming weeks, he is expected to develop better body temperature control, open his eyes, grow more fur, and become more active.
At The Gentle Barn, Thanksgiving turkeys are meant for cuddling — not carving
For now, the park is prioritizing the wellbeing of both mother and baby, and the cub will remain off-limits to visitors.
Hu Chun and her mate, Cai Tao, were sent to Indonesia in 2017 as part of a decade-long conservation collaboration with China. They live in a special enclosure roughly 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Jakarta.
Giant pandas — long seen as China’s unofficial national symbol — are central to Beijing’s well-known “panda diplomacy,” through which the animals are loaned to zoos worldwide. Due to their difficulty breeding, each successful birth is celebrated. Fewer than 1,900 giant pandas remain in the wild, found only in China’s Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces.
Source: AP
7 days ago
Top 10 Bulletproof Cars For 2025-26: Specs, Price, and Features
Bulletproof cars built with stronger frames and protective glass are designed to keep passengers safe without losing comfort or style. There are valid reasons for the differences in core specs, pricing, and notable features relevant to current market needs. Therefore, choosing the right car for safety can feel a bit overwhelming. Let’s explore the best 10 bulletproof cars for 2025-26 and see what makes these models innovative and impressive.
10 High-end Bulletproof Cars Armored For Protection
The world’s most advanced and reputable bulletproof and armored vehicles bring together luxury design, strong performance, and military-grade protection. Let’s see what makes these high-end models stand out in the armored car market.
2025 Chevrolet Suburban High Country
The Suburban series was further refurbished in 2025 with the addition of the High Country, which makes the Chevrolet Suburban High Country a complete model. Its armored base price ranges from USD 250,000 to USD 420,000, which translates to BDT 3,05,86,450 - BDT 5,13,85,236 (USD 1 = BDT 122.35). The unarmored version starts at USD 83,400 (BDT 1,02,03,640).
This full-size SUV runs on a strong 6.2-litre EcoTec3 V8 engine that makes 420 hp (horsepower), allowing the vehicle to move confidently even with the added weight of armor. When upgraded to Alpine Level A9 (CEN B6+), the Suburban is built to stop powerful weapons. It includes rifle rounds such as AR-15, 7.62x39, 7.62x51, and 5.56x45, along with blasts from two DM51 hand grenades.
Read more: World's first flying car factory starts trial production in China
A three-row layout supports up to seven passengers with premium comfort features, including heated and ventilated front seats and tri-zone climate control. Reinforced brakes and overlapping armored doors help keep the vehicle steady and mobile during dangerous situations.
2025 Cadillac Escalade ESV Luxury
The Cadillac Escalade ESV Luxury enters the 2025 lineup with new upgrades that mix premium design with armored protection. Its base price falls between USD 280,000 and USD 380,000 (BDT 34,258,000 - BDT 46,493,000), while the unarmored model begins at USD 91,100 (BDT 11,146,085).
This SUV carries a 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 420 hp. Inside, a large 55-inch curved digital screen and advanced driving technology add to its modern feel while still supporting solid handling on the road.
The Alpine Level A9 armor includes hardened steel and multi-layer bullet-resistant glass that can withstand AR-15 and other high-caliber shots. A three-row interior fits seven passengers with heated leather seats, second-row climate control, and premium wood and leather finishes.
Read more: Nissan tests driverless cars on busy Japan city streets
2025 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Size, comfort, and protection come together when the GMC Yukon XL Denali appears in discussions about high-end armored SUVs. Armoring the vehicle charges from USD 280,000 to USD 350,000 (BDT 34,258,000 - BDT 42,822,500), while the sole car costs USD 80,495 (BDT 9,848,563).
This 2025 Denali trim uses a 6.2-litre V8 engine that delivers solid power for a full-size luxury frame, saving room for up to 8 passengers with premium leather seating and modern technology. When upgraded to Alpine Level A9 (CEN B6+), the vehicle gains full 360-degree ballistic protection against strong rifle rounds, along with added floor shielding against hand grenade blasts.
The armoring system includes certified ballistic steel around key structural areas, multi-layer bulletproof glass on all sides, and reinforced doors with heavy-duty hinges. Plus, there is also a run-flat tire technology supported by Hutchinson polycarbonate inserts to maintain movement even after damage.
Toyota 2026 Land Cruiser 300
A legendary blend of durability and new-age design comes into focus when the Toyota 2026 Land Cruiser 300 enters the armored vehicle category. Its armored base price falls between USD 200,000 - USD 320,000 (BDT 24,470,000 - BDT 39,152,000), while the unarmored model begins at USD 63,275 (BDT 7,741,696).
Read more: Iran loosens import restrictions on foreign cars and iPhones, trying to mask its economic woes
This 2026 version features the i-Force Max 2.4-litre turbocharged inline 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain. It produces 326 combined horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, which gives the vehicle strong performance across many terrains. The CEN B6 armoring level offers certified protection against explosive threats and rifle fire while still keeping the Land Cruiser’s trusted off-road capability fully intact.
Its protective build includes reinforced suspension designed for ballistic door overlaps that prevent shots from entering through seams, and thick steel plates around the cabin. It also has multi-layer ballistic glass, a strengthened fuel tank, and upgraded braking systems for reliable stopping power under pressure.
2025 Lexus LX 600 Luxury
Elegance and protection join forces when the Lexus LX 600 Luxury takes its place in the premium armored SUV category. Wrapping up the model with armor charges from USD 300,000 to USD 450,000 (BDT 36,705,000 - BDT 55,057,500). The pricing of the unarmored version starts from USD 116,950 or BDT 14,308,833.
This 2025-refreshed model uses a 3.5-litre Twin Turbo V6 engine producing 409 hp, paired with a 10-speed sequential-shift transmission that delivers smooth and powerful movement. When upgraded to BR6 protection, the SUV shields the cabin, roof, and floor from strong ballistic fire and explosive blasts.
Read more: 31 ousted MPs’ cars among 100 set to be auctioned
INKAS door overlap systems create protective edges that stop bullets from slipping through door seams, while solid polycarbonate wheel inserts keep the vehicle driving even after tire punctures. Multi-layer ballistic glass keeps visibility clear and maintains the original Lexus design shape, making the added armor almost invisible.
8 days ago
Christmas returns to Bethlehem after two years of Gaza war
After two years of shuttered shops and empty streets, Christmas celebrations have begun returning to Bethlehem, offering a fragile sense of hope to a city devastated by the war in Gaza and an economic crisis across the West Bank.
On Saturday evening, John Juka’s family restaurant — closed for most of the past two Christmases — was once again filled with families and glowing red lights. “It’s not like before the war,” said the 30-year-old. “But life is coming back again.”
Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, relies heavily on tourism. Nearly 80% of its Muslim-majority population depends on the industry, which collapsed after Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli offensive in Gaza, which Palestinian health officials say has killed more than 70,000 people. Israeli military operations in the West Bank, including near Bethlehem, further worsened the crisis. Unemployment surged to 65%, and thousands left the city searching for work.
Mayor Maher Nicola Canawati said reviving Christmas celebrations was meant to restore hope. “When Bethlehem thrives, the entire West Bank feels it,” he said.
On Saturday, Manger Square filled with crowds, children atop their fathers’ shoulders, and a towering Christmas tree lit up the night. Some tourists have begun to return, and hotels expect nearly 70% occupancy during Christmas — the highest since the war began.
But tensions remain high. Violence, raids, and settler attacks continue across the West Bank. On Saturday, Israeli forces shot dead two Palestinians near Hebron, saying they attempted to ram soldiers. Checkpoints have made everyday travel difficult; one resident said he spent six hours traveling less than 20 miles.
Still, many in Bethlehem cling to cautious optimism. “This celebration is for everyone — Christian, Jewish, Muslim,” said Issa Montas, a 29-year-old resident. “This Christmas is for all of us.”
8 days ago
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2026: How to Apply from Bangladesh
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship (EMJM) is one of Europe’s most competitive and fully funded master’s scholarships, offering students the chance to study in multiple countries under a single degree programme. In recent years, Bangladeshi applicants have shown remarkable success in securing this scholarship, proving that with proper planning and strong motivation, studying in Europe is not just a dream—it is achievable. Let's dive into the prospects and detailed application process of the 2026 Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for Bangladeshi students.
What is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship? Why should Bangladeshi students apply?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is awarded for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programmes, which are unique not only because they are fully funded but also because of the structure of the degree. Anyone can apply for this—fresh graduates, job holders, and even final-year students (depending on programme requirements).
Students in the programme receive joint, double, or multiple degrees, depending on the chosen course. Unlike traditional master's programmes, Erasmus Mundus requires students to study at least two to four universities across two to four European countries, offering global exposure and diverse academic experience.
Read more: Top 10 International Scholarships for Women to Study Abroad
The benefits are extensive. The scholarship provides:
- €1,400 or TK200,000 monthly stipend - Full tuition fee waiver- Travel support- Insurance coverage- Cultural and academic mobility opportunities.
One of the greatest advantages for Bangladeshi applicants is that Erasmus has no application fee, does not prioritise CGPA, and welcomes students from any university background. Instead, selection focuses on motivation, potential, and programme alignment.
Erasmus promotes diversity, giving equal opportunities to students from public, private, and national universities. Beyond funded study, it offers global networking, internships, post-study work pathways, and long-term European residency—making it a truly life-changing opportunity.
Read more: 10 Affordable European Countries for Bangladeshi Undergraduate Students in 2026
Where to Find Erasmus Mundus Programs
Finding the right Erasmus Mundus program is the first and most important step in the application process. The official Erasmus Mundus Catalogue is the most reliable platform for exploring available programmes, and it can be accessed here:
https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en
On this website, applicants can search based on field of study, language of instruction, mobility structure, and partner universities. Filters help narrow down options aligned with one’s academic profile and future goals.
After shortlisting, applicants should carefully review the curriculum, university locations, internship or research components, language requirements, and the application deadline. Alongside the official source, shortlisted lists from trusted scholarship platforms—such as those featuring programmes like MIPDaL, NOHA, MARIHE, GEM, PlantHealth, MAGMa, EMABG, and the Journalism track—can offer additional clarity and help cross-check requirements.
Many Erasmus alumni suggest applying to three to five well-matched programmes rather than submitting many unfocused applications. This approach allows candidates to prepare stronger, personalised applications and significantly improves their chances of selection.
Read more: Norway Study 2026: 10 Affordable Universities for Non-EU, Bangladeshi Students
Common Eligibility Requirements
Erasmus Mundus eligibility varies by programme, but most follow similar criteria. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree of at least 3–4 years in a relevant field, and final-year students may also apply if the programme permits proof of enrolment or expected graduation. English proficiency is required and can be demonstrated through IELTS, TOEFL, or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate—meaning you can apply even without IELTS if the programme accepts MOI.
There is no fixed CGPA requirement, which makes the programme accessible to a wider range of students. Instead, selection committees focus on your motivation, relevant academic or professional background, clarity of goals, research or project experience, and extracurricular involvement. As a result, even applicants with an average CGPA can succeed if they present a strong and compelling overall profile.
Required Application Documents
- Academic transcript and degree certificate: Official academic records are required, and final-year students may submit provisional results or enrolment proof.
- Passport / National ID: This must be valid, as it will be needed later for visa processing.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Preferably in Europass format, highlighting relevant academic, professional, and extracurricular experiences.
- Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose: A personalised and original statement explaining why you are applying and how the programme fits your goals.
- Recommendation letters (2): Two recommendation letters are required, and they should be written by professors or supervisors who can evaluate your academic or professional abilities.
- Proof of English proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or Medium of Instruction (MOI), depending on the programme’s requirement.
- Proof of residence / nationality: Sometimes required for scholarship eligibility, residency verification, or administrative purposes.
Read more: How to Use ChatGPT and Other AI Tools to Improve Your IELTS Writing and Speaking Preparation
Application Process
As a Bangladeshi student applying for the Erasmus Mundus application, first you need to explore programmes through the official catalogue and trusted scholarship platforms. After research, shortlist three to five programmes that align with your academic background and long-term goals. Carefully read each programme’s curriculum, mobility path, deadlines, language requirements, and funding details.
Then prepare the necessary core documents. If needed, schedule language tests early. Submit applications through the official portals, ensuring accuracy and completeness. After submission, wait for results, and if shortlisted, attend interviews if required. Once selected, accept the offer and begin the visa and travel preparation process.
Common Deadlines
Most Erasmus Mundus deadlines fall between October and January, though some programmes close earlier in December or extend to February or March. Since documents like recommendation letters, transcripts, and language test results require time, it is best to start preparing 3–4 months earlier for a smoother, stronger application experience.
Read more: Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students
Important Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Write a motivation letter that aligns with the specific program’s curriculum and goals
- Highlight any relevant experience — internships, research, volunteering, community work, projects
- Keep your CV concise and focused; do not pad it with irrelevant information
- Connect with alumni or current students via social media or forums — they can give realistic advice
- Prepare well ahead of time — gather documents, schedule language tests, request recommendation letters 2–3 months before the deadline
- Be honest yet confident — show your real passion and clear goals
Final Words
Erasmus Mundus is an incredible opportunity for students who dream of studying abroad with full financial support while gaining exposure across multiple countries. With careful planning, strong motivation, and relevant preparation, applicants from Bangladesh and around the world can build a competitive profile—regardless of CGPA or financial background.
The key is to start early, choose programmes aligned with your interests, and prepare authentic, personalised application materials. From language requirements to documentation, each step brings you closer to a life-changing academic and cultural experience. If studying in Europe has been your dream, Erasmus Mundus is one of the most rewarding pathways to make it a reality.
Read more: How Bangladeshi Students Can Attest Certificates Online Before Going Overseas
9 days ago