NSU Insider

13/06/2026

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Alternative Sample: Northsouth Graduate Schools Admission Test Questions
As in previous years, the education sector should have been one of the highest priorities in this year’s budget. Unfortunately, continuing the pattern of past budgets, it has once again been largely neglected.

Only 2 percent of the total budget has been allocated to education, which falls far short of international standards. With such a limited allocation, there is little scope for introducing meaningful reforms or improvements for Bangladesh’s students and future generations.

At a time when the country should be investing heavily in human capital development and nurturing its young population, the education sector continues to receive insufficient funding. Moreover, a significant portion of the allocated budget is typically spent on infrastructure development rather than on enhancing the quality of education.

This budget clearly demonstrates that, despite repeated official statements emphasizing the importance of education, the government has yet to translate those commitments into meaningful financial support. In practice, the sector is not receiving the priority it deserves.

We have consistently argued that at least 5 percent of the national budget should be allocated to education. However, Bangladesh has neither achieved this target nor taken serious steps toward meeting it.

Here are several Northsouth University and GMAT style Reading Comprehension questions based on the passage:

Question 1: Main Idea

Which of the following best expresses the main idea of the passage?

A. Bangladesh should prioritize infrastructure development over educational quality.
B. The current budget allocation demonstrates insufficient government commitment to education.
C. International standards require all countries to allocate at least 5 percent of their budgets to education.
D. Bangladesh's education system has improved significantly in recent years.
E. The country's young population is declining due to inadequate educational investment.

Answer: B

Explanation: The passage argues that the education sector receives inadequate funding, indicating that the government is not prioritizing education despite its stated commitments.

Question 2: Inference

The author would most likely agree with which of the following statements?

A. Infrastructure spending is the most effective way to improve educational outcomes.
B. Increasing education funding alone guarantees better educational quality.
C. Investment in education is essential for developing the country's future workforce.
D. Bangladesh currently exceeds international standards for education spending.
E. The government should reduce spending on other sectors to fund infrastructure projects.

Answer: C

Explanation: The author emphasizes the need to invest in talent development and the young population, implying that education is crucial for future workforce development.

Question 3: Specific Detail

According to the passage, what percentage of the total budget has been allocated to education?

A. 1 percent
B. 2 percent
C. 3 percent
D. 5 percent
E. 10 percent

Answer: B

Explanation: The passage explicitly states that only 2 percent of the total budget has been allocated to education.

Question 4: Author's Tone

The author's tone toward the government's education budget can best be described as:

A. Enthusiastic and optimistic
B. Neutral and descriptive
C. Critical and disappointed
D. Indifferent and detached
E. Humorous and sarcastic

Answer: C

Explanation: Words such as "deeply disappoints us," "severe neglect," and "isn't giving the sector the level of priority it deserves" indicate a critical and disappointed tone.

Question 5: Purpose of the Final Paragraph

The primary purpose of the final paragraph is to:

A. Compare Bangladesh's education budget with those of neighboring countries.
B. Present evidence that infrastructure spending should be reduced.
C. Introduce a new argument unrelated to the passage.
D. State a recommended funding target and highlight the failure to meet it.
E. Explain how education quality can be measured.

Answer: D

Explanation: The final paragraph advocates allocating at least 5 percent of the national budget to education and points out that Bangladesh has not achieved this goal.

Question 6: Assumption

The author's argument depends on which of the following assumptions?

A. All countries spend exactly 5 percent of their budgets on education.
B. Greater investment in education would contribute positively to educational outcomes and human capital development.
C. Infrastructure development has no value for the education sector.
D. Bangladesh's economy cannot support higher education spending.
E. International standards are irrelevant to budget decisions.

Answer: B

Explanation: The argument assumes that increasing educational funding would help improve education and develop the country's human resources, thereby justifying the call for a larger allocation.

𝐴𝑏𝑑𝑢𝑙 𝐻𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝑠 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑡 𝐺𝑟𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝐵𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑁𝑆𝑈

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04/06/2026

North South Admissions Composition Test and IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample

Question:
In many countries, students are demanding safer university campuses, especially for women. What are the causes of this problem and what measures can universities and authorities take to solve it?

Sample Answer:

In recent years, concerns about campus safety have become more serious, particularly for female students. In many universities, students feel unsafe because of harassment, weak supervision and a lack of effective action from authorities. This essay will discuss the main causes of this problem and suggest practical solutions.

One major cause is the absence of strong security systems on and around campuses. Many universities do not have enough trained guards, CCTV cameras, or monitoring procedures, which makes it easier for harassment to occur. Another important factor is the culture of silence. In some institutions, victims are afraid to report abuse because they worry about being ignored, blamed or threatened. As a result, offenders are not punished and the problem continues. In addition, when university officials or influential individuals are accused, investigations are sometimes delayed, which damages trust.

To solve this issue, universities should first strengthen campus security. This can be done by installing more cameras, increasing patrols, and ensuring that all students can report incidents confidentially. Universities should also create clear anti-harassment policies and enforce them strictly. Anyone found guilty should face immediate disciplinary action, regardless of their position. At the same time, authorities must educate students about respect, consent, and gender equality through awareness programs, seminars, and orientation sessions. Finally, the government and education regulators should closely supervise universities to make sure complaints are investigated fairly and quickly.

In conclusion, unsafe campus environments are often caused by weak security and ineffective response systems. However, with stronger protection, strict rules and greater accountability, universities can become safer places for women and all students.

04/06/2026

Here are several NSU admissions test and SAT style reading comprehension questions based on the passage.

Students at North South University (NSU) organized a human chain and solidarity program on Thursday to demand a safe and respectful environment for female students on campus. The demonstration took place near Gate No. 8 from 11:58 am to 12:18 pm.

The students carried banners and placards calling for 100% security for women, a campus free from sexual harassment, and justice for incidents of oppression, r**e, and murder of women across the country. Some of the slogans included: “Safe campus is my right,” “Ensure the dignity and safety of women,” “Break the silence and end the violence,” and “Safety is not a privilege, it’s the right.”

Mushtaq an MBA student and one of the organizers, told Prothom Alo, “Women’s safety is a fundamental right. Collective effort is needed to raise awareness and take effective steps. We demand 100 percent safety in the university area.”

Salman another student participating in the human chain, said: “The campus can no longer be called 100% safe. The truth of allegations must be verified and justice ensured, regardless of the person involved, whether student, staff, or board member.”

The demonstration comes in the wake of a complaint filed by a guardian with the Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC) against Mohammad Shahjahan, a member of NSU’s Board of Trustees. The complaint alleges that Shahjahan was involved in immoral activities and admission-brokering, using promises of jobs, promotions, and financial assistance to lure students. On May 14, the UGC instructed the university to investigate the matter and take action.

Shahjahan has denied the allegations, calling the UGC’s directive barring him from campus “illegal and hostile.”

The student-led human chain highlights growing concern over women’s safety on campus and the need for accountability and justice within university communities.

Questions

1. Which choice best states the central idea of the passage?

A. Students at North South University protested rising tuition fees and administrative policies.
B. Students at North South University organized a demonstration calling for greater safety for women and accountability regarding allegations involving a university trustee.
C. The University Grants Commission has completed an investigation into allegations against a university trustee.
D. Female students at North South University demanded scholarships and financial assistance.

2. According to the passage, what was one of the primary demands of the students participating in the human chain?

A. Increased government funding for universities
B. The resignation of the university administration
C. Complete security for female students on campus
D. Lower admission fees for new students

3. As used in the passage, the phrase "fundamental right" most nearly means

A. a privilege granted by authorities
B. a basic entitlement that everyone should have
C. a legal contract between parties
D. a temporary benefit provided by institutions

4. Which statement is supported by the passage?

A. The allegations against Mohammad Shahjahan have been proven true.
B. The university has publicly announced the results of its investigation.
C. Mohammad Shahjahan denied the allegations made against him.
D. The UGC permanently removed Mohammad Shahjahan from the Board of Trustees.

5. The inclusion of Salman's comments primarily serves to

A. explain the university's official position
B. emphasize the students' focus on accountability and justice regardless of status
C. provide evidence that the allegations are true
D. criticize the UGC's actions

6. Which inference is best supported by the passage?

A. Students believe that concerns about campus safety extend beyond a single individual or incident.
B. The university administration organized the human chain.
C. The UGC has already completed disciplinary proceedings.
D. Most students support Mohammad Shahjahan.

7. The passage indicates that the UGC instructed the university to

A. expel students involved in the protest
B. cancel all university activities
C. investigate the allegations and take appropriate action
D. close the campus until further notice

8. Which piece of evidence best supports the idea that students were advocating for broader women's rights issues, not only campus safety?

A. The event was held near Gate No. 8.
B. The human chain lasted approximately 20 minutes.
C. The students condemned incidents of oppression, r**e, and murder of women across the country.
D. The participants were identified as general students.

30/05/2026

Bright Prep IELTS Practice
Desi Ivy and NSU Admission Preparation Fall 2026: AI in Antibiotic Discovery
Here are an IELTS Writing Task 2 question and a Band 8+ sample essay.

Answer: Artificial intelligence has become an increasingly important tool in scientific research, particularly in the development of new medicines. While some people argue that AI could be the key to overcoming major health challenges, others believe that human scientists will remain indispensable. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why I believe AI and human expertise must work together.

On the one hand, supporters of AI argue that it can dramatically accelerate medical discoveries. Traditional drug development often requires researchers to test thousands of compounds, a process that is both expensive and time-consuming. AI systems can analyze vast amounts of data and evaluate millions of potential molecules within a short period. As a result, scientists are able to identify promising drug candidates much faster than before. In the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, for example, AI has already helped researchers discover new compounds that may lead to effective treatments. Given the growing threat of drug-resistant infections, such technological advances could save countless lives.

On the other hand, critics contend that AI cannot replace human judgment and expertise. Although algorithms can identify patterns and generate predictions, they do not truly understand biological systems. Human researchers are still needed to design experiments, interpret results, and ensure that discoveries are safe and ethically sound. Furthermore, medicines identified by AI must undergo extensive laboratory testing and clinical trials before they can be used in patients. These complex processes require the knowledge and decision-making abilities of experienced scientists, physicians, and regulators.

In my opinion, AI should be viewed as a powerful tool rather than a replacement for human expertise. Its greatest strength lies in handling enormous amounts of information and identifying possibilities that humans might overlook. However, scientific creativity, ethical responsibility and clinical judgment remain uniquely human qualities. Therefore, the most effective approach is a partnership in which AI enhances human capabilities rather than substitutes for them.

In conclusion, while AI has the potential to transform medical research and address global health problems, human expertise continues to play an essential role. The future of healthcare will likely depend on the successful collaboration between advanced technology and skilled professionals.

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26/05/2026

North South University and Grameen HealthTech Ltd. signed an MoU on Sunday to launch 24/7 tele-mental health support services for NSU students, faculty and staff.

At the signing ceremony, Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury and Dr Ahmed Armaan Siddiqui emphasized the increasing importance of mental healthcare in universities. They also highlighted ongoing challenges in Bangladesh, particularly mental health stigma and limited access to professional support.

Other NSU representatives included:
Professor Dipak Kumar Mitra
Professor Shazzad Hossain
Dr Norman Swazo

The GHL delegation included:
Mohammad Solaimun Rasel
Barrister Ahmed Raquib Malik
Dr Fahreen Hannan
Ahmed Sabbir

The partnership aims to make mental health services more accessible and continuously available within the university community.

Ivy, NSU Graduate Admission Test and GMAT Critical Reasoning Questions by BrightPrep.org

1. Which of the following can most reasonably be inferred from the passage?

A. Mental health services are currently unavailable at all universities in Bangladesh.
B. NSU and GHL believe that accessibility and stigma are major barriers to mental healthcare.
C. The tele-mental health program will only be available to NSU students.
D. GHL primarily focuses on engineering and physical sciences education.
E. The agreement requires all NSU staff members to participate in mental health counseling.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:
The passage explicitly states that the speakers “emphasised the need to address the stigma and lack of accessibility surrounding mental health services in Bangladesh.” This supports the inference that NSU and GHL see stigma and accessibility as significant barriers.

A is too broad; the passage discusses NSU specifically, not all universities.
C is incorrect because the services are for students, faculty members, and staff.
D is unsupported; GHL is a health technology company.
E is incorrect because the passage never mentions mandatory participation.
rewrite

2. The partnership between NSU and GHL was most likely established in order to:

A. Replace traditional healthcare services at NSU
B. Expand access to mental healthcare while reducing social stigma
C. Promote engineering research in health technology
D. Require students and faculty to attend counseling sessions
E. Limit mental health services to online consultations only

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:
The passage states that university and company representatives highlighted the importance of mental healthcare and stressed the need to address both stigma and limited accessibility in Bangladesh. Therefore, the agreement was most likely intended to improve access to mental health support and encourage greater acceptance of such services.

A is unsupported because the passage does not mention replacing existing healthcare services.
C misrepresents the purpose of the partnership.
D is incorrect because participation is not described as mandatory.
E is too extreme; the passage only mentions tele-mental health services, not exclusivity.

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23/05/2026

Along the coastal belt of Bangladesh, countless women continue to live in uncertainty after their husbands disappeared at sea. In the fishing villages of Barguna, Bhola, Patuakhali, Sandwip, and Kutubdia, these women are often known as “sea widows” — wives of fishermen who never returned home.

One of them is 45-year-old Machuma Begum from Charlathimara village in Patharghata, Barguna. Nearly two decades after Cyclone Sidr struck the coast in 2007, she still waits for her husband, fisherman Hasan Pahlan, who vanished while fishing in the Bay of Bengal.

Standing beside her crumbling house outside the embankment, Machuma says she still hopes her husband will return one day and end the hardship that has consumed her life. After Hasan disappeared, she was left alone to raise her children without shelter, income, or support. Whenever news spread of a body being recovered after the cyclone, she rushed to identify it, but never found her husband.

Machuma’s story reflects the reality faced by many coastal women whose husbands go missing during cyclones, storms, tidal surges, and maritime accidents. Every year, fishermen disappear in the increasingly dangerous waters of the Bay of Bengal, leaving behind families trapped in grief, poverty, and uncertainty.

In Char Monohar village of Bhola’s Charfason upazila, the trauma of such disappearances still haunts the community years after seven local fishermen went missing at sea in 2020. Families continue to struggle with debt, hunger, and social insecurity. Hasina Begum, wife of missing fisherman Zakir Hossain, lives with her three daughters in a fragile two-room house while trying to repay large loans left behind by her husband. Another woman, Rifa Begum, survives with her children after her husband Alamgir disappeared, leaving unpaid debts and no source of income.

Similar stories can be heard across coastal districts including Kutubdia, Sandwip, Hatia, Monpura, and Ramgati. While reports of missing fishermen often appear briefly in newspapers, the long-term suffering of their families rarely receives attention.

At the same time, the risks faced by fishermen are increasing. Scientists and researchers warn that climate change is making the Bay of Bengal more dangerous through stronger storms, rougher seas, unpredictable weather, and rising tidal surges. Fish stocks are also declining rapidly, forcing fishermen to travel farther into dangerous waters to earn a living.

Many fishermen say the sea has changed dramatically. Older fishermen who once considered fishing routine now describe deep fear every time they leave shore. Warning signals often fail to reach them in time, and accidents at sea are becoming more frequent.

Despite the growing danger, coastal communities have few alternatives for survival. More than a million people depend on fishing along Bangladesh’s coast, yet many families remain trapped in poverty and debt.

The crisis is also worsened by bureaucratic barriers. Families of missing fishermen often cannot access government assistance because they are unable to obtain death certificates without recovering the bodies. As a result, many women are excluded from financial aid, compensation, and rehabilitation programs.

Local activists and fisheries officials say the number of missing fishermen is steadily rising, though no comprehensive national database exists. In Patharghata alone, local authorities recorded around 200 fishermen missing between 1993 and 2024.

Experts describe the suffering of these families as an example of “Non-Economic Loss and Damage” caused by climate change — losses that cannot be measured only in money. Beyond financial hardship, families endure emotional trauma, social instability, uncertainty, and the permanent absence of loved ones.

For coastal fishermen, every journey into the sea has become increasingly uncertain. Yet for many, abandoning the profession is impossible. With few economic alternatives and worsening environmental conditions, fishing communities continue to risk their lives in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

“We cannot leave this profession,” said fisherman Abdur Rahim from Patharghata. “But the dangers have increased, fish have declined, and disasters are becoming more common. We only want safety for our lives and support for the families of missing fishermen.”

NSU Admission Test and SAT Style Reading Questions Based on the Passage

Question 1

Which choice best describes the central idea of the passage?

A. Coastal fishing communities in Bangladesh are benefiting from modernization and government assistance.
B. Climate change and dangerous sea conditions are causing growing social and economic hardship for fishermen’s families in coastal Bangladesh.
C. Fishermen in Bangladesh are refusing to follow safety regulations while fishing at sea.
D. Cyclone Sidr was the only major disaster to affect Bangladesh’s coastal communities.

Question 2

The author most likely includes Machuma Begum’s story in the opening paragraphs in order to:

A. criticize fishermen for continuing to work at sea
B. provide scientific evidence about climate change
C. personalize the suffering experienced by families of missing fishermen
D. compare living conditions in different coastal districts

Question 3

As used in the passage, the phrase “sea widows” most nearly refers to:

A. women who work in the fishing industry
B. women whose husbands disappeared at sea and never returned
C. women who migrated away from coastal villages
D. women employed by shipping companies

Question 4

Which choice provides the best evidence that climate change is increasing dangers for fishermen?

A. “Many people refer to them as ‘sea widows.’”
B. “The contribution of the marine sector to the country’s fisheries economy is decreasing every year.”
C. “Scientists and researchers warn that climate change is making the Bay of Bengal more dangerous through stronger storms, rougher seas, unpredictable weather, and rising tidal surges.”
D. “Families continue to struggle with debt, hunger, and social insecurity.”

Question 5

The passage suggests that families of missing fishermen often receive less support than families of deceased fishermen because:

A. local officials refuse to acknowledge disappearances
B. many fishermen are not registered workers
C. families cannot prove death without recovered bodies or certificates
D. coastal communities prefer private assistance over government aid

Question 6

Which choice best describes the tone of the passage?

A. Humorous and lighthearted
B. Analytical and indifferent
C. Critical and sarcastic
D. Sympathetic and concerned

Question 7

According to the passage, why do many fishermen continue going to sea despite the increasing dangers?

A. They receive high salaries from the government.
B. Fishing is often their only available source of livelihood.
C. They enjoy traveling long distances at sea.
D. Weather forecasting systems have improved significantly.

Question 8

The passage indicates that the issue of missing fishermen is an example of “Non-Economic Loss and Damage” because it involves:

A. only the destruction of fishing equipment
B. losses that include emotional suffering and social instability, not just financial damage
C. the collapse of international trade routes
D. government spending on disaster recovery

Question 9

Which statement best summarizes the relationship between climate change and coastal fishing communities described in the passage?

A. Climate change has increased fish populations and improved income opportunities.
B. Climate change has had little effect on daily life in fishing villages.
C. Climate change has intensified environmental risks while reducing economic security.
D. Climate change only affects fishermen during cyclones.

Question 10

Which choice best describes the structure of the passage?

A. The passage begins with personal experiences and expands into a broader discussion of social and environmental problems.
B. The passage presents scientific data first and then explains unrelated historical events.
C. The passage focuses entirely on government policies regarding fishing rights.
D. The passage compares fishing industries in several different countries.

22/05/2026

Bright Prep Vocabulary Test
Based on about Wake Forest University BOT Peter Rodriguez

The word 'distinguished' most nearly means:
a) inexperienced
b) respected
c) uncertain
d) temporary

The word 'transformative' suggests something that:
a) causes major change
b) creates confusion
c) prevents growth
d) repeats tradition

The phrase 'national prominence' means:
a) local criticism
b) financial difficulty
c) widespread recognition
d) academic failure

The word 'tenure-track' refers to:
a) temporary student jobs
b) a path toward permanent faculty status
c) athletic scholarships
d) online education programs

The word 'integrating' most nearly means:
a) separating
b) delaying
c) combining
d) reducing

The phrase 'sought-after voice' implies that Rodriguez:
a) avoids public speaking
b) is frequently asked for opinions
c) dislikes media attention
d) writes novels professionally

The word 'inclusive' in “inclusive excellence” most nearly means:
a) competitive
b) selective
c) welcoming to diverse groups
d) financially successful

The word 'humility' means:
a) arrogance
b) modesty
c) confusion
d) intelligence

14/05/2026

M. A. Kashem a member of the NSU board of trust stated, "We have plans to establish an international medical research institute and a nursing training center. In light of the growing global demand for skilled manpower in this sector, several universities in the United Kingdom have already expressed interest in collaborating with us. I urge the government to support this initiative; the establishment of such institutions will further strengthen the country's healthcare sector. It will also make it possible to retain within the country the vast amount of foreign currency currently spent by citizens seeking medical treatment abroad."

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13/05/2026

EHS+ Centre of North South University in partnership with International Labour Organization and Brac University organized a consultation program and here is a grammar and vocabulary test based on it.

Type A: Vocabulary

The word “consultation” most nearly means:

A. Celebration
B. Discussion and exchange of ideas
C. Inspection
D. Competition

“Distinguished group of stakeholders” refers to:

A. Random attendees
B. Important and experienced participants
C. Students only
D. Government employees only

The word “graced” suggests:

A. Interrupted
B. Honored by presence
C. Ignored
D. Replaced

“Framework” means:

A. A building structure
B. A financial plan
C. A structured plan or system
D. A legal punishment

“Constructive feedback” refers to:

A. Negative criticism only
B. Helpful suggestions for improvement
C. Irrelevant comments
D. Formal complaints

Type B: Grammar

The event ___ held on May 4 on the campus in Dhaka.

A. was
B. is
C. were
D. be

The consultation program was organized ___ collaboration with the ILO.

A. at
B. in
C. on
D. by

Participants ___ engaged in discussions during the session.

A. actively
B. active
C. activation
D. activity

The presentation was followed by an interactive session, ___ participants gave feedback.

A. where
B. who
C. which
D. whose

A diverse group of stakeholders ___ present at the event.

A. was
B. were
C. have
D. has

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12/05/2026

Universities in Ireland That May Accept Students Without IELTS:

1. University College Cork
2. University College Dublin
3. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
4. University of Limerick
5. National University of Ireland Galway
6. Maynooth University
7. Dublin City University

Bright Prep assists students throughout the entire application process, from selecting the right university and scholarship opportunities to preparing documents and visa applications. Before applying, students should always review the latest university admission requirements and scholarship guidelines.

Study in Ireland without IELTS: Universities, Scholarships and Alternatives Ireland has become one of the leading destinations in Europe for international students seeking higher education. The country is known for its advanced education system, strong economy, and excellent research opportunities.....