Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST): A wonderful higher education destination

Author
27/02/2025Syed Taisur Rahman Fayaz || Chorcha

Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) is one of the most prestigious institutions of higher education in Bangladesh, known for its excellence in science, technology, engineering, business administration, social sciences, and humanities education. Located in Kumargaon, Sylhet, SUST was established on 13 February 1986 and started its academic activities on 25 August 1991. Over the years, the university has earned national and international recognition for its groundbreaking research, modern academic curriculum, and advanced technological applications in education.

This article provides a detailed analysis of SUST’s history, academic programs, research activities, student life, infrastructure, and admission guidelines to help prospective students, researchers, and education enthusiasts understand what makes SUST a leading university in Bangladesh.


Background and Establishment of SUST

The idea of establishing SUST was initiated with the vision of enhancing science and technology education in Bangladesh. Despite Sylhet being a center of knowledge and cultural heritage, there was a lack of higher education opportunities in the region.

To bridge this gap, SUST was founded as an integrated university specializing in science and technology education, opening new doors for modern research, innovation, and academic excellence in Bangladesh.

Initially, the university started with just three departments, but it has significantly expanded over time and now consists of seven schools and twenty-eight departments, covering a wide range of disciplines.


University Infrastructure of SUST and Natural Beauty

The SUST campus spans over 322 acres, offering a harmonious blend of modern architecture and natural beauty. The presence of lush greenery, forests, lakes, and mountains makes the campus an aesthetically pleasing and peaceful environment for students.

One of the key attractions of SUST is its main lake, which adds to the university’s natural beauty and provides a serene atmosphere for learning and research. While the university’s buildings are designed with a modern architectural approach, they are built in a way that maintains harmony with nature.

SUST Campus Facilities

Facility

Description

University Mosque

A spacious mosque for students and staff to perform prayers.

SUST Medical Center

A healthcare facility providing emergency medical services and basic healthcare support.

Central Library

A modern library equipped with offline and online knowledge resources, research materials, and digital facilities.

Sports Complex

Multiple sports facilities including cricket, football, basketball, and indoor games.

Research Centers

Specialized research facilities for scientific, technological, and social research projects.


Academic Structure and Programs

SUST is known for its structured, research-oriented, and innovative academic programs, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, social sciences, business administration, and humanities.

Schools and Departments at SUST

School Name

Departments Covered

School of Applied Sciences and Technology

Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics.

School of Life Sciences

Biology, Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering.

School of Management and Business Administration

Business Studies, Management, Finance, Marketing.

School of Social Sciences

Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology.

School of Language and Literature

Bengali Literature, English Literature, Linguistics.

School of Agriculture and Marine Sciences

Agriculture, Marine Biology, Environmental Science.

School of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Computer Science, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.

Each of these schools is equipped with modern research labs, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities to provide students with high-quality education and hands-on learning opportunities.


Notable Features of SUST

SUST has revolutionized higher education in Bangladesh with its innovative teaching methods, research-driven curriculum, and commitment to academic excellence. Some of its key features include:

Unique Credit System

  • SUST introduced Bangladesh’s first Grade Point Average (GPA)-based credit system, which is now widely adopted across the country.

  • This system helps reduce exam stress, allowing students to engage in deeper learning and knowledge application rather than rote memorization.

Research and Innovation

  • The university is recognized for its high-quality research in science, technology, and social sciences.

  • Faculty members and students regularly publish research papers in internationally reputed journals and present their findings at global conferences.

Tech and Cultural Events

  • Annual Tech Fests – Students participate in coding competitions, hackathons, robotics contests, and AI research events.

  • Cultural Programs – Drama performances, debate competitions, and literary festivals are held regularly.

  • Sports Competitions – The university promotes physical activities through inter-departmental sports tournaments.

Innovative Student Initiatives

SUST students actively participate in various student-led organizations that focus on technology, innovation, and environmental awareness:

  • "Robotics Sust" – A club dedicated to robotics, AI, and automation projects.

  • "Sustainers for the Environment" – A group focusing on climate change research and sustainability projects.


International Collaboration and Exchange Programs at SUST

  • SUST has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various international universities to facilitate student and faculty exchange programs, research collaborations, and international internships.

  • This has allowed students to study abroad, collaborate with international scholars, and gain exposure to global research trends.

  • Additionally, SUST welcomes international students, creating a diverse and inclusive academic environment.


Research Excellence at SUST

SUST is widely recognized as a leading research university in Bangladesh. The university invests significant funding in research projects and encourages students to participate in cutting-edge discoveries.

Major Research Areas at SUST

Research Field

Description

Climate Change & Environmental Science

Research on Sylhet’s ecosystem and climate adaptation strategies.

Nanotechnology & Biotechnology

Development of nano-based solutions for industrial and healthcare applications.

Space Science & Astronomy

SUST's Astronomy Club conducts research on space and astrophysics.


Student Life at SUST

SUST offers a vibrant student life that extends beyond academics, allowing students to engage in extracurricular activities, leadership development, and social initiatives.

Student Clubs and Organizations

Club Name

Activity

SUST Debating Society (SDS)

A leading platform for debate and public speaking competitions.

SUST Science Society

Encourages students to participate in scientific research and innovation.

Photography Club

Provides a creative space for photography enthusiasts.

SUST Entrepreneurship Club

Helps students develop business and leadership skills.


SUST Admission Test Guidelines & Preparation

Students seeking admission to SUST must meet specific eligibility criteria. Below is a breakdown of admission-related information.

Admission Details

Admission Event

Date

Application Start Date

January 5, 2025

Application Deadline

January 25, 2025

Admission Test Date

February 28, 2025

Application Link

admission.sust.edu.bd

Application fee:

Unit A1 (Science) 1250 Taka

Unit A2 (Science + Architecture) 1400 Taka

B Unit (Science + Humanities + Commerce) 1200 Taka

Exam date and time:

A (Science) 28 February 2025 (Saturday) 10.00 am - 11.30 am

B (Science + Humanities + Commerce) — 28 February 2025 (Saturday)

02.30- 04.00 PM


University entrance exam question papers are usually based on the SSC and HSC syllabus, but the question type and structure may vary from university to university. To perform well in the SUST admission test, you need to follow some special strategies.

1️⃣ Make Important Notes Chapter-Wise

✅ All important formulas from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics should be compiled separately in chapter-wise notes.

✅ Your notes should include all formulas, big and small, known and unknown, to ensure a quick revision before the exam.

✅ Simply memorizing formulas is not enough; you must understand their applications and practice solving different types of problems using them.

✅ It will be easier to understand and apply formulas if you write down explanations and examples in your notes.

2️⃣ Improving Skills in Mathematics

✅ Mathematics is one of the most important subjects in the SUST admission test. You must develop strong skills in it.

📌 For a strong preparation in Mathematics:

Understand and practice each section of the main book step by step. Learn strategic approaches to solving math problems efficiently. Solve last ten years’ SUST admission questions. Practice question papers from RU, CU, DU, JU, and other Science & Technology universities. Focus on topics that have the highest number of questions in the exam.

📌 Mathematical Chapters That Need Special Focus: Simplification Logarithms Differentiation Equations Geometry Vectors

✅ If you struggle with specific topics, allocate extra time to practice and seek help from teachers, friends, or senior students.

3️⃣ Keep Difficult Topics Separate

📌 If you have difficulty understanding a topic, do not skip it. Instead: Ask questions in doubt-solving sessions. Discuss with friends, teachers, or senior students to clear your doubts. Write down difficult topics separately and revise them frequently before the exam. Reviewing these topics before the exam will help in easy recall.

4️⃣ Solve Previous Years’ Question Papers

✅ Practicing previous years' question papers is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the SUST admission test.

📌 Why is solving past questions important? It helps you understand the type of questions asked in the exam. You get familiar with the exam pattern, difficulty level, and important topics. Practicing question banks of SUST, RU, CU, DU, and JU will improve your confidence. Mock tests and practice apps can be a great way to track your progress.

✅ Don't just memorize answers; try to understand the logic behind them.

✅ Repeatedly solving the same types of questions will help you improve accuracy and speed.

Important Things to Watch Out For ADMISSION

📌 To succeed in the SUST admission test, you must:

✔️ Follow a consistent study routine and prepare in a strategic manner.

✔️ Stick to a daily schedule to complete your preparation on time.

✔️ Master formulas and rules so that you can apply them quickly in the exam.

✔️ Regularly practice solving problems to improve both accuracy and speed.

✔️ Maintain a balance between study and rest to reduce mental stress. 📢

Final Tip: A well-structured preparation strategy, regular practice, and a focused mindset will help you achieve success in the SUST admission test. Good luck! 🎯🚀


Final Words

  • SUST is more than just an educational institution—it is a hub for research, innovation, and academic excellence.

  • The university is working towards global recognition in research and technology.

  • With a structured academic curriculum, digital classrooms, and cutting-edge research, SUST continues to be a leader in education in Bangladesh.

SUST is not just an educational institution; it is a place to fulfill dreams. The university aims to advance further in the fields of education, research, and innovation in the future. The next step for SUST is to establish an international standard research center and ensure its position in world-class rankings.

Especially from the Chorcha question bank, previous year question papers can be solved. It is important to have maximum practice on the previous year's admission question bank. Also, to be in the ranks of the best, you should practice the question banks of RU, CU, DU and JU and the previous year's questions of SUST. One of the best means for this can be the Chorcha app.

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