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How to Verify if a Study Abroad Consultant in Dhaka Is Legitimate
how to verify a study abroad consultant in Dhaka
Studying abroad is a big decision, and working with the wrong education consultant can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. With the rise of student visa fraud and scam consultancies in Dhaka, it’s important to know how to tell if an agency is trustworthy. This guide will walk you through clear, easy-to-follow steps to check if a study abroad consultant is the real deal.
Why It’s Important to Verify a Consultant
Choosing the wrong consultant can lead to fake promises, lost money, or even visa denial. Some students have shared stories of being misled by flashy ads or fake success claims. That’s why taking a few smart steps before trusting someone with your education journey is not just wise, it’s necessary.
Step 1: Check for Official Accreditation and Memberships
Start by looking for the agency’s affiliations with global or national bodies. Reliable study abroad consultants in Dhaka are usually:
- Registered with a Qualified Education Agent Counsellor (QEAC) program
- Listed by British Council, ICEF, or PIER
- Recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or local authorities
You can visit their office or website to ask for license numbers or certificates. Don’t just take their word, check the credentials on the official websites.
Step 2: Review Their Online Reputation
Search the consultant’s name on Google with words like “scam”, “review”, or “complaint”. A good consultant will have:
- Verified Google Business Profile with real reviews
- Facebook or LinkedIn pages with regular updates
- Testimonials that include student names, countries, and universities
Beware of agencies with only 5-star ratings and no detailed comments. Balanced reviews are more trustworthy than perfect ones.
Search Tip:
Use keywords like:
- “Is [Consultant Name] in Dhaka legit?”
- “[Consultant Name] visa success rate”
“[Consultant Name] student feedback”
Step 3: Ask for Proof of Past Success
Legit consultants should be able to show:
- A list of students who received visas
- Letters of offer from universities they work with
- Contact info for students willing to share their experience
If a consultant hesitates or avoids these questions, consider it a red flag.
Step 4: Review Their Fee Structure and Promises
Trustworthy consultants in Dhaka explain their service charges clearly. Ask for a printed fee chart or service agreement before you sign anything. Be careful of:
- Consultants who claim “100% visa guarantee”
- Promises of scholarships without checking your profile
- Agencies who charge you before giving clear guidance
Transparent pricing and honest advice are signs of a professional agency.
Step 5: Visit Their Office or Request a Video Meeting
Seeing the consultant’s office can tell you a lot. Look for:
- A real office with branding and official documents on display
- Staff members who know the admission process and student visa rules
- IELTS registration services or affiliations with international education events
If you can’t visit in person, set up a video call. Ask them to show their certificates, office space, and real student documents.
Step 6: Confirm Their University Partnerships
Reliable consultants work with global universities and can provide:
- Proof of partnerships like Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)
- Direct contact details of admission officers
- University brochures or invitation letters for student fairs
You can also call the university yourself to ask if the agency is their official representative.
Signs of a Scam Consultant in Dhaka
Here are some common warning signs:
- They promise fast-track visas without interviews
- They guarantee part-time jobs or PR after study
- Their website has no contact address or clear team profile
- They ask for large payments in cash only
Follow your gut and leave if something doesn’t feel right.
Quick Checklist to Help You Choose Wisely
- Is the consultant officially registered or accredited?
- Do they have detailed and balanced student reviews online?
- Can they show success stories and real references?
- Are the fees and services clearly explained in writing?
- Do they work with known universities or colleges?
- Is there a real office you can visit or view on a call?
Conclusion
Finding the right study abroad consultant in Dhaka doesn’t have to be hard. By following these simple checks, looking at reviews, asking for proof, visiting the office, and confirming affiliations, you can avoid scams and move forward with confidence. Always choose consultants who are open, honest, and truly care about your future.
FAQs
How can I find a trusted study abroad consultant in Dhaka?
Look for official accreditations, real student reviews, a clear office address, and partnerships with global universities.
Are study abroad scams common in Bangladesh?
Unfortunately, yes. Always verify before making any payments or sharing documents.
Can a consultant guarantee a student visa?
No one can guarantee a visa. A good consultant will guide you, but final decisions are made by the embassy.