Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) - Complete Guide
Q: What is SUST?
A: It is a public research university in Sylhet, Bangladesh, founded in 1986. It's the 8th oldest in the country and pioneering in physical sciences and engineering education.
Q: Where is it located?
A: In Kumargaon, about six kilometers from Sylhet city center.
Q: What makes its academic system unique?
A: First in Bangladesh to adopt the American credit system and to introduce integrated honors courses.
Q: What is the student and staff population?
A: About 7,662 students, 487 academic staff, and 772 administrative staff as of recent data.
Q: What is notable about its research funding?
A: In 2017 it had the highest research spending among all Bangladeshi universities.
Q: What major innovations is SUST known for?
A: Invented Bangladesh's first paperless SMS-based admission registration system, winning national and regional awards.
Q: How competitive is its admission?
A: Extremely. For instance, in 2018-19, it had over 76,000 applicants for fewer than 1,500 seats.
Q: How is SUST ranked internationally?
A: SCImago ranked it 610th worldwide in 2019, with strong research and innovation scores. QS ranked it 342nd in Asia in 2025.
Q: What conferences does SUST host?
A: The International Conference on Engineering Research, Innovation and Education (ICERIE) and many others across sciences and social sciences.
Q: With whom does SUST collaborate internationally?
A: Partners include universities and institutions in the USA, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Japan, and South Korea.
Q: Describe the CSE Carnival.
A: A popular annual event since 2011 with contests in programming and software development, attracting students nationwide.
Q: What schools and departments exist?
A: Seven schools cover 28 departments, including Applied Sciences and Technology, Life Sciences, Management, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Agriculture, and Medical Sciences.
Q: What is the 'Second Major Program'?
A: An opportunity for students to earn a second major in departments like EEE, Physics, or Mathematics after passing an aptitude test.
Q: What institutes does SUST have?
A: Institute of Information and Communication Technology and Institute of Modern Languages, offering various programs including Software Engineering and multiple languages.
Q: What research centers are notable?
A: CRTC units in Architecture, CSE, CEE, and Physics conduct advanced research from water treatment to cancer detection technology.
Q: What is the campus like?
A: 320 acres with landmarks like Shahid Minar and green spaces. Known for its vibrant student life and cultural events.
Q: What library resources exist?
A: Over 180,000 volumes, electronic access via LAN, OPAC, and facilities in all departments and halls.
Q: What residential facilities are there?
A: Six main halls plus private accommodation support, with specific halls for female students outside the main campus.
Q: What sports facilities exist?
A: Grounds for cricket, football, basketball, plus gymnasium. Hosts professional cricket and football leagues unique in Bangladesh.
Q: What cultural groups are active?
A: Over 20 clubs including theater groups, debating societies, voluntary organizations, film societies, and more.