How to Prepare for the Dhaka University Admission Test: Top 7 Methods
Dhaka University (DU) is one of the most prestigious institutions in Bangladesh. Each year, thousands of students vie for a limited number of seats, making the admission test highly competitive. The A Unit admission test includes subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, English, and Bengali. You have to answer 4 subjects among them. You will find relevant departments based on the subjects you answer there.
Exam Type
The question paper of the exam has two sections. The first section is MCQ (60 marks) and there is also a written part (40 marks). You have to answer the MCQ part first. You have to pass every subject acquiring 40% marks in every subject.
7 Best Methods to Get Prepared for the Dhaka University Admission Test
- 1. Understanding the Exam Structure Knowing the exam structure is the first step in preparation. Familiarize yourself with the subjects and the types of questions that will be asked. Sakline Mostak, who studied English at DU, advises, “Think yourself as a person who has been given the duty to select a few students among thousands… How will you choose?” This mindset helps in understanding the level of preparation needed.
- 2. Building a Strong Foundation in Core Subjects Having a solid grasp of the fundamental concepts in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology is crucial. Fahima Jannat Koly, a Bachelor of Pharmacy graduate, recommends specific authors and books for each subject. For example, “for Biology – Abul Hasan (1st paper) and Gazi Azmal (2nd paper),” and for Chemistry, “Hazari-Nag (1st and 2nd papers).” Use these resources to build your foundational knowledge.
- 3. Smart and Consistent Study Routine Establish a consistent study schedule that allows for regular breaks and ensures adequate rest. Sakline Mostak emphasizes, “Don’t compromise to have an adequate amount of sleep. It’s your brain’s food.” Incorporate short, frequent breaks to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
- 4. Practice with Previous Years’ Question Papers Regularly solving past years’ question papers is essential for understanding the exam pattern and frequently asked questions. Tahmeed Abdullah suggests, “Solve previous year questions on a regular basis for building confidence.” This practice helps identify common questions and enhances problem-solving speed.
- 5. Time Management and Exam Simulation Simulate exam conditions by timing your practice sessions. This helps improve your time management skills and prepares you for the actual test environment. Awnon Bhowmik, a DU alum, highlights the importance of time management, “Remember that they won’t check your answer sheet; it will be passed through a machine to read the dots.” Practice mock tests on real OMR sheets since the sheets are evaluated by scanning machines, and ensure the circles in the OMR are filled well.
- 6. Focus on Weak Areas Identify and concentrate on subjects or topics you find challenging. Regular practice and targeted study can help turn weaknesses into strengths. Sakline Mostak advises, “Pay special attention to the subject(s) you are weak at. For example, sit every day for an hour with Physics if you are weak at it.” Besides study, you will have to practice more and more to make sure you can solve the questions in less than a minute.
- 7. Maintaining Mental and Physical Health Staying healthy, both mentally and physically, is crucial for effective preparation. Ensure you eat well, exercise, and engage in activities that keep you relaxed and focused. Fahima Jannat Koly stresses, “Don’t panic during the test as it is an opportunity that you’ll get only once.”
Summary
Preparing for the Dhaka University admission test requires a combination of understanding the exam structure, building a strong foundation in core subjects, practicing past papers, and maintaining a consistent study routine. Additionally, focusing on weak areas, managing time effectively, and staying healthy are key strategies for success. By following these seven methods and staying determined, you can enhance your chances of acing the DU A Unit admission test. Good luck!
Insights from DU Alumni
- Sakline Mostak: Sakline graduated from the University of Dhaka in 2022, studying English as a Second Language (ESL). He emphasizes smart study habits, health, and mental well-being.
- Fahima Jannat Koly: Fahima graduated from DU in 2022 with a Bachelor of Pharmacy. She recommends specific authors for core subjects and advises against over-reliance on coaching.
- Awnon Bhowmik: Awnon took the A Unit test at DU and highlights the importance of understanding exam structure, learning formulas, and time management.
- Tahmeed Abdullah: Living in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Tahmeed recommends using Joykoli guides and solving previous years’ questions to build confidence and efficiency.
- Syeda Rubaiya Nasrin: Syeda studied B.S. and M.S. in Chemistry at DU from 2009 to 2015. She advocates for quality study over quantity and regular model test practice.