19/06/2026
QS World University Rankings 2027 include 184 U.S. universities, making the United States the most represented country in the rankings.
Complete list of all 184 U.S. universities in QS World University Rankings 2027:
Top 200 universities in USA – Bright Prep
Top 200 universities in USA QS World University Rankings 2027 include 184 U.S. universities, making the United States the most represented country in the rankings. Complete list of all 184 U.S. universities in QS World University Rankings 2027 QS 2027 Word RankUniversityOfficial Website 1Massachuset...
15/06/2026
Which universities increased lobbying spending the most?
Among Ivy League schools the University of Pennsylvania reported the largest increase with lobbying expenditures rising nearly 744 percent. Dartmouth’s lobbying spending increased more than fivefold, while Cornell University also expanded its lobbying efforts.
Ivy League and top U.S. universities sharply increased legal and lobbying spending – Bright Prep
Top U.S. Universities Increase Legal and Lobbying Spending Amid Trump Administration Pressure Top U.S. universities dramatically increased spending on legal services and lobbying during the 2024–25 fiscal year as they responded to investigations, funding disputes, and policy challenges from the Tr...
10/06/2026
Bright Prep AP Physics Practice
Prepare for Brac University undergraduate engineering+ admission test
Join us for more practice: https://brightprep.org/apply-now
04/06/2026
Cloze Test: Cats and the Power of Scent
Cats often leave their meals unfinished not only because they are full but also because they become accustomed to the (1) ________ of their food, according to a research team from Iwate University.
The team confirmed that cats’ appetites tend to (2) ________ once they get used to the smell of their food, while exposure to a new scent encourages them to eat again.
In the study, researchers conducted a 10-minute feeding period followed by a 10-minute (3) ________. This cycle was repeated six times after the cats had gone without food for 16 hours.
The research, conducted between January 2023 and February 2026, involved 12 healthy mixed-breed cats aged 3 to 15 years. The team examined how much the cats ate in relation to differences in food and (4) ________.
Researchers found that when cats were repeatedly given the same food, they consumed (5) ________ amounts over time, with many leaving part of their meals uneaten.
However, when different types of food were introduced, the cats showed an improvement in their waning appetites. Even the scent of a different food was enough to stimulate eating, despite the cats actually consuming the same food throughout the (6) ________.
The study, published in the journal Physiology & Behavior, suggests that cats' appetites decline when they become familiar with a food's smell and recover when exposed to new (7) ________.
The researchers believe this odor-driven mechanism may explain why cats often prefer to eat small and ( 8 ) ________ meals throughout the day.
Multiple-Choice Questions:
(1) ________
A. texture
B. scent
C. color
D. temperature
(2) ________
A. increase
B. disappear
C. wane
D. stabilize
(3) ________
A. interval
B. treatment
C. exercise
D. observation
(4) ________
A. behavior
B. age
C. weight
D. scent
(5) ________
A. larger
B. equal
C. smaller
D. unpredictable
(6) ________
A. publication
B. experiment
C. journey
D. survey
(7) ________
A. stimulation
B. restrictions
C. nutrients
D. environments
( 8 ) ________
A. expensive
B. infrequent
C. frequent
D. prepared
03/06/2026
MSc AI and Sustainability program at SOAS University of London provides excellent preparation for PhD studies in AI, sustainability, economics, development studies and public policy.
:
MSc AI and Sustainability at SOAS University of London – Bright Prep
Apply Now for the MSc AI and Sustainability at SOAS University of London MSc Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainability at SOAS University of London is an innovative postgraduate degree that combines artificial intelligence, data science, sustainability, economics and public policy. Designed fo...
31/05/2026
Representing the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), the UIU Mars Rover team competed in the onsite finals held in Utah, USA, from May 27 to May 30. Another Bangladeshi team, BRAC University’s BRACU Mongol-Tori, also delivered an impressive performance, securing seventh place overall.
Missouri S & T vs Monash vs United International University – Bright Prep
Missouri University of Science and Technology vs Monash University vs United International University For the first time in history a Bangladeshi team has secured a place among the world’s top three at the prestigious University Rover Challenge (URC) onsite competition. The UIU Mars Rover team fro...
30/05/2026
Bright Prep GRE Practice
Desi Ivy and Brac University Admissions English Composition Writing Preparation Fall 2026
Standardized Testing Debate: A GRE style prompt and sample response
Sample Response: Standardized testing has long been a central component of university admissions. Proponents argue that tests such as the SAT and ACT provide a uniform and objective measure of academic readiness, while critics contend that they often reflect socioeconomic privilege rather than intellectual ability. Although standardized examinations can provide valuable information about student preparedness, I disagree with the claim that they constitute the most reliable measure of academic potential. Universities should instead evaluate applicants through multiple indicators, including grades, coursework and personal achievements.
One reason standardized tests remain useful is that they establish a common benchmark among students from vastly different educational backgrounds. High school grading standards vary considerably across schools, districts, and regions. A student with a high GPA at one school may not possess the same level of academic preparation as a student with an identical GPA elsewhere. Standardized exams help universities compare applicants on a shared scale. This function is particularly important in disciplines such as engineering, mathematics, and the physical sciences, where a strong foundation in quantitative reasoning is essential. Without some objective assessment, universities may struggle to identify students who are adequately prepared for rigorous coursework.
However, the usefulness of standardized tests should not be confused with reliability as a comprehensive measure of academic success. Academic achievement depends on far more than performance on a single examination. High school grades represent years of sustained effort, discipline, and mastery across multiple subjects. A student who consistently performs well over four years demonstrates qualities such as perseverance, time management, and intellectual curiosity—traits that a three-hour test cannot adequately capture. Moreover, standardized exams are vulnerable to external influences, including test anxiety, health conditions and familiarity with testing strategies.
Another limitation is the unequal access to preparation resources. Students from affluent families often benefit from private tutoring, specialized courses, and repeated opportunities to take practice exams. Consequently, test scores may reflect differences in financial resources as much as differences in academic ability. If universities rely too heavily on standardized testing, they risk overlooking talented students whose potential is not fully reflected in their scores. Such an outcome would undermine the broader educational mission of identifying and cultivating talent from diverse backgrounds.
At the same time, eliminating standardized testing entirely may create other problems. Universities must maintain academic standards and ensure that admitted students are capable of succeeding in demanding programs. Rather than treating test scores as either essential or irrelevant, institutions should incorporate them as one factor among many. A holistic admissions process can preserve the benefits of standardized assessment while reducing its shortcomings.
In conclusion, standardized tests provide useful information about academic preparedness, particularly in fields that require strong analytical skills. Nevertheless, they are not the most reliable measure of a student's potential or likelihood of success. A balanced admissions process that considers multiple indicators offers a more accurate and equitable evaluation of applicants.
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30/05/2026
Before the University of California eliminated SAT and ACT requirements, supporters argued the move would expand access and reduce barriers for disadvantaged students. Six years later, however, more than 600 UC faculty members are urging the system to reinstate standardized testing for STEM applicants, citing growing concerns about student preparedness.
At Bright Prep our structured SAT and ACT practice programs help students build skills, improve confidence and maximize their test scores.
Apply to Bright Prep:
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https://www.brightprep.org/university-of-california-faculty-on-standardized-testing
University of California Faculty on Standardized Testing – Bright Prep
Before the University of California eliminated SAT and ACT requirements, supporters argued the move would expand access and reduce barriers for disadvantaged students. Six years later, however, more than 600 UC faculty members are urging the system to reinstate standardized testing for STEM applican...
23/05/2026
Excessive rainfall across Bangladesh is raising concerns about an early dengue outbreak this year, prompting health experts to urge immediate preventive measures to control mosquito breeding and increase public awareness.
According to meteorologist Bazlur Rashid, Bangladesh received 76 millimetres more rainfall than the seasonal average in April, with wet conditions continuing into May. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has also forecast additional rainfall across several regions, including Dhaka, Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Sylhet, Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions.
Entomologists warn that the early rains have already created ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of dengue fever. They fear that without rapid intervention, Bangladesh could face a major dengue outbreak in the coming months.
Data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) show that, as of May 19, at least five people have died from dengue this year while 2,963 patients have been hospitalized.
Entomologist Kabirul Bashar, a professor at Jahangirnagar University, said researchers monitoring 13 districts have observed rising mosquito densities across urban areas. He explained that the Breteau Index — an internationally used measure of mosquito breeding — has exceeded the warning level of 20 in many areas, particularly in rapidly urbanizing upazilas.
A Breteau Index of 20 means that larvae were found in 20 water-holding containers for every 100 houses inspected, indicating an increased risk of dengue transmission.
Bashar emphasized that eliminating mosquito breeding sources must be the top priority. Rainwater collecting in discarded containers, drains, flower pots, and other stagnant areas creates ideal conditions for mosquito reproduction. He stressed the importance of stronger waste management systems and the removal of water-holding containers before the peak dengue season arrives.
He also urged residents to take precautions before leaving home during the upcoming Eid holidays. Any place capable of collecting rainwater, he said, should be emptied or covered to prevent mosquito breeding.
In addition to environmental management, Bashar recommended using insect growth regulators such as Novaluron and biological control agents including Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) and Pyriproxyfen to reduce mosquito larvae.
Another entomologist, GM Saifur Rahman of the National University, said identifying breeding hotspots is essential for long-term dengue prevention. He noted that mosquito larvae can mature within a week under current temperatures, making rapid action especially important after rainfall.
Saifur also called for the creation of a dedicated mosquito control cell responsible for logistics, insecticide management, equipment distribution, and field operations.
Health experts warn that without immediate and coordinated action, Bangladesh could experience another severe dengue surge this year as rainfall and favorable breeding conditions continue to increase mosquito populations.
Here are Brac University admission test and SAT style Reading and Writing questions based on the passage by Bright Prep:
Question 1
Which choice best states the central idea of the passage?
A. Bangladesh has successfully eliminated dengue outbreaks through improved healthcare systems.
B. Increased rainfall and poor waste management are raising the risk of an early dengue outbreak in Bangladesh.
C. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department is responsible for mosquito control efforts.
D. Dengue outbreaks only occur during the Eid holiday season.
Question 2
The author mentions the “76 millimetres more rainfall in April” primarily to:
A. explain why farmers are satisfied with the weather
B. provide evidence for the increased risk of mosquito breeding and dengue transmission
C. compare Bangladesh’s weather with neighboring countries
D. criticize the Bangladesh Meteorological Department
Question 3
As used in the passage, the phrase “source management” most nearly refers to:
A. improving hospital treatment for dengue patients
B. monitoring weather forecasts during the rainy season
C. removing or controlling mosquito breeding locations
D. distributing food and medicine during outbreaks
Question 4
Which statement best explains why entomologists are concerned about early rainfall?
A. Rainfall lowers temperatures too quickly for mosquito control measures to work.
B. Rainwater creates stagnant water in containers where Aedes mosquitoes can breed.
C. Heavy rainfall destroys existing mosquito populations.
D. Rainfall prevents health officials from conducting field inspections.
Question 5
According to the passage, what does a Breteau Index (BI) of 20 indicate?
A. Twenty people have died from dengue in a specific area.
B. Mosquitoes were found in twenty districts of Bangladesh.
C. Twenty mosquito breeding containers were found per one hundred houses inspected.
D. Twenty hospitals are currently treating dengue patients.
Question 6
Which choice best describes the tone of the passage?
A. Optimistic and celebratory
B. Concerned and cautionary
C. Humorous and informal
D. Confused and uncertain
Question 7
Why does the passage mention the Eid holidays?
A. To explain why hospitals close during the rainy season
B. To encourage residents to take preventive measures before leaving their homes
C. To describe a traditional method of mosquito control
D. To criticize people traveling during monsoon season
Question 8
The passage suggests that mosquito larvae may mature quickly because:
A. temperatures are currently favorable for mosquito development
B. insecticides are no longer effective
C. the Breteau Index has decreased sharply
D. rainfall has reduced humidity levels
Question 9
Which choice provides the best evidence that immediate action is necessary?
A. “The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast rain...”
B. “At least five dengue patients have died...”
C. “Immediate action is very important to control Aedes mosquitoes this year, otherwise we may see another dengue surge.”
D. “The peak season is approaching...”
Question 10
The passage primarily develops its argument through:
A. fictional storytelling and dialogue
B. historical comparisons between epidemics
C. expert opinions, scientific indicators, and weather data
D. personal accounts from dengue patients
22/05/2026
Two BRAC University students Labib Wadi Sopan, 24 and Ajwat Tawseef, 22 drowned in a pond in Munshiganj. They were part of a group visiting Labib's home when they went for a swim. Ajwat slipped and began to drown, prompting Labib to jump in for rescue. Both went missing and were later retrieved by locals but pronounced dead at Sadar General Hospital, confirmed by police.
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