Why students choose to study abroad
The number of students who decide to study abroad is increasing by the minute, Indian students are especially drawn to the prospect of attaining education abroad. Statistically, expenditure on education by Indian students has risen. Moreover, India is one of the largest sources of international aspirants who look to undertake overseas education. Number of enrolments for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses has risen, with students being attracted to countries like USA, UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and many more. However, new study locations such as France and Ireland are also emerging.
The benefit of an international degree is hard to encapsulate in a few points. However, the rise of Indian students studying abroad can be attributed to certain facets; these can be considered as follows.
Top Reasons why students prefer to study abroad
Yearning
The aspirations of Indian students have increased multifield, students now strive for the stars, and they believe that the only way to achieve their dreams is to attain an education abroad. The large increase in aspirations is not matched with a substantial increase in opportunities in the home country, which is why students opt to study abroad. Students now give more importance to the quality of education received. Moreover, parents wish to send their children abroad to earn the highest standard of education.
Financial considerations
Although people are under the pretence that studying at a foreign university is an expensive affair, the cost of an international degree has dwindled due to the availability of scholarships. Education is an impeccable investment because the cost incurred can be reimbursed through high paying jobs. Earning capacity of people has also increased resulting in a rise in their ability to pursue overseas education.
Employability
An international degree adds value to your resume and makes you an alluring individual to prospective employers. Learning from field experts, will harness your skill sets that will aid you in a professional environment. Many distinguished universities offer students internship opportunities, enabling them to get a feel of what it is like to be in the competitive environment. In some cases, employers also become sponsors aiding pupils in getting a permanent residency.
Home country predicaments
High cut-offs in home country, coupled with lax academic freedom instigates students to pursue an education abroad. There is intense competition to get into the few esteemed universities in the home country which is why students think it is a better option to study at foreign university. The home country often suffers from limited state of the art facilities and options. Apart from studying in a deemed foreign university, students also desire the opportunity to travel the world, which a foreign degree can provide them with.
Course specifications
Courses available in foreign universities have various attributes such as being tailor made to the student’s needs, wider options, and intense specialization in field of study. Contemporary teaching methods provide flexibility in curriculum, allowing international students to have an edge over others. The environment is extremely conducive to learning which motivates students to undertake research activities.
Extraneous factors
The social motivation of pursuing a degree from abroad to gain a respectable standing in the society can also be reasons as to why students wish to study abroad. The immigration policies adopted by certain countries have recently relaxed which makes the process of studying abroad more effortless. Airlines have now subsidized baggage claims for students making it easier for them to travel to their destination. There is a surge in the number of international schools in the country and to interact with like-minded individuals; students yearn to study in a foreign university.
Attaining an education abroad, allows students to harness their skill sets, thus enabling them to become forerunners in their field of persuasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest benefits of studying abroad?
Ans: Studying abroad is one of the best exposures I get. Study abroad often comes with myths, but that’s not the case. There are many benefits to studying abroad. Also, there are a lot of benefits to studying abroad for a career. Here are some of the biggest benefits of studying abroad:
- Academic Growth
- Enhanced Career Opportunities
- Increased Independence
- Global Perspective
- Adaptability and problem-solving
- Unique Course Offerings
- Research Opportunities
- International Experience
What are some popular destinations for studying abroad?
Ans: Choosing the right destination is one of the most crucial aspects of studying abroad. You may consider the following destinations to study abroad: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Netherland, New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland.
What are the main reasons students choose to study abroad?
Ans: When you choose to study abroad, there are many considerations, like finances, the best destinations, and other factors. Here, let us know the best reasons to study abroad:
- High-Quality Education
- Cultural Experience
- Career Opportunities
- Global Perspective
- Networking
- Language Acquisition
- Personal Development
- Academic Enrichment
- Access to Scholarships and Funding
- Affordable Education
What are the benefits of studying abroad for personal growth and
development?
Ans: Studying abroad contributes significantly to academic and personal growth. Here are the benefits of studying abroad: Increased Independence, Adaptability, and Resilience, Problem-Solving, Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity, Cultural Immersion, Self-Confidence, Broadened Perspectives, Expanded Worldview, Critical Thinking, Interpersonal Skills, New Experiences, Academic and Professional Growth, Career Preparation, and Lifelong Learning.
Can studying abroad improve a student's language skills?
Ans: Studying abroad is beneficial as well as challenging. While you find the best reasons to study abroad, study abroad experience gives international exposure to it and also helps in improving many skills. Here is how study abroad programmes improve language skills:
- Cultural Integration
- Language Classes
- Language Challenges
- Language Partnerships.
- Language Immersion Programmes
- Academic Environment
What support services are available to students who choose to study abroad?
Ans: Out of many reasons to study abroad, there are various services for international students. Scholarships for studying abroad are one such support service. Students willing to study abroad have access to any support services. The support services vary as per the university's location. The common support services include pre-departure orientation, admissions assistance, visa and immigration support, housing assistance, academic advice, language support, cultural integration programmes, health and wellness services, safety and security resources, financial aid and scholarships, career services, student support centres, and peer support programmes.
What are some common misconceptions about studying abroad?
Ans: Studying abroad is often associated with a lot of misconceptions, which often cloud one’s taken on studying abroad. Here are some common misconceptions:
- It's always easy and exciting.
- It guarantees fluency in a foreign language.
- Always be better academically.
- Only for Certain Majors
- Not Worth It for Short-Term Programmes
- It is always Easy to adjust overseas
- Just about academic study
- Study abroad is only for extroverts
Are there any specific skills or qualities that students develop through studying abroad?
Ans: In order to study abroad, there are a number of things that a student must undergo. The question of how to study abroad often arises when the experience is totally new. Here are some skills one would require as an international student:
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Independence and Self-Reliance
- Resilience and coping skills
- Global Perspective
- Language Proficiency
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Intercultural Competence
- Global Citizenship
- Leadership and Initiative
- Networking and interpersonal skills
- Cultural Intelligence
- Open-mindedness and adaptability
- Global Work Readiness
How do students adjust to the academic and cultural differences when studying abroad?
Ans: Adjusting to a totally new environment can be difficult for everyone in the beginning. There are a number of ways to overcome the challenges of studying abroad. Studying abroad can give a lot of benefits to its students. Here are some strategies that the students can use to navigate effectively in their journey overseas.
- Preparation and Research
- Attend orientation programmes.
- Communicate with advisors and peers.
- Build a support network.
- Embrace cultural immersion.
- Practice cultural sensitivity.
- Seek academic support.
- Manage time effectively.
- Stay flexible and patient.
- Reflect and adapt.
By being actively engaged in the academic and cultural differences of studying abroad, students can easily overcome the challenges of their study abroad experience.
What are some challenges I might face while studying abroad?
Ans: The study abroad process often involves challenges. Knowing how to overcome the challenges of studying abroad would be effective in navigating the study abroad way. Here are some common challenges faced when studying abroad:
- Cultural Adjustment
- Homesickness
- Language Barrier
- Academic Differences
- Social Integration
- Financial Constraints
- Health and Safety Concerns
- Housing Issues
- Academic Pressure
- Cultural Misunderstandings
- Legal and immigration issues
- Isolation and loneliness
- Identity and Belonging
Despite the challenges being daunting, there are a lot of opportunities for personal growth, relationships, and a global perspective. There are support services available from the university’s end.
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