Did you know that approximately 1.8 million Indian students are currently studying overseas this year, according to the Ministry of External Affairs? Back in 2023, this number was 1.3 million. If you, too, are willing to set out on the same path, but myths about studying abroad are stopping you from pursuing education abroad, here’s what you must know.
Key highlights:
Debunking Study Abroad Myths
- Myth: Studying abroad is only for the wealthy.
- Myth: Adjusting to a new culture and a new language will be challenging is one of the myths about studying abroad.
- Myth: Employers don’t value overseas education.
- Myth: You will have to figure out everything on your own, making you feel lonely.
- Myth: Studying abroad is not safe.
Debunking Study Abroad Myths
- Myth: Studying abroad is only for the wealthy.
Fact: Students believe in building global careers, and overseas education helps them access globally recognised courses from international universities that enable them to excel in their studies. One of the study abroad myths is that only the rich can access it. However, quality education is fundamental for everyone to gain expertise through knowledge and skills in order to build a successful career. This investment in education, in turn, earns returns for life when you achieve your career goals.
Besides, students prefer education loans these days to finance their studies independently. An education loan bridges the gap between students and their academic aspirations. Student loans are available for all deserving students, irrespective of their social strata, which makes quality education accessible to all.
Furthermore, when you study overseas, you can opt for part-time jobs to help support your lifestyle abroad. Some part-time jobs include Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant, Warehouse Assistant, etc.
- Myth: Adjusting to a new culture and a new language will be challenging is one of the myths about studying abroad.
Fact: Many study destinations, such as the US, the UK, and Canada, to name a few, are melting pots of cultures and interacting with other students can be a great learning experience. So, the reality of studying abroad is that your vibrant campus life will introduce students from various cultures, giving you the perfect chance to make new connections.
Also, most international universities offer courses in English. However, learning new languages has its perks, as you can communicate with the locals and your peers, too. Furthermore, many universities have orientation programmes and access to several student groups to enable a smooth transition once you are overseas.
- Myth: Employers don’t value overseas education.
Fact: Several research reports highlight that recruiters prefer students with international exposure and cultural intelligence. Studying abroad develops your skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, teamwork, analytical skills, communication, language proficiency, and cultural sensitivity, among others, which are highly sought-after skills by employers around the world.
These aspects, in addition to quality education, enhance your resume, making it easier to transition from academic life to your career and later climb new heights in your professional journey.
- Myth: You will have to figure out everything on your own, making you feel lonely.
Fact: You are in a new country, among new people, adapting to a new environment, cultures, and languages, and international universities totally understand that. Initially, the university will be there to assist you and provide you with counselling from time to time till you find your footing. Also, faculty members are approachable and will always be there to resolve issues related to academics or outside academics.
Studying abroad means that eventually, you will get out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and learn to be responsible for your physical, financial and emotional well-being. Initially, you might miss your family and friends, but later on, you will forge new connections with your peers.
- Myth: Studying abroad is not safe.
Fact: Every year, many students from different parts of the world choose to study in a country other than their home country in order to develop academic rigor, access quality education, build a global outlook and learn new cultures and languages. Many universities that enrol international students often have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any form. Well-ranked universities will safeguard your interests and provide you with safety and security.
Besides, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has introduced the MADAD (Consular Grievances Management System) to assist students in case of fraud, cultural issues, or other emergencies. You can log your grievances and keep a track of them on the Madad portal.
So, now you can leave the study abroad myths behind you and move ahead in your life by planning your academic journey. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer a study loan for abroad programmes that covers the holistic cost of education, including tuition fees, accommodation costs, travelling expenses, living expenses, cost of learning devices and other education-related expenses.
You can try our education loan calculator to estimate your EMIs. If you have any queries, please feel free to connect with us. We will be glad to assist you.
Also Read: How to Plan and Prepare for Studying Abroad: Step-by-Step Guide
