In the previous episode, we covered Ajay Barde’s academic milestones and career so far, the University of Applied Sciences Ravensburg-Weingarten, his study programme – MS in Mechatronics, what inspired him to pursue higher education, his research mechanism, destinations he shortlisted, and the importance of learning German.
In this episode, we will cover his planning phase, academic pedagogy in India and Germany, cultural orientation, his experience with his education loan partner, his tips on study loan repayment, and his tips for study abroad aspirants.
Key highlights:
- Planning Phase – Self-Guidance and Peer Collaboration
- Academic Pedagogy: India and Germany
- Cultural Orientation
- His Experience with His Education Loan Partner
- His Tips on Education Loan Repayment
- His Tips for Study Abroad Aspirants
Planning Phase – Self-Guidance and Peer Collaboration
Ajay’s experience shows the power of taking ownership of your study abroad journey. After visiting local education fairs and consulting two to three education consultants, he realised their fees were high. Although many students choose education consultants for their expertise, he chose to navigate the process differently.
After discussing with friends and family, and researching using YouTube, he and a close friend decided to manage the entire application process themselves. Every evening after work, they met to review required German admission procedures to keep each other on track. Later, to ensure his academic requirements were met, Ajay enrolled in a dedicated preparation course for his IELTS examination, which helped him clear the English proficiency test.
Academic Pedagogy: India and Germany
Ajay’s evaluation of German academic structures highlighted how the RWU complements an engineering background with a practical approach. While his studies in India provided essential technical and theoretical grounding, the German curriculum focuses on experiential execution, incorporating practical teamwork, problem-solving, and regular presentations to foster complete independence in every graduate.
Cultural Orientation
Ajay gained helpful insights into everyday life in Germany. Through research, he found that German culture emphasises punctuality, where arriving 5-10 minutes ahead of an appointment is standard practice. He also learned about the strong commitment to environmental sustainability, civic responsibility, and respect for personal space. Alongside these daily habits, he explored traditional celebrations like Christmas and local festivals, noting that immersing himself directly in the community upon arrival will be the best way to experience these traditions.
His Experience with His Education Loan Partner
When Ajay received his university admission letter, he proactively reached out to multiple student loan providers, including Avanse Financial Services. After submitting his documents and reviewing the customised offers, Avanse Financial Services stood out as it offered student-friendly interest rates along with a transparent repayment structure.
The Avanse team clearly explained key study loan details, such as the tenure and a manageable partial interest (PI) during the initial moratorium period. He was further impressed when the entire student loan process was completed in just 15 days, allowing him to focus on his upcoming travel and other preparations.
At Avanse Financial Services, we believe that no student should miss the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams due to the lack of funds. Therefore, we offer customised student loans that cover the holistic cost of education, including tuition fees, accommodation costs, travel expenses, living expenses, cost of learning devices, and other education loan-related expenses. Also, we advise our students to make small contributions in the form of simple interest (SI)/partial interest (PI) during the moratorium period, as it is not an interest-free period and interest begins to accrue from day one. Also, paying SI/PI during this grace period instils financial discipline.
His Tips on Education Loan Repayment
- Repaying an education loan is a responsibility. Reinforcing the importance of disciplined budgeting from day one is a must.
- Mapping out a clear plan, such as completing an MS degree within the allotted duration, helps you transition smoothly into a full-time professional role.
- Ajay aims to fully settle his education loan within 2 to 5 years of securing full-time employment. He stressed that timely repayment is essential for building a healthy credit score.
- Taking advantage of part-time work hours permitted in Germany allows you to support your daily expenses while building personal financial independence during your studies. In Germany, you are allowed to work part-time up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year.
Also Read: Students Speak – Ansh Mehra’s Education Loan Experience and Valuable Tips – Part II
His Tips for Study Abroad Aspirants
Focus on your academic goals rather than getting overwhelmed with worries about study loan repayment. If you plan your repayment from day one and ensure you pay on time, you can definitely unlock a healthy credit score and leave the stress behind.
Thoroughly research the course structures of your shortlisted universities to ensure the programme aligns directly with your previous academic background and your long-term career aspirations.
Keep detailed notes and track every piece of information you find during your initial research, as it is easy to forget important details as you navigate admission requirements.
So, this brings us to the end of Ajay’s academic journey planning. If his experience has inspired you to take the next leap in your academic journey, take that first step today. You can start researching study programmes, build a clear plan, and explore education loans with Avanse Financial Services to turn your academic dreams into reality.
If you have any queries related to the loan for students, educational loan interest rate or your academic journey, please contact us. We will be glad to partner with you on your academic journey. All the best!
