Tips to Beat 6 Common Challenges For Indian Students Who Plan To Study Abroad

Synopsis: From facing financial constraints to getting stuck in the application process, study-abroad aspirants should know the art of navigating these challenges. With the help of the enlisted recommendations, you can keep study-abroad-related worries at bay.

Jia has recently completed high school and is looking for the best option to acquire a global perspective in today’s hyper-connected world. After hearing about her friends’ and relatives’ studying abroad experiences, she has decided to pursue her studies overseas. 

Moreover, while researching the benefits of studying abroad, she learned that more than 32 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) live outside of India, leading to the largest diaspora. 

Indubitably, Indian students make up a significant portion of international migrants, and their contribution to their home country is impressive. While serving as the nation's brand ambassador, the India Diaspora also acts as a safety net for students who are studying overseas. 

Studying abroad is an exciting chapter in one’s life. This stimulating experience enhances the chances of meeting new people, establishing meaningful connections, learning a new language, and understanding different cultures and experiential learning opportunities.  

Although studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, it also comes with its own set of challenges. You may encounter various problems, ranging from financial constraints to mental health concerns, making the transition to a new environment challenging. 

Are you thinking of switching to Plan B; already? Then, put that thought on hold as we share with you the best ways to navigate these challenges.

6 Study-Abroad Challenges & Ways to Overcome Them

Choosing the Right Study-Abroad Program & University

Challenge: Overseas education will provide a plethora of immersive experiential learning opportunities to you. Therefore, you must conduct extensive research on a wide range of programs and institutions in order to identify the best fit for your academic and personal goals. Furthermore, choosing suitable courses and institutions can be a difficult endeavor because it necessitates an in-depth understanding of the academic system and employment market in the country of study.

Solution: You can reach out to an academic counselor who can help you to identify your strengths and potential market demand for the courses. With their in-depth knowledge, you can select the right university and course.

Financial Constraints

Challenge: You might need to create a block account in foreign countries like Germany and Canada or furnish proof of funds. Doing so indicates that you can manage the cost of attendance and other miscellaneous expenses during your stay in the country. Any inadequacies in fulfilling this requirement will make it difficult to acquire a visa. Moreover, the currency exchange rate can affect purchasing power and make living expenses more expensive. As a result, you may have to work part-time to support yourself, which can affect your studies and limit your opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities.    
Solution: Finding ways to alleviate financial constraints, such as securing scholarships, and grants, looking for the right education loan provider, or finding part-time jobs that do not overlap with your studies, can be crucial for you to achieve your academic goals abroad.

Complex Application Process

Challenge: Every country has its application or admission cycle and process. Navigating the complex application procedure, which can be overwhelming and time-consuming, is one of the most difficult challenges. You must meticulously check required documents ranging from Statement of Purpose (SOP) to academic certificates. This varies based on the university you select.

Solution: With the help of a study-abroad expert, you can make your application process hassle-free.

Navigating Cultural Differences

Challenge: Cultural differences may be challenging to navigate for students planning to study abroad. You may encounter behaviors, values, and beliefs that are different. This may result in misunderstandings and disagreements with your classmates and professors. For example, communication style and social standards may differ from what you are used to, making it harder to find friends or interact with other students.

Moreover, cultural differences may also have an impact on your academic performance since you may find it difficult to adjust to your teachers' expectations.  
Solution:  To overcome these challenges, you must be open-minded, eager to learn, and aware of the cultural differences faced when studying abroad. To adapt to a different culture, try to learn more about it before you shift to a new country.

Securing Budget-friendly Student Accommodation

Challenge: Finding affordable and suitable housing can be daunting for students studying abroad. Factors such as unclear rent policies, unfriendly neighbors, and long commutes can make the process even more challenging. Poor living conditions can also negatively impact your ability to adapt to a new environment and focus on your studies. It's crucial for you to thoroughly research your destination before deciding on housing. 

Solution: Fortunately, online student accommodation providers have made the process faster and more accessible. With an expert's assistance, you can find their ideal housing from the comfort of your home.

Emotional Challenges

Challenge: Adjusting to unfamiliar environments, managing finances and responsibilities, being away from family and friends and lacking home comforts are the major challenges of living abroad, all of which can heavily influence your mental well-being, leading to homesickness, isolation, and heightened stress levels. 
Solution: The initial days of studying abroad can be especially difficult, but institutions frequently provide assistance via in-house counselors who specialize in assisting students in adjusting to their new surroundings. These specialists can assist students with resources and methods to help them cope with stress, homesickness, and other challenges that they may face while studying abroad. Additionally, universities often organize social events and clubs to help students build new relationships and create a sense of community. By recognizing the potential challenges of studying abroad and seeking support, students can make the most of their experience and thrive in their new environment.

Wrapping Up

In spite of these challenges recognizing and preparing for the challenges that come with studying abroad, you can maximize your opportunities for personal and academic growth and create unforgettable experiences that will stay with them for a lifetime. You can also talk to foreign uaniversities' alums to understand the best practices to face such challenges.