How Indian students can overcome study abroad obstacles?
overcome study abroad obstacles
Study abroad can present several obstacles. The top challenges that Indian students may face and how to overcome them are listed in this article.
People living abroad have increased dramatically in the last two decades. Indian students studying abroad are rapidly becoming one of the largest groups of emigrants (estimated at 18 million Indians). Most of these emigrants moved to Europe or North America to pursue higher education or better job opportunities.
The number of Indian students pursuing higher education is rapidly rising. International student growth has outpaced domestic student growth by over 6X in the last three years, reaching 770k in 2019. This number is expected to double by 2024, reaching 1.8 million students. Studying abroad offers many benefits to Indian students, but it also has many drawbacks. Students face critical challenges such as homesickness, culture shock, language barrier, and the application process.
Many students overcome these obstacles after arriving at their study abroad destination. Counseling can address these issues by educating the student and providing solutions.
Knowing the language fundamentals
International courses require candidates to know the local language, whether English, German, Spanish, or French. For most Indian students who want to study abroad, their mother tongue is their first language. Learning the local language benefits both their education and social interactions.
- International students who want to excel in their chosen degree program must understand the academic writing structure of their host universities. They must master academic writing structure and reference.
- Communicating with locals in the host country is a significant challenge for international students. Language proficiency is standard among Indian students. Applying what they’ve learned daily can be difficult. You can enroll in a professional language course that includes cultural and linguistic information. Enroll in a language class that emphasizes speaking and listening.
Comprehension plagiarism
Students must comprehend ‘plagiarism’ and its repercussions. Plagiarism includes omitting citations and using someone else’s work without their permission—students who commit these two grave errors risk expulsion. Plagiarism is a persistent error that students still commit, and they must be educated about it before they arrive in their destination country.
- Every college and university keeps track of plagiarism. Contact your study abroad counselor to arrange for such journals. Students must be taught the gravity of the offense.
Financial Concerns
Studying in a reputable industry means high education and living costs, causing concern among students. Obtaining a student loan is a lengthy and tedious process. The students are also unaware of the numerous scholarships available to them.
- Their study abroad advisor can help them arrange student education loans. This way, they can put money worries aside and focus solely on their education.
- Students can also ask their guidance counselors about scholarship opportunities. Students may be unaware of available scholarships for their course, country, and university. They can contact their study abroad counselor for assistance.
Cultural barriers
Studying abroad with students from diverse cultures means overcoming many cross-cultural barriers. A student’s diet, clothing, language, entertainment, and lifestyle will all need to change.
- Students must read about the culture and watch videos and documentaries about their destination country. These activities will help them learn about different cultures and adapt quickly to new situations.
- Students can also contact alums and current students of the university they have been accepted to for answers. Many universities have a special student council to assist new students.
Homelessness and integration issues
Indian students tend to come from small families. Homelessness and homesickness are common issues for these students while studying abroad.
- Study abroad counselors can help students access counseling services in India. They can seek help for their mental and emotional health from counselors in India or other students at their university.
- The absence of home-cooked meals or a staple diet is another cause of homesickness. Though the feeling will fade, it cannot be charming in the early months. Counselors should encourage students to learn basic survival cooking skills or help them make similar arrangements.
Conclusion
Increasing student awareness, counseling, and connecting with counselors at the right platform can help overcome challenges.
Indian Students are most welcomed to join our Study abroad Education Community to get General Updates and clear queries for keeping a step towards success.
