Which country is the best to study abroad?

With some of the best universities in the world and a rich legacy and alumni, the United States and United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Canada are the best countries to pursue top-tier international higher education in a variety of disciplines.

Is studying abroad expensive?

Depending on the currency exchange rate of the country one is applying from, studying abroad may seem to be expensive for some. But it has long-term gains in high salaries upon completing education. Plus, meritorious students can avail scholarships from their university, country, or private sector enterprises to fund their education and living expenses, partly or fully.

What is required to get a chance to study abroad?

One can get admission to their desired international university if they have a good academic record, and good scores in the mandatory international admission tests like the GRE, SAT, TOEFL etc. Submitting a well-drafted Statement of Intent and Letters of Recommendation from teachers and mentors can also go a long way towards securing one’s admission to any of the elite universities abroad.

Going To Study Abroad?: Things Nobody Will Say But You Must Know

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Going To Study Abroad?: Things Nobody Will Say But You Must Know

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By Prabhadri Suman

Updated On - Mar 04, 2023 11:49 AM IST

Are you considering studying abroad? Check out these things you must know before making the decision to study abroad.

Topics Covered:

Studying abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience no doubt. But there are many things to consider that no one tells you about; studying abroad also comes with a lot of challenges, both expected and unexpected.

From dealing with different cultures and customs to struggling with language barriers and homesickness, studying abroad can be a rollercoaster of emotions. But if you are ready to go the extra mile and put in the effort, the rewards are worth it.

Going To Study Abroad?: Things Nobody Will Say But You Must Know

In this article, we’ll discuss the less talked about aspects of studying abroad, from finding the right program to preparing for the emotional and physical toll of living in a new country.

Studying abroad: What’s the deal?

Studying abroad is when a student chooses to study in another country or culture than their own. It can be a short-term trip, such as a semester abroad, or a longer-term stay, such as a year or multiple years. Studying abroad is a great way to gain a more global perspective on the world and make lifelong connections with people from all over the world.

Most programs offer courses in a variety of fields, from business and economics to humanities and social sciences. Many programs offer internships and volunteer opportunities in addition to academic courses. In any way, they are a great way to gain valuable experience and make strong professional connections.

Types of Study Abroad Programs

Exchange programs	Study tours	Language immersion programs	Internships	Service learning
Students from one university study at another university abroad. These programs are usually short-term and offer a great way to experience a new country and culture.	A group of students travels to a new country to learn about its history and culture. These trips are typically short-term and are led by an expert guide.	These are typically long-term programs that give students the opportunity to become proficient in a new language.	These are typically short-term programs that offer students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a global context and build on their professional network.	These are typically short-term programs for students to make a positive impact on a local community.

Things to Prepare Before Traveling Abroad

Before you jump into studying abroad, it’s important to take a step back and consider what you’re getting into. It can be an exciting prospect, but it also comes with some risks and challenges. Here the top things to know about studying abroad which no one will tell you about:

The Cost

Consider the costs of studying abroad. You’ll need to think about the cost of living in the country you’ll be studying in, and make sure you have enough money saved up to cover your expenses.

It’s also important to think about the safety of the program and the country you’ll be studying in. Make sure the program is legitimate and has a good reputation. Research the safety situation in the country and make sure you’re aware of any potential risks.

While studying abroad can be expensive, there are ways to reduce the cost. Here are some tips to reduce the cost:

Try for scholarships and grants.
Look for cheaper accommodations like homestays or student housing.
Start saving as early as possible and look for ways to save money while you are abroad.
Keep an eye on the currency exchange rates so you know when it's a good time to buy currency.

The Emotional Toll

Also think about the emotional costs of being away from family and friends, and the potential homesickness that comes with it. Studying abroad can be an emotionally and physically draining experience. It’s important to prepare for this in advance, in order to make sure you’re able to make the most of the experience. Talk to friends and family and stay in touch with your loved ones to rid yourself of the potential homesickness and isolation that come with it. Seek out support from other international students who are studying with you.

Dealing with Different Cultures and Customs

One of the most challenging aspects of studying abroad is dealing with different cultures and customs. This can be difficult to adjust to, especially if you’re not used to it. Consider whether you are comfortable with the language of the country you’ll be studying in. Even if not, are you up for the challenge of living in a new culture and environment?

The best way to deal with this is to be open and respectful. Do a bit of research about the culture and customs of the country you’ll be studying in, and make an effort to understand and respect them. You can ask questions in a non-offensive way to learn as much as you can. This will help you to blend with new cultures easily.

Language Barriers

One of the most common challenges of studying abroad is language barriers. The best way to overcome language barriers is to immerse yourself in the language. Learn as much as you can before you go, and make an effort to practice the language as much as possible. Try to communicate with locals, even if your language skills are limited. They’ll appreciate the effort, and you’ll learn more about their culture and way of life. Even if you’re studying in a country where English is the primary language, you’ll still need to learn the local language in order to navigate your way around.

Toll on Mental and Physical Health

Studying abroad can be a stressful experience, and it’s important to make sure you have a plan for dealing with stress and anxiety. The best way to cope with stress and anxiety is to take time for yourself. Make sure you get enough rest, take time to relax, eat healthy meals, and make time for yourself.

Make sure to reach out to friends, family, peers for help if you need it. Also make sure you’re up to date on all your vaccinations, and research any potential health risks related to the country you’ll be studying in. Pack the necessary supplies, such as sunscreen and bug spray, and make sure you have access to the necessary medical care.

Tips for a Successful Study Abroad Experience

Getting a chance to study abroad is not something that everyone comes by. It is a rewarding and life-changing experience, so do not miss the opportunity to make the most of it. To mention just a few of its many long-term benefits, it builds on students’ social skills, self-awareness and self-reliance by studying in a new culture, not to forget the career development through top-class academic curriculum, practical experience and valuable connections with potential employers.

Once you have been accepted to a study abroad program, it’s time to start preparing. Here are some tips for a successful study abroad experience:

Get your documents in order: Make sure you have all the necessary documents such as a passport, visa, and student ID.
Research the culture: Learn about the culture of the country you are visiting. This will help you understand the customs and inclinations of the people. Make an effort to understand and respect the culture and customs of the country you’re studying in.
Learn the language: If you are visiting a non-English speaking country, consider taking a language course or learning the basics of the language. Make an effort to learn the local language
Manage your finances: Be sure to manage your finances while abroad. Make a budget and stick to it.
Get vaccinated: Visit your doctor to get any necessary vaccinations and medications.
Get involved: Take advantage of the opportunities to get involved in the local community. Join clubs, volunteer, or explore the city.
Make connections: Make connections with other students and locals. These connections can be invaluable and can even lead to job opportunities.
Travel: Take advantage of the opportunity to travel. Explore the country and the region.
Document your experience: Document your experience with photos, videos, and journals. This will help you remember and share your experience.
Enjoy yourself: Above all, remember to enjoy yourself! Have fun and make the most out of your experience.

Conclusion

Studying abroad can seem quite overwhelming at first once you are there. However, with proper planning and research, studying abroad can be an incredible and rewarding experience. With this guide, you’ll be well prepared to embark on your journey of exploring the world and studying abroad. With the right knowledge and mindset, you can make your study abroad experience a truly rewarding one, with memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

If you're unsure about your choice, speak with the experts at Edmissions at edmissions.com ; they can assist you in determining the career path that is best for you.

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