Over the past 25 years, the number of students studying abroad has increased consistently. Many of us aspire to finish our education overseas. However, a lot of us are still apprehensive to continue our higher education abroad. Even though it may seem intimidating at first, studying abroad is about more than just earning a foreign degree. It’s about discovering a new culture and way of life, making friends from various ethnic backgrounds, and having new experiences! In this blog, we will be discussing some of the myths regarding studying abroad.
Here are some common myths that might be preventing you from studying abroad
Myth no. 1: It Costs a Lot to Study Abroad
One of the most pervasive misconceptions about studying abroad is that students believe it to be an extremely expensive proposition. While expenses may vary based on the sort of university, the courses, and the length of the courses, they frequently discourage students from continuing their higher education abroad. To encourage students to study abroad, many colleges do, nevertheless, provide scholarships and financial aid, particularly to international students. Additionally, they provide affordable housing options on campus in the form of shared dorms and other amenities, which can also aid with financial savings. Before applying, students just need to inquire about the scholarship and financial aid programmes with the appropriate universities.
Myth no. 2: The Language Disparity
Another misconception about studying abroad that discourages students from seeking higher education overseas is the language barrier. Since learning a new language takes time, students may view this as a barrier to studying abroad. Students feel the need to acquire the native language of the nation in which they wish to enrol. However, a lot of foreign colleges provide their course offerings in English. Additionally, you can always ask about the language requirements prior to applying so that you can learn the fundamentals of the language with the aid of audiobooks and language classes before the start of your course. You may also see this as a wonderful chance to pick up a new language.
Also, read this – Advantages of international studies
Myth no. 3: It Will Be Difficult to Make Friends and Contacts
One of the main reasons why people choose to finish their studies closer to home is the myth about studying abroad. Even if some people may find it simpler to make acquaintances wherever they go, some students still struggle with making small talk. However, going to school overseas is a fantastic way to broaden your social circle and hone your social abilities. During orientations and team-building activities, students have the chance to meet new people. Some colleges also provide a range of initiatives aimed at bringing together students from around the globe to help them feel more at home.
Myth no. 4: It’s Risky to Study Abroad
This misconception regarding studying abroad is understandable given that parents frequently worry about their children’s safety when they relocate to a foreign nation to pursue their education. While bullying and harassment are not tolerated in many foreign colleges, certain countries are safer than others. These colleges also have security measures in place around their campuses and offer helpful information that will aid students in travelling securely or finding the right lodging. Before you travel abroad, you can also conduct your own research on safety and security measures, including contacting the appropriate authorities, to reduce any dangers and difficulties you could face.
Myth no. 5: The desired major won’t be offered
When they cannot find their ideal major or course overseas, students become discouraged. This study abroad myth is frequently the product of misinformation and a dearth of research. In order to learn more about the range of programmes that are offered, students may always contact the appropriate foreign universities or consult with educational advisers about the degrees and courses that are offered worldwide. In actuality, pupils can discover more well-liked and superior majors abroad. It is often a good idea to check the syllabus before concluding that your preferred programme is not offered because there may be an underlying confusion where the titles of the major and programmes may differ.
Myth no. 6: Studying abroad could cause you to wait longer to graduate
If students conduct thorough research and carefully plan their coursework, they can easily dispel the idea that studying abroad causes students to graduate more slowly. Additionally, it is simple to cross-credit courses from a foreign university into your current degree, ensuring that you will finish on schedule. Additionally, students have access to advanced courses that may raise their GPA and may not be offered at other colleges.
Myth no. 7: Fear of missing out
When you choose to pursue your studies overseas, you will unavoidably lose out on things back home. Despite this, there is a benefit to it. With new pals, you get to make new memories and experience new things. Additionally, you may always interact electronically with your family and friends thanks to technological advancements and applications like Zoom and WhatsApp. Visits to home on an annual or biannual basis can make coming home more thrilling and are a terrific opportunity to share memories with loved ones.
Also, read this – Step by Step Guide How to Study in the UK?
Myth no. 8: International degrees aren’t valued by employers
This particular study abroad myth is not entirely accurate. Since globalisation, most companies and employers now favour students with overseas degrees. They seek out candidates who have earned professional degrees from reputable universities abroad since it increases the worth of their business. Employers can see that you can take risks, are independent, and get along with individuals from all backgrounds and cultures if you mention on your resume that you’ve lived overseas.
Myth no. 9: Partying and fun are the only things that matter when studying abroad
Every student’s desire is to party and have a good time while abroad, but getting a good education should be your top priority. Although many students think it is, there is more to studying abroad than just having fun and partying. Since studying abroad is a unique experience that can present outstanding educational opportunities, learning and developing essential skills are the key components of international education. You can always find time to relax and have fun, but not at the expense of your education.
Myth no. 10: Only students who get high GPAs are eligible to study abroad
Many students have been deterred from continuing their further education in international universities because of the misconception that only students with good GPAs can study abroad. There are still institutions that offer lower GPA requirements for students, even though many worldwide universities demand that applicants have excellent GPAs. Each university may have a different requirement. Additionally, some colleges use other criteria in addition to GPA when selecting which applicants to enrol. Additionally, some universities accept candidates based on their GMAT or GRE results as well as employment or practical experience.
You will undoubtedly enjoy seeing these students discuss their experiences in this video after we have dispelled all these misconceptions about studying abroad. These young people discuss urban legends including the price of studying abroad, the required GPA, and the difficulty of assimilating into a foreign culture. Look it up!
Through this blog, I hope to dispel the most common misconceptions about studying abroad. In truth, there are a lot more misconceptions and untrue information about studying abroad, which frequently deter students from enrolling in their best international universities. Get in contact with a study abroad consultant if you have any additional questions about studying abroad. Don’t let these myths stop you from achieving what you really deserve.
