Study abroad has become common goal among many students such that the strength of overseas students from India is increasing every year. According to 2016 Open Doors Report on International Education, international students at American Universities have touched one million in the academic year 2015-16. This survey also showed that one of every six overseas students in America belongs to India and these students are studying in the field of Engineering, Medical, science and technology courses.
In the meantime the Students Mobility report of Indian student, 2016 mentioned that around85 % of Indian students looking for universities abroad tend to head towards English speaking world such as New Zealand, Canada, USA, Australia, Europe, UK and Singapore.
The following factsclarify the hype around foreign universities and all the advantages and disadvantages one should consider before stepping out of the country.
ADVANTAGES:
- Less competition
Many of the students who decide for undergraduate level programs in colleges abroad are those who prefer not to be involved in the competitive education environment of India which can get aggressive. In India, the ratio of the number of applicants to number of seats available is very high.
Student should realize that score in entrance tests such as TOEFL etc. cannot specify whether or not a student can absorb the course content. Having said that, students who doubt whether they can get through the entrance tests and do not want to fail, opt to pursue the undergraduate courses in universities abroad.
- Settling in abroad
Next reason for going abroad is because student thinks that their future is brighter in abroad. Students think that by doing UG degree from abroad they can easily get job and can become citizen there. Settling in western countries is attractive to students.
But, nowadays it has become very tough and challenging. As per new government policies they are clearing students that after study they must have to go back to their home country.
Therefore, students must read immigration policies of that country which they are looking for immigrate.
- Theory
UG courses in India are theoretical and tough as compared to foreign UG courses. However the practical orientation of UG students abroad is more compared to their Indian counterparts. Only few who are well versed with the theory of subject like Chemistry, Bio, Mathematics and physics can survive everywhere.
On the other hand, students who do not have a strong command in theoretical concept may not do so well in India but they can have a better chance in a foreign country. While Indian curriculum is skewed in favor of theory, the emphasis on theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge is well balanced in the US.
- All rounder development
Study abroad results in good personality development of students. Student gained excellent communication skills, learn to live alone, managing their own finances with limited cash, adjustment in unknown atmosphere and develop high focus on career. Finally, study in a foreign country develops qualities.
- Jobs point of view
Recruiters from India do not treat equally all the universities abroad. Employers value students from top colleges & universities and willingly give them job. But, students from other than top universities are treated as black holes.
- Tuition Fees
Nowadays the tuition fee of colleges & universities in a foreign country is extremely high. Parents who send the students aboard for studies must be either rich or need to take a loan against their assets. Thanks to so many scholarships and bursary from university.
- Return
Many parents believe that when the ward goes abroad for undergraduate studies, he/she may not want to come back to India. They prefer sending their children for postgraduate courses because they believe that by that time their son/daughter would realize his/her responsibilities back home. It is observed that returning decision depend on students personal circumstances. In both situation, student get benefit.
