Foreign Education - Breaking the Myths of Studying Abroad

We often see how racist foreigners are towards people of colour in movies and TV shows. This often leads students to think that they, too, will be subjected to racism if they opt for foreign education. This depends on the place and people. If you move to a good country, you'll find minimal racism. Many countries are known for their commendable hospitality, especially towards international students.

Studying abroad is often related to partying all the time and not actually "studying". Media has shaped the perspective that students and parents think studying abroad is just about going out and having "fun". Well, this might be true for some students, but at the end of the day, attending classes and studying does count towards getting good scores and receiving a degree. So, it is not at all like that.

Studying abroad often costs more than in India. This greatly varies depending on the country, university, location and courses. This is why it's wise to select universities appropriate to your budget. It's also favourable to look at it from an investment point of view with an extended return. Some countries like Germany, Norway, Finland and Sweden offer free education to international students. This is why many Indian students go abroad to study, preferring these destinations.

Many students have the misconception that living abroad is not safe. Parents often think their child will be unsafe living alone in a new country. Universities abroad comprehend the safety of their students in the highest regard. They ensure that all the necessary safety protocols are strictly followed. All students must follow the implied code of conduct and adhere to norms and regulations. If anyone found to not comply with the rules is punished, depending upon the gravity of the situation. Researching the university's student safety policies and shortlisting them is best.

Many students let go of their study abroad plans, thinking education in India is the same as in the USA. Indian education vs foreign education is a highly debatable topic. Many believe education in India is at par with that in the United States. While it might be true for some globally accredited universities, the simplified education system in the US is still much better than in India. Many Indian universities are famous for their rote education. Universities in America have world-class resources focusing on the practical learning experience. The country is also renowned for its living standard. Education in America is more thought-provoking, with attention to every student regardless of background.

Along with world-class learning, students have many working opportunities. This helps them in earning hands-on experience in the field of study. This is also one of the main reasons why the USA is better than India.

Foreign degrees are valid in India if the university is accredited and approved. According to an article published in the Economic Times on July 22 2022, master's and doctoral degrees from India and United Kingdom will be considered at par with each other. A common question related to this is which foreign degrees are valid in India? In recent years there has been a boom in students going for foreign education. With this growth, almost all professional foreign education degrees are acceptable by employers throughout the country. The only exception is that some medical degrees, along with some foreign degrees awarded to students through pathway or diploma-level institutions, are not given recognition by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Many foreign universities allow quick completion of many postgraduate degrees. Initially, India did not give these degrees equivalence. But, the AIU later changed its policy to accommodate programmes of shortened duration to make these foreign degrees valid in India. This also became one of the primary reasons why Indian students go abroad to study. Apart from this, employers consider students receiving foreign education more reliable, flexible, and with excellent problem-solving skills.

Almost all the universities abroad provide a wide range of scholarships. Overall, scholarships are of two primary criteria, merit-based and need-based. Graduate students can get assistantships given their exceptional academic and overall performance. Students can benefit from these funds. Undergraduate students are considered for a wide array of scholarships by universities in countries like the USA, UK, Australia and Japan and fulfil their study abroad dream. Many elite universities in the USA even provides 100% scholarship to deserving students. Students who wish to get degrees from good universities can heave a sigh of relief against India's highly competitive admission criteria. This makes students' study abroad dreams more achievable. This is also why USA is better than India.

This is one of the widespread myths. Universities look for prospective candidates that can bring excellence to their courses. You will get admission if your profile is excellent and supported by good academic and extracurricular background. You have to work hard to fulfil all the prerequisites asked by the university. In recent years, universities abroad are inviting many international students to come and study there. International students boost the country's economy significantly. International students contributed an estimated $41 billion to the economy in the 2018-19 academic year, according to NAFSA: Association of International Educators, according to an article published by Mint in the year 2020.

If you also wish to study abroad but are afraid of such myths, you may contact our expert counsellors at any branch of Meridean Overseas Education Consultant (MOEC). Our expert counsellors will provide you with all the guidance and support you need to study in the country of your choice. For more information or any queries, you can mail us at application02@meridean.org or call us at our toll-free no. 1800-1230-00011.