8 Myths and Facts of Studying Abroad
Study abroad is gaining popularity all over the world due to the positive impact it has on a student’s holistic development. Schools and colleges are encouraging their students to explore academic opportunities abroad, also inviting admission counsellors, education advisors to address senior classes to explain the various aspects and facets of overseas education. Take it easy, not all that you hear or anticipate is true all the time. It’s time to bust the myths doing the rounds at present regarding study abroad.
Myth #1 Studying Abroad costs a lot!
Fact
The total cost varies depending on the location and type of the program, the length of the stay, and whether the said program is administered through a university or an outside organization. While shortlisting the universities, do consider whether it suits your study abroad budget. If not, next look for its Return On Investment. Also, if you plan your finances well, it will not be a burden in the future. Contact Numen to guide you in all of your study abroad queries.
Myth #2 Study Abroad is only for Language or International relations majors.
Fact
All the subjects are being taught from a global lens. Study Abroad today is for all majors, programs covering almost every subject there is to learn. Be it the programs related to Science & Technology, Arts & Humanities, Languages, International Relations, Management, or Business & Finance to name a few, there is a study abroad program for all of the above.
Myth #3 Lack of scholarships available for International Students.
Fact
There are hundreds and hundreds of study abroad scholarships available for merit or other criteria. Governments of countries like the USA, the UK, Australia, and a few European countries acknowledge exceptional performances of international students by granting funds, financial rewards and scholarships to develop and promote international education. There are also a few scholarships sponsored by a few global, national, regional organisations that allow you to study in any country.
Myth #4 There will be language problems.
Fact
English is the standard medium of instruction in most foreign universities. However, in many countries, the programs are also taught in the native language. Therefore, when you are applying, look for any language pre-requisites or criteria prescribed by your shortlisted universities. Apart from academic centric language issues, being exposed to a new language or different English in a foreign country is a unique opportunity to enhance your linguistic proficiency. Furthermore, you are bound to attain near-native fluency in English that would enrich your communication skills.
Myth #5 International Students get neglected.
Fact
Professors are more like mentors than just teachers are very approachable and eager to help students resolve issues related to academics or otherwise. The education culture in the countries abroad is very global with a strong belief in inclusive learning not biased towards any culture, race or any other preference. Moreover, you’ll be surprised at how wonderfully and spontaneously local students accept you and offer their assistance for everything academic and non-academic.
Myth #6 Universities abroad accept only those with outstanding academic performance.
Fact
Universities abroad always prefer students who demonstrate versatile capabilities. Academic performance is only one of the many criteria for a student’s evaluation. While universities do look for good grades, they are interested as well in well-rounded individuals. Most of the college applications ask about the activities that you are involved in during your free time because it shows traits that grades alone are not able to demonstrate. To give you an example, what are you passionate about? Are you a leader? What you do after school, during weekends and over the summers tells the college admission team a lot about the kind of person you are. For example, if you volunteered at a local NGO, it shows your dedication to helping people for the greater good. Hence, besides outstanding academic calibre, the applicant’s versatility is also taken into consideration.
Myth #7 Potential Employers don’t value studying abroad experience.
Fact
Employers are increasingly hiring workers who can work cross-culturally and are able to speak another language preferably. Here are some of the advantages that employers associate with study abroad candidates
- International exposure
- Risk-taking
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Advanced communication skills and language proficiency
- Self-reliance
- Great Social Skills
- Understanding cross-cultural dynamics
- Flexibility and adaptability
Employers will want to know what an applicant did and learned while studying abroad and also how that experience can be brought to fruition on the job.
Myth #8 Study Abroad is only about Academics.
Fact
All the University campuses are a hive of activities. Education in foreign universities is not only restricted to academia but also to holistic & all-rounded development of an individual. There is a myriad of different clubs and courses after regular classes on creative art, performance art, photography, music to name just a few. You will be coached by world-class faculty who are renowned in their respective fields. And don’t worry, even if you do not have a specific hobby, you’ll surely be inspired to develop one.