Study in UK Reality Check: Indian Student Shares Expectations vs Real Experience Abroad

Each year thousands of Indian students hope for a study abroad experience in UK universities striving for world class education, international exposure and a bright career. However, living and studying overseas may not always be as exciting as brochures and social media portray.

In her revealing story, Lakshita Bhagtani MSc Management at University of Exeter shares her experience as an international student in the UK from university applications to managing expenses and cultural adjustments. Picking the right course and university is one of the biggest challenges for students wishing to study overseas according to Lakshita.

While most aspirants rely heavily on education consultants, she suggests that students should first do their own research about universities before making a decision.

Being aware of the course content, career opportunities and reputation of the university will undoubtedly help in avoiding disillusionment.

The process of applying for the program demands meticulous planning. Students, according to Lakshita, should make sure that crucial papers like the Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), and English proficiency certificates are properly organized. Some universities, for instance, may give IELTS waivers if students can prove that their prior education was in English through a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.

 

Finances are indeed another big worry for international students. Apart from tuition fees, which are the most talked about, Lakshita points out that a lot of students fail to consider the hidden costs of living in a foreign country. Things like using public transport, doing grocery shopping, buying winter clothes, and daily necessities will, most certainly, continue to grow. Preparing a sound budget plan before coming will give some students a chance to stay clear of money, related worries in the first few months.

 

Of course, along with study related pressures, the UK lifestyle comes with its own set of unexpected challenges. Things like the weather, difference in cultures, study pressure, and eyesick can impact fresh students in their first few weeks. According to Lakshita, quite often, it is the very first month abroad when things are the toughest, as the students not only have to deal with the cold weather but also start to get used to eating new types of food along with different teaching styles.

 

Part time work is one more very important element of a student's life. Even though a lot of international students earn a living by doing part time jobs, those who are balancing work and studies need to have a lot of discipline and scheduling.

 

Actually, Lakshita's story teaches one very important lesson for student aspirants: studying in a foreign country is not only about getting a foreign degree it also demands one to be resilient, to do careful planning and to live with the reality of the situation. For those who get ready properly, this can well be one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives.