The biggest benefit of studying abroad is the opportunity to explore a new country, make new friends and create a new life. For any international student, the chance to study abroad, especially in the U.S. can be a life-changing experience. After all, the United States of America is the land of dreams & opportunities.
There are several reputed universities in the USA for international students. However, to study overseas in one of the best international colleges also means moving to a new country, which is a challenge in itself.
The USA, known as one of the best countries to study abroad, is a vibrant melting pot of diverse people and cultures. However, this rich environment can be overwhelming for newcomers, particularly international students pursuing their masters abroad. American customs, social norms, and even slang might seem unfamiliar, leading to the need for acclimatization.
Linguistic differences can make the situation more difficult for international students who wish to study in the USA. While English is the primary language, regional accents, the rapid pace of speech, and colloquial expressions can create communication barriers, potentially resulting in misunderstandings in both academic and everyday contexts.
Along with these hurdles, social integration poses its own set of difficulties. Establishing new friendships and social circles in a foreign land can be challenging. International students might initially feel isolated, struggling to connect with their American peers who come from diverse cultural backgrounds, leading to a sense of disconnect and a need for effort in bridging these gaps.
Let’s look at some common struggles that international students often face when moving to America:
Academic Expectations
International universities, especially American universities, often have high academic standards. The style of teaching, the emphasis on active participation, and the expectations for research and critical thinking can differ from what students are used to in their home countries.
Financial Concerns
The cost of education and living expenses in the U.S. can be a significant burden. International students must navigate complex financial systems, manage budgets, and explore and leverage opportunities such as international student scholarships or a student exchange program for better personal financial management.
There are different scholarships for studying abroad offered by the Indian government. For example, the Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowships are among the best international scholarships for Indian students who wish to study in the USA. Additionally, the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is a good scholarship for a MS degree in the USA too.
Please note: Despite getting a scholarship to study abroad, living and studying in a foreign university involves a lot of out-of-pocket expenses. While most Indian students do look for jobs to help with such expenses, they can also count on easy access to help from home with the help of Flywire’s Student Expenses - the quick, convenient and affordable money transfer solution specially designed for Indian students studying abroad.
Healthcare System
The U.S. may be the best place to study abroad, but its healthcare system can be confusing for newcomers. Understanding health insurance, finding suitable healthcare providers, and dealing with the costs can be challenging, especially if the system differs from what international students are used to.
Distance from Home
To study abroad means to be far from family and friends, which can trigger homesickness. Especially during festivals or holidays, the longing for familiar faces and a familiar environment can be emotionally challenging.
Visa Regulations
Despite the U.S. being one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students, the visa process is not very easy to maneuver. Ensuring adherence to the U.S. visa regulations and immigration policies is essential to avoid any hurdles. International students must stay informed about visa status, work opportunities, and the legal aspects of living in the U.S.
While these challenges might seem daunting, they are all part of the incredible journey of studying in the United States. With resilience, an open mind, and a willingness to adapt, international students can overcome these struggles, gain valuable life experiences, and make the most of their time in America. It's an opportunity to learn not only from textbooks but from the rich tapestry of American society.
Check out our blog about how international students were able to use Flywire to help solve key payment challenges and ease their moves to America