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4 Biggest challenges Indian Students Face Studying in the US

Author: ninz

Top Challenges Indian Students Face When Completing an Undergrad in the US

CHALLENGE # 1: Mastering English

Majority of universities in the US will require undergraduate students to prove their English Language ability as part of the admissions process. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is what is most often used to assess a students eligibility. Proficiency levels required vary from school to school and across departments but the more prepared you are before you begin to study - the more confident you will feel as a student.

It is an advantage to have a good command of written and spoke English from the very beginning of the application process. Some universities require applicants to submit at least one essay as part of their application; others may request an interview or teleconference with you to hear how you express yourself in English.

How to Prepare:

A great way to ensure you are prepared for studying at a university in an English-speaking country, is to take a few US highschool courses online. This will help you get accustomed to the US teachers and their style, requirements etc.

K12 International Academy has a history of proven success in online learning techniques and provides students with the opportunity to take part in high-quality high school courses. Check out their community find to out more!

CHALLENGE #2: Money

One of the most common concerns for students is how to finance an international education. There is no denying the fact that it is expensive to study abroad. You will have to have the money before you arrive in the country or have someone from home support you. When considering the cost of a U.S education, include the cost of tuition, living expenses, books and other items. Tuition varies widely from university to university, but it is generally the largest single cost an international student faces. Sources of financial aid available to international students at the undergraduate level are limited and very competitive.

How to Prepare:

Make a financial plan that covers your entire program. An undergraduate degree in the United States takes an average of four to five years to complete.
Once you are on campus - go to the school's study abroad office! They will be able to give you the best information on campus about how financial aid works with study abroad and any special scholarships or options available for you.
When looking at schools, compare them academically, service-wise, and cost-wise. What does the program fee include? How much will it cost in total, including all the extra fees that the program might charge, along with your airline ticket and personal expenses abroad? Don't be afraid to ask questions and demand complete cost information from the program. They have this information at hand and should be willing to give it out so you can do a complete review.

CHALLENGE #3: Culture Shock

Culture shock is a condition of disorientation affecting someone who is suddenly exposed to an unfamiliar culture or way of life or set of attitudes. Many students studying abroad in the US will experience a degree of culture shock. This period of cultural adjustment involves everything from getting used to the food and language to learning how to use the telephone. Adjusting to a new culture can, at times, be difficult and frustrating. Prepare to feel overwhelmed, both when you submerge yourself in another culture and when you return to your own. The surprisingly difficult experience of coming back is called re-entry shock. The experience of shifting cultures can make you more resilient, but is more difficult for some people than others.

A Few Tips

Don't panic - your reaction is completely normal. Remind yourself why you decided to leave home. You are on an adventure - a wonderful opportunity to grow and learn - but it does not always seem that way.

Start a journal - it will help you keep things in perspective and can be quite funny to look back on!
Don't confuse your ability to speak the language with your intelligence - keep in mind that it takes everybody some time to adjust before feeling comfortable
Be physically active - you'll feel better, keep in shape, and meet people
Take advantage of services your university offers to help you deal with the big changes you're going through
Keep your sense of humor!

CHALLENGE # 4: Separation from Family and Friends

Of course, being independent and gaining independence while studying abroad is a good thing but, so is maintaining connections with your friends and family at home. It can be difficult to leave behind loved ones, and it's normal to experience mixed emotions while being far from home.

Keep in Mind:

Technology makes communication back home much easier and more convenient than it once was. Sure, you'll be homesick. But with email, IM, and reasonably cheap international cell phone minutes, study abroad has become an easier transition away from home than it used to be.