Settling Down Abroad as an Indian Student

Increasing numbers of Indian students leave the country to pursue higher studies abroad. Moving abroad can be exciting yet challenging for many of them. The UK, USA, Canada, and Germany are among the popular countries where students like to study. Already over 360,000 students have left India so far in 2024 (Republic, 2024), making the move for students who want to settle there only a little simpler than it was for Indians who went to these or any other countries during the last decades of the previous century. So we have created a list of things to do before moving abroad from india.

As an Indian student in another land, settling down involves much more than attending lectures. It's about adjusting to new environments, cultures, and responsibilities. But don't worry, this journey can also be incredibly rewarding!

1. Sailing through Life in a Foreign Land

A new country is quite a different life, and in the beginning, everything may feel somewhat overwhelming. Every country has its own cultural norms, which form an integral part of life in that country. For example, you may have not experienced an independent life relying on self-catering and public transport as your main modes of transportation. Still, that will work out with time if you manage to be open to moving abroad from india.

Tip: Connect with the people of the local community, as well as with fellow international students, by joining clubs, student organizations, or volunteering to participate in and organize various events at the university that get you out and mingling with people.

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2. Dealing with culture shock

Culture shock is a common phenomenon for all the students who go out of their country to seek higher studies. Unfamiliar surroundings, food, customs, and languages may alienate you in the initial period. For example, when you study in the UK or Germany, the way people communicate or greet each other is extremely different from what you must have experienced in India.

Tip: Don't get discouraged. Adjustment takes time. Take classes in local customs, learn about cultural orientation programs, and do your best to get involved with the culture of your host country. Sooner or later, what you now perceive as weird will become routine!

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3. Managing Finances

Probably one of the major adjustments encountered by Indian students is managing finances when going overseas, since the cost of living in the UK and the USA can be highly expensive. Recent statistics by QS Top Universities show that Indian students pay an average of as low as US$3,850 yearly for living costs in Russia. 

Tip: Budget your spending. Maintain a tracking account of all those everyday expenditures, which may include food, house, and transport among others. For the best rates, you can also depend on a good foreign exchange partner, such as Supreme Forex, for the local currency from the Indian rupees to get the most you can out of your money while studying abroad.

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4. Living independently

Living out of home for the first time is a big step. For many Indian students, learning to live independently-away from the comforts of home-cooking their meals, cleaning, and in short, managing their daily lives-is part of living abroad. Take the UK, for example. Many universities provide student accommodation where one shares the kitchen or bathroom with others-a new experience altogether.

Tip: Start with basic cooking and home maintenance activities. You can also take a cooking class or follow online books, especially those specific to international students. Getting used to living independently is one of the fastest ways you will get independent and be more organized.

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5. Homesickness

Being away from home makes one feel homesick, especially during the early months. The lack of love, food, and festivities only makes the distance seem worse.

Tip: Stay close with family and friends back home through video calls and messages. This can also help to bring along a few things reminding you of home, such as family pictures or your favorite snacks. Joining local Indian communities or festivals abroad could be helpful in getting a sense of belonging and lightening your feelings of homesickness.

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6. Balancing Studies and Social Life

It's strictly academics until they learn to have a good time. Many students who move abroad for their higher education find themselves juggling coursework and part-time jobs, giving them and their friends social activities in their lives. Indeed, work-life balance is even encouraged in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands, and some even pursue part-time jobs to support themselves.

Tip: Plan a schedule to be in balance of study, social life, and personal time. Use Google Calendar to organize your commitments. A balanced lifestyle is essential for mental well-being.

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7. Part-time jobs

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Many of the students in India are working part-time because this constitutes a large percentage of their personal expenses. In some countries, such as Germany and Canada, there is legal provision for working hours during the term, but it is restricted according to how much one can attain within the timespan. Doing a part-time job will not only provide you with a means of topping your income but will also expose you to more workplace experience and further improve your language skills.

Tip: Seek work that accommodates your class schedule. Colleges and universities will usually have noticeboards, and local businesses may hire students on a part-time basis. Research the work laws in your host country.

8. Dealing with Bureaucracy

The process of navigating the bureaucracy of a foreign country is very daunting, especially when applying for visas, work permits, or insurance. Each country is set with its rules and paperwork, which can be really confusing at first.

Tip: Seek guidance from the international office at your university or fellow students who have passed through the process and share some valuable insights on how to handle this paperwork with minimal hustles.

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9. Participation in Indian Communities

Participate in an Indian student association or cultural groups on campus. Indian student associations, among other groups, organize different types of cultural events such as festivals and get-togethers where one can increase networks with fellow students and celebrate a common heritage.

Tip: Indian associations generally provide a supportive community for freshers. You may also ask if anyone has any particular tips regarding accommodation, food, or life abroad in general. Chances are that most universities have a good-sized Indian student population, so it shouldn't be too hard to find a community.

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10. Long-term perspective

While studying abroad may be difficult in the early days, it keeps you grounded for a glorious future.  The number of Indian students abroad continues to increase steadily in 2024, and that says it all about how popular international education has become. So, sit back, relax, and start enjoying yourself as you settle into your new life abroad. This was your guide on how to settle well when you move abroad from India. Every challenge you face will only make you grow stronger, and so remember that your experience is unique in itself.

Abroad settling can indeed be quite an enriching experience. That involves culture shock, getting finances in order, and working through much more. . So, stay open-minded, proactive, and make the most of this exciting journey! 

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Sources

• Careers360 (2024)
• QS Top University (2024)
• Republic (2024)

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