Study Abroad: What You Need to Know Before Leaving India

When you think about study abroad, pursuing education in a country outside India. Also known as international education, it’s not just about getting a foreign degree—it’s about adapting to new systems, managing costs, and making sure your qualifications matter where you’re going. Many Indian students assume that any top university will welcome them, but the truth is more complicated. Countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK have different rules for Indian school boards like CBSE and ICSE. ICSE is valid in the USA, but you still need to prove your English skills and show you can handle the workload. It’s not enough to have good grades—you need to know how to present them.

One big mistake students make is thinking that studying abroad means automatic success. It doesn’t. You need to plan for student visas, official permission to live and study in a foreign country, which can take months to process. Some countries require proof of funds, language tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and even interviews. And if you’re relying on Duolingo to learn English, be honest—it helps with basics, but universities want real fluency, not app-based practice. Real conversation, writing essays, and speaking in class are what matter. You can’t fake that.

Then there’s the money. A degree in the USA or UK can cost more than ₹50 lakhs. But not all programs are that expensive. Some countries offer lower tuition, part-time work rights, and even scholarships for international students. And if you’re aiming for an MBA, you’re not just paying for classes—you’re paying for access to networks that can land you a $300,000 job. The highest paid MBA jobs aren’t just about the school name—they’re about connections, internships, and timing. You need to know which programs actually deliver returns, not just which ones look fancy on paper.

And what about after graduation? Employers in Canada, Germany, and Australia actively recruit Indian graduates. But if you’re studying in a country with strict post-study work rules, you need to plan your internship early. A coding degree from India won’t automatically get you a job in New Zealand if you don’t have local project experience. The same goes for vocational courses—some countries have high demand for skilled trades, and they’ll fast-track visas for people with those skills. You don’t always need a four-year degree to get ahead.

What you’ll find below are real stories and facts from students who’ve been through this. You’ll see how ICSE stacks up against CBSE for US colleges, what salaries coders actually make overseas, and how some students landed top MBA jobs without elite backgrounds. There’s no magic formula—just clear steps, honest costs, and what actually works. Whether you’re thinking about a short-term course or a full degree, the choices ahead matter more than you think. Let’s break it down.

Is It Free to Study Abroad?
Aarini Hawthorne 12 March 2025

Is It Free to Study Abroad?

Studying abroad might sound like a costly venture, but it's not always the case. There are countries where tuition fees are nominal or even non-existent for international students. With the right scholarships and grants, studying in a foreign land can become surprisingly affordable. This article sheds light on how one can pursue education abroad without breaking the bank.

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What Does It Mean to Study Abroad?
Aarini Hawthorne 10 March 2025

What Does It Mean to Study Abroad?

Studying abroad is more than just attending classes in a different country; it's about immersing oneself in a new culture, gaining unique experiences, and developing a global perspective. It offers the chance to learn a new language, explore unfamiliar cuisines, and create lifelong friendships with people from diverse backgrounds. Not just an academic pursuit, it is a transformative personal journey that challenges beliefs and encourages growth. This article uncovers the realities of studying abroad and provides practical tips for anyone considering this path.

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