The education system abroad, no doubt, is quite different from ours in as much as styles of teaching and learning too differ. While in India we generally have theoretical teaching and exams are held only once a year, the foreign education system lays emphasis on group discussions, practicals (which are held throughout the year on a regular basis) and presentations. In addition, regular attendance, research, project work and continuous testing of students on the basis of their performance is quite important in their system of education. It is worth mentioning here that in spite of all this, Indian students adapt themselves easily to this system. Being well versed with basic fundamentals of their subject, they are generally able to study smoothly even in this kind of environment.
To gain admission to institutions abroad, one has to keep in mind that, among other considerations, emphasis is laid on one's individual capabilities. Good academic record is no doubt quite important to get admission to a university abroad but your participation in extracurricular activities would be a significant factor. Besides this, your test scores, personal statements and letters of recommendation prove equally significant. You may not be very scholastic but being an all rounder helps.
You must consider your suitability to the course and colleges and your adaptability to the culture of the country. It is advisable to get as much information as possible about the country and its education system. Be prepared to adapt to the change in style of education, language, food and lifestyle of the country in question. Initially you may find it difficult to adapt to this change but, by and by, it would not be difficult to get used to it.
During your stay abroad, while you may be confronted with some difficulties, you might get some advantages as well, such as lesser pollution, better libraries and laboratories. Some may find accent of lecturers alien but this problem too is overcome within a short time, because while going abroad one anticipates such things and is prepared for them.
Studying abroad means, by and large, shouldering your responsibilities on your own. At times, you would find it difficult to cope with the cultural differences, homesickness, and studies. That means you are expected to be independent and self-reliant. With no parent or guardian over your head to supervise, you would have to do your own planning for studies and other things to derive the maximum benefit.
Studying abroad might not be expensive, if you plan well in advance. A number of universities and colleges offer financial aid in the form of awards, tuition waivers, teaching and research assistantships. Various agencies and institutions offer loans, scholarships, gift scholarships etc. But the aid is limited and is available only to deserving candidates. So it is advisable to start the search for aid early, if you want to seek admission to a program that is not within your budget.
The cost of living expenses, which include boarding, books, clothing, transportation, health insurance and other personal expenses, can be easily reduced with a little planning. These expenses can easily be cut down by sharing the place where you live with other companion/s, preparing food in a group, purchasing only the essential study material and books and being sensible while buying clothes, shoes, etc.
You will have to safeguard your study interests. If lecturers are involved well and good; but just in case they are more interested in research work than teaching, instead of being fully dependent you should be able to make most of lectures and reading list, if given; pay attention to tutorials and laboratory sessions; make use of libraries and establish rapport with staff. You should try to interact at every possible level. Foreign countries have comfortably accepted Indian students. In fact Indians are known for their dedication, labor and hard work. They are able to learn and speak foreign language very fluently.
Very often, those going abroad for studies prefer co-educational colleges. But if you were not able to get admission in a coeducational institution that does not mean there would be lesser opportunities for you to participate in extracurricular activities. Arrangements are made with neighboring colleges for field trips. Then there are jointly sponsored clubs, campus jobs etc. However, single gender institutions help you to focus more on your studies with lesser distractions.
For higher education it is important to develop an attitude of critical thinking, to be able to make careful and right judgment, and to have an analytical approach
