It often happens that future international students are full of bright hopes and leave their homeland with sweet dreams. But when they come to the place of study, they are faced with unexpected difficulties connected with a new linguistic, cultural, academic, and social environment. Let’s find the solutions to the most common troubles foreign graduates have.
1) Mental Pressure
If the condition for receiving scholarships or grants is excellent academic performance, pupils experience great pressure due to the need to have excellent grades.
Solution: a wise approach to managing your time can make you more efficient. You can also use the services of tutors or ask for assistance at essaysmatch.
2) Lack of Support
Another problem with foreigners is the lack or low level of social support, as well as homesickness. This is especially noticeable when foreign undergraduates are left alone on memorable dates and holidays. While peers can go home for the holidays, international students are forced to stay on campus. Such moments can cause feelings of loneliness and depression.
Solution: it is proved that foreigners who can make friends with the locals are better able to adapt to a new environment. Consider a chance to live with a host family or make friends among your peers — this is how you can feel more satisfied with your life.
3) Language Barrier
Difficulties in using a foreign language are the most common problem among international graduates. Knowledge of a language is directly related to the ability to adapt to the local traditions, society, and, of course, to academic life. If it is an English-speaking state, then international students usually pass the TOEFL or IELTS test to prove their ability to read, write, and speak English. But successful passing the test does not guarantee that the student will be able to understand quick speech, idioms, slang, and various accents.
Solution: most universities that accept foreigners provide them with additional language courses. Combine such lessons with communication with locals and do not neglect to visit summer camps or language clubs to boost your skills.
4) New Educational System
The transition to another education system and new approaches to learning is often a kind of shock for a foreigner. For example, many students are not used to active discussions in the classroom. Moreover, foreign graduates should adapt not only to a foreign language but also to master a new academic culture of writing. They usually have to follow other standards regarding homework, the average academic load, and communication with the teacher.
Solution: learn about the peculiarities of a new educational environment beforehand, so you will have the opportunity to find an option, which best reflects your expectations.
5) Financial Issues
For many people, living in a foreign country can be a serious test due to financial troubles. International students may not have enough financial resources to cover all the expenses for studying abroad. Foreign graduates are often not allowed to work out off campus, and at the same time, they are not eligible for loans or other financial assistance that is available to students of the country of study.
Solution: many international foundations and governmental institutions provide financial assistance to foreign students. As soon as you have selected the university, study all the available programs to cover your studying and apply for them.
Bottom Line
Finally, before coming to a new country, it is advisable to establish contacts with an international department of the university of interest. Study the cultural characteristics of the host country, and you will 100% succeed.