Importance of studying abroad for Pakistani students
Pakistani students can benefit from a study abroad experience in various ways. It can open up a new world for them and expose them to diverse cultures, languages and perspectives. Having a completely new experience can help them become more tolerant and accepting towards others. Furthermore, it is an excellent opportunity to learn a new language while living in a new country.
Besides the personal growth and sense of independence it teaches, there are also better educational opportunities abroad as these are not available in Pakistan. At the cutting edge research facilities and top-ranked universities abroad, Pakistani students can access excellent educational resources which can make them more competitive in the global job market and they can adapt to new environments in a much more efficient manner.
Best study abroad destinations for Pakistani students
Every student has a different dream and interest. According to the art preference, there are many great steady broad destinations for Pakistani students to choose from. Here are some of the options for them:
- United States: The United States has many top-ranked universities which offer a wide range of programs and disciplines for Pakistani students. For students interested in research and innovation, this can be the perfect destination
- United Kingdom: Some of the world’s best universities like the University of Cambridge, Oxford University, etc. are located in the UK. Students can find a wide variety of programs to suit their taste and those interested in history culture and the arts should definitely opt for it
- Australia: Australia has a very welcoming environment for Pakistani students and it’s a great place to study wildlife, conservation and marine biology
- Canada: Canada offers high-quality education and a friendly atmosphere for students. Natural sciences, sustainability and environmental studies students should apply here
- Germany: Science and engineering students in Pakistan aim to study in Germany as it has top ranked universities and research institutions that excel in these areas.
Top study abroad scholarships for Pakistani students
There are many international organisations and universities offering scholarships to Pakistani students who want to study abroad. Here are some of the most popular and coveted ones:
- Fulbright scholarship: this is one of the prestigious study abroad scholarships that is available to Pakistani students to study in the United States. It covers tuition fees, living expenses and travel costs for students
- Chevening Scholarship: This is a UK government funded scholarship that covers tuition fee, living expenses and travel costs for Pakistani students who want to study in a university in the UK call stop
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: this is perfect for Pakistani students who want to study in Europe as it covers all expenses for an international student
- Commonwealth scholarship: this is also UK government funded scholarship that covers education and living expenses for Pakistani students who want to study in Commonwealth countries
- Australia Awards Scholarship: The Australian government gives a scholarship to Pakistani students who want to study in Australia and it covers their tuition fee, living expenses and travel expenses
Factors to consider when choosing a study abroad program
When choosing a study abroad program, there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind. As a Pakistani student, there are some factors that you need to take in before you make the decision. Here are some suggestions from our expert mentors:
- See if the program is a good academic fit for you. Ask yourself if the courses offered by the university interest you and align with your career goals
- Sometimes study abroad programs are offered in one particular language. You will be needing a level of proficiency in that particular language so make sure you can succeed in that program
- Consider the culture, climate and safety of the location. As a Pakistani student, it is important to consider this before visiting any place
- The university should not be too expensive for you. Consider applying for the scholarships mentioned above if they are exceeding your budget
- Higher academic advising services, house assistant services or language support to assist you in the process of studying abroad
Benefits of studying abroad for Pakistani students
Personally and professionally, Pakistani students can benefit a lot from studying abroad as it exposes them to a new academic culture as well as career opportunities for their future. Here are some reasons to motivate you to start your study abroad journey:
- Different cultures, customs and ways of life will broaden the perspective of the students and enhance their understanding of the world
- You can gain language proficiency while you study abroad and develop your skills in the native language of the country where you are staying
- Studying in top ranked universities provide students with enhanced academic skills which adds to their resumes and provides them the international experience need to create a global network of contacts
- The personal growth that comes out of living abroad independently is invaluable. It teaches students to be self-confident and pursue their goals with passion
Challenges faced by Pakistani students studying abroad
Pakistani students, like all international students, face some problems when adjusting to a new culture while studying abroad. As it is a completely new way of life in the host country, the language and culture can be shocking at first. This causes homesickness and the early stages of the study abroad program are usually spent overcoming these challenges by making a new support system. Connections also help in developing the communication skills that are necessary to survive in the host country.
Dealing with academic pressure at a competitive university can be quite difficult while sustaining yourself. If there are financial responsibilities as well, then the stress increases. However, there are many support services available on campus to help the students manage their stress.
Tips for Pakistani students to succeed in their study abroad programs
- Understand the cultural context of the country that you will be travelling to. It will help you live and study smoothly during your stay
- Learn the language beforehand and keep practicing when you go there so that you can succeed academically as well
- Learn to manage time as you will have a lot of responsibilities to juggle along with studies
For more tips and ideas about having a smooth study abroad journey, click here to book a consultation session with our mentors.
