How to make a decision on studying abroad?

Studying abroad is a dream for many students. Globalization and the internet revolution have brought the world closer and this has resulted in thousands of students crossing the borders of their nations and reaching various global destinations for studies. Especially in the last two decades, there has been an exponential growth in Indian students going abroad. The general impression is that students coming from financially rich families and students having close relatives abroad are making study abroad decisions easily. Whether only family background is the factor for a study abroad decision or are there any other reasons or variables underpinning the decision?
According to me, the decision to study abroad is not completely dependent on the financial background. A lot of students from middle-class or lower-middle-class families are going abroad. Overseas scholarships, financial aid, internships, part-time jobs and educational loans can easily give solutions to the financial requirements for studying abroad. Rather, the programs or field of study, motivational level of the student, personality, communication skills, physical and mental strength and overall confidence of the student should be factors in decision-making for studying abroad. Technology courses are highly popular and in demand in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, Germany etc. Research programs are also very advanced and offer lucrative funding to students. Smarter students with good personality and communication skills are better products for studying abroad. Students, those who can adapt easily to diversity and changes and those who can understand and mix up with different cultures should decide to study abroad.
Lastly, I believe that studying abroad is not a student-centric thing but it is a whole family decision. Proper discussion with parents and other household members and taking inputs from teachers and mentors can make a successful decision. Again, the decision to study overseas should be taken early in academic life, especially during college-level education. Early decisions can help students to build confidence and acquire the requisite skills that will help them when they reach their study destinations. A proper period also helps parents with financial planning and gives relative ease in arranging finances. So studying abroad can be a dream for many young individuals. If this dream is nurtured properly with a proper timeline, our students can do wonders in their professional careers abroad!
With over 22 years of experience in study abroad counseling, I advise students to "think-plan-act" before embarking on their international academic journey. With careful consideration and proper guidance from study abroad consultants, pursuing education overseas can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience.
Amit Gore
Founder- Director
Akshay Study Abroad Consultants
Email – akshayabroad@gmail.com

