Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid When Studying Abroad

Studying abroad in a country outside your place of birth can be exciting and adventurous, yet scary and thought-provoking at the same time.

Many students leave their homes every academic semester for a fresh new start at a university away from home.

Equipped with very little experience of living away from home, students are bound to make mistakes that may cause them financial loss or regret.

Having worked with thousands of students annually, we understand that moving abroad can be daunting. However, learning from the mistakes of others can help you to have a more pleasant experience while you study abroad. 

Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid when studying abroad that previous students have made. We encourage you to learn from these so that you do not repeat these same mistakes on your academic adventure abroad.  

1. Self-entitlement  

Often international students feel that they should be given first preference or choice on most matters. They feel entitled to privileges above local students. Do not fall into self-pity or self-entitlement.

As an international student at your university, you have certain rights. With these rights come significant responsibilities.

Remember to work hard and follow campus rules while studying abroad.  

2. Language 

Most students for higher education abroad, avoid learning the local language. While learning a new language may seem complicated, continuous practice can help you to better communicate with your local community and colleagues.  

3. Living like a tourist 

While the excitement of moving to a new country may linger within you for a long time, as a student, avoid living like a tourist.

You are encouraged to visit popular attractions but avoid making too many weekend trips. Stay in your local area and see what the area offers as often as possible. In this way, you can best experience local culture.  

4. Fast-food chains  

As a new student in a new country, you are bound to search for familiar foods at your favourite popular fast food outlets. At the same time, these may seem like home to you, avoid eating at your popular places.

Try local restaurants and takeaway places in your campus community. You will be surprised at cheaper food prices and delicious local cuisine.   

5. Partying too much or too less  

Students studying abroad now have newfound freedom away from home. There may be parties and events planned every weekend. Do not fall into the trap of attending every invitation.

At the same time, do not avoid these events. Use your discretion and attend parties and events only after you have completed all your academic responsibilities for the week. 

You may find this interesting to read: 10 biggest fears of studying abroad & how to overcome them

6. Friends 

Studying abroad away from your familiar group of friends can be difficult, and not many students can make friends easily. Most international students tend to stick with other international students and spend their time living like tourists.

Make friends with your local classmates, learn about their culture and ask them to show you local spots where you can eat and relax. Be cautious with the types of friends you choose. Avoid the company that may lead you astray from your academic goals. Search for compatible friends.  

7. Culture 

Your host country’s culture will be different from the culture of your place of birth. Students studying abroad must learn about the local culture to avoid offending their local classmates and neighbours.

Remember, what may seem appropriate to you in your culture may be offending your peers from another culture. Do not be afraid to ask your local colleagues about culture and traditions, and do not be afraid to share yours with them.  

8. Open Mind 

Keep an open mind to the new experiences around you. As you venture into a new country, keep your values and customs intact but do not shut new experiences out.

Keep an open mind about the places you visit and the people you meet. Avoid judgmental thoughts and words. Remember to look for opportunities to move away from your comfort zone.  

9. Shopping  

Do not get distracted when seeing sales, new brands, and fancy technological gadgets that you never had the benefit of purchasing in your home country. Only buy what you need. Avoid excessive shopping.

Remember that you will have to return home after your term of study, and overweight airline baggage is expensive. Make wise shopping choices.  

10. Live on a budget  

Studying abroad is an expensive adventure. Do not spend your money reserved for necessities on superfluous items. Budget your money wisely, ensuring that your funds will last you through the month.

Save for large items that you need and look for bargains when shopping. Do your best to stretch your funds to ensure that you are financially stable throughout the month.  

Things may never go as planned while studying abroad; we encourage you to remain flexible to ensure that you have a pleasurable experience.

At Maven Consulting, our team of expert overseas education consultants are committed to ensuring that our students have an enjoyable adventure while chasing their academic dreams abroad. While studying and living abroad, remember to always remain true to yourself and your scholastic ambitions. 

We encourage you to learn from your past mistakes and create a better and brighter future for yourself!