By the end of 2019, approximately 485,645 international students were studying in various universities across the nation. This increases the country’s revenue because education and living in the UK tend to be expensive. However, studies over the years have revealed that a majority of international students face common challenges in the UK. That said, here are some common challenges they face and how to overcome them.
Accent barriers
International students talk about the variety of accents in the UK and how difficult it is to understand them. There is the Cockney, Estuary English, Scottish, Scouse, Northern Irish, Brummie, etc. All these have distinct accents that prove difficult to catch on if you are new. Moreover, records show that there are about forty different dialects in the UK that influence accents. Indeed, this is a real challenge when your objective in the UK is to study.
For example, you may not enjoy your professors’ classes if you can’t comprehend their accents. As a tip, experts say it pays to rely more on your learning materials while turning to your UK resident colleagues (after lectures) for interpretation. Additionally, you may be allowed to take audio recordings to be replayed later, depending on your school. This will enable you to listen carefully and, with time, get the hang of the accent.
High living expenses
As a student in the UK, you may spend an average of £240.89 weekly, including student housing rent. This makes the UK one of the most expensive places to live worldwide. Fortunately, with Axo Student accommodations, many students can find various quality dwellings they can afford. Moreover, you need a decent sum to study as an international student.
Indeed, this is a daunting task for international students who must quickly learn how to support themselves in an unknown land financially. Without a doubt, the cost of education in the UK is incredibly high for international students. On average, you are likely to pay anything from £10,000 to £38,000 for undergraduate studies. It could be more if you’re studying for a medical degree. If you combine this with rent and your daily sustenance, it makes it a challenge. However, you can overcome this with adequate planning and time management.
Finding a part-time job
It makes sense that you’ll want to work part-time to take care of the mounting expenses as an international student. Unfortunately, you may find it challenging to land the right job without the proper guidance. Indeed, that part-time job must not conflict with your school schedule. Additionally, it would help if you had a fair idea of how much that job will pay or pays in general. Therefore, you should adequately research before committing to a part-time job.
Regardless, the UK is a great place to receive the best quality education. Furthermore, you are responsible for doing your checks before showing interest or making any financial commitments, as schools charge differently. Hopefully, you’ll address these challenges and provide solutions before you enroll in a UK school.