Aljawaz Your guide to study abroad Being an international student is important and studying in one of the most important countries in the world in terms of quality of education is becoming more important. Indeed, studying in the UK is a unique opportunity for international students to access the most prestigious universities in the world. But this will not be without difficulties and problems, especially at the beginning of the academic path. In this article, we will try to compile all the challenges faced by international students in the UK. We will try as well to propose solutions to overcome them.
Homesickness
One of the main challenges faced by international students in the UK, especially at the beginning, is the homesickness. It requires you to move away from your home country; and go to a country that is totally different from where you came from. The student feels nostalgic for his country, his family, and friends. But now with today’s means of communication, it is less hard than it was before.
Culture shock and integration
Actually, you will find yourself in a different society and culture. People behave differently with different lifestyles. Food is not like what you had back home.
To overcome the problem of cultural differences, try to blend in with British society. Learn about their customs, discover their traditions and the principles of living there. Try to introduce them to the culture of your country and make new friends.
Especially if your friends are from the UK, this will help you to overcome the problem of change in culture. For more information on British culture, see the article on British Customs and habits.
The language barrier
Even students who have obtained a certificate of English proficiency may face the challenge of the language barrier. English being the second language in most international countries, the student will discover that there is a clear difference in the language spoken in the UK.
This is mainly due to the difference in culture from region to region and is also diverse in tone, accent, and way of speaking. It may also happen that international students may have difficulties before they get used with the British accent.
Learn how to prepare yourself for living in the UK as an international student.
As a solution, universities in the UK have special services to improve your English. So get ready to enroll in these courses offered by the university. They will definitely contribute to improve your English skills. Also, do not forget to make friendships with native speakers, and communicate with them on a daily basis which will help you get a better command of the language.
Read also our guide on how to study English in the UK.
Funding
Perhaps the biggest problem you may face is to have enough financial resources to pay for tuition, housing, transport and other living requirements in the UK. Living in Britain is expensive, especially in big cities such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh which however have the most reputable universities in the world.
If you have already received a scholarship to study in the UK, this won’t be a problem for you. But if that’s not your case, you have the option to work a part-time job. Usually, UK universities allow international students to work up to 20 hours a week. Other ways to save money include limiting the times you’re eating out and try as often as possible to cook your own meal.
And to help you plan your budget as an international student in the UK, read our guide on the study and living cost in the UK.
Understanding the lectures at UK universities
Among the challenges faced by international students in the UK, there is also the difficulty in understanding the lectures. This is related to the limited language skills but also the lack of background knowledge. Also, it’s because the teaching methods you’ve been used to in your home country may be different from what you have at UK universities.
But don’t worry, as the time goes by, you’ll get used to the way lectures are given. And if you face this type of difficulty, you can always ask your classmates for help. You can ask them to share their notes on the main points of the lectures to help you better understand the lessons.
Finding student accommodation
Finding suitable housing in UK is not easy. Especially in the cities where the most popular universities are located. And also the concentration of the majority of the population within them; Which makes access to student accommodation somewhat tedious as well as costly.
To overcome this issue we have compiled for you many ideas and tips in the article “How to get student accommodation in the UK“
Almost all universities in UK provide counseling services given by professionals in the field of advice and guidance. The purpose of which is to help overcome the challenges faced by international students in the UK during the period of university study. Encouraging and communicating with someone inside the university is important for students.
