Study Abroad vs. Study Local: What is the Right Choice?
Are you a Sri Lankan student deciding if you should pursue your higher education in Sri Lanka or abroad? Check out the article below, where we compare studying abroad vs studying locally, to help you make an informed choice.
By considering the factors discussed here, Sri Lankan students can determine which option best aligns with their current circumstances and educational and personal goals. Stay tuned to learn more.
The Benefits of Studying Abroad
Studying abroad is a common dream that many students in Sri Lanka share right now as there are many advantages to it. We have outlined a few of these advantages below.
1. High-Quality Education and Specialization
Education abroad, especially in Canada, Australia, the UK, the USA, and other developed countries are conducted in renowned universities and educational institutions that offer exceptional academic programs and specialized courses that may not be available locally.
Studying abroad provides access to cutting-edge research facilities, expert faculty members, and advanced resources that can enhance your learning experience. You can gain expertise in your chosen field and benefit from a curriculum that aligns with global industry standards. Most programs abroad are also conducted in a practical-based method, with a more hands-on learning experience than local courses, which helps you understand the course content better.
2. Global Exposure, Wide Networking Opportunities, and Cultural Immersion
Studying abroad also offers unparalleled global exposure and the opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse cultures. You can experience different perspectives, develop a global mindset, and enhance your intercultural communication skills.
By living and studying in a foreign country, you gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures, languages, and customs, which can be invaluable in an increasingly interconnected world. You can also build a robust network of like-minded connections in your field that can be extremely useful as you progress in your career.
3. Enhanced Career Opportunities
One of the most significant benefits of education abroad is its impact on boosting your career prospects. Employers often value international education as it demonstrates adaptability, independence, and cross-cultural competence.
Students who study abroad may have more opportunities to undertake internships, gain practical work experience, and build a global professional network both abroad and locally. Additionally, studying in a foreign country may open doors to job opportunities and immigration pathways, which will give you long-term career benefits.
Disadvantages of Studying Abroad
Although studying abroad has many benefits, it has a few downsides too. Read on to make sure you compare the pros and cons, to make clear and informed decisions when choosing your study destination.
1. Higher Financial Costs
One of the significant drawbacks of studying abroad is the high financial costs involved. Tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, travel, and healthcare can be expensive, depending on the destination. Scholarships and financial aid may be available, however, they may not cover all expenses. You must carefully consider your financial resources and explore funding options to ensure you can afford to study abroad.
2. Cultural Adjustment and Homesickness
Living in a foreign country can be challenging, especially in the initial stages due to cultural differences, language barriers, and homesickness. You may experience difficulties in adapting to new environments, making new friends, and navigating unfamiliar systems. It requires resilience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. However, these are temporary problems. With time and support, these challenges can be overcome, and you will achieve personal growth and self-confidence.
3. Academic and Visa Requirements
Studying abroad requires meeting academic and visa requirements, which can be demanding. You need to fulfill admission criteria, such as English language proficiency tests and academic qualifications. Visa processes may involve extensive documentation, interviews, and financial proof. Meeting these requirements can be time-consuming and stressful. However, with proper planning, organization, and guidance, you can navigate the application and visa processes successfully.
Benefits of Studying Locally
Studying locally may not be as attractive as international education, yet it has many benefits too. Below are some benefits of studying in your home country.
1. Familiarity and Cost-Effectiveness
Studying locally offers the advantage of familiarity with the education system, culture, and language. It eliminates the need for significant cultural adjustment and language barriers, allowing you to focus more on your studies. Additionally, studying locally can be cost-effective as it eliminates the high expenses associated with studying abroad, such as international tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses in a foreign country.
2. Support System and Family Proximity
Studying locally lets you stay close to your support system, including family and friends. You can receive emotional, financial, and academic support from familiar sources, which can be comforting during your educational journey. Proximity to home also facilitates regular visits, maintaining a sense of connection and security.
3. Local Networking and Job Opportunities
Although studying locally will not give you a worldwide network, it will enable you to build networks and connections within your own country. You can participate in local internships, volunteer opportunities, and industry events that can lead to job prospects and career development. Some private local institutions have strong ties with local industries, making it easier to establish professional connections and gain relevant work experience.
Disadvantages of Studying Locally
Although higher education in Sri Lanka has its advantages, it has significant disadvantages too. You can find these disadvantages below. These are also some of the reasons you can outline in your Visa Statement of Purpose (SOP) to justify not choosing Sri Lanka.
1. Delays in Program Completion
Local programs carried out by government bodies are infamous for extending their course duration for longer than the expected timeframe. Strikes and other political and social situations affect these institutions, delaying program completion and consequently, the career progression of students. There have been countless situations where state universities have closed down during important times in the program. This could be you if you choose to study in a non-private university or college.
2. Limited Exposure and Diversity
Studying locally may provide limited exposure to international perspectives and diverse cultures. You may miss out on the enriching experience of living and studying in a foreign country, expanding your horizons and global outlook. This limited exposure can impact the development of intercultural skills, which are increasingly important in today’s globalized world.
3. Minimal Facilities and Technology-Enabled Learning
Although many private universities locally are slowly adapting to technology-enabled classrooms and improved facilities, this is still a slow process, and not all universities are adapting to it. Most private and non-private universities do not have adequate facilities and resources to keep up with the technology-driven education that students now need. This reduces the overall quality of education that you can easily receive outside the country.
4. Limited Specialization Options
Most local institutions also have limitations in terms of specialized courses and academic programs compared to international universities. If you have specific career aspirations or seek niche areas of study, you may not find a wide variety of options to choose from locally, whereas, studying abroad may offer a broader range of specialized programs and unique course modules that cater to your specific interests and career paths. If you want to pursue a highly specialized program, you might find that the former wins in the battle of studying abroad vs studying locally.
5. Less Practical Learning
Most local programs are also heavily theoretical with little focus on practical-based teaching methods. This can impact how quickly you adapt to the industry, as you do not have experience implementing what you have learned. In comparison, most programs abroad are popular for placing significant importance on hands-on learning in their curriculum so you are industry-ready while you are completing the program.
Conclusion
Deciding between studying abroad and studying locally is a significant choice for Sri Lankan students. While studying abroad provides global exposure, high-quality education, and enhanced career opportunities, it comes with financial costs and cultural adjustment challenges. On the other hand, studying locally offers familiarity, cost-effectiveness, and the support of a local network but may limit exposure to international perspectives, advanced facilities, and specialized programs. Unlike international education, studying locally may also not give you the competitive edge that employers look for when hiring.
Choosing from studying abroad vs studying locally might be challenging for you, but you can make the choice easier by considering your educational goals, financial capacity, personal preferences, and long-term career aspirations. By making an informed decision and meeting the necessary requirements, you can embark on a successful educational journey that aligns with your ambitions.
If you feel that studying abroad is the right choice for your goals, contact us now!
