How to Study Abroad in India Why Choose India For Study Abroad?
You Can Study Whatever You Want. The seventh largest country on earth is one of the biggest destinations for student travelers. India has a modern higher education system and students can take classes in any field. It’s home to a range of educational programs, from two-week courses to full semesters and academic years. Many educational programs in India involve service work in some of the world’s poorest communities.
You’ll get the most out of longer study programs in India, as settling into life there usually involves a degree of adjustment. Most students need about two weeks to get acclimated to their Indian surroundings. Once the culture shock wears off, you’ll be moving around India with ease while developing an appreciation for their culture. Some programs offer intensive language learning, with immersion programs available, so that you can become proficient at an Indian language.
No Better Learning Environment for Languages, Religions And History. “Specialty” fields in India include world religions, history, and language learning. You can study Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, and more than 10 other major Indian languages, as well as Sanskrit, the language of ancient India. Or immerse yourself in a first-hand study of Hinduism, Islam, or Sikhism. Great programs for language and religious study exist at Benares Hindu University in Varanasi, one of India’s holiest cities.
With 4,000 years of recorded history, India is a fantastic place to delve into the past at storied universities such as the University of Hyderabad. Learn about the rise of ancient kingdoms like the Mauryas and the Guptas, to the advent of Islam through the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals, to the imprint of colonialism through the British Raj.
A Bit Like The Brits. As it’s a former British colony, India’s higher education system is modeled on that of the UK. Most university-based courses are built around semesters. For the most part, Indian academics have been trained either in their home country, in the U.K., or, increasingly, in the United States. Classes are typically lecture-based, and are more formal than in the U.S., with a very clear delineation between student and professor. (This means: don’t call them by their first names unless invited to!)
With very few exceptions, the language of instruction in higher education in India is English. English is widely spoken among those involved in tourism, such as at train stations, hotels, tourist attractions, and many shops. But other people that you may encounter on the street may not speak English at all.
How Many Rupees? The cost of studying abroad in India can vary, but the country is, in general, a very affordable location for study abroad. Day-to-day expenses such as travel, eating in restaurants, and local entertainment can be quite inexpensive compared to prices in the U.S.
In India, fees such as tuition, room, and board are usually set by your study program. Your university might have a study program to India that could be covered by your normal tuition, or you could check outside providers, such as other universities or study abroad organizations, who will work with you to transfer your credits. Their fees vary widely, so check around.
Living In India. Your accommodations will depend on your program. Most universities have a large residential population and provide hostel-type rooms and meals, most often in shared accommodation (two same-sex people to a room). Typically, students share a common bathroom down the hall. Western-style toilets are common, but don’t be surprised to see Asian-style squat toilets, too. It’s all part of the experience!
Universities with more international students sometimes offer special foreign student housing. In some cases, home-stays with Indian families might be possible (and recommended, if language learning is your goal). On-campus housing is generally of good quality, but does not typically offer the same amenities common to U.S. students at home (don’t expect TV or game rooms, or a campus food court). Dining halls are a common feature. Campuses are generally very safe, but students should take the same common-sense precautions they’d take on any college campus.
Ready, Set, Travel: India For The Adventurous
India is a paradise for the passionate traveler! Its extensive rail network crisscrosses the country, making tourist travel easier and inexpensive. Excellent, safe air travel is available. India has a well-developed tourism industry catering to all budgets, so students can explore the many cultural and historical sites the country has to offer. Those who want to extend their unforgettable experience in this part of the world can hop the border into the mountains of Nepal.
The Republic of India forms part of the larger Indian subcontinent, which is home to India’s neighbors, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. India consists of 28 states and 7 union territories; their topography is as varied as their people, ranging from the high Himalayas in the north, to tropical forests and river systems in the south. India’s cities tend to be large; 46 cities have more than 1 million inhabitants each.
India is an amazingly diverse country. Its people speak 14 major languages. While most Indians are Hindus, India is also home to a large Muslim population. Minor religions include Sikhism, Christianity, and Buddhism. Travel around India includes immersion in so many cultures that it can sometimes seem like you’re traveling in different countries.
No trip to India would be complete without visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra. Built as a tomb, the Taj Mahal is a monument to love, built by Shah Jahan to commemorate his beloved wife, Mumtaz. As the one-time capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is also home to a well-known 16th-century red sandstone fort and numerous other monuments.
Famous monuments and landmarks in and around India’s capital, New Delhi, include the Red Fort, the Jama Masjid (India’s largest mosque), and the many buildings designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens.
No, We Haven’t Forgotten The Food. Indian cuisine is popular the world over, for great reason. Foodies, aspiring chefs, and anyone who appreciates artistic cuisine will never want to leave. Although meat is widely available, most Indians are ovo-lacto vegetarians, so finding something to eat won’t be hard for most. Curries, tandoories, and dishes featuring basmati rice are all standard fare. In addition to a broad range of regional Indian cuisines, international foods are also available, with Chinese food and American fast food also common.
Bask In The Culture. There is much to see and do in India. You can go to Hindu temples, such as the famed city of temples at Khajuraho, built in the 14th century. You can see a Sanskrit play or listen to a concert featuring Indian musical instruments, like the sitar or tabla. You can also see classical Indian dance with the best performers in India, many of whom have trained since childhood. Bollywood films — those fun, eye-popping, over-the-top flicks that often include song, dance, and music — are popular and cheap to see in India. You can grab a cricket bat and participate in India’s national pastime. Ironically, Indians are often better cricket players than the British, who brought the sport to India!
Practical Stuff to Know For Study Abroad In India
Currency. India’s currency is called the rupee and its conversion is extremely favorable to the U.S. dollar. You can get a good meal in an Indian restaurant for less than you’d pay for lunch on your home campus.
Visas. Students need a valid passport and can procure a student visa from their nearest Indian embassy or consulate. Program providers can advise on the process.
Health Issues. India has an excellent health care system, with modern facilities. Every campus has a clinic for basic student health needs. Prescriptions can be filled here; just bring your doctor’s prescriptions with you from home.