Money stands in the way of education

Overseas study nowadays burns a deeper hole in our pockets

Even daily expenses skyrocket when one studies abroad

The thought of pursuing education overseas certainly excites any student. Who wouldn’t want the opportunity to further their studies in a foreign country while immersing themselves in new cultures and experiencing life in a different land?

No doubt, the thought of leaving the comfort of their home and staying miles away from loved ones might worry them a little, but students are ever ready to travel around the globe for education’s sake and possibly greener pastures.

But it seems that students and parents feel more financially burdened nowadays, no thanks to the rising costs of overseas education. Students are thinking twice as to whether it is really necessary to further their studies abroad considering their family’s financial restraints or if they should just give in and study locally.

Students who are studying out of the country are feeling the pinch as they try to keep their spending to a limit and live economically. But it’s not as easy as it seems.

“It’s quite tough on foreign students at times. Living in the US isn’t a bed of roses as many people back home would love to think. Prices of goods here are not that cheap. I target the grocery stores once a week only since I’m on a budget,” said Alvin Moses, a magazine journalism student at SUNY Plattsburgh, New York.

He added that some foreign students had no choice but resort to applying for part-time jobs in order to cover their student fees and cope with the rising costs of basic necessities.

Meanwhile, parents back home in Malaysia are fretting and scratching their heads over the surge in education fees. They complain that even though they want nothing but the best of education for their children, the hike in prices has left them digging deep into their reserves.

“I guess times have certainly changed. During my student days, the fees weren’t as expensive as they are now. It’s burning a hole in my pocket because not only do I have to fork out money for the fees, but I’m also giving my daughter monthly allowance for her daily expenses,” mentioned Mr. Churian Kamaran, a private sector worker, whose daughter is currently studying medicine in Russia.

Saw Vee Mae, a pharmacy student at Nottingham University, UK, stated that it doesn’t help that the VAT (value added tax) has been increased by the British government since January 4 this year. Due to this, prices have mostly increased from transportation to food.

“At first it was a little hard to swallow but so far we’re managing. Since I’m sharing an apartment with my friends, we share food costs and find the cheapest way to travel and make the most of it. When it comes to food, we always aim at promotions and offers, “she said.

Saw also mentioned that students should try to be more independent and find ways in trying to make ends meet instead of relying on their parents too much.

Here in the UK we can always look out for vouchers online as there can be really good deals. Websites such as studentbeans.com offers buy 1 free 1 vouchers for cinemas and certain restaurants so we can save a lot from those,” she added.

(By Marie Erin Pereira)