I was on a call with an NRI from Dubai. Husband & wife were fond of each other but had one contention… The husband was keen to settle in India after few years but the Wife was not. REASON: She was ready to adjust to any length but she wanted her children to get an education in a foreign country. NRI Want Kids to Get Foreign Education and it is an attractive pulling factor for most parents in India & abroad.
Why NRI parents want foreign education for their children? For NRI it is understandable as they have tasted life in a foreign country. They have met & worked with parents & individuals who studied abroad. They must get impressed and have solid reasons.
This is true… most NRI s want their children to study outside India. Here are few reasons for planning this.
Qualifications Value
Around the world universities from Canada, the USA, Europe & Singapore are counted at the top. They have high academic standards and rigorous quality controls. This means that you’ll be earning a high-quality education that will open doors for your future and benefit your career over the long term. Most of these degrees, diplomas, or certificates are globally recognized as being equivalent to those of Commonwealth countries.
Affordability
The quality education and living standards demand money. For parents who can or can plan to afford find foreign education costly but worthwhile. Canada, Dubai, Australia amongst the costliest places in the world, but the cost of living and tuition fees for international students are generally lower than in other countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
Choice of Courses
Many countries offer a very exhaustive list of course which are not available elsewhere. There are many niche subjects in Sciences or Philosophy or Arts which are not available in India.
Multicultural Society
The parents love a multicultural upbringing. They want the child to experience living with ethnic groups and students from various countries. It is not hard to find local foods, clubs, and recreation activities associated with specific cultures. So, students can have been in touch with local culture and learn about the international living experience.
Healthy and Safety
As an international student in person enjoys the same freedoms, respect for human rights, equality, and a stable and peaceful society available to locals. Most NRIs especially those who moved by themselves and not with their parents have experienced this. So this is a primary reason why NRIs want kids to get foreign education.
World-Class Language Education
Most of the countries are bi or multi-lingual. Since teaching is also multi-language students get a feel of foreign language & accent. They develop a second language which helps them in their working life.
Exciting Campus Lifestyle
Foreign universities offer a first-class infrastructure. Most campuses are wired with the latest in sophisticated technology systems & modern amenities. These include Olympic quality sports facilities, public concert halls, art galleries, free transport on-campus & weekend gateways. This offers enormous possibilities for learning and leisure. Plus, you’ll have incredible opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and gain valuable experience through student-run competitions, radio stations, newspapers, and businesses.
Innovative and Abundant Research Opportunities
Since research is one of the key components in foreign universities, students get ample opportunity to become a part of this vibrant aspect of education. The government & alumni help in bringing education and industry together. They support research especially in fields of – telecommunications, medicine, agriculture, education, computer technology, environmental science & scientific explorations.
Land of Possibilities
Each of these countries offers a dynamic and hands-on academic environment to learn and utilize your learnings. You will not only acquire knowledge and skills in analysis and communication, but you will also learn how to express yourself, demonstrate your creativity, and develop your self-confidence! You get many companies & research groups who are looking for collaboration in the classroom or business.
Possibility of Immigration
Most of these countries allow immigration with certain terms & conditions. International students with foreign country credentials and work experience may apply for permanent residency without having to that country. Even if you move back to your country your chance of a good job offer increase. In the future also companies look for employees who have diverse education and willing to cross borders for them by accepting to work o=in foreign countries.
Should You do Foreign Education Planning for Your Kids?
YES & NO.
Yes, you should be looking at the benefits at hand. One can plan this as a goal like a retirement. If you have few years in hand best way is to let your financial planner know it. Tell him you aim for this and he will plan accordingly. The best way is to plan it beforehand and start contributions. In case of a shortfall, one can look at banks to fund it through education loans.
No, because as a parent myself I would focus on my kid’s interest & inclination going ahead. I don’t want to or will never bound them with my choices. I will also not like to bore them with my stories of sacrifice that what “ I “ did for their education. But as said earlier I will be ready financially.
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