Rising to challenges
International or ‘overseas’ students also have specific challenges to face.
Language, for starters. Although most have to pass English tests to be accepted, the tests are usually written and the students may need help with spoken English — to begin with at least. Some universities provide it. Some don’t.
Then there’s the possibility of culture shock, even for Europeans and Americans. And home can seem a long way away.
They often get landed in the worst of the university accommodation and don’t know how to complain.
International students associations can be a particularly important support system, although country-specific groups can prove even more helpful. Some universities have a tendency to bunch international students together under a ‘foreigners’ banner.
Beyond that, it’s worth asking what support may be available if it’s needed.
Last updated on: 07 November 2008