As the debate continues, prospective students are advised to conduct thorough research, consider financial implications, and explore alternative destinations before making a decision about studying in the UK
A final-year PhD student in Computer Science in the United Kingdom has raised serious concerns about the challenges faced by international students, particularly those from India, reported hindustantimes.com citing a Reddit post.
In a Reddit post titled ‘UK Is a Trap for International Students – My Personal Experience’, the student, identified by the username @Due-Somewhere-1608, cautioned aspiring students to reconsider their decision to move to the UK for higher education.
Harsh Realities of Studying in the UK
The student painted a grim picture of life in the UK for international students, citing high living costs, limited job opportunities, and financial struggles. “If you’re considering coming here, please think twice—you might end up wasting your money, time, and energy,” he wrote. He highlighted that many students are forced into low-paying part-time jobs that barely cover their living expenses.
He further described distressing experiences of his peers, stating, “I’ve seen friends who finished their Master’s and even extended their post-study visas become extremely thin, lose their hair, and eventually return to India because they simply couldn’t cope.”
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The post ignited a debate among netizens, with some echoing similar struggles
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“I completely agree. I came to the UK with high hopes, but the reality is much harsher than expected,” one user wrote
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“The cost of living is unbearable. Even with a part-time job, managing rent and other expenses is a nightmare,” another added
Financial Struggles and Job Market Concerns
The student also shed light on the financial burden borne by students and their families, exacerbated by soaring housing costs, unpredictable work hours, and the UK’s unpredictable weather. Additionally, he claimed that a one-year MSc degree from the UK holds less value compared to equivalent degrees in India or the United States. “It offers little return on investment compared to a full MS degree in the USA or an MTech, ME, or MS in India,” he warned.
A particularly concerning revelation was the high rate of returnees due to bleak job prospects. “99% of my friends have returned to India after completing their MSc or after MSc + PSW,” he stated, referring to the post-study work visa.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The post ignited a debate among netizens, with some echoing similar struggles. “I completely agree. I came to the UK with high hopes, but the reality is much harsher than expected,” one user wrote. Another added, “The cost of living is unbearable. Even with a part-time job, managing rent and other expenses is a nightmare.”
However, not everyone shared the same experience. Some users argued that success depends on one’s field of study and financial preparedness. “It’s not the same for everyone. If you have a solid financial plan and a good academic background, you can still make it work,” one commenter suggested. Another user highlighted the importance of networking and adaptability: “Some do struggle, but others thrive.”
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