Studying in Australia can be an enriching and unforgettable experience for international students, experiencing a new life and culture. However, every new experience comes with its fair share of challenges. Nonetheless, with the right preparation and mindset, obstacles to living abroad can be overcome, and the rewards of studying in Australia can make it all worthwhile.

If you’re planning to study in Australia it means that you'll encounter some common challenges faced by international students. However, these obstacles present opportunities to grow and know about the foreign culture. By overcoming them, you'll not only gain wider life skills but also become more confident and self-reliant, as a person. Making your journey as an international student in Australia a positive and transformative one.

Familiarizing yourself with the challenges while studying in Australia can help you handle every situation effectively. In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the most common challenges that you may encounter, as an international student in Australia.

Major Challenges Faced by International Students to Study in Australia!

Language Barriers

Australia is culturally diverse, and English is its primary language. This can pose a major challenge to many international students, especially for those whose first language is not English. As a result, they may struggle with effective communication and interaction with others. Moreover, Australian English is differently spoken than the English spoken in other countries, which can further complicate things for the students.

What could be the solution to this challenge? Well, it’s all about practice and observations. You can become more proficient in your English communication by actively improving your language skills and frequently interacting with the locals to understand how they speak. With regular practice, you could be interacting with your classmates or the locals fluently.

Culture Shock

Australia is one of the most highly developed countries in the world, offering flourishing opportunities for international students to explore. However, foreign students may encounter a huge cultural shock right after they land in Australia, and it may take some time for them to adjust. 

From food and clothing to lifestyle and social norms, the usual aspects of daily life may be quite different from what students are accustomed to back home.

To help ease the transition and alleviate any feelings of cultural shock could be resolved by speaking with family and friends or interacting with other international students. In essence, with patience, openness, and a willingness to learn, students can successfully adapt to their new surroundings and embrace the many exciting opportunities that the country has to offer.

Accommodation

The high demand for student housing in Australia makes it a challenge to secure affordable and convenient accommodation for international students. Moreover, as international students are unaware of rental processes, local rents, and tenant rights it becomes a hassle to properly communicate these matters with the landlords or agents due to language barriers, and can easily be tricked into a scam.

To avoid such issues, you could explore student accommodations offered by your institution, or private rental options through real estate websites can be a suitable option as well. International students are highly active in social media groups, where they can gather information regarding housing as well and know what’s there to know. Moreover, sharing an apartment with a roommate can become more affordable and let you have a companion.

Academic Pressure

Australia is considered one of the top destinations for higher education due to its advanced educational system. However, international students may struggle since the approach to Australia’s academic culture is different from what they're used to. For instance, relationships between faculties and peers are quite informal and students often address their professors by their first names.

Practical assignments may be prioritized over exams in order to pass a course. Students can easily adjust to the curriculum as the universities or institutes offer resources and support to help international students adapt to the system. Moreover, taking advantage of numerous workshops, coaching, and interacting with professors and peers can help overcome the doubts of the students.

Financial Difficulties

Finance is one of the biggest obstacles faced by international students for higher studies, be it in Australia or some other foreign country. Particularly in Australia, higher education is quite expensive, with costs including tuition fees, rent, and living expenses as well.

To mitigate financial difficulties, international students work part-time for up to 20 hours a week while studying and work full-time during summer breaks. Besides, having the perfect job as an international student and earning in Australia can provide opportunities to develop new skills, socialize, and explore different parts of the country. Moreover, it’s essential to keep track of your expenses and income to ensure you don't overspend.

Employment Opportunities

In this competitive arena, securing a job has become a challenge for graduates. The case is similar not just in Australia but around the globe. Therefore, in order to increase your chances of finding a job after completing your studies, it's important to not get demotivated and be proactively patient in searching for a job.

There are several ways to improve your job prospects, one way is to seek guidance from your education consultants. At PFEC Global, we have been assisting and guiding our students with their education, as well as career counseling to help them achieve professional goals.

Homesickness

Living away from home and being separated from family and friends can make international students feel homesick. It can be challenging to adjust to the new environment, affecting their focus on their studies as well. 

Moreover, Australia's climate poses a challenge, as it differs from the student’s accustomed climate, and they may take some time to adjust to it. To avoid feeling homesick, being connected with your close ones back home is necessary, also interaction with international students can help too.

Discrimination 

Discrimination exists in almost every part of the world and it can be based on an individual's race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, or other personal characteristics. International students in Australia are frequently faced with intentional or unintentional discriminating remarks, verbal abuse, exclusion, harassment, or bullying.

Instead of staying silent, there are effective ways to prevent and cope with discrimination. It's important to speak up and seek assistance. You can confide in people you trust, such as peers, faculty members, friends, family, or a counselor. Additionally, you can reach out to local communities, report incidents to the police, and seek help from organizations that promote diversity and inclusion. Remember, taking action against discrimination is crucial for creating a safe environment for everyone.

Wrapping up

Studying abroad in Australia can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, pros, and cons. As an international student, you often face difficulties that are discussed in this blog, however, keep in mind these difficulties are just some obstacles to reaching your ultimate goals and dreams which are beyond some challenges. Overcoming the challenges and obstacles will make you come out as a more skilled individual.

However, one of the great things about Australia is that the friendly and helpful nature of the locals makes it easier for international students to adapt to their new surroundings and become part of the Australian culture in no time.

Please reach out to us at +610396201773 (Melbourne), +610283784282 (Sydney), +610870992258 (Adelaide) for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it hard to study in Australia?

Answer: Depending on the school or course of study, studying abroad in Australia is not difficult. Certain programs are simple, while others may be difficult, and some schools may be more expensive than others, depending on the curriculum.

Is Australia worth it for international students?

Answer: Australia is one of the top study-abroad destinations for international students and offers great academic opportunities at the world's best universities. The country provides excellent training facilities, lecturers, and student support services. Additionally, pursuing education in regional areas can also enhance your chances of obtaining a PR.

Is Australia friendly to international students?

Answer: Australia is not just known for its kangaroos, but it is also one of the most popular study-abroad locations for international students. Universities and campuses are famous for their present welcoming policies and diverse population, and they are overflowing with students from many countries and cultures.

Is it difficult to get a job in Australia for international students?

Answer: Foreign students are finding it difficult to find a job in Australia after graduation, not because they lack qualifications, but because employers are confused about visa laws. You must know all the requirements there are to know about your post-study visa so that it's easier to work in Australia, right after you graduate.