10 Things Indian Students Must Know Before Studying Abroad in 2025

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad in 2025, you’re not alone. More than 8 lakh Indian students packed their bags last year to chase international degrees. It’s exciting to think about sitting in world-class classrooms, meeting people from across the globe, and building a career without limits.

But before you hop on that flight, there’s a lot to figure out from entrance exams to finances, from visas to adjusting to a new culture. The good news? With the right guidance, you can plan your journey smoothly. That’s exactly why we put this together for a practical guide on the 10 things you must consider before pursuing your higher studies abroad. And remember, when it comes to funding your dream, Lorien Finance is here to simplify the money side of things so you can focus on learning.

Academic Eligibility & Admission Requirements

The first step is making sure you meet the entry requirements with tests like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE. Most universities will look at:

• Language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Entrance exams such as GRE or GMAT for postgraduate programs.
• Your academic record — a strong GPA or consistent marks.

Each country has its quirks. For example, Germany values academic consistency, while the US also considers your extracurriculars and overall profile.

Start preparing for these exams 9–12 months before your intake. It keeps you stress-free closer to deadlines.

Financial Planning & Education Loan Options

Money is often the biggest concern. Tuition alone can look overwhelming:

• USA: ₹20–40 lakhs per year
• Canada: ₹15–25 lakhs per year
• Germany: Mostly nominal fees at public universities, but up to ₹10–15 lakhs in private ones
• Australia: ₹18–30 lakhs per year

And don’t forget living expenses, which can add another ₹7–12 lakhs annually depending on the country.

That’s where secured and unsecured education loans step in:

• Secured loans need collateral papers like property documents.
• Unsecured loans depend on your co-applicant’s income and credit profile.

With Lorien Finance, you don’t have to run from bank to bank. One application connects you to 17+ lenders, and you get quick loan sanction and disbursal, provided with complete verified documentation.

Cost of Living & Currency Considerations

It’s not just tuition. Your rent, food, transport, and daily essentials matter too:

• Canada: ₹6–10 lakhs/year
• Germany: ₹7–9 lakhs/year
• Australia: ₹10–12 lakhs/year

And here’s a hidden factor — currency exchange. If the rupee weakens, your costs go up instantly.

That’s why many students also take help with forex services. Lorien Finance includes forex as a study abroad essential so you can lock better rates and save money over time.

Scholarships & Funding Opportunities

Scholarships are every student’s best friend. You should definitely explore:

• Government awards like the JN Tata Endowment or National Overseas Scholarship.
• Country-specific programs such as DAAD (Germany) or Fulbright (USA).
• University scholarships that may cover partial tuition.

💡 Pro tip: Having a loan sanction letter ready makes you look financially prepared and can actually increase your chances of landing a scholarship.

Loan Repayment & Post-Study Job Market

It’s smart to think about repayment even before taking a loan. Two terms you’ll often hear they are Moratorium Period & Grace Period:

• Moratorium period: You don’t pay EMIs while studying (and a little while after).
• Grace period: Just the time after graduation before EMIs kick in.

Your course choice matters too. STEM grads in fields like CS and Data Science often land jobs with salaries around ₹40–60 lakhs abroad. Non-STEM grads may see ₹25–35 lakhs to start with.

Use Lorien Finance’s EMI calculators to understand how much you’ll be paying back before you commit to a loan amount.

Visa & Documentation Checklist

Your visa application needs proof that you can afford to study. This usually includes:

• Offer letter (I-20 if US)
• Collateral papers if you’re going for a secured loan
• Loan sanction letter or proof of funds
• Academic records and test scores

Since visa timelines vary from country to country, start gathering documents at least 6 months before departure.

Cultural & Lifestyle Adjustments

Living abroad is exciting but also challenging at first. From food habits to language, things will feel different.

• Culture shock is real, but it eases with time.
• Joining student associations helps you find a community faster.
• Cooking at home instead of eating out daily can cut costs by almost 40%.

Health Insurance & Safety Abroad

Health insurance is compulsory in countries like the US and Germany, and costs between ₹50,000–1,00,000 per year. It may feel like an extra expense, but it protects you from sudden medical bills that can run into lakhs abroad.

Also, always keep a small emergency fund aside for safety.

Part-Time Work & Internships

Part-time jobs help you cover living expenses and give valuable exposure:

• US & Canada: 20 hours/week during semesters.
• Australia: Flexible work rules, often more hours allowed.
• Germany: 120 full or 240 half days annually.

Internships during your course also boost your profile and improve job chances after graduation.

Long-Term ROI & Career Prospects

Studying abroad is an investment. Look at the long-term value:

• Countries like Canada and Australia offer easier PR pathways.
• Work experience abroad often doubles your earning potential if you return to India.
• Networking while studying can open global career opportunities.

How Lorien Finance Helps Indian Students

If finances are holding you back, this is where Lorien Finance steps in. We’re built to make your study abroad funding simple:

• One application for 17+ lenders — compare, choose, and save time.
• Quick sanction and disbursal with complete verified documentation.
• No collateral, no co-signer options so you don’t have to depend on anyone.
• Support beyond loans: forex, health insurance, and even accommodation help.
• Student-first counseling: transparent advice, EMI calculators, and expert support.

With Lorien Finance by your side, the stress of financing your education doesn’t have to stand in the way of your dreams.

Conclusion

Studying abroad is more than just picking a university, it’s about being fully prepared for every challenge that comes your way. From academic requirements and costs to cultural adjustments and long-term planning, these 10 points cover what you need to think through.

And when it comes to funding, you don’t have to navigate the maze alone. Lorien Finance helps you find the right study abroad loan with quick sanction and disbursal, provided with complete verified documentation. Your dream is within reach. Click on apply now and check your eligibility today to take the first confident step toward your international education.

FAQs

What is the minimum CIBIL score required for a study abroad loan?
Most banks look for 650+, but NBFCs may accept lower with strong co-applicant income.

Can I get a loan without collateral for higher studies abroad?
Yes, unsecured loans up to ₹40 lakhs are available through NBFCs and certain banks.

How much money should I show as proof of funds for a visa?
Varies by country; the US typically requires one year’s tuition + living expenses, Germany mandates €11,208 in a blocked account.

Which countries have the lowest living cost for Indian students?
Germany, Italy, and Poland are more affordable compared to the US, UK, and Australia.