A Guide to Studying Abroad for Pakistani Students
Studying abroad has become an increasingly popular choice for Pakistani students, especially as international mobility rises again. Each year, thousands of students from Pakistan are granted international student visas to study in a variety of countries, with over 60,000 Pakistani students currently enrolled in universities worldwide.
Choosing the right country for your studies can be a daunting task. You need to consider various factors like student visas, affordability, quality of education, and scholarship availability. This guide aims to provide valuable information to help you start your journey and understand the steps needed to move forward.
Most Popular Destinations for Pakistani Students
Pakistani students have a wide range of countries to choose from, including both nearby nations and those on the other side of the world. Here are some of the most popular study destinations:
China
China consistently ranks well in the QS World University Rankings and is increasingly popular among international students. More than 30,000 Pakistani students currently study in China, making it one of the top choices.
– Living Costs: $750 – $1,250 per month
– Tuition Fees: $3,000 – $15,000 per year for general degrees, and $20,000 – $50,000 per year for specialized degrees like medicine and law.
Australia
Australian cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane rank highly in the QS Best Student Cities rankings. Australia offers a welcoming, immigrant-friendly environment along with world-class education and research facilities. Post-graduation employment visas and opportunities make it an attractive option.
– Tuition Fees: $20,000 – $45,000 per year
– Living Expenses: $950 – $2,000 per month in major cities
United States of America
The USA is a highly popular destination for Pakistani students, especially for undergraduate studies. Hundreds of American universities are listed in the QS World University Rankings, many of which are highly prestigious.
– Tuition Fees: $15,000 – $55,000 per year, depending on the type of university
– Living Costs: $2,000+ per month in major cities like New York and San Francisco
Study Abroad for Free in North America
1. Barclay College (KS), United States
Students at this private Christian college in Kansas attend tuition-free if they live on campus.
2. Berea College (KY), United States
At Kentucky’s Berea College, no student pays tuition. The scholarship amounts to nearly $200,000 over four years. Students must work at least 10 hours per week on campus.
3. College of the Ozarks (MO), United States
Full-time students at the College of the Ozarks in Missouri pay no tuition, but part-time students shell out $310 per credit hour. For those attending full time, the tuition waiver requires they work 15 hours a week, plus two 40-hour weeks during the academic year.
4. Curtis Institute of Music (PA), United States
Prospective students must audition for enrollment into Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute of Music, which has offered full-tuition scholarships to all of its undergraduate and graduate students since 1928.
5. NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States
NYU Grossman School of Medicine awards all students enrolled in the MD degree program Full-Tuition Scholarships as part of a tuition-free initiative, so that any student can pursue the dream of becoming a physician without the burden of overwhelming student debt. It is only open to international students who have completed their undergrad in the USA.
United Kingdom
The UK has a long-standing relationship with Pakistan and remains a preferred destination for Pakistani students. Over 13,000 Pakistani students enroll in UK universities each year.
– Tuition Fees: $15,000 – $25,000 per year
– Living Costs: Higher in cities like London and Edinburgh, lower in smaller towns like Swansea and Sheffield
Most Popular Courses for Pakistani Students
Many Pakistani students pursuing education abroad opt for degrees and masters in scientific and technological fields, likely due to better job opportunities in these areas. Popular courses include:
– Computer Science
– Engineering
– Physics
– Biology
– Healthcare
– Finance
– Business Management
How to Study Abroad from Pakistan
Each university has specific entry requirements, but there are general requirements Pakistani students should be aware of:
– Language Proficiency: Minimum TOEFL score of 80-85 or IELTS score of 6.0-6.5. Some countries may require other language tests.
– International Passport: Valid until the end of your planned degree
– Recommendation Letters: At least two, academic or professional
– Birth Certificate
– Student Visa: For the country of study
– School/University Transcripts
– Healthcare Documents: Including insurance
– Bank Statements: Proof of funds
The Student Visa Process for Pakistani Students
The student visa application process varies by country. Begin applying as soon as you receive an enrollment offer from a university, as the process can take time. Research any scholarships or financial aid opportunities early to support your study abroad journey.
Scholarships for Pakistani Students Abroad
Many scholarships are available to Pakistani students, including:
– Fulbright Scholarships (USA)
– Macquarie Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships (Australia)
– UEA International Development Full Fees Scholarships (UK)
– Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships (Belgium)
– Türkiye Scholarships (Turkey)
– Singapore International Graduate Award (Singapore)
If you cannot secure a scholarship, consider applying for a study loan. Loan applications typically require collateral or a co-signer, often a parent or guardian.
Summary:
Studying abroad is a significant commitment but offers immense rewards in terms of academic, personal, and professional growth. By carefully planning and preparing for the application process, Pakistani students can maximize their opportunities and make the most of their study abroad experiences. Embark on this exciting journey with confidence, knowing that the world is your classroom.
