“Think Twice”: Indian Student Warns About Studying in the UK, Calls It a “Trap” for International Students
Patel
20/03/2025
Table of Contents
New Delhi, March 20, 2025 — A Reddit post written by an Indian student in the United Kingdom has gone viral, raising major concerns about the reality of studying abroad. The student described the UK as a “trap” for international students, citing poor job prospects, high living costs, and lack of post-study support.
This candid and emotional account has sparked widespread discussions online, urging aspiring students to reconsider the allure of foreign education without adequate planning.
What the Student Said
In the Reddit post, titled “Think Twice Before Coming to the UK”, the anonymous Indian student painted a stark picture of life as an international student in the UK:
“The reality is nothing like what you imagine. There’s very little support after your degree, part-time jobs barely cover living expenses, and companies don’t prefer hiring international graduates due to visa constraints.”
The post also warns students not to be misled by influencers and agents who paint an overly rosy picture of the UK education system.
Growing Disillusionment Among Indian Students Abroad
The Reddit thread is not an isolated incident. Thousands of Indian students travel abroad each year, often investing ₹25–50 lakhs or more. But many report difficulties such as:
- Limited post-study work visas
- Low chances of full-time employment
- High tuition fees and rent in cities like London and Manchester
- Visa renewal stress
- Lack of career support from universities
This is especially relevant after recent UK immigration policy changes, which have made it harder for international graduates to stay and work.
Numbers Tell the Story
| Year | Indian Students in UK | Post-Study Visa Approvals |
|---|---|---|
| 2021–2022 | 1,26,000+ | ~45% secured full-time roles |
| 2023–2024 | 1,39,000+ | Further decline in job offers |
While the UK remains one of the top destinations for higher education, the employment-to-investment ratio is discouraging many.
Student Reactions
The Reddit post attracted thousands of upvotes and hundreds of comments, mostly from other Indian students echoing similar concerns. Some said they regretted the decision, while others advised future aspirants to “plan financially and research employment stats first.”
“My entire savings are gone, and I’m still jobless after a year,” commented another student in the thread.
What Experts Say
Education consultants and returnee alumni suggest that international students must:
- Have a solid post-study plan
- Choose job-relevant courses
- Avoid agents promising unrealistic outcomes
- Be cautious of social media hype
Dr. Anjali Mehra, a global education advisor, says,
“Foreign education should not be viewed as an escape plan or shortcut to PR. It’s a high-risk, high-investment decision.”
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FAQs: Studying in the UK
Q1. Is studying in the UK worth it for Indian students?
A: It depends. Top universities with job-aligned programs may offer a return on investment, but average institutions may not.
Q2. Are part-time jobs enough to survive?
A: Part-time income may cover basic expenses, but it rarely supports tuition or long-term stability.
Q3. What are the chances of getting a job after graduation?
A: The chances vary by field. STEM, AI, and healthcare graduates fare better than business or humanities students.
Q4. What alternatives are students considering now?
A: Germany, Canada, Netherlands, and France — due to better work policies, lower tuition fees, and long-term residency options.
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