Overseas Jobs – Can Study Abroad Lead To A Better Career & Life?

KUALA LUMPUR, 24.11.2021 – There is a wide belief that studying abroad is the gateway to better overseas jobs with higher pay. The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic had pressured many to seek financial stability and secure emergency funds, and one sure way of doing so is to pursue an education abroad.

With the international student population predicted to reach 8 million by 2025, it is no surprise that studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world, especially in countries with limited job opportunities.

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According to Education at a Glance 2014: Who studies abroad and where? report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the limited career opportunities in international students’ home countries was the main drive for them to opt for studying abroad. It was a sure path to increase their value in the job market and to obtain a competitive edge.

However, the question remains: Does seeking overseas jobs through studying abroad guarantee a better overall quality of life?

Several decades ago, studying abroad was unaffordable to many – tuition fees, high cost of living, miscellaneous expenses – it was more like a luxury than a necessity.

However, the increasing numbers of education loans and university scholarships are positive news to students from middle-income households. This means more students have the opportunity to study abroad, find overseas jobs and earn a higher salary, which gives them a shot at providing themselves and their families a better quality of life.

Generally, overseas jobs pay better than the companies in an employee’s home country. With the difference of currency between countries, international graduates have a higher chance to earn more income.

For example, the exchange rate between Malaysia and the United States is RM4.21 to USD1 as of November 2021. The median annual personal earning of a US immigrant is $31,900 (2018), which means one can earn up to RM135,00 or more per year.

The global exposure also provides international students with more experience at facing challenges. As many foreign universities emphasize practical-based learning, international students are better prepared for the workforce after graduation.

Additionally, studying abroad ultimately leads to a better chance at overseas jobs due to the personal development that students gain whilst abroad. From independence, confidence, cross-cultural understanding, and responsibility to linguistic skills, the self-growth indirectly affects their performance in job interviews and at the workplace.

Studying abroad can be a pathway to a prosperous life. The outcome, however, differs for each individual as it highly depends on their capabilities to get a degree and start a career overseas, which requires hard work and determination.

Applying to study abroad can be tedious. This is where you should seek help from a study abroad agency to get the job done for you.

Eduloco offers 1-on-1 personalized consultations for free. From choosing a university to student visa applications, our consultants will get them done for you – for free!

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Lifestyle. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.