The Reality of Studying in the UK: Insights from Indian Students

Every year, many Indian students head to the UK for education, but the reality often differs from the idealized version portrayed on social media. Yashvi Bhandari, a student in the UK, shares her experiences regarding the difficulties of finding part-time work and managing finances. She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and preparation before making the decision to study abroad. This article explores the real struggles faced by students and encourages informed choices about education and career paths.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2026, 14:24 IST

The Illusion vs. The Reality of Studying Abroad

By Pallavi Katoch

The Illusion vs. The Reality of Studying Abroad
Each year, numerous Indian students embark on a journey to the United Kingdom, seeking degrees, international exposure, and the hope of a brighter future. Social media often showcases this experience in a flattering light—pictures of campus cafes, graduation ceremonies, and a seemingly settled life abroad. However, students currently studying in the UK reveal that the actual experience can be quite different, especially regarding the challenge of securing part-time employment.

One such student, Yashvi Bhandari, who is pursuing her higher education in the UK, has taken to Instagram to candidly discuss the financial and logistical hurdles of student life abroad. She emphasizes that the struggles she faces rarely align with the polished narrative presented to prospective students in India.

“Finding part-time work is one of our biggest hurdles,” Yashvi explains. “Many students come here expecting to support themselves through part-time jobs, but the reality often contradicts those expectations.”

A Challenging Job Market

Yashvi's experiences are echoed by many. Under the current UK student visa regulations, international students can only work up to 20 hours per week during term time—a limit that was never intended to be generous and has become increasingly difficult to navigate.

In recent years, the job market for part-time and graduate positions in the UK has become more competitive, with a slower hiring pace and increased competition for entry-level roles, particularly in sectors like retail and hospitality that many international students depend on. Reports indicate that competition for job vacancies has reached unprecedented levels, making it harder for students who rely on part-time income to find work.

“Despite applying for numerous positions, many students find themselves unemployed for extended periods, struggling to cover rent, tuition, and daily expenses,” Yashvi notes.

Encouragement, Not Discouragement

Yashvi is careful to clarify that her message is one of preparation rather than discouragement. “I don’t want to dissuade students from studying abroad,” she states. “Pursuing education in another country can provide invaluable learning experiences, global exposure, and personal development.”

Her primary concern is that students and their families may make significant financial commitments without fully understanding the associated risks. “It’s crucial for students and their families to make informed decisions. They should research the job market, comprehend the financial obligations, and not assume that finding a part-time job will be straightforward,” she advises.

Yashvi also challenges the notion that studying abroad is inherently superior. “India has many excellent educational and career opportunities, so students should base their decisions on facts rather than assumptions,” she adds.

Spreading Awareness Through Social Media

Yashvi has been sharing her experiences on her Instagram account, @bhandariyashviii, where she provides insights aimed at students and parents contemplating studying in the UK. Her core message is not a warning but a call for thorough research—understand the job market before arriving, grasp the true cost of living, and create a financial safety net instead of taking unnecessary risks. As she puts it, awareness doesn’t crush dreams; it fortifies them.

(This article is based on insights shared directly by Yashvi Bhandari.)