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An Indian man living in Europe says many students arrive with big dreams but soon find themselves juggling loans, studies and low-paid jobs just to stay afloat
His take has struck a chord online. (Representational image/Gemini AI generated)
Indian students often dream of building a better future abroad, but for many, the reality is far from easy. Balancing studies, part-time work and daily expenses can quickly become overwhelming. Many people move overseas hoping for better career opportunities and a higher standard of living. But an Indian man living in Europe says life as an international student is much harder than most people expect.
In a video shared on Instagram, Rahul Mahajan spoke about the struggles many Indian students face after leaving behind comfortable lives in India. According to him, students often spend a huge amount of money to study abroad, only to find themselves juggling classes, part-time jobs and financial stress.
He Talks About Daily Struggles
Mahajan said many students have no choice but to take up any job they can find to support themselves.
“The condition of Indian students is the worst here in foreign countries and in Europe. They spend so much money to come here, and all day long in [foreign countries], they have to work, which they would never have to do in India. Okay?” he said. He added that students often end up doing work they would never have considered back home.
Since international students are allowed to work only a limited number of hours each week, earning enough to cover expenses can be difficult. “And no matter how small the job is, such money can never be made because you only get to work 20 hours a month… 20 hours a week, and even then, you have to do all kinds of work,” he said.
Loans Make Things Even Harder
Mahajan also said education loans increase the pressure on students. Along with paying rent, buying food and managing other living costs, many also worry about repaying the money they borrowed to study overseas.
“Some money cannot be completed; loans are taken from there, and there is pressure to pay off that loan. From every side, people’s taunts about when they are going to return—that NRI status is on their heads—they live under that pressure too. On top of that, they have to complete their studies and go through the citizenship process,” he added.
The video was shared with the caption, “Many Indian students who lived a comfortable life in India end up taking on menial jobs after moving abroad.”
Social Media Users Share Similar Views
The video received support from several viewers, many of whom agreed with Mahajan’s observations.
“Yes, I agree with you,” a user wrote. Another commented, “This is very true.”
A person said, “I completely support what you said.” Another user added, “This is right.”
Students preparing to study abroad should engage in structured financial planning 12-18 months in advance, estimating total costs including accommodation, food, insurance, transport, and emergency expenses, not just tuition fees.
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