Overcoming Cultural Barriers in Studying Abroad

In a nation where obtaining an education overseas is often viewed as a significant achievement, the experience of a young woman highlights obstacles that are seldom discussed — primarily family control, cultural norms, and an education system that frequently overlooks personal aspirations.

A 25-year-old, with over five years of experience in a creative sector, saw her dream becoming attainable. Although she lacked formal qualifications, her strong skill set earned her a place at the world’s second-ranked university in London for her field, enrolling in a Master’s programme set to begin in September 2025. Remarkably, she also secured an 80% scholarship — a distinction few achieve — which reduced her loan amount to a manageable ₹15-20 lakh.

However, her ambitions quickly began to fade.

She had navigated the entire application process independently, handling everything from statements of purpose (SOPs) to interviews and funding inquiries without asking her family for assistance. Yet, her father refused to co-sign her education loan, as shared in a post on Reddit. His refusal didn’t stem from financial concerns or doubts about her ability to repay — as she had a stable income and a solid repayment strategy — but rather from a belief that “no one in the paternal family would be okay” with her studying abroad.

After weeks filled with emotional turmoil and pleading, she reached out to a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) that ultimately agreed to grant her a loan without a co-applicant. However, delays in the loan disbursement resulted in her missing the university’s deposit deadline, and with it, her scholarship was forfeited.

While the university exhibited understanding, the scholarship had already been allocated to another deserving student.

Currently, she finds herself in the process of repaying the loan and relinquishing her admission — a dream cut short that could have significantly propelled her career.

This account does not depict a scenario of financial constraints or academic failures. Instead, it unveils a narrative of systemic control and the silent, overwhelming influence of “no” — not from strangers, but from those who are traditionally expected to provide support.

“It was never about the money. It was always about control,” was shared in her post.

Now, she is seeking legal emancipation from her family, aspiring to reapply next year without the necessity of a co-applicant. Even though the process is gradual, her determination remains unyielded.