1️⃣ Growing Up in South Africa: What It's Really Like
"South Africa does not experience such extreme summer. When I came to India at peak summer, it was quite something I had to absorb."
Richa grew up in a suburban area close to Pretoria, one of South Africa's three capitals. Her family maintained deep roots in Indian culture from Uttar Pradesh, creating a unique bicultural upbringing that would later influence her decision to pursue higher education in India.
- Location: Suburban area close to Pretoria (one of South Africa's three capitals)
- Family: Nuclear family with parents and elder brother (who was mostly at boarding school)
- Education: Grade 1 to Grade 12 in South Africa
- Culture: Family deeply rooted in Indian culture from Uttar Pradesh
🌍 South Africa Context
Population: Heavily underpopulated compared to India
Weather: Not as hot as people assume — no extreme summers
Culture Shock: Moving from underpopulated to overpopulated country was significant
2️⃣ Why Choose India for Higher Education Over South Africa?
"I always wanted to move away from home. When I suggested going to India for my studies, my parents were hands-on right from the get-go because we have Indian roots."
Many international students wonder whether India offers quality higher education compared to Western countries. Richa's decision was driven by multiple factors that go beyond just academics. Here's what motivated her choice:
- ✓ Independence: Wanted boarding school experience and to live away from home
- ✓ Cultural Roots: Family from Uttar Pradesh with deep Indian cultural values
- ✓ Family Support: Father immediately supportive, mother took some time
- ✓ Strategic Location: Chose Banaras (Varanasi) to be near family in UP
- ✓ Affordability: Indian universities offer quality education at fraction of Western costs
For students from the Indian diaspora, studying in India offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with cultural heritage while gaining internationally recognized qualifications. Learn more about returning to India as an NRI for education and career opportunities.
3️⃣ How to Get Admission in BHU as an International Student
One of the most common questions from international students is: "How difficult is it to get admission in Indian universities?" The answer might surprise you. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India's premier institutions, has a structured process for international admissions that's more accessible than many assume.
📋 Admission Requirements (2012-2017)
- Criteria: Meet minimum percentage in Grade 10 and 12
- No Conversion: South African grades accepted as-is (in English)
- No Entrance Exam: For Bachelor of Arts — varies by course and country
- Foreign Quota: 10-15% for international students, ~5% for NRIs
- First Come First Serve: Application processed in order received
- HIV Test: Required for all international students
⚠️ Course-Specific Requirements
Engineering/Medicine: Students had to give exams and meet additional criteria
Regular Courses (BA, BCom, BSc): Less challenging requirements
Country-Specific: Nepal students had different processes
Application Process:
- Contact International Center at BHU
- Get application dates and criteria
- Submit Grade 10 and 12 certificates
- Follow up regularly (they take their time processing)
- Receive acceptance letter
- Find accommodation (can be challenging)
4️⃣ What Are the Differences Between Indian and South African Education Systems?
"In South Africa it was mostly checking your knowledge irrespective of how you communicate. In BHU, if it's a 5-mark question, I have to write two long pages just to answer those five marks."
Understanding the education system differences is crucial for international students planning to study in India. The assessment methods, answer formats, and academic expectations vary significantly from Western education systems.
🇿🇦 South Africa System
- Focus on knowledge demonstration
- Flexible answer formats accepted
- Bullet points or paragraphs both work
- Crisp, concise answers valued
🇮🇳 Indian System (BHU)
- Length of answer matters significantly
- Must follow specific format taught in class
- Elaborate explanations required
- Guide books essential for understanding expectations
Adjustment Period: Took time to understand assessment style. Initially got lower marks until learning to "answer for the teacher" rather than just demonstrating knowledge.
5️⃣ The Bengali Language Challenge
"It was the toughest three years of my life. If you fail your language subject, you fail your year or semester."
🚨 BHU Language Rule
If majoring in a language (English Literature), you CANNOT pick that same language as your required language subject. Must pick a different language.
The Challenge:
- Spoke fluent Hindi but couldn't read or write it
- Advised to take Bengali (starts from alphabets vs Hindi which dives into literature)
- Notes were in Bengali — couldn't read or understand
- Had to ask someone to read notes, write in English, then memorize
- Used rhyming techniques to memorize Bengali sentences
- Studied only enough to pass (50%) — left rest of paper blank
💡 Survival Strategy
- Get someone to read Bengali notes aloud
- Write them down in English
- Record yourself saying the sentences
- Rhyme Bengali words with words from other languages
- Memorize enough to pass (aim for 50%)
Result: Professor was understanding and supportive, helped push through despite breakdowns
Language challenges are common for international students. If you're considering studying in India, understanding the cultural adaptation process can help you prepare better.
6️⃣ Student Life at BHU
"The first few months were tough. I even called my parents saying I need to come back. But my dad suggested sitting it out until January — and I'm glad I did."
Initial Challenges:
- Arrived at peak summer — very hot and humid
- Crowd and pollution adjustment
- Wanted to return home initially
- Academic year timing helped (SA starts January, India starts June/July)
What Helped:
- ✓ International Hostel: All students were international — shared similar experiences
- ✓ Freedom: Coming from strict parents, enjoyed independence
- ✓ Friendships: Made best friends during this phase
- ✓ Community: When others around you are similar, adjustment gets easier
International Student Base:
- Large number from Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Mauritius
- After 2016: Huge influx of African students
- Many on SAARC scholarships (government-sponsored)
- Before 2016: Richa was the only self-financed South African student
7️⃣ Fee Structure: International vs Indian Students
"My hostel fees would be ₹7,000-8,000 per semester while Indian students paid maybe ₹500."
| Aspect | International Students | Indian Students |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 2-3x higher | Base rate |
| Hostel Fees (per semester) | ₹7,000-8,000 | ₹500 |
| Facilities | Could use coolers, kettles, induction | Restricted on certain appliances |
| Overall Cost | Still cheaper than private universities | Very affordable |
Note: Government universities like BHU are relatively cheaper even for international students compared to private universities in India. If you're planning your finances for returning to India, check out our guide on financial planning for NRIs returning to India.
8️⃣ After Master's: Marriage and Settling in India
Timeline:
- June 2017: Completed Master's
- Convocation Delays: BHU kept postponing — decided to go back to SA
- Brief Work: Worked at NGO school in Banaras for a few months
- November 2017: Returned for convocation, traveled India (Kerala, Himachal)
- June 2018: Got engaged (entire family came to India)
- February 2019: Got married
- Since 2019: Permanently living in India (New Delhi)
📜 Degree Recognition
When bringing BHU degrees to South Africa, had to get them evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) to understand the level of study compared to SA standards. This is an important consideration for anyone planning to use their Indian degree internationally.
9️⃣ Is Delhi Safer Than South Africa? A Real Comparison
"If I'm in Delhi, I don't have to think twice about safety. I just call an Ola or Uber or drive myself. In South Africa, my family would say 'no way you're taking a cab, we have to drive you.'"
Safety is a major concern for anyone considering relocation. Richa's firsthand experience living in both countries provides valuable insights that challenge common stereotypes about safety in India versus South Africa.
✅ What She Loves About India
- ✓ Convenience: Everything delivered to doorstep in 10 minutes
- ✓ Cost of Living: Ridiculously reasonable
- ✓ Technology: Advanced apps and services
- ✓ Transportation: Easy auto-rickshaws, Uber, railway system
- ✓ Safety: Feels safer moving around (blends in as Indian)
- ✓ House Help: Can afford cook, maid — generating employment while enjoying convenience
Many NRIs returning to India discover similar advantages. Read about managing reverse culture shock when returning to India to prepare for the transition.
🇿🇦 South Africa Challenges
- Crime Rate: Relatively higher, safety concerns
- Transportation: No railway system, must drive or wait for buses (can take an hour)
- Wealth Disparity: Significant gap between races
- Standing Out: As Indian in black neighborhood, more visible
- House Help: Mother struggling with health, can only find help once a week
- ✓ Less Population: This is a plus
🔟 Advice for Those Considering India
"Pick your battles. If you're looking for negative things, you'll always find them. If you're looking for positive things, you'll find them."
🎯 Key Takeaways
- Focus on Priorities: Decide what matters more to you
- Middle Class Advantage: If you're in middle class category, life is very smooth in India
- Mindset Matters: Don't focus only on negatives — balance your perspective
- Convenience Factor: India offers luxuries (house help, delivery services) not easily available abroad
- Employment Generation: Hiring help supports others while improving your quality of life
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Studying and Living in India
Q: How do I get admission in BHU as an international student?
Q: What is the cost of living in Delhi compared to South Africa?
Q: Is Delhi safe for international students and women?
Q: What are the hostel fees for international students at BHU?
Q: How is the Indian education system different from South Africa?
Q: Can international students work in India after graduation?
Q: What should I know before moving from South Africa to India?
🎓 Considering Higher Education in India?
Join the Desi Return community to connect with others who've made similar journeys and get practical guidance.
✍️ Final Thoughts
Richa's journey from South Africa to India for education, and her decision to stay after marriage, highlights how India has evolved as a destination for higher education and quality of life. Her experience at BHU shows that while there are challenges (language requirements, different education systems), the international student infrastructure exists and the overall experience can be rewarding.
"Life is very smooth in India if you're in the middle class category. You have access to conveniences and help that you wouldn't have abroad."
Whether you're considering India for higher education or planning a permanent return, understanding the practical realities — from admission processes to daily life — helps you make informed decisions. The key is focusing on what matters most to you and maintaining a balanced perspective.