For many international students, studying abroad often feels like a dream reserved for those with deep pockets. But for Saransh Ahuja, a Delhi NCR native and alumnus of Delhi Public School (DPS) R.K. Puram, and now a graduate of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) in British Columbia, Canada, that perception could not be further from the truth.
“You need to be rich to study abroad, that's not true,” he says. “With part-time work and a bit of smart planning, it’s absolutely possible.”
Ahuja, who completed his Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems in 2023 with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robotics, represents a growing generation of Indian students choosing pragmatic, hands-on pathways over purely theoretical routes. His story offers a grounded look at the realities of international education — from financing and housing to cultural adjustment and career preparation.
A practical path to tech
Unlike many computer science programmes known for their academic intensity, UFV’s curriculum drew Ahuja for its applied learning approach. “It wasn’t too heavy but gave deep exposure to AI and robotics,” he recalls. Small class sizes, approachable professors, and project-based learning made the experience engaging rather than overwhelming.
He emphasises that students considering Canada should focus not just on rankings but also on how programmes teach. For Ahuja, statistics and problem-solving became core skills, grounding his understanding of machine learning beyond coding. “I didn’t realise how much I’d end up liking statistics,” he admits, a subject many students overlook when choosing an AI-oriented degree.
Cracking the admissions code
Canada appealed to him for its quality of education, immigration policies, and expanding tech ecosystem. Applying to UFV was straightforward, though it demanded planning and self-awareness. Canadian universities generally do not require SAT scores. Instead, they focus on authentic Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and credible letters of recommendation.
Ahuja’s advice for applicants is simple: let your SOP convey genuine curiosity and initiative. His own experience in school robotics competitions and tech projects strengthened his application. “Teachers who have seen you take initiative can write recommendations that stand out,” he notes.
The total cost of his degree, including tuition, living, and other expenses, ranged between CAD 20,000 to 25,000 per year. While he did not receive a full scholarship, partial awards and bursaries helped offset expenses. “Even small scholarships make a difference. Apply early, don’t wait until you need the money,” he advises.
Balancing academics and work
Like many international students, Ahuja worked part-time during his studies, and later full-time when restrictions were lifted. His first role, as a Project Support Analyst at an insurance firm, was akin to a junior project manager position. The experience not only helped him finance living costs but also provided real-world insights into project management and IT integration.
“The co-op and internship support at UFV made a huge difference,” he says. Career services provided resume guidance, mock interviews, and networking sessions with employers. “Co-op is a big thing in Canada. Applying for a co-op will actually be really helpful for you if you want to do that,” he says.
Making a home away from home
Ahuja chose to live off-campus, sharing a rented house with two other international students. “It was cheaper, gave us flexibility, and we’re still good friends,” he says. His housing advice is pragmatic: start early, avoid scams, and always sign a lease. He recommends using trusted platforms like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace, or opting for university housing if uncertain.
Living independently, he learned quickly to manage day-to-day responsibilities, from cooking and budgeting to laundry and bills. “The first few days are overwhelming,” he recalls. “Back home, my mum used to bring me fruit every morning. Suddenly, I had to do everything myself.” But adaptation, he says, comes faster than one expects.
Cooking became both a necessity and a source of stability. “It’s cheaper, healthier, and you learn to enjoy it,” he says. Bulk shopping at Costco, using budgeting apps, and availing student discounts became part of his financial discipline.
Building networks, building futures
Beyond coursework, Ahuja underscores the value of networking. “Don’t delay building connections — classmates, professors, alumni,” he says. In Canada, references and relationships often carry as much weight as credentials.
He also encourages students to engage in hackathons, co-op placements, and side projects. “Start building things. Even if you fail, you’ll learn, and people notice your effort.”
Upon graduation, Ahuja secured a role as a project manager and now holds a three-year work permit under Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) scheme. The country’s thriving technology sector, he believes, rewards skill and perseverance over pedigree.
Lessons for aspiring international students
Looking back, Ahuja admits that the first few weeks abroad were disorienting, from transit systems to cultural norms. But with time, he found rhythm in independence. “The shock fades,” he says. “You learn faster than you think.”
He also challenges common misconceptions about studying overseas. “You don’t need to come from wealth. What you need is planning, persistence, and a willingness to learn beyond academics.”
For Ahuja, studying in Canada was not just an academic pursuit, it was a transformation. “Abroad changed how I think, work, and connect with the world,” he reflects. “Your journey won’t be perfect, but it will be powerful.”
Takeaway for students:Saransh Ahuja’s journey offers a clear message for aspiring international students, success abroad is not defined by privilege, but by preparation. From writing a genuine application to learning independence, his journey shows that studying abroad is practical, challenging, and rewarding for those who put in the effort.
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