05/31/2026
Different Times. Different Lenses. Different Perspectives.
My husband and I are currently visiting our son in Pennsylvania, where he is pursuing his Bachelor's degree at Penn State University.
What makes this visit special is that it is our first trip to the United States in nearly 17 years. The last time we lived here was between 2003 and 2009. Back then, my husband was on a work visa and together we were navigating life in a new country. Today, we are seeing America through a different lensβthat of parents of a student studying in the US.
Walking around the campus, understanding our son's daily life, and observing the realities of studying abroad has reinforced an important lesson: "an admission letter starts the journey, but financial preparedness sustains it."
# Foreign Exchange Rates Can Change the Entire Cost Structure
Most families calculate costs using today's exchange rate. However, education expenses are spread over several years. A weaker rupee can significantly increase the actual cost of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, even when university fees remain unchanged.
# Inflation Does Not Stop at Tuition Fees
The cost of studying abroad extends far beyond tuition. Housing, food, transportation, health insurance, utilities, and travel expenses continue to rise over time. Even moderate inflation can materially increase the overall cost of education.
# Global Events Now Influence Educational Planning
Educational planning today is influenced not only by academics and rankings but also by visa policies, immigration regulations, employment markets, and global economic conditions. Events occurring far away can directly affect a student's opportunities and future plans.
# Plan for Multiple Scenarios, Not Just One
Families should prepare for uncertainties: exchange-rate fluctuations, rising living costs, changing job markets, policy shifts, or unexpected emergencies. The strongest plans are those that account for more than just the best-case scenario.
# Build an Education Corpus, Not Just an Education Budget
Many families plan for the first year. Fewer plans for the entire journey. A well-structured education corpus provides the flexibility to absorb financial shocks without compromising educational goals.
# The Bigger Lesson
Studying abroad remains one of the most transformative opportunities available to young people. It builds independence, confidence, global exposure, and lifelong perspectives.
But in today's interconnected world, the key question is not:
"Can we afford this today?"
It is:
"Can we comfortably sustain this journey despite changes in exchange rates, inflation, and global events over the next several years?"
As parents, this visit has reinforced our minds, that while admission opens the door, thoughtful financial planning helps ensure the journey remains on track.
Maulesh Buch Ronak Buch