When Sailendra Chaudhary left Nepal to study in Germany, he was looking for more than a degree. He wanted a challenge that would expand his knowledge, strengthen his confidence, and connect him to people from all over the world. His story shows how using the right tools, staying focused on academic goals, and being open to new cultures can turn studying abroad into a life-changing experience.
What you’ll learn from Sailendra’s story
- Sailendra’s experience shows that choosing a study abroad programme is not just about location — it’s about finding the right academic fit.
- His journey to Leipzig highlights how Studyportals can help you navigate thousands of options, how scholarships make studying in Europe more accessible, and how cultural immersion builds both knowledge and independence.
Finding the right chemistry master’s abroad
“I was looking for a Master’s degree related to Analytical Chemistry,” Sailendra explains. “While searching the internet, I found Studyportals and started looking for universities there. I found the information about my programme and then went to the official website.”
That search led him to the Master’s in Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry (ASC) at Leipzig University, a two-year international programme that brings together five partner universities across Europe.
“Actually, my programme offers a multiple diploma degree from four other universities in four different countries,” he says. “Applying for this programme means applying to five universities at once.”
For Sailendra, this combination of academic depth and mobility was exactly what he wanted. “The main reasons for applying to this programme were quality education, multicultural and multilingual experiences, professional development, and scholarship opportunities.”
“There are thousands of universities and programmes — it is difficult to find the right one. Studyportals helped me find the suitable programme out of thousands.”
Why he chose to study abroad
Sailendra’s decision to leave Nepal was rooted in both ambition and curiosity. “Studying abroad provides an opportunity to travel around the world, learn new languages and cultures, develop new skills, and become more independent,” he says. For him, it was as much about growing personally as it was about pursuing chemistry.
He also saw it as a way to prepare for a global career. “It enhances employment opportunities and helps us to build confidence,” he adds.
How Studyportals helped
Sailendra discovered his programme entirely through Studyportals. “No, I didn’t know about Leipzig University before. I got the first information from Studyportals,” he explains. The platform gave him everything he needed — from programme details and admission requirements to fees and deadlines. “Studyportals really helped me to find a suitable programme out of thousands,” he says.
Priorities when choosing a university
When deciding where to study, Sailendra ranked his priorities clearly: “The quality of education came first, followed by professional development, the city and culture, university ranking, cost, and funding.”
He wasn’t attached to a particular country or city at first — his decision was guided by academic content. “I came here because this university had the specific modules that I was interested in,” he explains. Leipzig became his destination because it matched his study goals rather than the other way around.
Preparing for admission
Sailendra took the IELTS test before applying, as it was a programme requirement. “My experience was really nice,” he recalls. “It considerably increased my English knowledge and helped me build up my confidence level.”
He recommends that students from non-English-speaking countries take language classes before leaving home. “It really helps you a lot in every way,” he says. Strong language skills, he believes, make it easier to adapt to a new academic system and social environment.
Financing studies and scholarships
Sailendra was awarded a scholarship from his programme, which made studying in Europe possible. “So, first try to get a scholarship,” he advises. “If you are not able to find one, then you should have enough money for at least one year before going abroad.”
He also points out that part-time jobs can help with living costs. “There are job opportunities in Europe and it is possible to get a student job, which I think is enough to cover your expenses,” he says. But he warns that this depends on lifestyle and personal spending habits.
“As far as I am concerned, I received the scholarship from the programme. So, first try to get a scholarship.”
Life and studies in Leipzig
Leipzig turned out to be a rewarding place to live and study. “It’s a beautiful city, and the university is also good,” Sailendra says. “There are more than 20,000 students enrolled in different programmes.”
He rates his experience 8 out of 10, noting that student life in Leipzig is shaped by both the university’s diversity and the city’s cultural atmosphere. “It also depends on the faculty or the programme you study,” he adds. “From my personal experience, I like the place and university.”
Lessons for future students
Sailendra encourages students from Nepal to look beyond their country’s limited academic options. “I would highly recommend studying abroad,” he says. “But before going, check detailed information about the programmes, the place, university, cost, and future opportunities.”
His practical advice reflects the planning that guided his own journey:
- Research thoroughly before applying.
- Learn the language to make daily life easier.
- Apply for scholarships early.
- Be adaptable — the best programme might be in a place you didn’t expect.
What surprised him most
“The biggest surprise for me was the scholarship,” Sailendra says with a smile. It was a turning point that made his study abroad dream a reality. And now, looking back, he says there’s nothing he would do differently. “It’s perfect, and I’m enjoying the university to the fullest.”
“The biggest surprise for me was the scholarship.”
Inspired by Sailendra’s story?
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