Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

        Studying abroad can be an enriching experience, but it also involves a number of uncertainties that prospective students must carefully consider. These may include concerns about academic standards, cultural differences, financial pressures, or (18) ____________. Before making a final decision, students often weigh the likelihood of such challenges occurring, assess whether they can be managed effectively, and consider the long-term impact they may have on their personal and professional development.

        For some individuals, uncertainty is part of the appeal, as it encourages independence and personal growth, (19) ____________. Others, however, prefer stability and predictability, and therefore seek to minimize uncertainty as much as possible. Naturally, the perceived seriousness of potential difficulties plays a crucial role in this process. (20) ____________. As a result, more cautious students tend to favour institutions with established reputations, well-defined support systems, and clearly structured programmes, as these features help reduce uncertainty and perceived risk.

        (21) ____________. Research suggests that many students still hesitate to rely solely on online platforms when selecting overseas universities. This hesitation can be explained partly by the absence of direct interaction with experienced advisors and partly by (22) ____________.

(Adapted from Higher Education and Global Mobility)

Question 18. 

        A. the education system is directly experienced upon arrival

        B. to directly experience the education system after arrival

        C. lacking direct experience of the education system until arrival

        D. having experienced the education system directly

Question 19. 

        A. although it does not necessarily deter them from pursuing such opportunities

        B. if independence is prevented by uncertainty

        C. because it creates barriers that cannot be overcome

        D. so uncertainty itself always discourages international study

Question 20. 

        A. All potential difficulties are generally considered manageable

        B. Challenges perceived as severe are more likely to discourage risk-taking

        C. Students tend to underestimate the impact of potential difficulties

        D. Serious challenges are often viewed as opportunities for personal development

Question 21. 

        A. The methods students use to gather information are also influenced by risk perception

        B. Information is gathered by students through methods that are risky

        C. Students gather information after risks and methods are chosen carefully

        D. Risky methods are chosen when students gather information

Question 22. 

        A. reliable and objective information is doubted by online platforms

        B. objectivity is ensured through online information reliability

        C. doubts regarding the reliability and objectivity of online information

        D. the online information is reliable despite doubts about objectivity