How to make friends as an international student

Published on 05 Feb 2025

4:44 min estimated read time

by Andrea Liu

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is the opinion of the author and it was correct at the time of writing

Studying in a foreign country is an exciting and transformative experience, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to building a social circle. Making friends in a new environment takes effort and an open mind - but it is possible. Below, we’ve put together some tips on how to make friends as an international student.

1. Be open to new experiences

One of the best ways to make friends in university is to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Attend campus events, join student organisations, and participate in extracurricular activities. These opportunities allow you to meet people who share your interests, making it easier to form connections. By actively engaging in university life, you'll broaden your horizons and find people who appreciate your culture and background

Taking the first step can be daunting, but remember that every student is in the same boat. The University of East London (UEL) offers a variety of student engagement programmes that cater to diverse interests, ensuring that every student finds their community.

2. Join clubs and societies

Universities often have a wide range of clubs and societies catering to different interests, from sports and music to academic and cultural groups. These provide key chances to make friends when studying abroad because they bring together students with shared passions. Look for international student associations, language exchange clubs, or hobby-based groups where you can interact with both locals and fellow international students.

At UEL, there are dozens of societies covering everything from cultural affiliations to niche interests. Joining one of these groups not only allows you to explore your passions but also creates a structured environment for forming friendships. Engaging in club activities regularly builds a sense of belonging, which is essential for a fulfilling student experience.

3. Participate in Freshers and welcome programmes

Most universities organise new starter programmes for students, and these are great ways to make friends in university early on. Orientation events introduce you to other students, staff members, and support services. Since everyone attending is new and looking to make friends, it’s the perfect setting to start conversations and get to know the people you’ll be seeing day to day.

UEL hosts an engaging Welcome Week with events such as guided campus tours to help students integrate smoothly. Orientation provides a structured way to familiarise yourself with university life while meeting peers who may share your academic or personal interests.

4. Connect with your classmates

Your classmates are one of your most immediate sources of friendship. Start with simple steps like sitting next to someone in class, introducing yourself, and starting a conversation about the coursework.

Collaborative learning is highly encouraged at UEL, and group projects provide a natural setting for bonding with classmates. Don’t hesitate to ask someone for notes, invite a peer for coffee after class, or work together on assignments. Over time, these small interactions build strong relationships.

5. Take advantage of social media and online platforms

Before arriving at your university, join social media groups and forums for international students. Platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Discord often have groups dedicated to new students where you can introduce yourself and start making connections. If you're hoping to make friends studying overseas, connecting online before arrival makes the transition smoother and helps you feel less isolated. Check out UEL’s Instagram to see what's going on at the moment.

6. Live in student accommodation

Living in shared student accommodation or halls of residence is one of the easiest ways to make friends in university. Sharing common spaces with roommates or flatmates naturally leads to social interactions. Organise group meals, movie nights, or study sessions to strengthen these relationships. Student housing also fosters a sense of community, making it easier to form lasting friendships.

At UEL, student accommodation is designed to promote interaction, with shared kitchens, common rooms, and social events that bring residents together. Living in on-campus housing means you’re always surrounded by peers, creating numerous opportunities to bond and make lifelong friends.

7. Volunteer or get a part-time job

Volunteering or working part-time introduces you to a diverse range of people outside your academic circle. These activities provide real-life interactions and experiences, offering valuable chances to make friends studying overseas while contributing to the community. Look for opportunities within the university or local organisations to expand your social network.

UEL has a robust student employment programme that connects students with part-time jobs and volunteering opportunities. Whether you choose to work in the library, assist at university events, or volunteer for a local charity, these experiences not only enhance your CV but also create new friendships.

8. Attend exchange programmes

Many universities like UEL organise global experiences where students can participate in exchange programmes. It’s an excellent way to make friends in university, as it allows you to meet like-minded individuals who appreciate diversity. You might also find people interested in learning about your culture, making interactions more meaningful.

9. Be patient and stay positive

Building friendships takes time, especially in a foreign country. If you don’t find close friends immediately, don’t get discouraged. Keep putting yourself out there, remain open to new opportunities, and be patient.

At UEL, student support services and well-being initiatives are available to help international students adjust. If you ever feel isolated, reach out to student mentors, counsellors, or academic advisors. Remember, friendships form naturally when you invest time and energy into building connections.

Remember, every student—whether local or international—is looking for friends too, so don’t hesitate to take the first step. With these tips to make friends studying overseas, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by a supportive social circle that makes your study abroad journey even more memorable.