Moving to the UK to study is an exciting experience. You'll have the chance to explore a new city, meet people from around the world and experience a different culture. But starting university in a new country can also feel overwhelming. Many international students worry about making friends, fitting in and feeling at home when they're far away from family and familiar surroundings.

The good news is that you're not alone. Thousands of students move to the UK every year and many share the same concerns. In this guide, we'll share practical tips to help you meet new people, build friendships and settle into university life with confidence.

Key takeaways

• Joining societies is one of the easiest ways to meet like-minded people.

• Small conversations can often lead to lasting friendships.

• Meeting people from different backgrounds can enrich your university experience.

• University events and trips create opportunities to connect with others.

• Building friendships takes time, so don't put too much pressure on yourself.

Why can making friends feel difficult as an international student?

Starting university is a big life change for anyone. When you're also adjusting to a new country, culture and education system, it can feel even more daunting. You might be:

• Missing friends and family back home

• Worrying about fitting in

• Adjusting to cultural differences

• Feeling nervous about starting conversations

• Unsure where to meet new people

These feelings are completely normal and often temporary. Many students find that the first few weeks are all about putting themselves out there and trying new experiences.

Join student societies and communities

One of the best ways to make friends at university is through student societies. Most universities offer a huge range of groups based on:

• Nationality and cultural backgrounds

• Hobbies and interests

• Faith groups

• Sports teams

• Academic subjects

Joining a society gives you an instant opportunity to meet people with shared interests, making it easier to start conversations and build connections. You might choose a society that reminds you of home, or use university as a chance to try something completely new.

Benefits of joining societies

• Meet like-minded people

• Build confidence

• Explore new interests

• Create a support network

• Feel more connected to university life

Don't be afraid to start conversations

Making friends often starts with a simple conversation. While it can feel intimidating at first, remember that many other students are also looking to meet people. Opportunities to chat can happen almost anywhere:

• In lectures

• During seminars

• In your accommodation kitchen

• At student events

• While exploring your city

Simple questions such as:

• "What course are you studying?"

• "Have you been to this event before?"

• "How are you finding university so far?"

can be enough to break the ice. You don't need to become best friends instantly. Focus on small interactions and let friendships develop naturally.

Step outside your comfort zone

It's natural to spend time with people who share your background, language or culture. These connections can provide comfort when you're far from home. However, university is also a unique opportunity to meet people from different countries and experiences. Building a diverse friendship group can help you:

• Learn about other cultures

• Gain new perspectives

• Improve your confidence

• Expand your social network

• Create memorable experiences

You might even discover new foods, traditions and travel destinations through the people you meet.

Easy ways to branch out

• Sit with different people in lectures

• Attend events on your own

• Join multiple societies

• Participate in accommodation activities

• Accept invitations to social events

Get involved in university events and trips

Freshers' Week is only the beginning. Throughout the year, universities and students' unions organise events designed to help students socialise and explore their surroundings. Popular options include:

• City tours

• Day trips

• Society socials

• Sports events

• Cultural celebrations

• Volunteering opportunities

These activities provide a natural setting to meet people without the pressure of one-to-one conversations. They also help you feel more connected to your university and your new city.

Finding your community at university

There's no right way to make friends at university. Some students find their friendship group during Freshers' Week. Others build connections gradually over the first semester or even throughout their degree. The important thing is to stay open to new experiences and be kind to yourself during the adjustment period. Remember:

• Everyone feels nervous sometimes.

• Many students are looking for friends too.

• Strong friendships take time to develop.

• Trying new things often leads to the best opportunities.

Before long, your new university city can start to feel like home.

FAQs

Is it difficult to make friends as an international student?

Many international students feel nervous about meeting new people, but universities offer plenty of opportunities through societies, events, accommodation and academic courses.

How can I overcome loneliness at university?

Joining societies, attending events, staying connected with family and building a routine can all help reduce feelings of loneliness while settling into university life.

Where do international students meet people?

Common places include university accommodation, lectures, student societies, sports clubs, volunteering opportunities and students' union events.

Should I only join societies related to my culture?

Not necessarily. Cultural societies can provide familiarity and support, but joining a variety of societies can help you meet students from different backgrounds and expand your social circle.

How long does it take to make friends at university?

Everyone's experience is different. Some students make friends quickly, while others build friendships gradually over several weeks or months. It's important not to compare your experience with others.