Making Friends and Building Community as an International Student in the UK

Building a strong support network is essential for a successful transition, and making friends as an international student in the UK starts with engaging in campus life. By participating in Welcome Week, joining Students' Union societies, and connecting with peers in university halls, you can quickly establish a vibrant international student community. This guide provides practical steps to navigate British social life, from joining interest-based clubs to accessing professional support from UKCISA, helping you feel at home while studying abroad.

Step 1: Make the Most of Orientation and Welcome Week

Your very first opportunity to meet people arrives before classes even begin. Almost every UK university runs a Welcome Week (also called Freshers' Week or Orientation Week) in mid-to-late September, specifically designed to help new students settle in. Many institutions also offer a separate, earlier orientation programme just for international students.

During Welcome Week, you'll typically find:

• Campus and city walking tours
• Freshers' Fairs with hundreds of clubs and societies
• Academic department introductions and registration sessions
• Social events and cultural activities

Step 2: Join Clubs, Societies, and Your Students' Union

One of the most effective ways to build lasting friendships is through shared interests. Every UK university has a Students' Union (SU) — an official student-run organisation that facilitates clubs, societies, sports teams, and social events.

Types of societies and groups to look for:

• International student societies: spaces specifically for students studying abroad, offering support, events, and a ready-made peer network
• Cultural and heritage societies: celebrate your own background or explore others
• Sports clubs: open to all skill levels; a low-pressure, high-fun environment
• Academic and professional societies: connect with peers in your field
• Hobby and interest clubs: from chess to debate to film, there is something for everyone

Step 3: Use University Halls and Shared Living

If you're living in university accommodation (halls of residence), you already have a built-in community. First-year students are typically placed in flats of four to eight people sharing a kitchen — an everyday setting that naturally sparks friendships. Many students report that their flatmates become some of their closest friends throughout their degree.

Step 4: Lean Into Your Academic Environment

Your classroom is also a community. Some ways to connect through your studies:

• Form or join study groups: great for mutual support and building rapport with classmates
• Participate in class discussions: being engaged makes you more approachable
• Attend department events: many faculties host socials, talks, and welcome mixers

Step 5: Access Support When You Need It

Building community also means knowing where to turn when things feel difficult. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is the UK's national advisory body for international students, offering:

• A free student advice line (Mon–Fri, 1:00–4:00 PM UK time) for questions about immigration, fees, and the student experience
• Comprehensive online guidance at ukcisa.org.uk
• The #WeAreInternational Student Ambassador programme — a network of international students across the UK advocating for a more inclusive and welcoming environment

Quick-Reference: Where to Connect