Studying abroad is one of the most exciting experiences a student can have. You get the chance to live in a new country, explore a different culture, and expand your horizons in ways you never imagined. Even though the experience can be quite rewarding, it can be a bit daunting as well, especially when it comes to building friendships.
Many students worry about feeling lonely or isolated in a foreign country, far from their support networks back home. The good news is that making friends while studying abroad is not only possible but often easier than you might expect. Everyone around you, other international students as well as local classmates, is navigating their own version of the same journey.
Luckily, there are a myriad of practical and meaningful ways to meet people and build lasting connections while studying abroad.
Connect with your classmates
While it’s easy to bond with other international students, don’t forget about the local classmates sitting next to you in lectures and seminars. Try starting a conversation before or after class. Something as simple as asking them about class notes can open the door. You can also form or join study groups with your classmates, since working on assignments together creates a natural space for collaboration and connection. This is a great option since classroom friendships often feel effortless, seeing that you’re already sharing a common interest, that being the programme you enrolled in.
Join student clubs and participate in student activities
Universities usually have a couple of different clubs or activities organised, ranging from sports teams and debate clubs, to many different workshops or guest lectures. Joining a club or attending an activity you feel passionate about or find interesting will instantly connect you with students who share your interest. Even if you have no prior experience, don’t be afraid to try something new. Studying abroad is the perfect time to explore activities you wouldn’t normally do at home. Even if you’re a beginner, people are usually welcoming and supportive.
Say yes to invitations
During your first weeks, you may be invited to coffee, brunch, parties, or cultural events. Even if you feel tired or unsure, try to say yes as often as possible, at least in the beginning. Even small gatherings matter, since a casual coffee with two people can lead to larger friend groups later. Also, don’t overthink it. Remember that most people are looking for connection just like you. Of course, always respect your own limits, but leaning into opportunities early helps you establish a solid social circle quickly.
Volunteer or work part-time
If your student visa allows it, volunteering or working part-time can expand your network beyond the university. Try looking for community projects, part-time jobs or volunteer opportunities. This isn’t only a great chance to befriend locals who care about similar causes, but can also help your future job prospects and strengthen your CV.
Use language as a bridge
If you’re studying in a country where you don’t speak the local language fluently, don’t let that discourage you. In fact, it can become a way to bond. Take language classes, ask classmates to teach you phrases or go to language cafes. Even small efforts to learn the local language can win goodwill and make social interactions easier.
Explore your new city with others
One of the best things about studying abroad is discovering a new place. So, instead of doing it alone, turn exploration into a social activity, by suggesting group outings and joining city tours. Museums, parks, local markets, and concerts are perfect for shared experiences. Universities or student associations sometimes organise trips to cultural landmarks or excursions to other countries, so be sure to ask your faculty for details. Also, don’t be afraid to invite classmates or flatmates to explore local restaurants and cafés together, since shared adventures can create memories and help friendships grow naturally.
Leverage social media
Technology can help you meet friends faster, especially in a new environment. There are usually Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats for every student generation and for every faculty, so don’t be afraid to join them. You can also use socials to join different activities like hiking, gaming, language exchanges, or book clubs. Be cautious but open. Always meet new people in safe, public places until you feel comfortable. Social media makes it easier to find like-minded people, even outside the university bubble.
Stay patient and genuine
Finally, remember that building real friendships takes time. You might meet dozens of people in your first month, but not all will become close friends and that’s normal. Be authentic, open and patient, but also don’t forget to enjoy the process and have fun.
Meeting friends when studying abroad might feel intimidating at first, but it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. Through clubs, classes, shared housing, and cultural exploration, you’ll encounter countless opportunities to connect with others.
The friendships you form abroad often become some of the deepest you’ll ever have. Years later, you’ll look back on your time abroad and realise that the people you met were just as important as the places you visited or the classes you took.
So step out of your comfort zone, take that first small risk, and say hello. You might just meet a friend who will change your life.
