10 Tips on How to Make Friends While Living Abroad

Have you ever arrived in a new city, buzzing with excitement but also feeling a pang of loneliness? Do you wonder how to make friends as adults when you're far from your established circles? Maybe you're an international student searching for a real community or simply figuring out how to make friends while traveling. These are feelings we understand completely, and finding your people is essential to truly enjoying your new home.

Moving to a new environment is a big step, and knowing how to make friends can make all the difference. Whether you’re wondering how to make friends, exploring how to make friends for adults, or seeking tips for international students trying to adapt abroad, the best approach combines being open to new experiences with actively seeking out social opportunities and using platforms that connect you with like-minded people, which is one of the best tips for international students.

At Platuni, we're here to help you build those connections. This guide offers practical, proven strategies to turn strangers into friends and transform your journey abroad into an unforgettable adventure. We'll show you exactly how to find your community and thrive.

10 Tips on How to Make Friends as an International Student

#1. Start with Your Campus

Your university is the perfect place to begin, as it's a pre-built ecosystem designed for connection. If you’re figuring out how to make friends as an adult, campus life removes many of the usual barriers. It offers countless opportunities in a low stakes environment.

Start by attending the events that feel mandatory or even a bit boring. Orientation isn't just about library cards and academic rules; it's the first and easiest social mixer. You will be put into small groups for tours or info sessions. This is a forced, and therefore easy, opportunity to turn to the person next to you and say, "Hi, I'm [Your Name]. This is all a bit overwhelming, isn't it?"

Then, dive into clubs and student organizations. This is one of the most effective tips for international students. Don't just browse the list; pick two or three and go to the meetings.

• Academic Clubs: Joining a club for your major or a study group for a specific class is a smart move. You’re not just making friends; you're building an academic support system. Bonding over a shared, difficult project is one of the fastest ways to form strong connections.
• Hobby Clubs: This is where you find your people. Whether it’s a board game club, a hiking organization, a dance team, or a photography group, you are instantly connected by a shared passion. This removes the pressure of "what do we talk about?" The activity itself is the icebreaker.
• Cultural Clubs: You can either join the association for your home country, a fantastic way to find comfort and a sense of home or join a club for a culture you know nothing about. This shows curiosity and is a great way to meet people from different backgrounds.

For adults returning to school or wondering how to make friends for adults in general, these university networks are a gift. They provide a structure for socializing that is often missing in the outside world, easing you into a new culture.

#2. Join Language Exchange Groups

Wondering how to make friends while traveling and learning a new language? Language exchange groups are the perfect mix of learning and socializing. At these meetups, you’ll improve your language skills while connecting with others.

While teaching someone your native language, you also get help practicing theirs. This mutual exchange not only builds communication skills but also opens doors to lasting friendships, one of the best tips for international students.

These gatherings often happen in cafés or community centers, creating a relaxed environment for conversation and cultural learning.

You Will Also Love To SeeThe Importance of Joining Clubs and Organisations for a Well-rounded Social Life

#3. Be Open and Approachable

When trying to make friends in a new place, your attitude and body language are key. Being friendly and approachable encourages others to start a conversation. It’s not just about smiling, it’s your whole posture. For example, in a cafeteria, avoid sitting alone with headphones on, which signals “Do Not Disturb.” Instead, choose a communal table, keep your phone away, and look around to show you’re open to interaction. Simply Introducing yourself is a straightforward approach that breaks the ice.

Ask genuine, open-ended questions, people love sharing about themselves. Ultimately, kindness and sincere curiosity are the most powerful tools for making lasting friendships, no matter your age.

#4. Explore Local Activities

Attending local community events such as festivals, concerts, local clubs or workshops can help you connect beyond campus. Volunteering is another excellent way to meet like-minded people while contributing to your new community.

If you’re learning how to make friends while traveling, engaging in local activities helps you build a sense of belonging. These experiences expose you to different cultures and expand your social network naturally.

#5. Share Your Culture

Your background is your superpower and a great conversation starter. When thinking of how to make friends abroad, sharing your culture is one of the most impactful tips for international students.

Invite people to try food from your home country or teach them about your traditions. These shared experiences create understanding and help build genuine friendships. This is a key tip for how to make friends for adults, as celebrating your culture is a beautiful way to attract authentic connections in a new country.

You Will Also Love To See Learning Through Cultural Immersion: Key Lessons for International Students

#6. Stay Consistent

Building friendships takes time, effort, and consistency. Attend events regularly, and follow up with the people you meet.

Send a quick message or invite them for coffee, these small gestures can turn casual acquaintances into strong friendships. When learning how to make friends for adults, consistency is key to transforming initial meetings into meaningful bonds.

#7. Embrace Differences

In an international setting, you’ll meet people from diverse countries, cultures, and beliefs, a truly enriching part of learning how to make friends abroad. However, differences in views on politics, religion, punctuality, or money can feel challenging. Your first reaction might be to judge or pull away, but it’s important to resist that urge.

Instead, replace judgment with curiosity. When you encounter something unfamiliar, ask questions like, “That’s interesting, can you tell me more about why this is important in your culture?” This mindset fosters understanding and deepens connections rather than causing conflict.

Remember, the goal isn’t to find friends exactly like you but to build a vibrant “mosaic” of diverse people who together create a strong, supportive community. This approach is essential for anyone wondering how to make friends, how to make friends for adults, tips for international students, or how to make friends while traveling.

Conclusion

Making friends while living abroad may take some time, but with patience and openness, you’ll build a strong support system. Whether you’re an international student, an expat, or an adult learning how to make friends while traveling, remember: be yourself, stay positive, and enjoy every interaction.

Friendships formed abroad often become some of the most enriching and lasting experiences of your life.

Download the Platuni App today to connect with fellow international students, explore social events, and find like-minded friends around the world.

Join the Platuni community and make your time abroad truly unforgettable.

Try Downloading the Platuni App Today (Download the App on the App Store, Download the App on the Play Store)

You Can The Roommate Compatibility Quiz To Find Your Roommate

Frequently Asked Questions

How can international students make friends easily while studying abroad?

Start with your campus community, attend orientations, join clubs, and participate in social or academic groups. These environments make it easier to meet like-minded people and form genuine connections.

Are language exchange meetups good places to make friends?

Yes! Language exchanges allow you to practice new languages while meeting people from different backgrounds. They create relaxed, friendly settings where conversations can grow into friendships.

How can I make friends while traveling abroad for a short period?

Join group tours, attend cultural experiences, or use apps that connect travelers. Always stay approachable and open to small talk, you never know which conversation might lead to a new friend.

What should I do if I feel shy or nervous about meeting new people?

Start small, greet your classmates, join group activities, or volunteer for team projects. The more you engage, the more confident you’ll become. Remember, most people appreciate kindness and initiative.