How to make friends abroad and build a social life
Published on · 2 min read
Learn how to make friends abroad, integrate into your city, and build a real social life from day one.
How to build an amazing social life abroad
Moving abroad to study isn’t just about attending classes and handling paperwork. It’s also about making friends, laughing late into the night, discovering new cultures, and creating unforgettable memories. At Uniwords, we give you the best tips to build an active, real social life… because nobody wants to study in isolation.
1. Say “yes” (even if you’re shy)
The key to making friends abroad is opening yourself up. Are you invited to a welcome picnic? A language exchange? A spontaneous plan? Say yes.
Join Uniwords forums to connect with other students in your destination
Attend university parties or international student events
Look for hiking groups, photography clubs or outdoor yoga sessions
2. Mix with locals and internationals
Sticking only with people from your own country is comfortable, but limiting. In Valencia, many students recommend language tandems at BigBen Idiomas or meetups at Café de las Horas, where people from everywhere mix together.
Practise the local language, even if you only know the basics
Join Erasmus events: many cities organise parties and trips
Discover local spots: cafés, gyms, libraries, public squares
3. Use technology to your advantage
Today, making friends abroad also happens online. On Instagram, follow local event accounts and join Uniwords weekly challenges.
There are many apps to meet people and make plans
Follow Uniwords on Instagram and TikTok to stay updated on meetups
Take part in Uniwords challenges: share your favourite spot, film your Erasmus experience, etc.
4. Be the one who takes initiative
Want to make friends quickly? Organise something yourself. A movie night, a group dinner, a park hangout… people will appreciate it.
Post a plan on the forum: “Movie night this Friday” or “Park hangout on Sunday”
Host a themed dinner at your flat. A night of tapas, arepas or curry can break the ice
Many students say their best friendships started with a casual invitation.
5. Accept the awkward and the amazing
There will be awkward plans. People you don’t click with. But also unforgettable moments. It’s all part of the journey of making friends abroad.
Help other students feel less alone
Earn Uwies for your contributions and redeem them for rewards
So… what now?
Ready to build your own international tribe?
Join Uniwords, connect with students like you, and turn your experience into something unforgettable.