Starting university in the UK can feel overwhelming, especially if you're naturally shy or adjusting to life in a new country. For international students, unfamiliar accents, cultural differences, and the pressure to socialize can be intimidating. But making friends fast—even if you're introverted—is entirely achievable with the right strategies. UK universities are filled with welcoming environments, from student accommodation and shared kitchens to clubs and societies built around shared interests. Whether through everyday conversations or structured activities, the tools to connect are already around you. This guide shows you how to use them effectively—even if the idea of small talk makes you nervous.
By the end of this guide, you'll learn:
How to meet new people in student accommodation
Social strategies tailored for introverts
Events and platforms that help you bond naturally
Practical tips and cultural insights to break the ice confidently
Why Making Friends Feels Harder Than It Is
If you're feeling isolated, you’re not alone.
A 2022 survey by HEPI revealed that more than 45% of UK students feel lonely in their first term, and this figure is even higher for international students. Many newcomers struggle with cultural differences, unfamiliar social norms, and the absence of familiar support systems, all of which can intensify feelings of homesickness and isolation as they adjust to life in the UK.
Common hurdles for shy or international students:
Language differences and accent unfamiliarity
Fear of being judged for not fitting in
Lack of confidence in starting conversations
Cultural misunderstanding or feeling left out in groups
But here’s the truth: UK universities are designed to help students connect. From flatmates in your accommodation to clubs and societies, the system offers natural ways to build friendships without needing to be an extrovert.
How to Make Friends Fast at Universities in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Use Your Accommodation as a Social Launchpad
Your flatmates are your first social circle. Whether you're in an ensuite or shared kitchen setup, student accommodation is a key space for organic friendship-building.
Here’s how to ease into it, even if you’re shy:
Keep your door open while unpacking—it signals you're friendly
Cook in shared kitchens during peak hours (usually 6–8 pm)
Join small group chats set up for your block or building
Ask flatmates where they’re from or what course they’re on
Fact: Students in shared accommodation are 70% more likely to form meaningful friendships within the first two weeks.
2. Join Societies That Match Your Interests
Universities in the UK host hundreds of student-run societies, from photography and philosophy to anime, football, and international cooking.
Why societies work:
You instantly share a topic of interest
Meetings are casual and welcoming
No need for small talk—you’re all there for the same reason
Tip for introverts: Start with academic or hobby-based clubs. You’re more likely to connect when conversation revolves around something familiar.
To browse active societies, check your university’s student union website or ask during welcome week.
3. Use Friendship Apps Built for Students
If approaching someone in person sounds intimidating, try using Meetup, a platform where you can discover local student-friendly events and activity groups based on your interests. It’s a simple way to meet like-minded people in your area without pressure. Whether you enjoy hiking, tech talks, or board games, Meetup helps break the ice through shared experiences.
A 2023 ONS report found that 62% of UK students used digital tools to make new friends during their first year.
You don’t need to be online 24/7—just joining a few groups can ease the pressure of meeting people face to face.
4. Attend Fresher’s Events—Even Briefly
Freshers’ Week is filled with opportunities to meet people. You don’t need to stay all night or join a club just because you grabbed a flyer. Even 20–30 minutes at an event can make a difference.
Smart ways to manage social overwhelm:
Go with one flatmate or a coursemate
Arrive early, before crowds get loud
Ask questions like, "Have you signed up for any societies yet?"
Most other students are just as nervous—they're often waiting for someone else to say "hi" first.
5. Say Yes to Small Social Moments
Big parties aren’t the only place to bond. Many meaningful friendships start with everyday activities.
Try these:
Study groups after class
Watching football in the common area
Grabbing a coffee after lectures
Helping someone carry bags from the shop
Not sure how to start? Try this: "Hey, I’m [Your Name]—mind if I join you?" "I’m new here too—want to grab coffee later this week?"
6. Create Shared Food Moments
Nothing breaks the ice better than food.
Easy ways to build friendships through meals:
Cook a dish from your country and share it with your flatmates
Suggest a potluck dinner where everyone brings one item
Host a "tea and talk" hour on a Sunday afternoon
A 2021 NUS study revealed that international food nights increase social bonding by up to 80% in student halls.
You don’t need to be a chef—instant noodles, parathas, or snacks from home spark conversation.
7. Get Involved in Your Course Group Chat
Most UK universities have informal WhatsApp, Discord or Messenger chats for each course or module.
Why do they help?
You can ask questions and share resources
Organize revision groups or meet-ups
Chat casually without pressure to be in-person
Start small: reply to someone’s message or share a meme related to your course. Over time, these chats evolve into real friendships.
8. Use Your University’s Support Services
If you're still struggling to connect after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to use on-campus wellbeing and international student services.
You’ll find:
Peer mentorship or buddy schemes
Mental health counselling
Support groups for international students
These services are confidential and often free. There’s no shame in reaching out—thousands of other students feel just like you.
Cultural Tips to Help You Blend In
Understanding British social norms can also boost your confidence.
Quick tips:
Brits value politeness—"please," "sorry," and "thank you" go a long way
Punctuality is appreciated, especially for group work or social meetups
Talking about the weather is always a safe conversation starter
Humour tends to be dry and sarcastic—don’t take it personally
Pro tip: Avoid sensitive topics (politics, religion) unless the other person brings them up first.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone and You Don’t Have to Be Loud to Belong
Being shy doesn’t mean being alone—many strong friendships begin through quiet moments, shared interests, and small acts of kindness. You don’t need to be outgoing or loud to belong; simply showing up, listening, and being kind are enough. Confidence isn’t a prerequisite for connection. You just need to take one small step forward, and meaningful bonds will follow naturally.
Just one message, one smile, one coffee shared can be the first step to building real friendships at university.
Still searching for the right student accommodation where making friends feels easy and natural? Visit StudentTenant.com to browse verified listings across the UK, specifically designed for student life. Your future flatmate might just become your first real friend at university. The right space doesn’t just offer a room—it offers a chance to belong, connect, and thrive in your new academic home.