Making Friends and Building a Student Community in Russia and the CIS

Why community matters from day one

Moving to a new country to study is exciting, but it is normal to feel homesick or lonely in the first weeks, especially through long, dark winters. Building a social network early is one of the most effective ways to settle in, stay motivated and enjoy your time abroad.

You do not need to find your closest friends immediately. Start by saying yes to invitations, introducing yourself to classmates, and showing up to events. Familiar faces and small routines — a regular study group, a shared meal, a club night — quickly turn a strange city into a place that feels like yours.

Student clubs, societies and sports

Universities in Russia and the CIS typically have a range of student clubs and societies — sports, music, dance, drama, debating, volunteering, academic and hobby groups. Joining one or two is the easiest way to meet people who share your interests, and you do not need to be an expert to take part.

Look for a freshers' or club fair at the start of the year, check the student union or student affairs office, and follow your university's official student channels for what is on. Sport and physical activity are doubly useful in winter — they keep you active and connected when it is cold and dark outside.

• Join one or two clubs that match your interests
• Attend the freshers'/club fair at the start of the year
• Check the student union or student-affairs office for listings
• Try a sport or activity to stay active and social in winter

International and regional student associations

Most universities with international students have an international students' club or association, and there are often country- or region-based communities, including Indian student associations at universities that host many Indian students. These groups are invaluable for practical help, shared student life, and simply being around people who understand the adjustment you are going through.

The international office can tell you which associations exist and how to join, and senior students are usually happy to welcome newcomers. Balancing time with your own-region community and with local and other international students gives you both comfort and a wider circle — see the companion guide on settling in.

• Join the international students' association/club
• Connect with a regional or national student community if one exists
• Ask the international office how to find and join these groups
• Balance your own-region community with wider friendships

Language exchange and meeting local students

Language is a bridge to friendships. Learning some of the local language, even basics, opens doors with local students and in daily life, and many of them are keen to practise English with you in return. Look for language-exchange meetups, conversation clubs, or simply a study partner from your class.

Group projects, shared dormitory floors, the library and campus cafes are natural places to get talking. Be patient and open: friendships often grow from small repeated interactions rather than a single big moment. The related language guides can help you get started with the basics.

Beating homesickness and looking after yourself

Homesickness is common and usually eases as your routine and friendships grow. Stay in regular contact with family and friends back home, but also invest in life where you are — a balance of both helps most. Keep a routine, get outside in daylight, stay active, and join in campus life rather than staying in your room alone.

If low mood, persistent loneliness or anxiety lingers and affects your studies or daily life, reach out — to a mentor, the international office, or your university's counselling service (see the support-services guide). Asking for help early is a normal, healthy part of student life abroad.