On this page:

• Organisations in London
• International Student Social Programme
• International Student Buddy scheme

Being a student in London gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore one of the best cities in the world, as well as the rest of the UK. It is also one of the world’s biggest cities and so it can seem like a very daunting and scary place when you first arrive. Your social life is just as important as your studies and this guide will help you to get the most out of your time in the UK and improve your experience.

Organisations in London

HOST UK offer you the chance to spend a day, weekend or Christmas in a British home with a British family. This is a unique opportunity to learn about British history, food, customs and culture. Your first visit is free, all you need to pay for is your travel.

Weekend visits: first visit free and second visit £60 (£50 +VAT) to HOST UK.

Day visits: first visit free and second visit £36 (£30 +VAT) to HOST UK.

International Students House (ISH) offers a range of student accommodation and are an excellent social and cultural centre for international students. They organise trips, hold social nights such as: karaoke, quiz and club nights, put on free film nights and present special lectures.

You can check the upcoming events here

London International Meetup is a social group for people in London and is a chance to make new friends from different cultures. You must be at least 18 and all nationalities are welcome, including British. Events include informal social evenings, a weekly English club, day trips out of London and longer weekend trips.

LSBU Students' Union is run by students and provides students with social, sporting, political, recreational and cultural opportunities. The SU has its own bar and cafe and holds a wide range of diverse events and activities.

International Student Social Programme

To help you make the most of your time in the UK we have a discounted social programme designed especially for LSBU's international students. We believe this varied itinerary of guided day trips and evening activities will provide you with memorable experiences of London and the UK!

To find out about upcoming trips and to book your place, click here.

International Student Buddy scheme

Being a student in London gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore one of the best cities in the world, as well as the rest of the UK. It is also one of the world’s biggest cities and so it can seem like a very daunting and scary place when you first arrive.

Our International Student Buddies are here to help you to settle into life in the UK and life at LSBU. They are international students themselves so have been through the same process and transition as you so they will hopefully know how you feel.

Your buddy will be able to:

• Talk to you about any problems you might be facing
• Help you to learn about life in the UK and London
• Help you to learn about services available at the University
• Introduce you to other international students through social activities

Please note, your buddy cannot provide study support or advise you on your academic related issues.

Once a buddy is assigned to you they will:

• Keep in touch with you at least once a week in the autumn term
• Meet up with you every few weeks in the autumn term

If you would like a buddy assigned to you, please complete contact the International Student Advice We will then contact you to let you know who your buddy is.

Want to become a buddy?

Are you a current student and interested in:

• Helping new international students settle into studying at LSBU and life in the UK?
• Meeting students from across the world?
• Enhancing your CV and employability?

We are always looking for volunteers to become ‘buddies’ for our new students arriving in the UK. Contact the International Student Advice if you are interested in becoming a Buddy.