Choosing a university abroad involves more than comparing rankings, tuition fees, and course content. The people and communities around you can have a significant impact on your overall student experience.
For international students, studying at a university with a welcoming and active international community can make it easier to adjust to a new country, build friendships, find support, and feel more at home.
However, a university having students from many countries does not automatically mean it has a strong international student community. Before applying, it’s important to research how the university supports and connects its international students.
Why Does the International Student Community Matter?
A strong international student community can help you:
- Make friends from different countries.
- Adjust to a new culture.
- Find practical support after arrival.
- Learn about different perspectives.
- Participate in cultural activities.
- Build an international professional network.
It can also make the transition from Nigeria or another home country to a new study destination less overwhelming.
1. Check the Number of International Students
Start by researching how many international students attend the university.
Look for information about:
- The total number of international students
- The countries they come from
- The percentage of the student population that is international
- The number of international students in your specific course or faculty
A university with a diverse student body may offer more opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds.
However, a large international population is not always better. A smaller university with a supportive community may provide a more personal experience.
2. Research the Countries Represented
Look beyond the total number of international students.
Find out whether the university attracts students from:
- Africa
- Asia
- Europe
- North America
- Latin America
- The Middle East
- Other regions
A diverse international community can expose you to different cultures, languages, and perspectives.
You may also want to check whether the university has students from your home country or region. Having access to people who understand your background can be helpful during your adjustment period.
3. Look for International Student Societies
Student societies are one of the best ways to connect with people who share your culture or interests.
Check whether the university has:
- International student societies
- African student associations
- Nigerian student associations
- Cultural clubs
- Regional student groups
These organisations may organise:
- Cultural celebrations
- Social events
- Networking sessions
- Mentoring programmes
- Sports activities
- Academic support events
You can often find information about these societies on the university’s student union website or social media pages.
4. Investigate International Student Support
A good university should provide more than a welcome email to international students.
Look for support services such as:
- International student advisers
- Visa and immigration guidance
- Orientation programmes
- Academic support
- Language support
- Mental health services
- Careers guidance
- Accommodation assistance
These services can be particularly important during your first few weeks abroad.
5. Find Out What Happens During Orientation
Orientation is often the first opportunity to meet other students.
Research whether the university offers:
- International student orientation
- Welcome events
- Campus tours
- City tours
- Social activities
- Immigration information sessions
- Cultural integration programmes
A university that invests in a comprehensive orientation programme may make it easier for international students to settle in.
6. Explore Student Events and Activities
A strong international student community is usually active throughout the year.
Look for events such as:
- International food festivals
- Cultural celebrations
- Language exchange programmes
- Global awareness events
- International student mixers
- Cultural showcases
These events can help you meet people outside your course and learn about other cultures.
7. Check Whether Students Interact Across Cultures
A university may have many international students, but they may not necessarily interact with one another.
Look for opportunities that bring students together, such as:
- Buddy programmes
- Peer mentoring
- Group projects
- Cultural exchange programmes
- International volunteering
- Student leadership programmes
These activities can help you build friendships beyond students from your own country.
8. Read Student Reviews Carefully
Student reviews can give you insights into the actual student experience.
Look for comments about:
- How welcoming the university is
- Whether international students feel included
- The quality of student support
- Campus diversity
- Social activities
- Experiences of making friends
Try to read reviews from different sources and avoid basing your decision on one negative or positive comment.
9. Explore Social Media Pages
University social media accounts can show you what campus life is really like.
Look for:
- International student events
- Cultural celebrations
- Student society activities
- Student testimonials
- Campus activities
You can also search for student societies and contact current students to ask about their experiences.
10. Consider the Location of the University
The city where you study can also influence your international student experience.
A large multicultural city may offer:
- More cultural communities
- International restaurants
- Cultural events
- Larger diaspora networks
- More diverse employment opportunities
A smaller city may offer:
- A closer student community
- Easier navigation
- Potentially lower living costs
- More personal university support
Think about which environment would make you feel most comfortable.
11. Research Accommodation Options
Where you live can affect how easily you meet other students.
University accommodation may offer:
- Shared kitchens
- Common rooms
- Social events
- International student communities
Private accommodation can also be a good option, especially if you live with other students from different backgrounds.
Before choosing accommodation, find out whether the university helps international students find safe and suitable housing.
12. Check for International Career Opportunities
A diverse student community can also support your professional development.
Look for:
- International career fairs
- Global employer events
- Alumni networks
- Multicultural networking events
- International internships
Meeting students from different countries can also help you build a professional network that extends beyond the country where you study.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a University
Before applying, consider asking:
- How many international students are enrolled?
- Which countries are most represented?
- Does the university have an international student office?
- Are there Nigerian or African student societies?
- What orientation activities are available?
- Does the university offer a buddy or mentoring programme?
- What cultural events take place throughout the year?
- How does the university support international students who experience difficulties?
The answers can help you understand whether the university’s international community is genuinely active and supportive.
Tips for Nigerian Students
If you’re choosing a university abroad from Nigeria:
- Look for universities with active African or Nigerian student associations.
- Check whether current Nigerian students share their experiences online.
- Consider the diversity of the city as well as the university.
- Research international student support before applying.
- Look for opportunities to meet students from different backgrounds.
- Don’t choose a university solely because it has a large Nigerian community—also consider whether you want to develop a broader international network.
Having people from your home country around you can provide comfort, but connecting with students from different cultures can also enrich your international experience.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Be cautious if:
- The university provides very little information about international student support.
- Current international students report feeling isolated.
- There are few opportunities for students to interact outside the classroom.
- International students receive limited orientation support.
- The university has a large international population but very few integration activities.
A diverse student population is valuable, but meaningful inclusion is equally important.
FAQs
Is it better to choose a university with many international students?
Not necessarily. A large international student population can offer greater diversity, but the quality of support and opportunities for interaction is also important.
How can I find Nigerian students at a university abroad?
Look for Nigerian student associations, African student societies, university social media pages, alumni networks, and online student communities.
Will I only make friends with students from my own country?
Not at all. International student societies, orientation events, group projects, and cultural activities can help you meet people from many different countries.
How important is the international student office?
Very important. An international student office can provide guidance on settling in, immigration matters, academic support, cultural adjustment, and other challenges you may face abroad.
What is the best way to evaluate a university’s international community?
Research the student population, societies, orientation programme, support services, events, accommodation, and student reviews. If possible, speak directly with current international students before making your decision.
