Life as an international student

Birkbeck is a truly international place. Students from over 120 countries join Birkbeck every year, our staff come from across the globe, and our researchers are collaborating with universities, governments, healthcare agencies and businesses worldwide.

Life at Birkbeck goes beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, we offer our international students the opportunity to take part in activities ranging from London bus tours and day trips to employability talks.

STUDENT EVENTS

Read about some of the upcoming events as well as recent excursions enjoyed by Birkbeck's international students.

Student experiences and events

Take a look at the types of activities on offer for international students at Birkbeck.

Tour of Parliament

A students’ favourite, this insightful guided tour of the historical London landmark takes students to the House of Lords and the Commons.

Lunar new year celebrations

The whole Birkbeck community was invited to welcome the new year with food, games and prizes.

Diwali on campus

A fun event to celebrate Diwali, that included South Asian dishes, music and dancing.

We’re not 'made out of sugar'

A day trip to historic Greenwich in the rain proves that Birkbeck's Brazilian students aren't 'made out of sugar'.

Oxford day trip

Read about our two summer trips to the beautiful and historic university city of Oxford.

Cambridge day trip

Students enjoyed a guided tour of the beautiful city of Cambridge as well as some punting along the river.

A farewell afternoon tea

Outgoing international students say goodbye to Birkbeck with an exquisite French afternoon tea.

Life as an international student at Birkbeck

Hear about Iris' experience of life as an international student at Birkbeck, University of London. She talks about what makes London such a great place to study, what it's like studying in a non-native language and how Birkbeck supports its many international students.

Find out what makes Birkbeck such a unique place to study

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR EXPERIENCE

Global Buddies

Global Buddies is a scheme that connects you with former Birkbeck students. Alumni can help you settle into London life, improve your English and give you tips about opportunities at Birkbeck.

Birkbeck Students' Union

Birkbeck has its own Students' Union, which represents students’ interests and runs clubs, societies and social activities.

Boost your Career

Birkbeck's career service helps you boost your career with skills workshops, placements, business support and job opportunities.

Public events

There's always something going on at Birkbeck, from public lectures and conferences to seminars and film screenings. Check our event calendar.

Learning support

Our Learning Development Service supports to in every area needed to become a successful student, including free workshops, accessible learning materials, and one-to-one meetings.

International students blog

International students blog about their experiences at Birkbeck, from offering tips and advice, to sharing recipes and photos of events.

What our students say

Hear more from our students and find out what life is really like at Birkbeck.

International digest

The 2022-23 edition of the International Digest illustrates our continuing impact on the world, offering snapshots of the contributions and activities of our staff, students and alumni.

"International students should run to Birkbeck, it has the social and academic balance you need"

Abena Owusu-Sarpong came to Birkbeck from Ghana. Hear how she worked whilst studying at Birkbeck, what she loved about living in London, and why she recommends it to others. She graduated with an LLM Qualifying Law Degree.

Find out more about the LLM Qualifying Law Degree