Applications are now closed for any current students who would like to be a Buddy.
The scheme has been created to help new international students settle into student life in the UK by making sure that there is a friendly face ready to welcome them when they arrive. As a Buddy, you will be assigned to a small group of new students and communicate with them before they travel to the UK and check in with them throughout semester 1 to make sure they are finding their feet. We encourage you to set up a group chat with your students so that they can all get to know each other before they arrive and you will be responsible for scheduling group meet-ups and/or attend International Community Events with them.
Below are some examples of the Buddy's responsibilities:
Facilitate a group chat with your students and respond to occasional emails/WhatsApp/Wechat messages from them.
Meet your students on campus and attend our designated International Welcome Party provisionally scheduled for 20th September 2026.
Schedule at least 2 catch-ups with your students in person or on zoom. (This could include bringing them along to some of our International social events).
Are you a new international student joining the University of York this September? Moving to a new country and starting university life can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times.
To help you settle in, you can request a Buddy through our International Student Buddying Scheme. Your Buddy will be a current York student who understands what it’s like to be new and is here to support you during your first semester.
They’ll be a friendly point of contact who can:
✅ Answer your questions about student life
✅ Share tips on navigating campus and your timetable
✅ Recommend great places to eat, shop, or explore in York
✅ Help you feel more connected to the student community
It’s a great way to make your transition easier and start building friendships from day one.
Interested? This scheme will open to new students in August 2026. Keep an eye on this page or follow us on Instagram @international_Community_uoy for updates!