International Students Day, held annually on 17 November, is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the valuable contributions our international students make to the University, while encouraging students from all backgrounds to come together and learn from one another.
Through a week of activities and celebrations organised by the International Students' Network (ISN), the International Student Experience (ISE) team and Loughborough Students' Union (LSU), we hope to showcase the diversity of our community, create opportunities for you to connect with each other, and strengthen the sense of belonging that makes Loughborough such a welcoming and inclusive place to study.
Our flagship event will take place on Friday 20 November from 3pm-7pm in The Basement at the Students' Union, where you can try international dishes made by the University's Catering team, watch a variety of performances and meet our different societies representing students from across the globe. No booking is required, simply turn up on the day.
We'll also be running a wider programme of events across the week (16-22 November). More information about each of these can be found below.
- Culture and Fashion Exchange: Monday 16 November, 4pm-6pm – Collaboration Station, Loughborough Students’ Union (no booking required)
Learn more about different cultures whilst socialising with other students and playing games. You're welcome to wear clothing to represent your culture, your country's sports kits, or bring along an item that holds cultural significance to you.
- Sip and Paint International Hangout: Tuesday 17 November, 4pm-6pm, Collaboration Station, Loughborough Students' Union (no booking required)
Join LU Arts and the International Student Experience team for a relaxing painting session. We'll be providing the materials along with refreshments.
- International Students' Day Special – Speaking Club Show and Tell: Wednesday 18 November, 1pm-2pm, WAV011 Wavy Top (no booking required)
The University's Academic and Language Support Service will be hosting a dedicated Speaking Club for International Students' Day to celebrate diverse cultures. Feel free to bring along an item that best represents your culture.
- International Movie Night: Wednesday 18 November, 6pm-9pm, Luxurio, Barrow Street, LE11 1DB (no booking required)
Join the International Student Experience team for an international movie night (title to be confirmed). Simply turn up and we'll sort out the snacks!
- AI tools for Career Advantage and Career Strategy for International students: Thursday 19 November, 2pm-5pm, SCH138 Schofield Building (booking required)
An interactive session for international students to understand how to use artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen your career strategy, develop your professional brand, and improve your job applications. Combining practical demonstrations, hands-on activities and insights from industry professionals, the session will explore how students can use AI effectively while highlighting the human skills employers continue to value.
- Sports Day x Rec Sport: Saturday 21 November, 12pm-4pm, Tennis Centre
Come along for this day of fun, where we’ll be hosting an afternoon of recreational sport activities and games.
University support for international students
International Student Experience team
Our International Student Experience (ISE) team is here to support you throughout your time at Loughborough, helping you to settle into life in the UK, make connections and feel part of the University community.
Throughout the year, the team organises a range of welcoming events, social activities and opportunities to meet new people. From International Welcome activities and regular International Hangouts to creative workshops, cultural celebrations, trips and vacation programmes, there's plenty to get involved with beyond your studies.
ISE also provides a friendly point of contact for questions about everyday life in the UK, helping students navigate their new surroundings and find the information and support they need.
Students can keep up to date with upcoming activities through the ISE newsletter, on social media and by visiting the University's events webpages.
LSU International Students' Network
Whether you're an Exchange student or studying your entire degree at Loughborough, we are here to represent and support you. It is our role to make sure that you’re supported throughout your time at Loughborough, but also to share your culture across our campus. We are so proud of our student diversity here at Loughborough and want to make sure you have a safe space to share your culture and learn more about others.
We offer a range of events and social opportunities throughout the year, including creative craft events, online events, and educational exhibitions.