Loneliness among international students in Norway How do cultural differences and language barriers influence the formation of friendships among African and South Asian students?

Abstract

Migration is widely recognized as a challenging and often stressful experience, especially for students pursuing education abroad. The increasing global movement of students across borders for academic opportunities has made international student mobility a defining feature of modern higher education. This thesis examines the impact of cultural differences and language barriers on the social integration of international students in Norway, focusing specifically on how these factors contribute to feelings of social isolation and loneliness. A qualitative research approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with nine international students from three African countries and one South Asian country studying in Oslo. The findings reveal the contrast between the more extroverted and communal social norms of the students’ home cultures and the reserved, individualistic nature of Norwegian society. African and South Asian students struggle to form meaningful relationships with Norwegians due to these cultural differences, leading to difficulties in building strong social ties that are crucial for cross-cultural integration. Additionally, the language barriers significantly impede the formation of friendships, social integration, professional and job opportunities for African and South Asian students which contributes to their sense of isolation and loneliness. These students often find themselves isolated within their own ethnic groups, which provides some comfort but hampers broader social integration. These difficulties underscore the need for targeted policies to support international students’ social integration, aiming to improve their well-being and sense of belonging. This study suggests that a more inclusive approach in Norwegian higher education institutions could enhance the social welfare of international students, making Norway a more welcoming environment for academic and personal growth.