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International Students Office

The International Students Office supports international students at Western Balkans University through orientation, integration, and cultural activities.

Contact the Office
International students in the WBU lobby in front of national flags

Orientation, integration and activities

Supporting our international community

The International Students Office at Western Balkans University is dedicated to supporting international students throughout their academic journey in Albania. From the very first day on campus, the office provides orientation sessions, guidance on administrative procedures, and continuous assistance with academic and personal matters.

Beyond administrative support, the office organizes cultural and social activities that bring international and local students together — from welcome events and celebrations to excursions, student gatherings, and educational trips. These initiatives create a welcoming environment where students from every corner of the world can feel at home.

Students in traditional costumes from different countries in front of a row of national flags at WBU

Services

In alignment with the vision and mission of the Dean of Students at Western Balkans University, the International Students Office is committed to creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment where international students can develop academically, personally, socially, and professionally. Through dedicated guidance, student-centered support, and community engagement, the office assists students throughout every stage of their university journey.

  1. Arrival Guidance and First-Step Support

    The International Students Office provides guidance and assistance upon students' arrival in Albania and at the university. This service helps students navigate their first days smoothly and feel welcomed from the beginning of their academic experience.

  2. Orientation Days and Student Induction

    Orientation Days are organized for newly arrived international students to introduce them to academic life, university regulations, student services, campus facilities, and social opportunities. These sessions help students transition confidently into university life and understand the resources available to them.

  3. Mid-Year Orientation and Continued Integration Support

    Mid-year orientation sessions are organized for students who arrive later in the academic year or for those who would benefit from additional guidance after the first semester. These sessions help students reconnect with university services, clarify academic procedures, and strengthen their integration into campus life.

  4. Individual and Group Student Advising

    The office offers individual consultations and group meetings based on student needs. These sessions provide academic guidance, practical assistance, and a supportive space where students can raise concerns, ask questions, and receive personalized advice.

  5. Healthcare Guidance and Well-Being Support

    When needed, students receive guidance regarding healthcare services, including referrals to appropriate clinics, hospitals, and support centers. This service helps ensure student well-being and access to essential care during their studies.

  6. Cultural and Social Engagement Activities

    The International Students Office organizes cultural, social, and community-building activities both on campus and off campus. These initiatives encourage friendship, intercultural understanding, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging within the university community.

  7. Academic and Professional Development Activities

    Students are offered opportunities to participate in academic events, workshops, lectures, and development-focused activities that enrich their educational experience and support their future professional growth.

  8. Ongoing Student Support Throughout the Academic Journey

    The International Students Office serves as a continuous point of support throughout the student experience at Western Balkans University. From arrival to graduation, the office assists students in adapting, succeeding, and making the most of their university years.

  9. Inclusive Community and Student Advocacy

    Working in cooperation with the Dean of Students and other university departments, the office promotes ethical, respectful, and student-centered practices. It advocates for international students' needs while helping build an engaged and diverse university community.

Events & Activities

A timeline of recent and ongoing activities organised by the International Students Office.

Academic Year 2025 – 2026

  1. –

    Orientation Days

    During the arrival period of international students, the International Students Office organized orientation sessions to introduce students to the university environment, academic procedures, student services, and key regulations.

  2. Pizza Day (Off Campus)

    Informal pizza gatherings were organized in a relaxed off-campus setting to encourage social interaction among students. The event helped strengthen friendships, reduce feelings of isolation, and create a welcoming environment where students could relax and feel at home.

  3. Kazakhstan Cultural Week

    International students participated in the celebration of Kazakhstan Cultural Week at Sheshi Italia in Tirana. The event featured performances by the Turan Ensemble and internationally recognized Kazakh singer Adam. Through music, art, and shared experiences, students engaged with Kazakh culture while connecting with the wider international community in Tirana.

  4. International Welcome Party

    The campus of Western Balkans University hosted a vibrant Welcome Party that brought together students from different countries in a celebration of cultures and connections.

  5. Welcoming Picnic

    A picnic at the Tirana Artificial Lake for first-year international students. The activity helped ease homesickness and encouraged confidence in adapting to university life.

  6. –

    International Cultural Week

    Students from different countries presented their cultures through traditional clothing, music, exhibitions, and performances during a week-long celebration.

  7. WBU Dorm Movie Night

    In collaboration with the WBU Dorm management, students enjoyed a film together in a comfortable and friendly setting, supporting social well-being and a sense of home.

  8. New Year’s Lunch

    International students gathered to celebrate the New Year season, share traditions, and enjoy time together away from home.

  9. –

    Lunch and Dinner with University Stakeholders

    A series of informal lunch and dinner gatherings were organized between international students and university stakeholders, encouraging open communication and a stronger sense of belonging.

  10. Dinner with International Students (Ramadan)

    A Ramadan dinner gathering for international students in a warm and respectful environment, promoting inclusion and mutual respect on campus.

  11. Dita e Verës Celebration

    A special event celebrating Dita e Verës, introducing students to an important Albanian tradition and helping international students feel more connected to Albanian culture.

  12. Easter at the Lake

    An Easter gathering at the lake featuring outdoor activities, games, and Easter egg decoration. Students enjoyed a joyful environment while building friendships through shared experiences.

  13. Food Fair

    A vibrant Food Fair bringing together international and Albanian students to share traditional dishes, music, dances, and games. The event encouraged friendship, cultural exchange, and appreciation of diversity.

Our International Community

Nationalities of WBU students by faculty and academic year

International students by academic year

2022 – 2023
4
2023 – 2024
20
2024 – 2025
135
2025 – 2026
115
Faculty 2022 – 2023 2023 – 2024 2024 – 2025 2025 – 2026
FSHMT
  • Kosovar (graduated) 1
  • Indian 4
  • Turkish 2
  • Italian 1
  • Kosovar 1
  • Cameroonian 1
  • Indian 85
  • Kosovar 2
  • Filipino 1
  • Turkish 1
  • Palestinian 1
  • Libyan 1
  • Syrian 1
  • Greek 1
  • Indian 53
  • Kosovar 6
  • Turkish 5
  • Albanian 4
  • North Macedonian 2
  • Nigerian 2
  • Serbian 1
FETI
  • Palestinian (graduated) 1
  • Cameroonian 2
  • Kosovar 1
  • Nigerian 1
  • North Macedonian 1
  • Indian 34
  • Cameroonian 1
  • North Macedonian 1
  • Filipino 1
  • Hungarian 1
  • Indian 7
  • North Macedonian 4
  • Nigerian 4
  • Turkish 2
  • Azerbaijani 1
  • Kazakh 1
  • Arab 1
  • Libyan 1
  • Kosovar 1
  • Yemeni 1
  • Sudanese 1
  • Indonesian 1
  • Cameroonian 1
FMD
  • Turkish 1
  • Kosovar 1
  • Turkish 2
  • Syrian 2
  • Canadian 1
  • Libyan 1
  • Turkish 3
  • British 1
  • Turkish 7
  • Syrian 2
  • Kosovar 2
  • Sudanese 2
  • Indian 1
  • Albanian 1
  • Libyan 1
Total 4 20 135 115
FSHMT
Faculty of Medical Sciences and Technology
FETI
Faculty of Economics, Technology and Innovation
FMD
Faculty of Dental Medicine

Videos

Short reels and highlight videos from international student events.

Contact the Office

Head of Office

Dr. Irma Gjana

Email

[email protected]
Office page Important contacts

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