We want our international students to have a great start to their studies and be warmly welcomed in Norway and at the University of Agder. UiA Buddy and ESN Buddy help newcomers find their way around campus and the local area upon arrival.
![Masse studenter og faddere på en stor gressplen.](https://www.uia.no/studentliv/studiestart/bilder/img_6896.webp)
How it works
For full degree students
Full degree students attending a bachelor's programme taught in English, are assigned a UiA Buddy ("fadder" in Norwegian). International and Norwegian students will be mixed, and take part of buddy groups for their bachelor's programme.
For exchange students
ESN UiA (Erasmus Student Network at UiA) organises the buddy programme for all exchange students coming to UiA.
Don't want a buddy?
![Bildet kan inneholde: smil, erme, gest, lykkelig, begivenhet.](https://www.uia.no/studentliv/studiestart/bilder/uia_campusgrimstad_studiestart_15aug2022---foto-id-aid0001101_marceltiedje_052-169.webp)
Follow our buddy programmes on Instagram
Information, tips, and advice. Get a glimpse of semester start at UiA.
A positive start!
Did you know that 92% of new students say they would recommend UiA to their friends after just two months?
We know that social interaction is just as important as academic pursuits, and we want you to quickly get acquainted with both your fellow students, UiA, and the city. The first semester and the physical meeting places on campus and in the city are crucial, so we put a lot of effort into facilitating that.
Rector Sunniva Whittaker
![Fem studenter foran hovedinnganga til UiA i Kristiansand, ved et regnbue-gangfelt](https://www.uia.no/studentliv/bilder/20220815_5742-169.jpeg)
Information about semester start
![Image may contain: Smile, Facial expression, Happy, Goggles, Pink.](https://www.uia.no/studentliv/bilder/uia_campusgrimstad_studiestart_15aug2022---foto-id-aid0001101_marceltiedje_047-1600px.jpg)