University of Agder

Student Life

Student life is not just about hitting the books. No matter what your age or interests, we are sure that you will find something in Agder!

Buddy programme:

As a new student at the University of Agder, you will automatically be able to participate in the buddy programme. UiA arranges a buddy programme for all new students, and the Erasmus Student Network arranges a special buddy programme just for international students. New international students will be placed in buddy groups with Norwegian students who meet them on arrival day and show them around for the first weeks. ESN buddies are students who already know the campus.

ESN buddies meet international students at the bus stop on arrival day, take them to their accommodation, give campus tours, and arrange events at the start of the semester and throughout the year.

Semester start festival:

International and Norwegian students alike get a great start to the semester during the semester start festival held in August every year. The festival take place on the campus ground in Kristiansand and Grimstad.

Good introduction to your studies:

During the first few weeks, UiA offers several courses to help you adjust to student life. E.g. academic introductions, library courses, computer courses etc.

SiA (Student Association of Agder):

SiA is the welfare and cultural organization for students in the southernmost part of Norway, known as Sørlandet. We are here to contribute to a safe and comfortable atmosphere so that students can have the best possible foundation for success.

SiA runs daycare centres, housing services and bookshops. We operate cafeterias and pubs such as Kafe Kampus, Østsia, Luftslottet and the gym Spicheren, and we support festivals and 50 student organizations.

SiA is student-run, and profits are used to improve and create new services for students.

Our goal is to contribute to making Sørlandet known as the country's best place to study.