🌿 Ås and NMBU: Buddy Week, matriculation and English in programmes

🤝 Buddy Week and schedule

At the beginning of August, NMBU holds Buddy Week — an adaptation week for new students.

What participants can expect:

● 👥 Buddy groups — small groups where senior students help newcomers settle in.

● 🎉 Social activities: picnics, quizzes, campus tours.

● 🌍 Special events for international students: lectures on life in Norway, visa rules, banking issues.

📌 Buddy Week usually lasts from 8 to 16 August, and the Matriculation Ceremony takes place on 15 August.

🎓 Matriculation at NMBU

Matriculation is an official admission ceremony that takes place on the large NMBU campus.

● All new students are invited to the ceremony.

● The rector and faculty representatives welcome the new students.

● After the official part, there are tours of the faculties.

📌 What to bring: passport/ID, student card (or temporary confirmation), Buddy Week schedule, and a notebook for notes.

🗣️ English requirements at NMBU

Although HK-dir sets a minimum English threshold (e.g. IELTS 5.0–6.0), some programmes at NMBU require higher scores:

● Master's programmes in biology and ecology: IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each component).

● Agroecology and Sustainable Development: TOEFL iBT 90+.

● Programmes in sustainable innovation: Duolingo 110+.

👉 Always check the requirements on the specific programme page — even if you already meet the formal GSU minimum.

Life in Ås and studying at NMBU begins with an amazing Buddy Week and a fantastic Matriculation ceremony. The university is world-famous for its outstanding international programmes, and the English language requirements here are often higher than the minimum HK-dir standards, which is a fantastic opportunity for those who are ready to push themselves to the next level!

📌 Tip: prepare your language skills in advance and choose accommodation close to campus to make the most of NMBU's amazing opportunities!