How to enable study buddy in the Kahoot! app

Updated

This guide is for Kahoot! app users who want to customize their learning experience by enabling a study buddy. Read on to learn how to activate this motivational character, where it appears during gameplay, and how to troubleshoot visibility issues.

What is study buddy in the Kahoot! app?

Study buddy is a customization feature in the Kahoot! app that adds a friendly character to your learning experience. This feature is designed to boost engagement and make self-study more fun.

  • Motivational messages: Appears with animations and short messages as learners play and study.
  • Multiple app locations: Shows up on the start screen, between questions, and after a game finishes.
  • App skins: Paired with an app skin for a matching look and feel across the app.
☝️ Everyone has access to free skins and buddies, including rotating "free to try" options. Premium characters (like Hello Kitty) are available with selected Kahoot!+ plans.

How do I enable study buddy from my profile?

This is the main way to enable or change your study buddy at any time.

  1. Open the Kahoot! app on your phone or tablet and log in.
  2. Tap your profile avatar to open your profile page.
  3. Scroll to the Customization section and open the Buddy settings.
  4. Browse available options (None, free buddies, and premium characters). Select your preferred skin and study buddy combination.
  5. Tap Save.
💡 You can choose from free characters like Wanda, Snoopy (IOS only), premium buddies like SpongeBob SquarePants, Hello Kitty, Kuromi, and more, and watch for special seasonal characters during events like Tour de France!
💡 Once saved, your active buddy will automatically appear in all supported game modes for that profile.

Where does study buddy appear in the app?

Once enabled, your study buddy will encourage and celebrate with you in multiple areas:

  • Before and after games: Home screen, game intros, and post-game animations.
  • During gameplay: In the top corner of the screen and in interstitial screens between questions (with different animations for correct, incorrect, and missed questions).
  • Self-study and solo modes:
    • Classic solo: Play a kahoot by yourself and compete against bots to reach the top of the podium.
    • Test: Answer questions on the clock to earn points and put your knowledge to the test.
    • Assign / Assignments: Challenge others to complete the kahoot at their own pace.
    • Learn and Flashcards: Learn and review at your own pace.
☝️ Exact placements can differ slightly depending on the game mode and content type.

How do I change or turn off my study buddy?

You can update your preferences at any time.

  1. Open the Kahoot! app and go to your profile.
  2. Open Customization / study buddy settings.
  3. To switch buddies, select a different combination and tap Save.
  4. To turn it off, select the None option and tap Save.

FAQ

Q: Is study buddy free? Yes, there is always at least one free setup available. Premium options are included with certain Kahoot!+ plans or temporary "free to try" promotions. Check the Plans page in the app or on kahoot.com for full access.

Q: Does study buddy change how scores work? No. It only adds visuals and motivational messages. Scores, timers, points, and game rules stay exactly the same.

Q: Why can’t I see my study buddy in some games?

  • You’re playing partner content where it's hidden to avoid character conflicts.
  • You’re in a mode that doesn’t support it yet.
  • Your app is out of date.
💡 Try testing with a self-created kahoot or a standard solo mode (like Classic solo or Learn) to see your buddy in action.

Q: Can I use different study buddies for different profiles? Yes! study buddy is tied to the active profile. If you have multiple learner profiles on the same device, each can have its own distinct customization.

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