The show takes place at an actual school (Hartvig Nissens Skole) which one of the actors, Tarjei Sandvik Moe (Isak), actually attends. Other characters from the show such as Magnus (David Stakston) and Chris (Ina Svinningdal) also attends at the school.
Social media profiles on Facebook and Instagram has been created for many of the characters. On the official web site you can see many images and videos from the characters Instagram, and also read chat and message logs, and see Youtube videos they have shared with each other. The social media aspect is a major part of the show and flesh out the characters and story.
Noora was the first character created for the series by Julie Andem. Julie Andem wanted to tell Noora and Williams' story, but felt it needed background which is why Eva is the lead of the first season. It was also decided early in the first season that Isak would be the lead character of the third season.
Even's (Henrik Holm) room in the series is actually Marlon Langeland's (Jonas) room in real life. Thats why you see a lot of skateboards and caps on the wall.
The actors in the series actually chose the name SKAM for the show. The creator and director of the show, Julie Andem, gave all the teenagers who were auditioning for the show the opportunity to come up with name suggestions. Then she gave those who participated on the last audition, ten names to choose from, and SKAM won.