Savanna Hoffman
Norway is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, stunning natural beauty, and job prospects. Norwegian institutions of higher education welcome applications from qualified students worldwide, with a wide range of high-quality courses and great flexibility. The country offers a unique student experience, with a diverse range of degree programs and a focus on practical learning and research-based teaching. International students can benefit from the informal atmosphere at universities, where professors are easily approachable and classes are often held in small groups. Norway's higher education system is considered one of the most affordable in Europe, with some universities offering tuition-free education to all students, including those from outside the EU/EEA area. However, international students should be prepared for the high cost of living in the country. Additionally, English is widely spoken in Norway, making it easy for international students to communicate and find job opportunities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Higher education entrance qualification | Higher Education Entrance Qualification (GSU) |
| Language requirements | Norwegian, English |
| Tuition fees for international students | Free for students from the EU/EEA/Switzerland; paid for other students |
| Student visa requirements | Required for students from outside the EU/EEA |
| Work opportunities | Part-time work is allowed for international students |
| Job prospects | Norway has a strong and growing economy with a high demand for skilled professionals |
| Academic rigor | Research-based teaching, practical learning, and focus on independent thinking and critical analysis |
| Quality of education | High, with world-class institutions like UiO and NTNU |
| Student life | Lively and diverse, with cultural and social activities |
| Safety | Norway is considered one of the safest countries in the world |
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What You'll Learn
Tuition fees and scholarships
Norway offers free higher education to its citizens and those from the EU/EEA/Switzerland. However, since autumn 2023, Norway has required non-EU/EEA/EFTA citizens to pay tuition fees at public institutions. The tuition fees are based on the actual cost of the respective study and thus vary between institutions and study programmes. Students enrolling at private universities and business schools in Norway generally have to pay tuition fees. The exact amounts differ depending on whether you are an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen or from another country. For example, at BI Norwegian Business School, EU/EEA students pay 95,000 NOK per year.
PhD students at public institutions in Norway do not pay tuition fees, but they must finance their living and research expenses. PhD candidates in Norway are not eligible for financial aid because doctoral programs are classed as jobs, meaning that you are paid while you research and teach. Many PhD students in Norway work as research fellows during their studies. Others utilize outside funding like grants and scholarships.
International students from outside the EU/EEA generally have to pay tuition fees to obtain their degrees in Norway. Exchange students are exempt from paying tuition fees. Students with a valid permanent residence permit or those granted asylum in Norway due to protection, strong humanitarian reasons, or a special connection to the country are also exempt. Additionally, those married to or living with and having a child with a Norwegian citizen are exempt from paying tuition fees.
The Norwegian government does not offer scholarships to degree students. However, scholarships are available for international students who want to study in Norway. Some scholarships depend on your nationality, field of study, or level of study. Other schemes, like the Nordplus Student Exchange, help expand student mobility and support collaborative research. Your country or home university might also support students wishing to study abroad, so it's worth checking all your options.
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Student visas and permits
Students from Nordic countries (Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland) do not need to apply for a residence permit or a student visa to study in Norway. However, if you plan to stay in Norway for more than six months, you must report your move to the National Registry and get an ID check at a tax office in Norway. Students from the EU/EEA/EFTA area can study in Norway without a student visa for up to 90 days. However, they need to apply for a student residence permit for stays longer than 90 days. Students from outside the EU/EEA/EFTA area must apply for a student residence permit before coming to Norway. The student visa processing fee is around US$650 and may take up to two months to process, so it is advisable to apply as early as possible.
To apply for a student residence permit, you must submit the following documents:
- A completed and signed UDI document checklist
- Evidence of admittance to an approved full-time education program
- Evidence of sufficient financial funds for the entire period of study, including funds to support any accompanying family. The funds should be in a Norwegian bank account, and you need to prove you have access to NOK 116,369 for each academic year (10 months), which is approximately US$14,350.
- Evidence that you will leave Norway when your residence permit expires (usually in the form of a return ticket)
After submitting your application, you must obtain a residence card from your local police station in Norway. You are required to visit the police station within seven days of your arrival in Norway to have your fingerprints and photo taken.
It is important to note that the student residence permit can be renewed through the online Norway Application Portal at least one month before the expiry date. To renew your work permit, you must show proof of satisfactory progress in your studies.
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Language requirements
Norway is a popular destination for international students due to its diverse programs, free education for EU/EEA students, nature, and culture. However, one of the biggest barriers for international students is the language. Undergraduate courses are typically taught in Norwegian. While English is widely spoken in cities like Oslo and Bergen, and it is possible to find a job without knowing Norwegian, it is still beneficial to learn the local language.
Norwegian higher education institutions have specific language requirements for admission. These requirements vary depending on the institution and the particular study program. The general basis for admission to universities and university colleges in Norway is called the Higher Education Entrance Qualification (GSU). The GSU-list specifies the requirements for applicants with foreign education, including language proficiency requirements in English and Norwegian.
For English proficiency, proof is determined based on the applicant's country of origin. Some countries are exempt from the English requirements, while others may be required to provide test scores from English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge ESOL Examinations.
For Norwegian proficiency, there are several ways to fulfill the language requirement:
- Passing the written and oral parts of the Test in Norwegian - higher level (Bergenstesten) with a minimum score of "pass"
- Achieving a B2 level in all four disciplines of the Norwegian Language test for adult immigrants (Norskprøven for voksne innvandrere)
- Completing a 1-year course in Norwegian Language (60 ECTS) at Norwegian universities or university colleges
- Passing the oral Test in Norwegian - higher level (Bergenstesten) and achieving a B2 level in reading, listening, and written presentation from the Norwegian Language test for adult immigrants
- Providing other proof of Norwegian language skills, such as studying the native language at the most advanced level in upper secondary school for applicants from the Nordic countries
It is important to note that language requirements may vary depending on the specific university or program, so it is recommended to check the requirements for your desired institution and course. Additionally, learning the local language can be beneficial for part-time work opportunities and integrating into Norwegian society.
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Student jobs and internships
Norway is a fantastic destination for international students seeking employment opportunities alongside their studies. The country boasts a strong and growing economy, with a high demand for skilled professionals. As an international student, you may work part-time or full-time during your studies.
If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you can work alongside your studies without any restrictions. However, if you are from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, your working hours are capped at 20 hours per week during term time and you can work full-time during holidays.
Norway offers a wide range of job opportunities for international students. The country's diverse economy encompasses various sectors, including the fuel industry, technology, and the arts. English is widely spoken, especially in cities like Oslo and Bergen, so you may be able to find a job even if you don't speak Norwegian.
There are also numerous internship opportunities available. The University of Oslo, the University of Bergen, and the Arctic University of Tromsø are just a few examples of institutions that offer programmes catering to international students. These universities often provide internship and research opportunities for their students.
Additionally, Norway offers post-graduation work permit options for students who wish to stay and gain further work experience in the country. This allows you to build your career and gain valuable international work experience.
It is important to note that Norway is a high-cost country, and international students should be prepared to cover their living expenses. However, with its stunning natural beauty, friendly culture, and high quality of life, Norway offers a unique student experience that attracts learners from around the world.
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Student life and culture
Norway is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, cultural experiences, job prospects, and natural beauty. The country offers a unique student experience with diverse programs, free education for EU/EEA students, and a vibrant culture and history. The methods of teaching are such that students truly learn and understand the subjects, and the relationship between professors and students is close and friendly. The curriculum in Norway encourages independent thinking and critical analysis, with a focus on practical learning and research-based teaching.
The Norwegian government considers access to top-quality higher education for all to be an important part of Norwegian society and grants the higher education sector large resources. As a result, international students can benefit from high technological standards and services, modern facilities and equipment, and innovative teaching methods. The informal atmosphere at Norwegian universities and colleges, where teachers are easily approachable and classes are often held in small groups, further enhances the student experience.
Student life in Norway is characterized by a lively and diverse cultural scene, with many social activities to engage in. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and glaciers, as well as the Northern Lights during winter. Norwegians have a strong connection with nature, often enjoying outdoor activities and fresh, locally sourced food. The country's extensive coastline spans over 15,000 kilometers, offering easy access to the North Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, and Norwegian Sea.
Norway is also a modern society that deeply values equality, which is reflected in both its legislation and traditions. The country has a strong and growing economy, providing international students with excellent internship and graduate job opportunities. English is widely spoken, especially in cities like Oslo and Bergen, making it easy for international students to communicate and find jobs even without knowing Norwegian.
To finance their studies, international students often work part-time or full-time during their studies. While the Norwegian government does not offer individual scholarships open to all international students, there are various schemes and foundations that provide scholarships to degree students and exchange students, including PhD candidates. Additionally, Norway offers post-graduation work permit options for students who wish to stay and gain work experience in the country.
Overall, Norway offers a holistic student experience, combining academic excellence with cultural immersion and a strong focus on equality and accessibility. The country's higher education institutions are committed to internationalization, constantly working to facilitate the integration of international students into their academic community.
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Frequently asked questions
Norway is a fantastic place for international students due to its high-quality education, natural beauty, friendly culture, and high quality of life. It is one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Norwegian institutions of higher education welcome applications sent by qualified students from all over the world.
Norway offers tuition-free education to students from the EU/EEA area. Students from outside the EU/EEA area have to pay tuition fees, but there are scholarship opportunities and several schemes that allow non-EU international students to attend university fee-free or with student loans.
Yes, international students can work part-time or full-time during their studies. If you are a citizen from a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you can work up to 20 hours a week while studying and full-time during holidays. Norway also offers post-graduation work permit options for students who wish to stay and work in the country.
