Norway offers international students a high-quality education system, a wide range of study options, and a distinctive living experience. Students considering European destinations often look first at countries such as Germany, France, and Belgium, but Norway is also worth exploring.
Norway is known for its mountains, freshwater streams, greenery, and dramatic landscapes. Beyond its scenery, the country offers higher education opportunities for both Norwegian and international students.
Ready to explore your options? Here is a complete guide to studying in Norway.
How to Plan for Your Studies in Norway
The following points will help you plan your studies in Norway.
Education System in Norway
The education system of Norway includes primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education. The Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training is responsible for kindergarten, primary education, and secondary education. Students seeking information about higher education should also consult Study in Norway, the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills, NOKUT, and the websites of individual institutions.
After mandatory primary and lower secondary education, Norwegian students are entitled to upper secondary education. They may then pursue higher education or tertiary vocational training. International students may also apply for eligible higher education programs and, where available, accredited vocational education programs that meet the relevant study-permit requirements.
Statistics Norway publishes updated figures for students enrolled in higher education. Its 2025 figures reported 323,595 students in higher education in Norway and abroad. This total excludes PhD candidates and exchange students, so it should not be interpreted as a count of every person studying in the Norwegian education system.
Post-secondary education in Norway includes bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degree levels. Some Norwegian universities also offer professional programs in subjects such as medicine, law, and dentistry. You can also explore medical schools in Norway. Many professional programs are taught in Norwegian and require appropriate language proficiency.
Choosing a University in Norway
Choosing a university in Norway requires careful research. Institutions differ in location, program availability, course content, language of instruction, tuition fees, and admission requirements. Some of the universities to consider in Norway include the University of Oslo, the University of Bergen, and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).
The best way to choose a suitable university is to compare its programs, curriculum, teaching format, campus location, and student-support services. Similar programs may differ in their required courses, practical components, and assessment methods.
Some courses may focus on theory, while others include laboratory work, placements, or other practical components. Delivery formats also vary. Some subjects are taught on campus, while certain institutions may offer online options. It is also worth checking whether a university offers language courses for international students. Norway has a range of English-taught programs, particularly at the master’s level.
Consider your academic needs, interests, budget, preferred location, and career goals. The university you choose can affect your education, well-being, and future opportunities.
Choosing a Study Program in Norway
Norway offers a wide selection of study programs. The standard structure of higher education includes the following degree levels:
- Bachelor’s degree: Usually takes three years of full-time study and is equivalent to 180 ECTS credits.
- Master’s degree: Usually takes two years of full-time study and is equivalent to 120 ECTS credits. Some master’s programs have a different structure, and independent academic work is generally included.
- PhD degree: Usually takes three years of full-time study and involves independent research. Some PhD positions may take longer when additional duties are included.
Students do not need to complete all three degree levels unless their academic and career goals require them. Bachelor’s students generally follow a structured curriculum. Master’s programs usually provide more advanced subject-specific study. PhD candidates focus primarily on research, and many PhD opportunities in Norway are advertised as paid positions.
Popular fields include a wide range of subjects, such as science, technology, and business. Students interested in research may also wish to explore subjects such as climate change, renewable energy, and Arctic studies.
How to Finance Your Education in Norway
The following points will help you plan your education budget in Norway.
Tuition Fees in Norway
At public higher education institutions, students from Norway, the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland are generally exempt from tuition fees. However, they normally pay a semester fee. Students can read more about tuition-free universities in Norway.
Degree-seeking students from outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland normally pay tuition fees at public higher education institutions. The amount varies by institution and study program. Some groups, including exchange students, doctoral candidates, and students participating in certain schemes, are normally exempt from tuition fees at public institutions.
Private institutions may have different tuition policies. Always check the official fees page for your chosen institution and program. Payment deadlines also vary, so follow the deadline stated in your admission documents.
Cost of Living in Norway
The cost of living in Norway can be significant, so students should prepare a realistic budget. For the 2026–2027 academic year, the official living-cost benchmark used for study-permit purposes is NOK 15,488 per month or NOK 170,368 per year.
Your actual spending will depend on your city, housing arrangement, lifestyle, and study needs. Plan for expenses such as:
- Housing, utilities, and deposits
- Food and household supplies
- Books, equipment, and other study-related expenses
- Local transportation
- Healthcare, insurance, clothing, and personal expenses
Before traveling, check whether you need private health insurance and whether you may be covered by the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme. Membership is not determined solely by nationality or the possession of a residence permit. The rules depend on factors such as the length and purpose of your stay and whether an international social-security agreement applies.
Students from outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland who receive a study permit are generally allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during holidays. Part-time income can help with expenses, but it should not replace the funds required for a study permit. Students should also look for student discounts and consider shared accommodation.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Scholarship availability for international students in Norway is limited and depends on the student’s nationality, study program, institution, and eligibility for specific schemes. Norway does not offer a general government scholarship that is open to all international students. Students can explore scholarship opportunities in Norway and carefully review the official eligibility rules for each award.
Possible sources of funding include targeted institutional scholarships, country-specific opportunities, and selected international programs. Examples include Erasmus Mundus scholarships and certain BI Norwegian Business School scholarships. Coverage varies: an award may cover part or all of the tuition fees, and some scholarships may offer additional support. Always verify the current terms on the provider’s official website.
Although studying in Norway for free may be possible for some students, it is not guaranteed. Applicants should confirm their tuition status, living-cost obligations, and scholarship eligibility before making financial plans.
How to Apply to Norwegian Universities
The following points will help you apply to Norwegian universities.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by institution, program, degree level, and applicant background. Universities commonly assess your previous education, grades, subject prerequisites, and language proficiency. Some programs may also require a portfolio, work experience, a motivation letter, or other supporting materials.
For example, applicants to master’s programs at the University of Bergen generally need a bachelor’s degree with a relevant academic specialization and an average grade comparable to at least a Norwegian C. Meeting a minimum requirement does not guarantee admission, and individual programs may have additional criteria.
Applicants should review the official language requirements for each program. Requirements may include proficiency in English, Norwegian, or both. At the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, for example, programs taught in Norwegian require proficiency in both Norwegian and English, while international master’s programs require English proficiency.
There is no single language-test score that applies to every Norwegian university and program. For illustration, NTNU lists IELTS Academic 5.0, TOEFL iBT 60, and PTE Academic 51 among the ways to meet its general English requirement, but separate requirements apply to international master’s programs. The University of Bergen states a higher English-language threshold for its international master’s applicants. Review the official program page before booking a test. You can also read more about language proficiency tests, IELTS requirements, TOEFL requirements, and the PTE Academic test.
Complete the application form carefully and submit all required information by the applicable deadline. Use the university’s official admissions page as the primary source for your application requirements.
Required Documents
The documents required for admission vary by university, study level, program, and applicant background. Follow the checklist provided by your chosen institution. Commonly requested documents may include:
- A valid passport or other accepted identification
- Diplomas, degree certificates, and academic transcripts
- Authorized translations when documents are not issued in an accepted language
- Proof of English or Norwegian language proficiency, when required
- A CV, motivation letter, portfolio, or reference letters, when requested
- Program-specific or country-specific documentation
Some institutions may also request documentation related to financing or tuition fees. Scan your documents clearly, keep the original copies in a safe place, and follow the institution’s instructions on file format, translation, and verification.
Application Deadlines
Application deadlines vary by university, degree level, study program, and applicant category. Applicants from outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland often have earlier deadlines than applicants from the EU, the EEA, Switzerland, or the Nordic countries. Some deadlines fall several months before the start of the academic year. Always check the current admissions page for your selected institution and program.
General Admission Steps
The general admission steps for a Norwegian university are similar to those in many other countries. Follow the instructions issued by your selected institution.
- Choose a university and study program.
- Review the official admissions page and confirm your applicant category.
- Check the academic and language requirements.
- Prepare the required documents.
- Submit your application and, where relevant, a separate scholarship application.
- Monitor your application portal and email for updates.
- Respond to an offer by the deadline stated in your admission documents.
Check out our detailed guides to learn more about applying for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in Norway.
How to Obtain a Student Visa in Norway
Students from outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland who plan to study in Norway for more than three months generally need a study permit. Students from the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland follow separate registration rules. Review the official guidance before applying. You can also read our overview of the Norway student visa process.
For a university-level study permit, applicants generally need admission to a full-time program, sufficient funds for living expenses, proof that tuition fees are covered when applicable, and suitable housing. The institution and program must satisfy the relevant requirements. Depending on the circumstances, funds may need to be documented in an approved account or deposit arrangement.
The required documents depend on your circumstances. Applicants commonly need a passport, an admission letter, proof of funds, documentation related to tuition fees when applicable, and proof of housing. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration provides a personalized document checklist after you complete the online application.
Apply through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration. The standard study-permit application fee for an adult is NOK 5,400. Applicants under the age of 18 pay a lower fee. Additional service or courier charges may apply when using a Visa Application Centre. Processing times vary, so use the official UDI waiting-time guide for an estimate based on your application type and circumstances.
How to Prepare for Your Arrival
Prepare for your arrival before traveling so that your first days in Norway go smoothly. Pay particular attention to your documents, housing, transportation, finances, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Pack Essentials
Pack practical clothing, shoes, personal-care items, medication, chargers, and other essentials. Consider the weather conditions you are likely to encounter when you arrive. Carry important documents in your hand luggage and store digital copies securely. Avoid laminating official documents unless the issuing authority recommends it, as some documents may need to be inspected or copied.
Manage Transport
Plan your flight and your journey from the airport to your accommodation in advance. Compare airport trains, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services where available. Check the operating hours before traveling, especially if your flight arrives late in the evening.
Preparing your Accommodation
Start your housing search early. Student housing offered through a student welfare organization can be more affordable than private accommodation, but availability may be limited. Universities and local student welfare organizations can provide guidance. When considering private rentals, use reliable platforms, verify the terms carefully, and be alert to scams. Short-term accommodation may be useful while you search for a longer-term option.
How to Study and Live in Norway
Moving to another country for your education can be exciting and challenging. Preparing for common adjustments can make the transition easier.
Challenge 1: Cultural Differences
Norwegian customs, food, traditions, and social habits may differ from those in your home country. Exploring local culture can help you feel more connected to your new surroundings. You may encounter foods such as smoked salmon, Norwegian waffles, and brunost, or brown cheese. You may also see traditional Norwegian attire known as a bunad, particularly during celebrations.
Take part in university activities and local events. These experiences can help you adjust to student life and learn more about Norwegian culture.
Challenge 2: Making Friends
Building a support network can make life in a new country easier. Attend orientation events, join student groups, and participate in activities that match your interests. The University of Oslo, for example, publishes a list of student associations on its website.
Challenge 3: Managing Expenses, Life, and Education
Managing your studies, personal life, and finances can be challenging. Create a realistic monthly budget, track your spending, and leave room for unexpected costs.
The following tips can help you settle in Norway:
- Learn a few useful words and phrases in Norwegian.
- Connect with both international and Norwegian students.
- Plan your budget carefully and explore scholarships or permitted part-time work.
- Explore your city and learn how to use local transportation.
- Make time for hobbies, exercise, and social activities.
Can You Work in Norway After Graduation
Your options for remaining in Norway after graduation depend on your nationality and circumstances. Students from the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland generally follow different rules from students outside these areas.
Graduates from outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland who complete a degree in Norway may be eligible to apply for a residence permit to look for work. The permit is subject to conditions, including a financial requirement, and may be granted for up to one year. Apply before your current permit expires and review the official requirements carefully.
Once you find a qualifying job, you may be able to apply for the appropriate Norwegian work permit, such as a skilled-worker permit. The job and your qualifications must meet the applicable requirements.
To find a suitable job, explore reputable job-search platforms, professional networks, and your university’s career or alumni services. You can also review Norwegian and European employment portals such as Jobbnorge and EURES.
Norway offers international students a range of opportunities to study and experience life in a distinctive European setting. Before applying, compare programs carefully, confirm your tuition status, plan for living costs, and check the latest admissions and immigration rules.
We hope this guide helps you plan your studies in Norway. Read more articles in the Study in Norway section. You can also check the Available Programs in Europe to see which courses you can apply to.
