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Study in Norway: A Guide for International Students

Lots of international students choose to study in Norway - and it’s little wonder why. From the magnificent fjords, to the vibrant capital Oslo, Norway captures the true essence of Scandinavia. Unlike in some countries, international students can find themselves in any number of cities, including Oslo, Stavanger, Bergen and Tromso.

Feb 5, 2014
  • Study Abroad in Norway

Lots of international students choose to study in Norway - and it’s little wonder why. From the magnificent fjords, to the vibrant capital Oslo, Norway captures the true essence of Scandinavia. Unlike in some countries, international students can find themselves in any number of cities, including Oslo, Stavanger, Bergen and Tromso.

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Norway is home to some great schools, like the University of Oslo, the University of Bergen and the Arctic University of Tromso. It’s also home to some great specialized schools, like the Norwegian University of Life Sciences in Ås and the Oslo National Academy of the Arts.

Adding to Norway’s attraction is the fact that there are no tuition fees at public schools. Wherever you’re from and whatever you’re studying, you will not pay tuition fees in Norway. You can get a world-class education tuition fee-free.

Norway - Quick Facts & Figures

CapitalOslo
LanguageNorwegian, Sami
Population5.3 million
Area Size385,207km²
International students23,000
Academic YearSeptember - June
CurrencyNorwegian Krone (NOK)
Calling Code+47
Time zoneGMT+1

Norway also has a large economy. This makes for great internship and graduate job opportunities. English is so widely spoken that, in places like Oslo and Bergen, it’s possible to find a job even without knowing Norwegian. 

The economy is also diverse. This means that studies and opportunities are widespread, from the fuel industry, to tech, to the arts, Norway has it all.

Hamnøy, Norway

Aside from studying, Norway is also a nature lover’s paradise, with forests, mountains and, of course, the fjords. In winter, you can even see the Northern Lights. Norwegians also love to eat fresh. Freshly caught fish and fresh fruit and vegetables are the norm. Norway’s beauty comes from its location. It borders Sweden to the south, Finland to the south-east and Russia to the east as well as the Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea.

Norway has something to offer many international students. This guide tells you all you need to know.

Education System

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Norway? Norway is a popular destination for a variety of students, given its diverse programs, free education and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Norway!

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter Norway to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizen status. You will also be required to bring certain documents with you to passport control at the airport, which we cover as well.

Housing & Living Costs

Norway is considered more expensive compared to other countries in Europe. We’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Norway.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Norway may vary. However, in general, education at public universities is free for all students. To cover the rest of the costs, there’s plenty of scholarship opportunities.

Language & Culture

Find out more about what Norway offers in terms of language, culture, cuisine, and more!

Application Process

The deadlines to apply for the autumn semester at most universities are in June, however, international students are strongly advised to apply as early as possible and to leave time for sorting out the details.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Norway? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Norway.

Keystone Team

Author

The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.