Complete guide to studying in Norway
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Norway
Five top reasons to study in Norway
- Free public university tuition – Most public universities in Norway charge no tuition fees for either EU/EEA or non-EU students, making it one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe.
- High quality of life and safety – Norway consistently ranks highly for quality of life, social welfare and personal safety, offering international students a secure and welcoming environment.
- World-class natural environment – From fjords and mountains to the midnight sun and northern lights, Norway offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventures alongside your studies.
- Strong academic standards – Norwegian universities are recognised internationally for their research, innovative teaching methods and commitment to sustainability.
- English-taught programmes – Many master’s and PhD courses, as well as some bachelor’s programmes, are available in English, making it accessible even if you are new to the Norwegian language.
A quick introduction to Norway
Located in Northern Europe on the western side of the Scandinavian Peninsula, Norway shares borders with Sweden, Finland and Russia and has a long Atlantic coastline that stretches into the Arctic Circle.
Norway is an attractive destination for international students who want to combine high-quality education with a unique cultural experience and stunning natural landscapes, from fjords and mountains to the Northern Lights.
The country consistently ranks highly for quality of life, social welfare and safety, making it a welcoming and secure choice for students.
English is widely spoken, and many universities offer programmes taught entirely in English, especially at the master’s level.
Norway is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and follows the Bologna process, ensuring that degrees are internationally recognised and students earn ECTS credits that can be transferred across Europe.
Universities in Norway are known for strong academic standards, innovative teaching and a focus on research.
Public universities generally do not charge tuition fees for domestic or international students, although students are expected to cover living costs, which are higher than in many other European countries.
International students are well represented in Norwegian higher education, attracted by the country’s reputation for academic excellence, a modern society built on equality and sustainability and the opportunity to study in one of the most spectacular natural environments in the world.
Norway’s higher education system
Norway is a European nation that adheres to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and the Bologna Process, ensuring that your studies in Norway are recognised and transferable to other universities throughout Europe.
The higher education institutions of Norway are classed into the following categories:
Universities (Universiteter)
Norway’s traditional universities provide a broad range of academic programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, with a strong focus on research and theory-based study.
They are primarily publicly funded, meaning they do not charge tuition fees to international students, and they are recognised for their high-quality research and teaching.
Notable examples include the University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the University of Bergen and the University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway.
Specialised Universities and University Colleges (Vitenskapelige høgskoler og høgskoler)
Alongside the comprehensive universities, Norway has specialised institutions focusing on particular fields such as business, arts, architecture and sports sciences.
University colleges (høgskoler) often emphasise professional training and applied learning, making them a good choice for students with specific career paths in mind. These can be either public or private, though most are publicly funded.
Examples include BI Norwegian Business School (a leading private institution), the Oslo National Academy of the Arts and the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences.
Public vs. Private Institutions
The majority of higher education institutions in Norway are public, which charge no tuition fees for either domestic or international students.
However, students should expect higher living costs compared to many other European countries. Private institutions, while fewer in number, often charge tuition fees but may also provide scholarships or financial support.
Academies of the Arts
Norway also has a number of highly regarded academies and schools dedicated to the arts, design and music.
These institutions provide world-class training for creative students and are closely connected to Norway’s cultural life.
Examples include the Norwegian Academy of Music and the Oslo School of Architecture and Design.
University rankings
Norway may not have as many universities as some larger countries, but its institutions are highly regarded for the quality of their teaching, research and commitment to innovation.
Several Norwegian universities perform strongly in international ranking tables, particularly in areas such as natural sciences, technology and environmental research.
For international students, rankings can be a useful tool when choosing where to study, as they provide insight into the strengths of each institution. A degree from a well-ranked university can also enhance your CV and improve your career prospects after graduation.
These rankings assess universities on a variety of factors, including research output, teaching reputation, international outlook and the proportion of international students on campus.
Our table below highlights the top Norwegian universities featured in global university rankings.
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| University of Oslo | =116 | 100 | =119 |
| University of Bergen | 251-300 | =261 | =287 |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology | 301-350 | =248 | 267 |
| UiT The Arctic University of Norway | 601-800 | =578 | =648 |
| University of Stavanger | 601-800 | =712 | 851-900 |
| University of Agder | =827 | ||
| Oslo Metropolitan University | =930 | ||
| Norwegian University of Life Sciences | =937 | 791-800 | |
| Western Norway University of Applied Sciences | =959 | ||
| Nord University | =1291 | ||
| BI Norwegian Business School | =1309 | ||
| University of South-Eastern Norway | =1476 | ||
| Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences | =1601 |
Climate
The weather in Norway can be described as both varied and unpredictable and if you are coming from a warmer climate, it may take some time to adjust.
Rain, snow or sunshine can appear in quick succession and you will soon find that locals are used to embracing all types of weather rather than letting it hold them back.
Norwegians have a saying that ‘there is no bad weather, only bad clothing’, which reflects the country’s practical approach to its climate. You will see people cycling, hiking or skiing in all seasons and a good waterproof jacket is often considered more essential than an umbrella.
The climate in Norway depends heavily on where you are located. Along the coast, in cities like Bergen or Stavanger, the weather is softened by the Gulf Stream, which means milder winters but a lot of rainfall throughout the year.
Inland and further north, in places like Oslo or Tromsø, winters are much colder, with temperatures regularly dropping well below freezing and snow covering the ground for several months.
Summers, however, can be pleasantly warm, with average highs between 16-22°C (61-72°F) and in the far north you may even experience the midnight sun.
If you are studying in southern Norway, you are likely to enjoy relatively moderate seasons, while further north you will encounter more extreme contrasts, including polar nights in winter when the sun does not rise for weeks at a time.
Lifestyle and Welfare
Healthcare
Norway has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and its citizens enjoy a high life expectancy and excellent quality of care as a result.
If you are an international student staying in Norway for more than one year, you are automatically included in the National Insurance Scheme, which gives you access to the same healthcare services as Norwegian citizens.
This includes visits to general practitioners (GPs), emergency services, hospital treatment and prescriptions at subsidised costs.
For students staying less than a year, you will need to make sure you have valid health insurance to cover your time in Norway.
Many students from within the EU/EEA can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while students from outside Europe should arrange private health insurance before arrival.
Either way, dental treatment is only partly subsidised, so if this is a concern, you may want to consider additional private cover for this.
Safety
Norway is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world and is also known for its political stability and very low crime rates.
The Global Peace Index regularly places Norway near the top, making it an exceptionally safe place to live and study.
Norwegians are generally welcoming towards international visitors and with the country’s long history of global connections, you will find it easy to integrate both in university life and in the community.
Leisure
Norwegians place a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, and you will quickly discover that spending time in nature is a big part of daily life.
Whether this is skiing in the winter, hiking in the mountains during summer, or enjoying the fjords and forests year-round, there are endless opportunities to stay active and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
A concept you will hear often is friluftsliv, which roughly speaking promotes getting outdoors and enjoying life in the open air, which reflects the national love of outdoor living. Joining hiking groups, ski clubs, or simply exploring local trails is a great way to meet people and experience Norwegian culture.
In the cities of Norway, you will find plenty of cultural activities, including museums, concerts, festivals and a strong café culture. Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim are particularly popular student cities, with lively student societies and events that make it easy to build friendships.
Food
Traditional Norwegian food is hearty and often reflects the country’s coastal and rural roots.
Fish, particularly salmon and cod, is a staple, and you will also find dishes featuring lamb, potatoes and root vegetables.
As a student, you will have access to affordable options in university canteens, while supermarkets offer a good range of food, including international products.
Eating out in Norway can be expensive, but many students cook at home and enjoy sharing meals with friends.
A short selection of the local specialities worth trying include:
- Rakfisk – fermented fish, an acquired taste for the adventurous.
- Kjøttkaker – Norwegian-style meatballs served with potatoes and gravy.
- Brunost – a brown, caramelised cheese that is a national favourite.
- Lefse – a soft flatbread often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Coffee culture is also very strong in Norway and you will quickly notice that Norwegians are among the highest coffee drinkers per capita in the world.
Transport
Norway has an excellent public transport system, with buses, trams, trains and ferries connecting cities and towns efficiently.
Students benefit from discounted fares, making it affordable to get around on a budget.
In cities like Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim, cycling is becoming increasingly popular and bike rental schemes are widely available. Just be prepared for hills and sometimes challenging weather conditions.
For longer journeys, trains offer scenic routes through the mountains and fjords, while domestic flights are a quick option if you want to travel across the country.
Norway’s geography makes internal flights common, but for students, exploring by train or bus can be a rewarding way to see the country at a slower pace.
Language
The official languages of Norway are Norwegian and Sámi.
Norwegian is spoken by the vast majority of the population, and it comes in two written forms: Bokmål and Nynorsk.
Bokmål (literally ‘book language’) is the most widely used, with around 85-90% of Norwegians writing in it. It developed historically from Danish-influenced written Norwegian and is the dominant form in cities and most universities.
Nynorsk (‘new Norwegian’) was created in the 19th century from rural dialects to reflect Norway’s distinct linguistic identity. About 10-15% of Norwegians write in Nynorsk, particularly in western regions and some rural communities.
Sámi is also an official language and is taught in schools.
English is very widely spoken in Norway, and most Norwegians have a high level of fluency. This makes it easy for international students to communicate in everyday life.
Other commonly spoken second languages include German and French, though you will find English dominates in academic and professional settings.
A growing number of degree programmes at Norwegian universities are taught in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels.
While undergraduate courses are more often taught in Norwegian, there are still some bachelor’s programmes available in English.
Regardless of the language of instruction for your course, learning some Norwegian will be very beneficial. Even a basic ability to ask for directions, order food, or take part in casual conversations will help you settle in more quickly and connect with local students.
Universities often provide free or low-cost Norwegian language classes for international students, making it easier to get started.
University cities
Norway offers a mix of vibrant urban centres, historic towns and spectacular natural surroundings.
As an international student, you will not only study at a world-class university but also live in a city where fjords, mountains and modern Scandinavian culture meet everyday life.
Here is a selection of some of the cities that international students really enjoy studying in:
Oslo
The capital and largest city of Norway, Oslo is a dynamic, modern city with a population of around 700,000. Surrounded by forests and located on the Oslofjord, it combines city life with easy access to outdoor activities.
Oslo is home to the University of Oslo, the largest and oldest university in Norway (founded in 1811), as well as Oslo Metropolitan University and BI Norwegian Business School.
With so many students, the city has a lively social scene and plenty of cultural attractions, from museums and galleries to concerts and festivals.
Bergen
Located on the west coast and known as the ‘Gateway to the Fjords,’ Bergen is Norway’s second largest city. With colourful wooden houses on the old wharf and surrounding mountains, it is one of the most picturesque university cities in Europe.
Bergen has a strong student atmosphere thanks to the University of Bergen, which attracts students from all over the world.
The city is also famous for its rain, so don’t forget your raincoat, but locals embrace the weather and the cultural life is rich, with music festivals, art and a busy nightlife.
Trondheim
Trondheim is often described as Norway’s student capital. Despite being a mid-sized city, it has one of the largest student populations in the country thanks to the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).
Students make up a large part of the city’s 200,000 residents, creating a youthful and energetic atmosphere.
Trondheim is also known for its historic cathedral, cosy cafés and strong student associations that organise everything from festivals to volunteering opportunities.
Tromsø
Situated above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a unique student city where you can experience both the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter. Despite its northern location, the city is surprisingly lively and international.
The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) is based here and attracts students interested in Arctic research, environmental studies and northern cultures. Tromsø’s compact size makes it easy to get around, and its mix of natural wonders and student life makes it unforgettable.
Stavanger
Located in the south-west of Norway, Stavanger is a coastal city known for its oil industry and growing cultural scene. With around 130,000 residents, it has a friendly, small-city feel, while still offering plenty of amenities for students.
The University of Stavanger is the main higher education institution, with particular strengths in engineering, social sciences and performing arts. The city is also close to some of Norway’s most iconic landscapes, including the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock).
Student visas
International students who want to study in Norway will generally need to obtain a valid student residence permit before beginning their studies.
If you are a student from an EU/EEA country, you do not need a visa to study in Norway. However, you must register with the police and obtain a certificate of registration once you arrive.
If you are a student from outside the EU/EEA, you will need to apply for a student residence permit before travelling to Norway. This permit is required for all full-time degree programmes lasting more than three months.
You will usually need to show proof of admission to a recognised Norwegian university or college, demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself, and provide evidence of accommodation arrangements.
Once granted, the student residence permit allows you to live in Norway for the duration of your studies, and you must renew it each year if your programme lasts longer than twelve months.
Costs of studying
Course fees
One of the most attractive aspects of studying in Norway is that most public universities do not charge tuition fees for either bachelor’s or master’s programmes, regardless of nationality. This applies to both EU/EEA and non-EU students, making Norway one of the few European countries where higher education is effectively free.
You will, however, need to pay a small semester fee to your university’s student welfare organisation. This fee is usually between NOK 500 and NOK 800 (around €45-€70) per semester, and it gives you access to important student services such as counselling, campus health facilities, sports centres and discounted public transport.
Private universities in Norway do charge tuition fees, and these can vary depending on the programme and institution. However, the majority of international students choose to study at public universities, where costs are minimal.
Living costs
Although tuition is free, Norway is known for having a high cost of living. Accommodation, food and general expenses are significantly more expensive than in many other European countries.
Monthly rent for a room in a shared apartment typically ranges between NOK 4,000 and NOK 7,000 (€350-€600), depending on the city. Student housing provided by universities is usually more affordable, but places are limited and in high demand.
When budgeting for food, transport and leisure, you should expect to need at least NOK 12,000–13,000 (€1,050-€1,150) per month to cover basic living expenses.
Oslo and Bergen are among the most expensive cities, while smaller towns such as Tromsø or Trondheim can be slightly cheaper.
Scholarships
While Norway does not charge tuition fees at public universities, there are still scholarship opportunities to help with living costs.
Scholarships are often offered by Norwegian universities for specific programmes, particularly at the master’s and PhD levels. For example, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the University of Oslo both have a range of grants and funding options for international students.
There are also external schemes such as the Quota Scheme (for students from selected developing countries) and Erasmus+ exchanges within Europe.
Additionally, some scholarships are funded by the Norwegian government, aimed at promoting cultural and academic exchange.
How to apply to university
To apply to university in Norway, most institutions handle applications through a centralised system called Samordna Opptak (the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service). However, this platform is primarily used for applicants who are already residents of Norway.
As an international student, particularly if you are applying from outside the EU/EEA, you will usually need to apply directly to your chosen university. Each institution sets its own application procedures and deadlines, so it is important to carefully check the admissions section of the university’s website.
The Norwegian academic year is divided into two semesters: the autumn semester, which starts in August, and the spring semester, which begins in January. Many international programmes, especially at the master’s level, only have admissions for the autumn semester.
To ensure your application is considered in time, you should begin preparing your documents well in advance.
Deadlines for non-EU/EEA students are often much earlier (sometimes as early as December or January for studies starting the following August). EU/EEA students usually have slightly later deadlines, but it is still advisable to apply several months before the stated cut-off.
Job prospects for international graduates
Your future job prospects in Norway as a graduate will depend on your field of study and your career goals, but the country has a strong demand for skilled workers, particularly in areas such as engineering, information technology, health sciences and energy.
International students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the semester, and full-time during holidays, provided they hold a valid student residence permit.
This gives you the chance to gain some work experience and supplement your income while you study.
After graduation, you can apply for a residence permit to stay in Norway for up to 12 months while you search for employment relevant to your degree.
Once you secure a qualifying job, you may apply for a skilled worker residence permit, which can eventually lead to permanent residence after several years of continuous employment.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Norway?
Yes, at most public universities there are no tuition fees for either EU/EEA or non-EU/EEA students. You only need to pay a small semester fee (around €45-€70). Private universities do charge tuition fees.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. With a student residence permit, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays. EU/EEA students can work without restrictions.
Can I stay in Norway after graduation?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA graduates can apply for a 12-month job-seeking residence permit. Once you find a qualifying job, you can apply for a skilled worker permit, which may lead to permanent residence. EU/EEA graduates can stay and work freely.
What language are courses taught in?
Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Norwegian, but there are many master’s and PhD programmes available in English. Learning some Norwegian is highly recommended for daily life and job prospects.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes. Students staying in Norway for more than 12 months are automatically enrolled in the National Insurance Scheme and get the same healthcare rights as locals. For stays under 12 months, you must arrange private health insurance or check if your country has a reciprocal agreement.