"High academic quality", "Education for all", "A peaceful society", "English-taught degree programmes", "An attractive lifestyle" and "The best place in the world!"
These are some of the key phrases used by international students to describe studying in Norway - and we agree!
Norway is often found at the very top of the UN’s annual rankings of global wealth, health and education. The country also has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
Average length of a full-time higher education programme:
Tuition fee for non EU-students:
Completing a university degree is considered to be an expensive endeavour and tuition fees are usually making up the bulk part of the cost. This is not the case in Norway where public funding secures free education for both Norwegian and international students.
The majority of Norwegian universities and state university colleges are publicly funded and the Norwegian government considers access to higher education for all to be an important part of the Norwegian society. Thus, as a rule, Norwegian public institutions do not charge tuition fees. This also applies to international students, no matter which country you come from.
All institutions have a student welfare organisation. Your local student welfare organisation can offer a variety of services, from on campus health services to sports activities. We highly recommend to make use of their services - after all, they are there for your own well being. You normally become a member upon payment of the compulsory semester fee, which is also required in order to register for exams.
Number of higher education institutions: 38
Number of international students in higher education: 25900+
Accommodation approx. 400 euros
Housing costs depend on the location, quality of the accommodation and on the season but the prices per month usually range from €350–600 in the dormitories to €700–1000 in private flats.
Food approx. 350 euros
Studies and personal requirements (books, culture, recreation): approx. 150 euros
The ISIC (International Student Identity Card) card is the most advantageous card for all students. It allows cardholders to get student discounts for transport, restaurants, cinemas, museums, exhibitions and concerts.
Total per month approx. 850 Euros
The average monthly living expenses for a student in Norway are approximately 800-1200 euros.
You may apply for the student visa at the competent representative authority at the earliest six months before your planned travel date. You should not apply later than 15 calendar days before your planned stay.
Contact your EUCAS advisor for more details.
Generally, a student residence permit does not cover the right to take employment in Norway. However, if you are granted a study permit, you are automatically also granted permission to work part-time.
Non-EU/EEA students can work 20 hours pr week during their first year of study. Beware that when renewing the study permit the part-time work permit is not automatically renewed. To renew the work permit the students have to document satisfactory progress in their studies. Please consult your institution.