Norway is an excellent destination for international students looking for high-quality education, stunning landscapes, and an opportunity to experience life in a peaceful, progressive country. One of the most attractive aspects of studying in Norway is that public universities and higher education institutions do not charge tuition fees for international students, making it an affordable option for many. However, there are still some costs to consider, including living expenses, visa requirements, and more. Here’s a comprehensive guide for studying in Norway in 2025:
1. Why Study in Norway?
a. No Tuition Fees at Public Universities
- Norway offers free education at all public universities and higher education institutions, even for international students from outside the EU/EEA. This is one of the most compelling reasons to study in Norway.
- While there are no tuition fees, students are expected to pay a small semester fee (typically NOK 300-600), which contributes to student welfare services such as health insurance and cultural activities.
b. High-Quality Education
- Norway is known for its high academic standards and has several universities and colleges that are ranked among the top in the world. Degrees from Norwegian institutions are recognized globally.
- Norway also offers a wide range of programs in English, particularly at the Master’s level, across various disciplines, including engineering, technology, social sciences, business, and more.
c. Work Opportunities
- As an international student in Norway, you are allowed to work part-time during your studies. You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays (summer break).
- If you find a job related to your field of study, it may help you gain relevant work experience while funding your living expenses.
d. Stunning Natural Beauty
- Norway is famous for its natural landscapes, including the Northern Lights, majestic fjords, and the Arctic Circle. The country offers a peaceful and safe environment for students to study and explore.
2. Types of Degree Programs in Norway
a. Bachelor’s Degrees
- Typically, Bachelor’s programs in Norway last 3 years.
- They are offered in a variety of subjects, including engineering, science, humanities, social sciences, and more.
b. Master’s Degrees
- Most Master’s programs are taught in English and last for 2 years.
- Norwegian institutions offer a wide range of Master’s degrees, particularly in subjects such as technology, business, social sciences, and natural sciences.
c. PhD Programs
- PhD programs in Norway typically take 3 years to complete and are research-based.
- Students must have a Master’s degree to apply for a PhD, and the programs are usually funded through research projects, with opportunities to work alongside professors and researchers.
3. Living Costs in Norway
While education is free, living in Norway can be quite expensive, especially when compared to other European countries. You’ll need to budget for:
- Accommodation: Rent is generally the largest expense. Student dormitories or shared apartments cost around NOK 4,000 to NOK 7,000 per month depending on the city and type of accommodation.
- Food: On average, students spend about NOK 3,000 to NOK 4,000 per month on groceries and eating out.
- Transport: Public transport in cities is efficient, and students can get discounts on bus and train tickets.
- Health Insurance: While public healthcare is available, you may need to pay for private insurance before you’re registered in the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (after 6 months of residence).
On average, students should expect to need around NOK 12,000 to NOK 15,000 per month to cover all living expenses, but this can vary depending on lifestyle and location.
4. Student Visa Requirements for Norway
To study in Norway, you will need a student visa (residence permit for studies) if you are not from an EU/EEA country. Here’s what you need to know:
a. Eligibility for a Student Visa
You must meet the following criteria:
- You have been accepted into a full-time program at a recognized university or higher education institution in Norway.
- You have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses. As of 2025, you must show that you have access to at least NOK 128,887 per year (about €12,500) to cover living expenses.
- You must have a valid passport and sufficient health insurance coverage for the first months before you are eligible for the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme.
b. Required Documents for a Student Visa
When applying for your student visa, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Confirmation of Admission: An official letter from your Norwegian institution confirming that you have been admitted to a full-time study program.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or documentation of how you plan to fund your stay in Norway (scholarships, personal savings, family support, etc.).
- Passport: A valid passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Norway.
- Passport-sized Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Health Insurance: If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you may need to show proof of private health insurance for the initial period until you can register for the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme.
- Proof of Accommodation: Documentation of where you will live during your studies (such as a dormitory booking or rental agreement).
c. Application Process for a Student Visa
- Apply online via the UDI website (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) or at the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Submit documents: After applying online, you will need to submit your documents to the embassy or consulate for verification.
- Pay the application fee: The visa application fee is typically around NOK 5,900 (approximately €550).
- Wait for approval: The processing time for student visas can take up to 2-3 months, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
- Biometrics: You may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) when submitting your application.
d. Visa Extension
If your study program lasts longer than the period of your initial visa, you can apply for an extension. Extensions are typically granted for a period of one year at a time, provided you are enrolled in your program and can demonstrate continued financial support.
5. Work While Studying in Norway
As an international student in Norway, you are allowed to work part-time during your studies:
- 20 hours per week during the semester.
- Full-time during holidays (summer and Christmas breaks).
- The minimum wage in Norway varies by industry, but students typically earn between NOK 160-200 per hour for part-time jobs.
You are allowed to work in any job, but it’s often easier to find work in hospitality, retail, or as a student assistant at your university.
6. After Graduation: Post-Graduation Work Options
Once you graduate, Norway offers pathways to stay and work:
- Job Seeker Visa: If you don’t have a job offer upon graduation, you can apply for a 6-month job seeker visa to search for employment in Norway.
- Work Permit: If you find a job related to your studies, you can transition to a work visa.
- Permanent Residency: After working in Norway for 3 years on a work permit, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
7. Key Tips for Studying in Norway
- Start Early: Apply for your student visa as early as possible, ideally 6 months before your intended start date, to allow for processing time.
- Find Accommodation Early: Student housing can be competitive, particularly in major cities like Oslo and Bergen. Start looking for accommodation as soon as you’re admitted to your program.
- Learn Norwegian: While many Norwegians speak excellent English, learning Norwegian can improve your work opportunities and integration into the local culture.
- Budget Wisely: Norway can be expensive, so it’s crucial to budget carefully and explore ways to save on living expenses, such as cooking at home instead of eating out.
Conclusion
Studying in Norway offers a unique opportunity to receive high-quality education in one of the world’s most beautiful and peaceful countries. With no tuition fees at public universities, Norway is an attractive destination for international students, although you’ll need to plan carefully for living expenses. By following the guidelines for obtaining a student visa and preparing for your studies, you can make the most of your academic and cultural experience in Norway.
