Why Study in Norway?
Norway is one of the last remaining countries in the world where public universities charge zero tuition fees to all students, regardless of nationality. This applies to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs at all state-funded institutions. The only cost is a small semester fee of around 300-600 NOK (roughly 30-55 EUR), which covers student welfare services and gives access to sports facilities and health services.
Norwegian universities are deeply research-oriented and consistently rank well globally. The University of Oslo, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and the University of Bergen are all in the QS World Top 200. Norway is particularly strong in fields tied to its natural advantages — marine science, petroleum engineering, renewable energy, Arctic research, and environmental studies. The country’s commitment to sustainability and green energy makes it a prime destination for students interested in climate science and clean technology.
While Norway’s high cost of living is often cited as a barrier, students benefit from extensive welfare support, subsidized student housing through housing foundations (Studentsamskipnaden), affordable campus meals, and excellent public infrastructure. Norwegian society is also remarkably egalitarian and safe, with high levels of English proficiency making daily life easy for international students.
Top Universities
University of Oslo (UiO)
Norway’s oldest and highest-ranked university (QS top 130). Strong in law, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Located in the capital with access to Norway’s major cultural and professional institutions.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
Norway’s largest university, based in Trondheim. The country’s leading institution for engineering and technology. Strong ties to Norway’s energy sector and a vibrant student city culture.
University of Bergen (UiB)
Known for marine research, climate science, and global development studies. Located on Norway’s west coast with access to fjords and marine ecosystems. Active in Arctic and Antarctic research.
UiT The Arctic University of Norway
The world’s northernmost university, located in Tromso. Unique programs in Arctic biology, space physics, indigenous studies, and telemedicine. A stunning location above the Arctic Circle.
Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
Norway’s leading business school, based in Bergen. Known for finance, economics, and business analytics. Strong corporate recruitment network across Scandinavia.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost (NOK) |
|---|---|
| Rent (student housing) | 4,500-7,000 |
| Food & groceries | 3,000-4,500 |
| Health insurance | Included (national health system) |
| Public transport | 500-800 (student discount) |
| Study materials | 300-700 |
| Personal expenses | 1,500-2,500 |
| Total | 9,800-15,500 |
Tuition fees: Zero at public universities for all nationalities. Only a semester fee of 300-600 NOK applies. Some specialized private institutions and a few specific programs may charge tuition.
Financial proof: You must demonstrate access to NOK 137,907 per year (approximately 12,000 EUR) to obtain your student residence permit. This can be in a Norwegian bank account, a scholarship letter, or a combination.
Visa Process
- Receive your admission letter from a Norwegian institution
- Deposit the required funds (NOK 137,907) into a Norwegian bank account, or provide proof of scholarship/sponsorship
- Secure housing — you need a confirmed address in Norway
- Apply online through UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) and pay the application fee (approximately NOK 6,300)
- Submit biometrics at your local Norwegian embassy or visa application centre
- Processing time: 4-8 weeks. Apply well before your program starts
- Arrive in Norway and register with the local police and tax office to receive your personal number (D-number or national ID)
Scholarships
- Quota Scheme (replaced by NORPART and partnerships): Norway’s government funds various partnership programs with universities in developing countries, covering living costs.
- Erasmus+ and Nordplus: Exchange scholarships for students from partner institutions in Europe.
- University-specific grants: UiO, NTNU, and UiB all offer individual scholarships for international students — check their international admissions pages.
- Lanekassen (Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund): Available to some international students after meeting certain residency conditions.
Ready to Study in Norway?
Norway could be the right destination for your academic goals. Use our university matcher to find programs that fit your profile, or talk to an applyportal.ai advisor who can guide you through the entire application process — from choosing a university to securing your residence permit.