Study in Norway: What Students Should Know Before Applying
Norway is an attractive study destination for higher education. However, apart from choosing the right University, you should also consider other challenges like, financing, immigration, documentation, practical challenges of living in a Nordic country etc.
Most public higher education institutions in Norway charge tuition fees to non-EU/EEA students. While exemptions apply to some, Indian students should know that public university education in Norway is not completely free. Study in Norway: Official tuition guidance.
Top Universities in Norway to Consider
|
University |
City |
Popular Academic Areas |
|
University of Oslo |
Oslo |
Humanities, law, sciences and social sciences |
|
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) |
Trondheim |
Engineering, technology and research |
|
University of Bergen |
Bergen |
Marine science, climate research and medicine |
|
UiT The Arctic University of Norway |
Tromsø |
Arctic studies, marine science and health |
|
Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) |
Ås |
Sustainability, environment and life sciences |
|
University of Stavanger |
Stavanger |
Engineering, energy and business |
Application Challenges: Where Students Can Get Stuck
1. Finding the right English taught program
There are universities in Norway that offer English taught Master’s degree programs. English taught Bachelor’s degree programs are not common in Norway. If you want to apply to a Master’s program, you need to have the required courses. You also have to prove your English language proficiency.
2. Meeting academic and documentation requirements
If you want to be admitted to a study program, you need to provide official transcripts and English proficiency certificates. Requirements vary by the program and student background.
3. Arranging sufficient funds
Official Norwegian study guidance estimates that, for living costs, students will need approximately NOK 170,368 for one academic year (NOK 15,488 a month). Students wishing to study in Norway must provide proof of funds for the required amount and also pay the tuition fees, if applicable. Official costs and requirements guidance.
4. Applying on Time
Processes like document verification, tuition payments, and the approval of residence permits happen over different time periods.
Tuition Fees and Living Expenses, and Scholarships
Tuition varies by institution and program. A report by the European Education Area states the tuition for non-EU/EEA students is between NOK 130,000 and 390,000. Note that individual programs may fall outside this range.
In addition to tuition fees, students should expect to pay for housing, food, transport, insurance, books and travel. Scholarships and tuition waivers may exist, but comprehensive funding is not guaranteed for every international degree student. Check the funding information provided by individual universities and don’t make assumptions.
What Students Face Upon Arriving in Norway
The first and biggest challenge may be finding a place to live. There is a student housing shortage in many of the larger university cities. Although you may have been admitted to a university, you should not expect a place to live will be provided. Part-time work is not a substitute for financial planning. You may work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year and full time during the break if you have a study permit, but a job is not guaranteed.
You may need to work part time to help with expenses but you will need to find a way to manage your time to balance your job, studies and other activities. Language and the long, cold winter may take some getting used to. Learning Norwegian will help your studies and everyday living as well as help find a job. Winter may require a change in your routine, what to wear, how you travel, etc. You may need to travel by snowmobile.
Student Residence Permit: What Indian Students Need
Indian students who wish to study in Norway for more than 3 months need a study residence permit. To apply for a study residence permit, the student needs to submit the following: proof of full-time enrollment, proof of funds and proof of accommodation, and pay the application fee.
It is advisable to use the official UDI study permit guidance for Indian citizens to check the requirements before applying. A University offer by itself does not guarantee a study residence permit.
Is Norway Worth Considering For Indian Students?
Norway has a great system for specialized and research-based programs. However, students should base their decisions on available programs, realistic career plans, and available finance, not on assumptions that education will be free and living costs will be covered by part-time jobs.
Students should familiarize themselves with rules on residency permits and make financial and other plans well in advance, before making travel arrangements.
FAQs
1. Is Norway free for Indian students?
No, Indian students studying for a degree must pay tuition. There are some exceptions.
2. What is the estimated cost for studying in Norway for 2026-27?
The official approximate living cost is NOK 170,368 for a year. Extra costs including tuition fees should also be considered.
3. Is it possible for Indian students to study in Norway in English?
Yes, there are English-taught master’s programmes. English-taught bachelor’s programmes are very limited.
4. Is it possible for international students to work while studying in Norway?
Most study permit holders are allowed to work for 20 hours a week during term time and full time during holidays.
5. What scholarships are available for Indian students in Norway?
Some universities provide scholarships or tuition fee waivers. Coverage, eligibility and deadlines vary.
6. Is accommodation provided for international students?
No, universities do not provide or guarantee accommodation.
7. Do students need a visa to study in Norway?
A study permit is required if you are planning to stay for more than 3 months. Confirm requirements from UDI.
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