Study in Norway
Why Study in Norway ?
Norway has emerged as an increasingly popular study destination for international students seeking world-class education in a progressive, safe, and innovation-driven environment. The country consistently ranks among the top education systems globally, securing positions in the top 10 for education quality, literacy rates, and school enrollment. What makes Norway particularly attractive is its unique combination of academic excellence, research opportunities, and an exceptional quality of life.Key reasons international students choose Norway:
- High-quality education system: Norwegian universities emphasize research-based learning, critical thinking, and innovation, preparing students for global careers
- Safe and inclusive society: Norway ranks at the top for safety, social welfare, and gender equality, providing a secure environment for international students
- Work-life balance: The country offers excellent work-life balance with strong emphasis on student well-being and outdoor activities
- English-taught programs: Over 200 master’s programs and numerous bachelor’s programs are taught entirely in English, eliminating language barriers
- Post-study work opportunities: International students can stay back for up to one year on a job seeker visa after graduation, with pathways to permanent residency
- Stunning natural beauty: From fjords to northern lights, Norway offers unique experiences alongside academic pursuits
Top-Ranked Universities and Global Recognition For Norway
Norway boasts several world-class universities that consistently rank high in international listings.
Top Norwegian universities for international students:
| University | QS World Rank (2026) | THE World Rank (2026/2025) | Key specializations |
| University of Oslo (UiO) | 119 | 113–116 | Medicine, public health, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) | 267 | 301–350 | Engineering, technology, computer science, oceans, medicine-health tech integration |
| University of Bergen (UiB) | 287 | 251–300 | Marine sciences, climate research, global health, medicine |
| UiT The Arctic University of Norway | 648 | 601–800 | Arctic studies, geosciences, medicine, sustainability, social sciences |
| Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) | 791–800 | 801–1000 | Life sciences, environmental science, sustainability, agriculture |
These universities are globally recognized and offer degrees that hold international value, ensuring excellent career prospects worldwide.
Partner Universities
BI Norwegian Business School
Famous Programs and Fields
International students are attracted to Norway’s programs that align with global industry trends and Norway’s economic strengths. Natural Sciences and Technology account for 36% of international student enrollments, making them the most popular fields.
Popular programs:
- Engineering disciplines: Civil, mechanical, electrical, petroleum, and offshore engineering
- Computer Science and IT: Data science, software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence
- Renewable Energy and Environmental Sciences: Sustainable development, climate change management, and green technology
- Business and Economics: International business, economics, financial economics, and management
- Marine and Maritime Studies: Marine biology, maritime operations, and oceanography
- Natural Sciences: Physics, mathematics, biology, and molecular biology
Affordable Education and Scholarship options
From 2023, Norway introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA international students. However, fees remain significantly lower than in many Western countries. Public universities charge approximately NOK 130,000 to NOK 490,000 annually, depending on the program category. EU/EEA students continue to study tuition-free at public institutions.Tuition fee ranges for international students (2025-2026):
- Bachelor’s programs: NOK 130,000 to NOK 415,000 per year (approximately INR 10.4 – 33.2 lakhs)
- Master’s programs: NOK 130,000 to NOK 520,000 per year (approximately INR 10.4 – 41.6 lakhs)
- Semester fees: All students pay NOK 500-900 (approximately INR 4,000-7,200) per semester
Scholarship opportunities for international students:
- BI Presidential Scholarship: Covers full or partial tuition fees for meritorious students
- NTNU Scholarships: Available for top-performing international students
- University-specific scholarships: Many Norwegian universities offer merit-based fee waivers
- Erasmus+ programs: Available for eligible students from partner institutions
- External funding: Students should explore scholarships from government schemes and private foundations
Total Funds required
International students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to obtain a Norwegian study permit. For the academic year 2025-2026, the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration requires proof of NOK 166,859 annually for living expenses, plus tuition fees.Estimated total costs for international students (2025-2026):Bachelor’s degree (per year):
- Tuition fees: NOK 130,000 – 415,000 (INR 10.4 – 33.2 lakhs)
- Living expenses: NOK 166,859 (INR 13.3 lakhs)
- Total: NOK 296,859 – 581,859 (INR 23.7 – 46.5 lakhs)
Master’s degree (per year):
- Tuition fees: NOK 130,000 – 520,000 (INR 10.4 – 41.6 lakhs)
- Living expenses: NOK 166,859 (INR 13.3 lakhs)
- Total: NOK 296,859 – 686,859 (INR 23.7 – 54.9 lakhs)
Monthly living expenses breakdown:
- Accommodation: NOK 3,000 – 7,000 (INR 24,000 – 56,000)
- Food and groceries: NOK 2,500 – 4,500 (INR 20,000 – 36,000)
- Transportation: NOK 500 – 800 (INR 4,000 – 6,400)
- Utilities: NOK 500 – 1,000 (INR 4,000 – 8,000)
- Personal expenses: NOK 1,000 – 2,000 (INR 8,000 – 16,000)
Stay Back Options like part-time work and PSW
Norway offers attractive work opportunities for international students during and after their studies. Students with valid study permits can work part-time, helping offset living expenses.
Part-time work regulations:
- Non-EU/EEA students: Can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time (40 hours) during holidays
- EU/EEA students: Can work up to 50% of full-time hours (approximately 30 hours weekly)
- Automatic work permit: Part-time work permission is granted automatically with the study permit
- No separate application needed: Students don’t need to apply for additional work permits
- Common student jobs: Hospitality, retail, tutoring, IT support, lab assistants, and customer service roles
Norwegian wages are high, with student jobs typically offering competitive hourly rates that can significantly contribute to living expenses.
Post-Study Work (Job Seeker Visa):
- Validity: Up to 12 months after graduation for non-EU/EEA students
- Application timing: Must apply before the current study permit expires
- Employment flexibility: Can work full-time or part-time in any field while job hunting
- Transition to skilled worker permit: Upon securing relevant employment, students can apply for skilled worker residence permits valid for up to 3 years
Bachelor’s in Norway – Entry requirements/tuition fee and all others
International students interested in bachelor’s programs in Norway must meet specific academic and language requirements. Most bachelor’s programs are taught in Norwegian, though English-taught options are available.Entry requirements for international students:
- Academic qualification: 12th standard certificate (Higher Secondary) plus completion of one year at a recognized university in India
- Minimum grades: Good academic performance in 12th standard and first-year university studies
- English proficiency (for English-taught programs):
- IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 60-90 points
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 51 points
- Cambridge ESOL: B2 First or higher
Tuition fees for bachelor’s programs (2025-2026):
- Public universities: NOK 130,000 – 415,000 per year (INR 10.4 – 33.2 lakhs)
- Private institutions: NOK 86,000 – 220,000 per year (INR 6.9 – 17.6 lakhs)
- Duration: 3 years (180 ECTS credits)
Application process:
- Applications submitted through Søknadsweb (national application portal)
- Application deadline: December 1st for non-EU/EEA students starting in August.
Master’s in Norway – Entry requirements/tuition fee and all others
Master’s programs in Norway are highly competitive and attract numerous international students. Most master’s courses are taught in English, making them accessible to international students.Entry requirements for international students:
- Bachelor’s degree: 3-year or 4-year undergraduate degree from a recognized university in a relevant field
- Academic performance: Minimum grade average equivalent to C on ECTS scale (typically 60% or above)
- Relevant coursework: Bachelor’s degree must include at least 1.5 years of full-time studies in subjects relevant to the master’s program
- English proficiency requirements:
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with 6.5 in each component
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90 points
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62 points
- Cambridge ESOL: C1 Advanced or higher
Tuition fees for master’s programs (2025-2026):
- Public universities: NOK 130,000 – 520,000 per year (INR 10.4 – 41.6 lakhs)
- Varies by faculty: Humanities and social sciences are cheaper; engineering, medicine, and creative arts are more expensive.
- Duration: 2 years (120 ECTS credits)
Application process:
- Application deadlines:
- Non-EU/EEA students: December 1st
- EU/EEA students: March 1st
- Applications submitted through Søknadsweb with institution-specific requirements.
- Required documents: Bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, English proficiency test results, CV, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
