Study in Norway

As a knowledge-driven country, Norway has an immense need for people with high-level professional skills. Besides, the universities in Norway aim to fulfil the government’s overall goal to achieve quality education for Norwegian and international students. Its educational system is based on the principle that everyone should get an education regardless of their financial condition and social background.

Most universities and university colleges in Norway are public, meaning the state owns them—however still very independent. Besides, Norway also has many private higher education institutions receiving public funding, thereby reducing its education cost compared to other nations like the US, the UK, Canada, etc.

The following insights prove why one can amp up the ROI after studying in Norway.

• Norway’s GDP was $48,243 crores as of 2021. The GDP is fueled by oil and gas exports, which make it extremely efficient/ stable and help Norway become one of the richest countries for years to come.
• As per the QS World University Ranking 2023, Norway’s 4 universities rank among the other 1,422 worldwide. This depicts students’ love and trust in the education of the country.

It is noteworthy that Norway’s education system includes various benefits for international students. But; however tempting and pocket-friendly the education may sound, before making your decision, it is paramount to have an in-depth understanding of a country’s top universities, admissions process, scholarship options, cost of living, cost of studying, etc.

NCC Global is here to advise you throughout the Norway study abroad process. However, before getting in touch with our well-trained NCC Global counselors to take expert and personalised guidance on the Norway admissions process, visa application, and more, go through the below-mentioned insights.

Top Universities in Norway as per QS World University Rankings 2023

• University of Oslo, #101
• University of Bergen, #207
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology, #352
• University of Tromso The Arctic University of Norway, #454

Types of Degree Programs in Norway

The Norwegian system of higher education consists all the institutions and/or programs that are accredited worldwide. With the exception of some private university colleges, all higher education institutions in Norway are state-run. Since 2003, Norway has been following the objectives of the Bologna process in European higher education.

Its central has implemented a 3 + 2 + 3-degree system with Bachelor’s, Master, and PhD courses structured following European standards. With the introduction of the new degree system, it has become easier for international students who complete all, or part of their education in Norway, to obtain recognition for their qualifications in other countries.

Intakes in Norway

Most of the Norway universities have one intake for admission for international study abroad aspirants.

Cost of Studying in Norway

The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) recommends that an international student needs approximately NOK 128,887/ INR 10,43,219 per year (2022/2023). Further, the approximations of common student studying costs for undergraduate study is INR 5,83,903 to 7,50,732, and for masters, it is INR 7,50,732 to 15,84,880 per year. NCC Global counselor’s have estimated these costs for international students to pursue higher education in Norway:

Next, a study abroad aspirant also needs to fulfil the basic admission requirements in Norway.

Admission Requirements

Go through this list of requirements to pursue higher education in Norway.

The list of general application documents is pretty straightforward for an international student:

• An undergraduate/Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent of at least 3-years of study (it must cover courses equal to 1/2 years or more of full-time studies in a subject relevant to the program a student has applied for)
• An English proficiency test like
  • PTE Academic
  • TOEFL iBT
  • IELTS Academic
  • C1 Advanced

To avoid encountering problems while the submission of official application, students must always check which English language test and what cutoff is accepted by their dream university.

2. Specific entry requirements

Norway has the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (NOKUT), which sets the minimum requirements depending on each student’s home country. You can check the GSU list and the Norwegian database for country-specific information.

For instance:

• Indian students need an English test and two other certificates that prove a university education.

If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to contact NCC Global counselors to get clarity on the exact requirements for Norway education.

Next, let’s check the short list of documents required for a student residence permit in Norway includes the following:

• An application form for the aspiring student with a passport photograph
• A copy of your passport document
• Documentation of admission to an accredited educational institution
• A plan of study and career
• A form stating the progress of your studies
• Documentation of housing

Now you know that Norway’s education and residence permit has many requirements. Still, why do international candidates choose Norway for their higher education? Let’s check the perks of Norway as a study-abroad destination.

Why Study in Norway?

Following are the topmost reasons to pick Norway as a study-abroad destination:

1. Scenic Beauty

Norway is Europe’s northernmost country, with stunning scenery, ranging from lowlands in the southeast and dramatic fjords to high mountains and stunning coastline in the west plus north. International students can see the midnight sun while studying in Norway with Northern Lights and 24-hour daylight. Further, if one enjoys outdoor sports, this is an excellent study abroad destination as there are many chances to enjoy varied sports activities all year.

2. Standard of Living

Norwegians have one of the most luxurious living standards globally. The country has a low crime rate, a low unemployment rate, a good welfare system, and an amazing work-life balance. Thus, an international student’s experience in Norway will be fruitful and progressive.

3. Free Tuition

The public Norwegian institutions do not charge tuition fees to international students, which applies to all levels of study, such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Likewise, student housing is subsidised by the government, ensuring that it is affordable for the residents (international students in this case) and of excellent quality (with all the amenities).

4. High-Quality Education

Norway boasts numerous universities, university colleges, and specialised higher education institutions despite its size being lesser than other nations. Further, Norwegians take a slightly unique approach to university tuition/ classes than Americans. Students can also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, friendly lecturers, well-equipped facilities, and small courses on campus.

5. Amazing Cities

All Norway cities have unique benefits and personalities, so one needs to be up-to-date before visiting. Oslo is the place to study if a student is seeking a city lifestyle. Further, it is the country’s largest city and is a key transit centre with a huge youth and international student population with a diverse range of things to experience/ explore. However, Bergen is a much smaller city in Norway that serves as the fjords’ entry point.

6. Familiar Language

Well, when one visits Norway, language won’t be a problem as people in Norway speak English as well as their first language, which makes it easy for international students to blend in and get around the city without hassle. Most universities in Norway offer English-taught programs that help international students choose their desired course at their preferred university.

7. Top Universities In Norway

Following is the list of the most renowned and famous universities in Norway for international education.

• BI Norwegian Business School
• NHH Norwegian School of Economics
• Norwegian School of Sports Sciences
• Nord University
• Norwegian University of Life Sciences
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology
• Oslo Metropolitan University
• Oslo National Academy of the Arts
• Oslo School of Architecture and Design
• UiT The Arctic University of Norway
• University of Bergen
• University of Oslo
• University of South-Eastern Norway
• Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

8. Scholarships

Grants are available to students with a low financial budget or seeking financial assistance to study in Norway. Further, colleges in Norway are generous in awarding grants to international students. On the other hand, certain universities are tuition-free and do not have huge educational costs because the government funds them. A few top Scholarships in Norway are:

• University of Stavanger Scholarships
• BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships
• The Norwegian University of Science and Technology Scholarships
• University of Oslo Scholarships
• Nord University Postdoctoral Fellowship
• Oslo Metropolitan University Scholarships
• Norwegian University of Life Sciences

9. Social System

Norway’s social system is recognised as one of the most fabulous in the world and reaches every Norwegian. It provides education, public healthcare, unemployment assistance, parental leave, and daycare to all domestic or international students. While these methods are not immediately available to new residents and take time/ work to implement, the benefits can and will be realised within a certain period. This is the reason why Norway’s taxes and living expenses are high.

10. Entrepreneurship

Norwegians love design, which involves discovering technical solutions that make life easier and more comfortable. Oslo is seen as a significant European city to begin start-ups by entrepreneurs. Norwegians are seeking a better way to accomplish just about everything, from fingerprinting to solar panels, and they’re raising millions of krone to figure out how and with what.

Because of this diversity in the thought process, one doesn’t have to be interested in only business or technology to find an exciting position at a Norwegian start-up. Whatever the area of expertise is, one can find a Norwegian company that values their skills, knowledge, and interest.

So here are some of the top reasons for international students to study in Norway. Next, let’s check a few FAQs about Norway’s education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques 1. What documents are required to apply for a visa application in Norway?

Ans: Following is the list of documents required to apply for a visa application in Norway:

• A student residence application form with a passport photo
• A certified copy of your passport
• Admissions documentation from a recognised educational institution
• A study schedule or future plan
• A form detailing your academic achievement
• Housing documentation

Ques 2. Do we have to learn Norwegian in order to study in Norway?

Ans. No, there are plenty of courses in Norway which are taught in English. Also, the people of Norway speak both English and Norwegian language.

Ques 3. Can an international student work while studying in Norway?

Ans. Yes. The government allows international students to work for upto 20 hours a week while pursuing their education in Norway.

Even though challenging at times, all of the aforementioned points go far to explain why one should choose Norway as a study-abroad destination. Further, NCC Global counselors can guide you throughout the study abroad process and on how to avail of these benefits.

Top Job Opportunities in Norway

There are various job opportunities in Norway. However, the highest paid Other – Norway designation is Sales and Business Development, with professionals having an annual average salary of INR 6,900,000. The lowest-paid Other – Norway designation includes Logistics, Operations, and Purchasing, with professionals having a salary of INR 3,067,000 annually. Lastly, the best-paying company in Norway is “Nova Sea”, offering an average salary of INR 4,255,000 annually.

Next, a few top recruiters in Sweden are:

• Nova Sea (INR 42,53,000)

Scholarships in Norway

Norway offers various scholarships to international students to cut down their out-of-pocket costs/ liabilities like loans, etc. Let’s check the top scholarships in Norway.

• University of Oslo Scholarships
• Norwegian University of Technology and Science Scholarships
• BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships
• NORAM Scholarships
• High North Fellowship Program
• Norweigan Quota Scholarship Scheme
• Norweigan Russian Scholarship
• Marie Sklodowska Curie Individual Fellowships
• International Summer School Scholarship

Get a detailed understanding of all these aspects or more by connecting with NCC Global counselors. This best study abroad consultant in Chandigarh will provide you with personalised advice on university selection, admissions application, loan/scholarship application, visa application, forex services, and preparation of aptitude tests like IELTS, GRE, GMAT, etc.