In this article at World Scholars Hub, we would be looking at the Universities in Norway for international students so as to help global students who are looking for the best schools in Norway to study and get their quality academic degree.
It is pertinent to pinpoint that Norway is among the top 10 safest region in the world for students to study abroad. This is absolutely terrific and a good thing for any international student looking to study in Norway as you will be getting a peaceful study environment.
We know that there are several questions you have as a student looking to study in Norway, we will be looking at some of those questions to help you have a knowledge of what is required of you in these best Norwegian universities for international students.
Interestingly, these questions will also help you make the best study decision for yourself if you’re still hanging in the air and unsure of which university in Norway is right for you.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Choose to Study in the Universities in Norway as an International Student?
Norway is one of the most prominent study destinations in the world, the schools are well known for their taste in high quality education which students can testify about.
Some reasons why students can’t get enough of them is their technological advanced environment, and the safe peaceful surroundings you find there.
Read on as we will be showing you a list of universities in Norway for international students that you will love to study in and get a good academic degree.
These top universities in Norway are established and owned by either the government, or individuals making them public, state, or private universities.
In Norway, the education system is sponsored by the state to ensure agreement for fair access to education for all.
It is trying to say that most students in some of these top institutions do not have to worry about tuition fees, even though they are the best universities in Norway.
With these positive conditions, you are likely to get a certificate and free student experience staying on campus.
Why is Norway Considered a Popular Study Destination For International Students?
Norway as a country consistently rank among the top nations of the world for prosperity, security, quality of life, environmental quality.
Norwegians have top notch educational system and provide high employment rates for those who need jobs to earn money and fend for themselves.
During the weekends, there are fascinating outdoor activities to enjoy like:
fishing, boating, skiing, hiking, this activities are what makes the country fun for tourists and Norwegians.
Oslo, this capital metropolis is dotted with museums featuring famous artworks from different artists.
The government believes education should be free of charge to all university students, including foreigners, are charged only a small administration fee to study.
What are the Admission Requirements For International Students in Norwegian Universities?
International students from some counties must have a full year of completed studies at the first degree level.
While postgraduates completing secondary education at an advanced level is the general prerequisite for enrollment into the universities in Norway.
Applicants for master’s program must have a bachelor’s degree or minimal of three years equivalent in their desired field of study.
The degree must include courses equal to at least one and half years of full-time studies relating to the subject of the requested program.
Students must be fluent in speaking Norway dialect as it might be the native language of instruction from the tutor.
What are the Tuition Fees in the Universities in Norway For International Students?
We all know that completing a college degree is always expensive and tuition fees represent most of the cost. This is not the case for anyone planning to study in a university where public funding provides free education for students in Norway.
It is already a fact that Norway public institutions do not charge tuition fees because the government believes that access to higher education is essential, it also applies to international students regardless of any country they are coming from.
On the other hand, private institutions charge tuition fees for their degree programs, but the costs are much lower than that of similar studies in most other countries.
Although, there is only a student union fee that has to be paid completely and it is between 30-60 EUR/ per semester.
Private universities charge estimated tuition fees of about:
● 7,000-9,000 EUR/year for Bachelors programs.
● 9,000- 19,000 EUR/year for master’s programs.
How Expensive is the Cost of Living in Norway?
The cost of living varies depending on the state or part of Norway you are studying in.
Living costs for international students when attending a university in Norway involves:
- Food,
- Accommodation,
- Books,
- Study Materials,
- Utility.
Sincerely speaking, the living costs per month can be above average European nations. You should expect to pay 800-1,400 EUR/month to live in Norway.
Expenses can be much higher in larger cities, lesser cities usually have an average monthly cost of 800-1000EUR.
Here are some living costs you are supposed to pay in some cities:
- Oslo: 1,200 – 2,000 EUR
- Bergen: 1,100- 1,800 EUR.
- Tromso and Trondheim: 1,000 – 1,600EUR.
We’re done with some of the frequently asked questions buy students. If there are questions we haven’t answered on this topic, feel free to use the comments section as we will love to help you to clear any doubts you have as an international student.
Now, let’s take a look at the list of universities in Norway for international students below.
List of the 15 best universities in Norway for International Students in 2022
Below are the best universities in Norway for international students looking to get a quality and internationally recognised academic degree.
- University of Oslo
- University of Bergen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology
- Arctic University of Norway
- Stavanger University of Norway
- Norwegian Universities of Life Sciences
- University of Agder
- Norwegian School of Economics
- Bi Norwegian Business School
- Ostfold University College
- Norwegian School of Sports Sciences
- University of Nord
- Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- MF Norwegian School of Theology
- Oslo School of Architecture and Design.
1. University of Oslo
This top university is one of the largest in Norway and was founded in 1813 modelling it as the oldest university in the country.
It offers a wide selection of programs through its eight faculties: theology, law, medicine, humanities, mathematics, natural science, dentistry, social sciences and education. The institution has proven to be a pioneer in research and scientific discoveries which also makes it home to several historical museums of the country.
This is the best institution in Norway for international students because it has over 800 courses in English Language, while several master’s and PhD programs are held entirely in English Language.
2. University of Bergen
The highly rated university offers Bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. It was founded in 1946 and is the second largest in Norway.
This college focuses on the topics of global social challenges, marine research, climates , energy conversion. None of the undergraduate programs were offered in English Language, so students from abroad must submit their scores on the Norwegian language test before getting admitted into the institution.
The University of Bergen is the biggest marine college in Norway.
3. Norwegian University of Science and Technology
It offers programs like Master’s program in English, masters and PHD opportunities programs.
The school was founded in 1910 and is one of the oldest technical schools in Norway.
This University focuses on science and the development of new technologies. It offers programs in the aspect of natural sciences, economics, medicine and architecture.
4. Arctic University of Norway
It was founded in 1968 and opened in 1972 known for its undergraduate program in adventurous polar tourism, master’s program in space control engineering, and applied computer science. It is also known as the University of Tromso.
This is a good university in Norway for international students and it is the largest research and educational institution with seven faculties.
It offers courses in indigenous studies. The college focus on scientific fields such as the polar environment, climate research, telemedicine, medical biology, fishery science, sports, economics, law and fine arts is not left out.
5. Stavanger University of Norway
This best university was established in 2005. One of the most popular programs in the university is petroleum engineering.
Students come to study midwifery, paramedics, and nursing from their faculty of health sciences.
6. Norwegian Universities of Life Sciences
This top university was founded in 1859 as the Norwegian College of Agricultural Graduate Studies. It is the only institution that offers veterinary education in Norway.
NULS focuses on research that deals with environmental sciences, tertiary medicine, food sciences, biotechnology, aqua-culture and business development.
7. University of Agder
This is one of the smallest institutions in Norway, founded with it’s current name in 2007.
Agder University allows students to choose courses from different faculties but you must fulfill the prerequisites for each course.
It is a small university which offers masters and Bachelor’s program taught in English Language unlike other schools in Norway.
The common studies here are:
- Development studies (bachelor’s degree).
- Coastal ecology (master’s degree)
- Mechatronics (master’s degree).
8. Norwegian School of Economics
This best university was established in 1936, and together with its affiliated institutions is the largest research and study center in the field of economics and business administration in Norway.
The Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration holds Equis accreditation which supports a strong belief that excellence in research is a requirement for excellence in teaching.
This institution seems to be among the first in Europe that have the longest executive MBA program in Norway.
9. Bi Norwegian Business School
It was officially accredited by the Ministry of Education and Research Norway. This institution has the largest business schools among the best universities in Norway.
No wonder it is the second-largest in Europe and has total of four campuses with the main university located in Oslo. Norwegian business school is a private institution accredited by NOKUT as a specialized university institution.
BI is the largest provider of economic and management skills and capabilities in Norway with more than 200,000 graduates since 1983.
10. Ostfold University College
Ostfold University College was established in 1994, a non-profit public educational institution located in the rural areas surrounding the central city of Halden, Ostfold.
11. Norwegian School of Sports Sciences
This best university provides education at Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate Levels.
The school offers seven bachelor courses;
- -Sport Biology
- Physical activity and health
- Coaching
- Outdoor recreation/nature
- Sport management
- Physical education
- Teacher education.
Norwegian school of sport sciences is a public university. It has the national responsibility for education and research relating to sport sciences.
Furthermore, it won’t be wrong to say that education is of high quality here. It stimulates personal development. Also, admission requirements for the first year are college entrance certificate or accredited work experience combined with approval for the exam. The school aims to showcase it’s services to international students.
12. University of Nord
The prominent university was founded in 2016; it is a small university opened to applicants from abroad. One of the popular degree programs taught in English are Biology, degree in gyrus studies, degree in studies and culture in the English Language. The University has a high acceptance rate.
13. Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Westerdals College of Art is among the best universities in Norway for International Students. It was established in 2014 July.
This college is a creative university for students who want to work in the field of arts, communications, and technology.
Westerdals Oslo ACT is one of the most exciting colleges in the European educational field; their educational philosophy is a mixture of practical assignments, conferences, seminars, targeted projects. Students also work individually in groups, and in teams through educational programs.
14. MF Norwegian School of Theology
The university focuses on theology, religion, education, and social studies. It is known as an independent theological institution at the university level and is the largest provider of education and theological research in Norway.
Since 1967, it has been offering academic studies in Christianity and religion for use in school and society. This institution developed professional certificates for church and school.
The institution offers interdisciplinary research on religion and society, along with bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees.
15. Oslo School of Architecture and Design
AHO offers three full time Master’s programs: Master of Architecture, Master of Design, and Master of Landscape Architecture.
Oslo School of Architecture and Design also known as AHO awards three master’s degrees in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Design.
It is an independent institution that offers a strong international standing in the fields of architecture, urban planning, design, and natural engineering.
The school offers post-masters courses in urban planning and architectural conservation. AHO offers a unique type of Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy.
How to get a student visa to study in the best universities in Norway for international students
For international students making plans of studying in Norway universities, you are required to apply for a student visa, popularly known as student residence permit.
While this is so, there are Countries that don’t need a student visa before applying to study in Norway. In countries like Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Finland, students do not need residence permit before applying into Norway Universities and they also don’t need to register with the police.
Although anyone who want to stay in Norway for more than six months must report to a tax office in Norway for an ID checkup, the person must report his move to Norway.
Students from nations within the European Economic Area and the European Free Trade Association are permitted to study in Norway for 90 days without applying for a student visa.
However, if the students plan to stay for more than 90 days, this is when the law requires them to apply for it.
The Process Involved:
- Student must register with Norwegian Directorate Of Immigration online, providing details of your current address in Norway.
- Go in person to the nearest police station once you arrive to submit the vital documents stating your basis for residence.
You Must Present:
- Your passport
- Confirmation of admission to an approved educational institution.
- Private health insurance or European Health Insurance Card(EHIC)
- Personal declaration of sufficient funds to support yourself while you study in Norway.
You don’t need to apply for a student visa if you fulfill the exemptions to the visa requirements listed on the Norwegian Directorate Of Immigration Website.
Requirements to be Granted a Student Visa into Norwegian Universities as an International Student
In order to be granted a student visa for Norway, you must have been admitted to study in college or university with exemptions.
After receiving your letter of admission, it’s advisable to contact your nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate for information on the study permit application process and apply from your country of origin.
Meanwhile, candidates are free to apply online for those around Norway or through a Norwegian embassy or consulate.
Anytime you hand in your student visa application form, you must attach your passport along with other necessary documents.
You Will Need To Submit:
- A completed application form
- Receipt of payment for the application fee( NOK 5,300 is approximately US$650)
- A valid travel document (i.e passport)
- Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Evidence of admission to an approved full-time education program
- Evidence of sufficient financial funds for the entire period of study, including funds to support any family member which should be in a Norwegian bank account.
It can be challenging to open an account in a Norwegian bank without a Norwegian personal number.
You can deposit the required amount into an account released by your educational institution. It is vital you show them that you have access to NOK 116,369 for each academic year(10 months), which is approximately US$14,350.
- Proof showing you have a place to live (a house, apartment, bedsit, or room in a hall residence).
- Confirmation that you will leave Norway when your residence permit expires.
- Completed and signed Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website document checklist, which you should print out and hand in along with your other documents. Processing times for students visa varies and may take two months and more, so it’s advisable to apply as soon as you can.
If your application is successful, you must acquire a residence card. This is a proof that you have the right to live in Norway.
It is vital to visit the police station within seven days of your arrival in Norway, your fingerprints and photo taken will be sent to your residence card within 10 working days.
Who needs students residence permit for Norway?
Any international student who plan to study in the best universities in Norway for more than three months will have to apply for student visa.
Even if you are studying in Norway for a long time and you come from a county with visa requirement for entering Norway, you must obtain a visa.
Importance of owning a Student Resident Permit
- If you have been granted a Norwegian student visa, you are also granted a permit to work part time in addition to your studies( up to 20hours per week) and full time during university holidays, at no extra charge.
- Students can renew their student permit through the online Application Portal Norway at least three months before it expires, providing proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and satisfactory progression report issued from you faculty.
- Norwegian Directorate of Immigration will use your study progression report to confirm that you can continue to be issued a work permit. There should be an adequate progress in your studies for you to keep working part time.
Another way you can be given a permit to work full time is if you can prove that your work is relevant to your studies.
The moment a student is done with his/her studies, you are qualified to apply for a residence permit for six months to seek employment as a skilled worker.
It is important you prove your capabilities as a skilled worker during the time you are studying or, you had a specialist training before coming to Norway.
Conclusion
According to research, it is estimated that the international students applying into Norway public universities skyrocketed.
Reasons because, more people are considering Norway as a top destination for their education and they believe in a government that cares about their future and also made tuition-free programs obtainable to students interested in studying in their public institutions. I urge anyone passionate about going to an institution in Norway with subsidized fees to consider these institutions listed above.
You should check out the schools and be informed about their requirements before applying! If you are interested in schooling abroad as an international student, feel free to check this space for more options.
I hope you found this article on the best universities in Norway for international students informative? It was a lot of effort! Thank you very much for your time, and feel free to use the comment section below if you have further questions or contributions.
Good luck in your future endeavors!