Norway stands out as a unique and attractive study destination, offering one of Europe's most generous educational systems with tuition-free education at public universities for all students, regardless of nationality. Combined with Norway's stunning natural landscapes, high quality of life, and commitment to sustainability and equality, Norwegian higher education provides exceptional value for international students.
This comprehensive guide explores all major scholarship and funding opportunities available for international students in Norway, covering Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD opportunities, living expense grants, eligibility requirements, application processes, and strategies to make studying in Norway financially viable.
Why Choose Norway for Your Studies?
Understanding Norway's unique advantages helps explain why thousands of international students choose this Scandinavian nation despite its high living costs.
Tuition-Free Education
The most significant advantage of studying in Norway is that public universities and university colleges charge no tuition fees for all students, including international students from outside the EU/EEA. You only pay a small semester fee of NOK 300 to NOK 600 (approximately €30 to €60) covering student welfare services and access to student organizations.
High-Quality Education
Norwegian universities offer world-class education with innovative teaching methods, modern facilities, and strong research environments. Institutions like University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and University of Bergen rank internationally.
English-Taught Programs
Over 300 Master's programs and numerous PhD opportunities are taught entirely in English, making Norwegian education accessible without Norwegian language requirements, though learning Norwegian enriches your experience.
Spectacular Nature
Norway's breathtaking fjords, mountains, northern lights, and midnight sun provide unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
Quality of Life
Norway consistently ranks among the world's best countries for quality of life, with excellent healthcare, safety, work-life balance, and social welfare systems.
Progressive Values
Norwegian society emphasizes equality, sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility, creating an inspiring environment for students passionate about positive global impact.
Career Opportunities
Norway's strong economy, particularly in energy, maritime, technology, and environmental sectors, offers career prospects. International graduates receive extensions to seek employment after studies.
Understanding Costs in Norway
No Tuition Fees at Public Institutions
Public universities in Norway charge no tuition fees. This includes University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), University of Bergen, University of Tromsø (UiT), Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), University of Stavanger, and others.
Semester Fee
Students pay a semester fee of NOK 300 to NOK 600 (approximately €30 to €60) twice annually, covering student welfare organization membership, access to sports facilities, student health services, and often subsidized student housing applications.
Private Institutions
Some specialized institutions and business schools charge tuition fees, typically ranging from NOK 50,000 to NOK 150,000 annually (approximately €4,500 to €13,500).
High Living Costs
While tuition is free, Norway has high living costs. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration requires international students to prove they have at least NOK 139,680 annually (approximately €12,500 or NOK 11,640 monthly) to cover living expenses.
Norwegian Quota Scheme
The Norwegian Quota Scheme represents Norway's primary scholarship program for international students from developing countries and countries in transition.
Program Overview
Funded by the Norwegian government, the Quota Scheme provides scholarships for students from specific countries to pursue Master's degrees or conduct PhD research at Norwegian universities.
Coverage: Full tuition fees (if applicable), living expenses grant covering NOK 11,640 monthly (approximately €1,050), travel grant to and from Norway, health insurance, Norwegian language and culture course before starting studies, and possible thesis research support.
Duration: Typically covers the standard program duration, usually two years for Master's degrees.
Additional Benefits: Access to Norwegian student welfare benefits, subsidized student housing priority, and integration support through preparatory courses.
Eligible Countries
The Quota Scheme targets students from countries including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, China, Colombia, Cuba, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The exact list may change annually based on Norwegian foreign policy priorities.
Eligibility Requirements
Citizenship: Must be citizen of one of the eligible countries.
Education: Completed Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualifying for Master's admission at Norwegian universities.
Age Limit: Generally under 35 years old for Master's applicants, though exceptions exist for PhD candidates.
Language Proficiency: Meet English language requirements of chosen programs, typically IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90.
Return Commitment: Expected to return to home country after completing studies to contribute to development.
Application Process
Step 1: Apply for admission to Master's programs at Norwegian universities through the Norwegian Application Centre (Søknadsweb) between December 1 and March 1.
Step 2: Indicate interest in Quota Scheme funding within your university application.
Step 3: Universities nominate candidates for Quota Scheme scholarships based on academic merit and potential.
Step 4: Final selections are made by the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (Diku), with results typically announced in April or May.
Selection Criteria
Selection emphasizes academic excellence, relevance of chosen program to home country development needs, commitment to returning home after studies, and potential for future leadership and impact.
Number of Scholarships
Approximately 1,100 Quota Scheme students study in Norway at any given time, with around 300 to 400 new scholarships awarded annually.
Lånekassen (Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund)
Loans and Grants for Some International Students
Lånekassen provides loans and grants to Norwegian students and certain international students who meet specific criteria.
Eligibility for International Students: Generally limited to EU/EEA citizens, students with Norwegian residence permits for purposes other than study, refugees with Norwegian residence, and students with strong connections to Norway through family or previous residence.
Coverage: Basic grant (stipend) plus loan components covering living expenses. The basic grant portion typically amounts to NOK 3,000 to NOK 4,000 monthly, with additional loan amounts available.
Conversion to Grant: Up to 40 percent of the loan can be converted to a grant if students pass their exams and complete their studies on time.
Important Note: Most international students from outside EU/EEA are not eligible for Lånekassen unless they have special circumstances like Norwegian family connections or refugee status.
University-Specific Scholarships and Support
While Norwegian public universities don't charge tuition, some offer additional financial support for international students.
University of Oslo (UiO)
Norway's oldest and highest-ranked university provides various support mechanisms for international students.
Quota Scheme Participation: UiO nominates numerous students for Quota Scheme scholarships annually across all faculties.
Research Assistant Positions: Master's students can apply for part-time research assistant positions providing income while gaining research experience.
Emergency Financial Support: Small grants available for students facing unexpected financial difficulties.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
Norway's largest university for technology and engineering offers support for international students.
Quota Scheme Nominations: NTNU nominates substantial numbers of Quota Scheme candidates, particularly in engineering and natural sciences.
Research Positions: Opportunities for Master's students to work on research projects with stipends.
Partnership Scholarships: Through institutional partnerships, some exchange students receive financial support.
University of Bergen (UiB)
Offers research opportunities and Quota Scheme nominations for international students.
Research Training Positions: Some faculties offer research training positions for Master's students with monthly salaries.
University of Tromsø (UiT) - The Arctic University of Norway
Specializing in Arctic and northern studies, UiT provides unique opportunities.
Quota Scheme Focus: Strong participation in Quota Scheme with emphasis on environmental sciences, Arctic studies, and indigenous studies.
Research Fellowships: Arctic-focused research opportunities sometimes include funding for international students.
Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)
Focuses on life sciences, environmental sciences, and sustainability.
Development-Related Programs: Strong Quota Scheme participation for programs in agricultural sciences, environmental management, and related fields.
BI Norwegian Business School
Norway's largest business school (private institution with tuition fees) offers scholarships.
BI Presidential Scholarship: Partial or full tuition waivers for exceptional international students in selected programs.
Excellence Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships ranging from 25 percent to 100 percent tuition coverage.
PhD Scholarships and Positions in Norway
Fully Funded PhD Positions
PhD candidates in Norway are employed by universities as researchers, receiving full salaries and employment benefits.
Salary Structure: PhD positions typically pay according to Norwegian public sector salary scales, starting around NOK 501,200 annually (approximately €45,000) and increasing to approximately NOK 548,700 (approximately €49,000) by the fourth year.
Duration: Standard four-year full-time contracts, including some teaching or other duties alongside research.
Benefits: Employment contracts include pension contributions, paid vacation (typically 25 days annually plus public holidays), parental leave, health insurance through Norwegian national system, and professional development support.
Application Process: PhD positions are advertised on university websites and academic job portals like jobbnorge.no. Apply directly to specific advertised positions rather than general PhD programs.
Research Council of Norway Funding
The Research Council of Norway funds numerous PhD positions through various research programs and centers of excellence.
Coverage: Full salary according to standard PhD scales plus research funding for projects.
Application: Usually through research groups and supervisors rather than individual applications.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
European Union research fellowships include opportunities at Norwegian universities and research institutions.
Coverage: Generous living allowances, mobility allowances, family allowances, and research funding.
Erasmus+ Scholarships in Norway
Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility
Supports exchanges between European and non-European institutions for study periods at Norwegian universities.
Coverage: Travel costs and monthly living allowance. For Norway, students typically receive higher allowances (€1,000 to €1,400 monthly) due to higher living costs.
Duration: Typically three to twelve months for study exchanges.
Eligibility: Students enrolled at partner institutions with Erasmus+ agreements with Norwegian universities.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Norwegian universities participate in some Erasmus Mundus programs offering full scholarships.
Coverage: Full tuition fees (where applicable), monthly living allowance of approximately €1,400, travel costs, and insurance for entire program duration.
Subject-Specific Scholarships and Opportunities
Arctic and Northern Studies
Norway's Arctic location creates unique opportunities for Arctic research and studies.
Arctic University Programmes: UiT offers specialized support for Arctic-focused research and studies.
Polar Research Funding: Various Norwegian research institutions provide funding for Arctic and Antarctic research projects.
Marine and Maritime Studies
Norway's maritime heritage supports marine sciences and ocean-related studies.
Research Positions: Marine research institutes and university departments offer funded positions for marine scientists.
Energy and Sustainability
Norway's leadership in renewable energy, particularly hydropower and offshore wind, creates opportunities.
Industry Partnerships: Energy companies sometimes sponsor research projects and student positions.
Engineering and Technology
NTNU and other technical institutions offer research assistant positions and project work opportunities for engineering students.
Peace and Conflict Studies
Norway's active role in international peace efforts supports peace studies programs.
Quota Scheme Priority: Peace and conflict studies programs receive particular emphasis in Quota Scheme nominations.
External Scholarships for Studying in Norway
Fulbright Norway
The Fulbright Program supports American students pursuing graduate studies or research in Norway.
Coverage: Living allowance, travel costs, and health insurance for study or research periods in Norway.
Eligibility: U.S. citizenship, Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, and clear research or study objectives.
Nordic Council of Ministers Scholarships
Supports students from Nordic countries and certain other regions for studies in Nordic countries including Norway.
Home Country Scholarships
Many countries offer scholarships that can be used for studies in Norway, including China Scholarship Council (CSC), Brazilian government scholarships (CAPES, CNPq), and various national scholarship programs from different countries.
Foundation and Organization Scholarships
Various international foundations and organizations provide scholarships applicable to Norwegian studies for students in specific fields or from particular regions.
Living Costs and Budgeting in Norway
Required Financial Documentation
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) requires international students to prove they have at least NOK 139,680 annually (NOK 11,640 monthly, approximately €1,050 monthly or €12,500 annually) for living expenses.
Realistic Monthly Expenses
Actual living costs typically range from NOK 10,000 to NOK 15,000 monthly (approximately €900 to €1,350) depending on location and lifestyle.
Detailed Breakdown: Accommodation NOK 4,000 to NOK 7,000 depending on city and housing type (student housing is cheaper), food and groceries NOK 3,000 to NOK 4,000, transportation NOK 500 to NOK 800 with student discounts, study materials and books NOK 300 to NOK 500, and personal expenses and activities NOK 1,500 to NOK 2,500.
Cost Variations by City
Oslo is the most expensive city, requiring NOK 12,000 to NOK 15,000 monthly. Bergen, Trondheim, and Stavanger require NOK 11,000 to NOK 13,000 monthly. Smaller university cities like Tromsø, Ås, and Bodø are somewhat more affordable at NOK 10,000 to NOK 12,000 monthly.
Student Housing
Student welfare organizations (Studentsamskipnaden) provide subsidized student housing at more affordable rates than private rentals, typically NOK 3,000 to NOK 5,000 monthly for furnished rooms with shared facilities.
Student Discounts and Benefits
Norway offers student benefits including subsidized student housing through welfare organizations, discounted public transportation with student cards, reduced admission to museums and cultural events, student meal deals at campus cafeterias, and access to student sports facilities through semester fee.
Healthcare
International students from outside EU/EEA must have health insurance. Many purchase private health insurance covering approximately NOK 3,000 to NOK 5,000 annually. Students staying longer than one year receive Norwegian personal numbers providing access to subsidized healthcare.
Working While Studying in Norway
Work Regulations
International students with residence permits for study can work up to 20 hours weekly during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks and holidays without additional permits.
EU/EEA students can work without restrictions.
Finding Student Employment
Common student jobs include campus positions (library, cafeteria, administration), research assistant positions, tutoring and teaching assistance, retail and hospitality work, cleaning services, and internships in your field.
Typical Earnings: Norway has high wages with minimum rates often set through collective agreements. Student jobs typically pay NOK 150 to NOK 200 per hour, allowing students to earn NOK 2,400 to NOK 3,200 monthly working 20 hours weekly during term.
Job Search Resources
University career services, finn.no (major Norwegian job portal), NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration), and student welfare organizations help students find employment.
Norwegian Language Advantage
While English is widely spoken, Norwegian language skills significantly expand job opportunities. Most universities offer free or subsidized Norwegian language courses for international students.
How to Apply for Studies and Scholarships in Norway
Application Timeline
Begin research 12 to 18 months before your intended start date, allowing adequate time for applications and visa processes.
Centralized Application System
Applications for admission to Norwegian public universities are submitted through Søknadsweb (Norwegian Application Centre) at soknadsweb.no.
Application Period: December 1 to March 1 for programs starting in autumn (August).
Application Fee: NOK 600 (approximately €55) covers applications to up to ten programs.
Language Requirements
For English-taught programs, you need IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall, often with no section below 5.5) or TOEFL (minimum 90 iBT). Some programs accept Cambridge English or other recognized tests.
Norwegian-taught programs require documented Norwegian language proficiency equivalent to B2 or C1 levels.
Required Documents
Standard application materials include certified academic transcripts and degree certificates, diploma supplement or course descriptions, curriculum vitae, motivation letter, letters of recommendation (if required by specific programs), language proficiency certificates, and passport copy.
All documents not in English or a Scandinavian language must be officially translated.
Quota Scheme Application
Indicate interest in Quota Scheme funding within your university application. Universities nominate candidates, so no separate Quota Scheme application exists beyond the regular admission application.
Tips to Increase Your Success
Excel Academically
Norwegian Quota Scheme and university nominations heavily emphasize academic merit. Strong undergraduate performance is crucial.
Choose Relevant Programs
For Quota Scheme, select programs relevant to development needs in your home country, increasing nomination chances.
Learn Norwegian
While not required for English programs, demonstrating Norwegian language learning shows commitment and facilitates integration and employment.
Demonstrate Return Commitment
Quota Scheme expects scholars to return home and contribute to development. Clearly articulate your plans and intended impact.
Apply to Multiple Programs
You can apply to up to ten programs for one application fee. Applying broadly increases admission and scholarship chances.
Submit Complete Applications Early
Ensure all documents are submitted before March 1 deadline. Late or incomplete applications are automatically rejected.
Craft Authentic Motivation Letters
Provide specific, genuine reasons for your program choice and how Norwegian education aligns with your goals.
Student Life in Norway
Accommodation
Apply for student housing through student welfare organizations immediately upon admission. Waiting lists exist, especially in Oslo and Bergen. Private rentals are expensive alternatives.
Norwegian Culture
Norwegian society values equality, consensus, informality, and work-life balance. The flat organizational structure extends to universities with collaborative relationships between students and professors.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Norwegians embrace outdoor activities year-round. From hiking and skiing to kayaking and climbing, Norway's nature invites exploration through the traditional "friluftsliv" (outdoor life) philosophy.
Midnight Sun and Polar Nights
Northern Norway experiences midnight sun in summer and polar nights in winter, unique phenomena offering extraordinary experiences.
International Community
Norwegian universities have active international student associations, buddy programs, and social activities facilitating integration.
Cost of Social Life
Entertainment and dining out are expensive in Norway. Students often socialize at home or through university-organized events to manage costs.
Post-Graduation Opportunities in Norway
Job Seeking Residence Permit
After graduation, international students can apply for residence permits allowing one year to seek skilled employment in Norway.
Career Prospects
Norway faces skills shortages in engineering, IT, healthcare, and sciences. International graduates with Norwegian degrees and especially Norwegian language skills have good employment prospects.
Skilled Worker Permits
Graduates securing employment can transition to skilled worker residence permits, providing pathways to permanent residence.
Salary Expectations
Entry-level salaries for Master's graduates typically range from NOK 450,000 to NOK 550,000 annually (approximately €40,000 to €49,000), with engineering and technology often commanding higher starting salaries.
Norway's high salaries must be considered alongside high living costs, though strong social benefits and work-life balance compensate.
Work Culture
Norwegian work culture emphasizes work-life balance with standard 37.5-hour work weeks, generous vacation (typically 25 days annually), and family-friendly policies including extensive parental leave.
Additional Resources and Support
Study in Norway Portal
The official studyinnorway.no website provides comprehensive information about programs, admission procedures, and practical aspects of studying in Norway.
Diku
The Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education administers the Quota Scheme and provides resources for international students.
UDI
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website (udi.no) offers detailed information about residence permits, work regulations, and visa processes.
University International Offices
Norwegian university international offices provide support with applications, residence permits, accommodation, and integration.
Student Welfare Organizations
Studentsamskipnaden organizations at each university city provide housing, counseling, healthcare, and social activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education really free in Norway?
Yes, public universities in Norway charge no tuition fees for any students, including international students. You only pay a small semester fee of NOK 300 to NOK 600.
Can I survive on Quota Scheme living allowance?
Yes, the monthly grant of NOK 11,640 covers basic living expenses, especially if you secure affordable student housing. Many students supplement with part-time work for additional comfort.
Do I need to speak Norwegian?
Not for English-taught programs. However, learning Norwegian significantly improves daily life, social integration, and job prospects. Universities offer free Norwegian courses.
How competitive is the Quota Scheme?
Competition varies by country and program. Acceptance rates typically range from 20 to 40 percent for nominated candidates, with strongest emphasis on academic merit.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, but you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources. Quota Scheme grants cover only the student, so you'll need additional funds for family members.
What if I'm not from a Quota Scheme country?
You can still study tuition-free at Norwegian public universities. You'll need to demonstrate financial means for living expenses (NOK 139,680 annually) through personal funds, home country scholarships, or work.
Are there Bachelor's scholarships?
The Quota Scheme primarily focuses on Master's level. Bachelor's students generally study tuition-free but must self-fund living expenses unless they have other scholarship sources.
Conclusion: Your Path to Studying in Norway
Norway offers exceptional educational opportunities with a unique advantage: tuition-free public university education for all students, including international students. This, combined with high-quality programs, stunning natural beauty, and progressive social values, makes Norway an outstanding study destination despite higher living costs.
The Norwegian Quota Scheme provides comprehensive funding for students from eligible developing countries, covering both the minimal fees and substantial living expenses. For students from other countries, the tuition-free education combined with part-time work opportunities makes Norwegian higher education financially accessible.
Success in securing Quota Scheme funding requires strong academic records, relevant program choices, and demonstrated commitment to contributing to home country development. Whether through Quota Scheme scholarships, PhD employment positions, or self-funding with Norwegian wages supplementing costs, multiple pathways exist to make your Norwegian education achievable.
Norway's emphasis on equality, sustainability, and quality of life creates not just an educational experience but a transformative journey in one of the world's most progressive and beautiful countries. The outdoor lifestyle, midnight sun, northern lights, and fjords provide unforgettable experiences alongside academic pursuits.
Start your journey today by researching programs at Norwegian universities, understanding funding options including Quota Scheme eligibility, and preparing strong applications. Your path to studying in Norway with tuition-free education begins with that first step of exploration and commitment.
Planning your complete financial strategy? Explore our guides on student loans in Norway and international student insurance to ensure comprehensive preparation for your Norwegian education adventure.