Norway, renowned for its stunning landscapes, high standard of living, and progressive social policies, is also a sought-after destination for international students. One of the significant attractions for students worldwide is the country’s commitment to providing free higher education. Norwegian public universities do not charge tuition fees, even for international students. This article explores the opportunities for tuition-free education in Norway, along with various scholarships available to international students.
Tuition-Free Education in Norway
Public Universities and Colleges
Norwegian higher education is primarily offered by public institutions, which include universities, university colleges, and specialized university institutions. These public institutions do not charge tuition fees for most study programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This policy applies equally to Norwegian nationals and international students from all over the world.
Some of the prominent tuition-free public universities in Norway include:
University of Oslo (UiO)
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
University of Bergen (UiB)
University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT)
Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
BI Norwegian Business School (tuition-free for certain programs and scholarships available)
Nord University
Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)
Language of Instruction
While many undergraduate programs are offered in Norwegian, a substantial number of master’s and Ph.D. It’s essential for students to check the language requirements of their desired programs and, if necessary, demonstrate proficiency in English through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Living Costs
Although tuition is free, students need to budget for living expenses, which can be relatively high in Norway. On average, the cost of living for a student in Norway ranges between NOK 90,000 to 110,000 per year (approximately USD 10,000 to 12,000). This includes accommodation, food, study materials, transport, and other personal expenses.
Scholarships for International Students
To support international students with living costs, several scholarships are available. These scholarships are offered by the Norwegian government, universities, and various organizations.
Norwegian Government Scholarships
Norwegian Quota Scheme
The Quota Scheme aims to provide financial support to students from developing countries in the Global South, Central and Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. Under this scheme, students are admitted to Norwegian universities and colleges and receive grants and loans to cover living expenses.
NORPART (Norwegian Partnership Programme for Global Academic Cooperation)
NORPART offers mobility scholarships to students from partner institutions in developing countries. This program promotes academic cooperation and student exchange between Norwegian institutions and their partners.
High North Fellowship Program
Specifically for students from Canada, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States, this program provides funding for short-term study periods in Northern Norway.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many Norwegian universities offer their scholarships to attract talented international students. Some of these include:
University of Oslo (UiO) – The International Summer School (ISS) Scholarships
These scholarships are offered to international students attending the UiO’s International Summer School. They cover tuition fees, travel, and living expenses for the duration of the summer program.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) – NTNU Scholarships
NTNU offers scholarships to international master’s students in various programs, which cover living expenses for the duration of the program.
University of Bergen (UiB) – UiB Scholarships
UiB offers scholarships for students from the Global South, particularly in their master’s programs related to health and development.
BI Norwegian Business School – BI Presidential Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded to highly qualified international students enrolled in the school’s master’s programs. They cover full tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.
NHH Norwegian School of Economics – NHH Scholarships
NHH offers scholarships for international students in its master’s programs, covering tuition fees and providing a living allowance.
External Scholarships
Several external organizations and foundations also provide scholarships to international students studying in Norway. Some notable examples include:
The Erasmus+ Programme
Erasmus+ supports student exchanges and cooperation between higher education institutions in Europe. Norwegian institutions participate in Erasmus+, enabling students from partner countries to study in Norway.
The Research Council of Norway
The Research Council offers various funding opportunities for international students and researchers, including Ph.D. and postdoctoral research fellowships.
Fulbright Program
The Fulbright Program offers scholarships for American students to study, teach, or conduct research in Norway.
Application Process for Scholarships
Eligibility and Requirements
Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, which may include academic performance, country of origin, field of study, and level of study (undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D.). Commonly required documents include:
Completed application form
Academic transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Proof of English proficiency (for programs taught in English)
Research proposal (for research-based programs)
Deadlines
Application deadlines vary depending on the scholarship and the institution offering it. It is crucial for students to check the specific deadlines and ensure timely submission of their applications.
Additional Funding Opportunities
In addition to scholarships, international students in Norway can explore other funding sources such as part-time work and student loans. However, it is essential to consider that part-time jobs might not fully cover living expenses.
Conclusion
Norway’s commitment to providing tuition-free education, coupled with various scholarships, makes it an attractive destination for international students. While the cost of living can be high, the availability of scholarships and other funding opportunities significantly alleviates the financial burden. By offering high-quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment, Norway continues to draw students from around the globe, fostering academic excellence and international collaboration.
In summary, prospective students should:
Explore tuition-free public universities in Norway and their programs.
Investigate and apply for relevant scholarships and funding opportunities.
Prepare for the cost of living and consider part-time work as a supplementary income source.
Ensure they meet the language and academic requirements for their chosen programs.
By carefully planning and utilizing available resources, international students can take advantage of the exceptional educational opportunities in Norway, paving the way for a bright academic and professional future.