Studying in Norway 2026: universities, tuition, living costs and how to apply

Short answer: Norway stands out for high-quality education, English-taught master's programmes and a safe environment. On the other hand, living costs are among the highest in Europe, and in recent years tuition rules for students from outside the European Economic Area have changed. Always check current rules on official websites before applying.

Why Norway?

Norwegian universities are known for research-oriented teaching, small groups and close contact between students and lecturers. There are strong programmes in energy, maritime economy, fisheries and aquaculture, environment, engineering and social sciences.

Main universities

• University of Oslo (UiO) — the largest and best-known university in the country.
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU, Trondheim) — strong in engineering and technology.
• University of Bergen (UiB) — marine sciences, climate and humanities.
• UiT The Arctic University of Norway (Tromsø) — Arctic research.
• University of Stavanger (UiS) — energy and oil and gas.

Tuition rule

For many years public universities were tuition-free. Since 2023, tuition fees apply to students from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland, with some exceptions and scholarship options remaining. The amount and exceptions depend on the university and programme, so check each university's own page.

Living costs

Food, rent and transport are expensive in Norway. For a student permit the state requires proof of a minimum amount of funds each year; check the figure on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website. Student housing (SiO and similar organisations) is usually cheaper than private rent, but places are limited and early application is needed.

Admission requirements

• Bachelor's: a secondary school certificate and subjects matching the university's requirements; in some cases an additional year of study or credential evaluation is required.
• Master's: a bachelor's degree, a certain subject background and usually a high average grade.
• Language: IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programmes; a Norwegian language certificate for Norwegian-taught programmes.

Application steps

• Read the official page of the university and programme and note the deadlines.
• Prepare documents: certificate or diploma, transcript, language certificate, motivation letter, CV.
• Apply through the online application portal.
• After admission, apply to UDI for a student permit.
• Look for accommodation early.

Scholarships and work

Norwegian scholarships are limited and rules change. Check university scholarships as well as Erasmus+ and bilateral programmes. A student permit allows part-time work under certain conditions; find hour limits from the official source. More: part-time work while studying abroad.

Frequently asked questions

Is study in Norway free?

It used to be, but now most students from outside the European Economic Area pay tuition fees. Ask the university for the current situation.

Do I need to know Norwegian?

Not for teaching in English-taught programmes, but learning Norwegian helps with daily life and work.

Is insurance required?

Depending on the length of stay you may join the national health system; otherwise insurance may be needed. More: student insurance abroad.

Note: tuition, the proof-of-funds amount and application dates may change. Check the official university and UDI websites before deciding.

Since 2018, EDDE Global has helped students choose a university and prepare documents and visa applications. Book a free consultation or take the major selection test.