Many international students dream of studying there because public universities charge no tuition fees for most programs – even for non-EU/EEA students in many cases (though some specialized or private programs may have fees).
But living costs are high, so combining study with scholarships and part-time jobs is a smart way to make it work.
Here’s a clear guide on visa, scholarships, and jobs for international students in Norway.
Why Study in Norway?
Norway offers world-class education in fields like engineering, environmental science, business, and technology. Universities like the University of Oslo, NTNU (Trondheim), and University of Bergen are highly ranked.
English-taught programs are common at master’s level, and bachelor’s too in some places. The country is safe, peaceful, and welcoming to internationals.
IS Scholarships for International Students AVAILABLE IN NORWAY?
Norway doesn’t have many government-wide “fully funded” scholarships for all internationals like some countries do. The old Quota Scheme ended years ago, but options still exist:
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters: These are fully funded EU programs (tuition, living stipend, travel) where Norwegian universities participate. Apply via the Erasmus Mundus catalogue—great for master’s students from anywhere.
- University-specific awards: Places like BI Norwegian Business School offer the BI Presidential Scholarship (full or partial tuition coverage for master’s). Other unis provide merit-based or need-based aid.
- NORAM Scholarship: For American students, but similar bilateral or foundation grants exist for others.
- Other sources: Check Erasmus+ loans, private foundations, or your home country’s grants. Some PhD positions are salaried jobs (you get paid to research!).
Most scholarships are competitive and partial—covering tuition (if any) or part of living costs. You usually need strong grades, motivation letters, and sometimes work experience.
Student Visa (Residence Permit) Requirements
Non-EU/EEA students need a study residence permit (not a short visa) for programs longer than 3 months. Apply through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) after university acceptance.
Key Requirements:
- Full-time admission to an accredited program.
- Proof of funds: About NOK 128,887 (around $12,000 USD) per year for living expenses (2025/2026 figure—check UDI for updates). Scholarships or bank statements count.
- Health insurance.
- Accommodation proof.
- Valid passport and application fee (around NOK 5,900).
Processing takes 1-3 months. Once approved, you get a permit card in Norway.
Good news: The study permit automatically includes part-time work rights—no separate application needed!
Jobs and Work Options.
Norway allows international students to work while studying, which helps cover high living costs (rent, food, transport—expect NOK 12,000–15,000/month).
- Rules for non-EU/EEA students:
- Up to 20 hours per week during semesters.
- Full-time (40 hours) during holidays (summer, Christmas, etc.).
- EU/EEA students have more flexibility (often no strict limit, but focus on studies).
Common student jobs: Cafe/bar work, retail, cleaning, delivery, campus assistant, or tutoring. Many don’t require fluent Norwegian at first—English is widely spoken. Hourly pay is good (often NOK 150–250+ depending on job; waiters or sales can earn more with tips).
A 20-hour week might bring in NOK 12,000–20,000/month before tax.
To find jobs: Use NAV job portal (search “English”), university career centers, Finn.no, or LinkedIn. Get a tax card from Skatteetaten to avoid high withholding.
After graduation: You can apply for a 6-month job-seeking permit to find skilled work. If you land a relevant job, switch to a skilled worker residence permit (often with visa sponsorship from employer).
Tips to Succeed
- Start early—apply to universities via their portals (deadlines often December–March for autumn start). Prove strong finances for visa success.
- Learn basic Norwegian (free apps/classes help for jobs).
- Network at uni events.
Norway isn’t the easiest for full scholarships, but free/cheap tuition + part-time work + some funding makes it realistic for motivated students. Many internationals thrive here and even stay long-term.
