Norway is known for its excellent education system, and one of its most appealing aspects for international students is the opportunity to study tuition-free at public universities. For those seeking high-quality education without the burden of hefty tuition fees, Norway’s education system offers a compelling option.
In this article by MSM Unify, we will walk you through everything you need to know about free education in Norway, how to apply to public universities, and how students, especially from India, can benefit from this opportunity in 2024.
Why does Norway offer free education?
Norway’s free education is based on the country’s belief that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or nationality. Norway public universities do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs, even for international students. This policy reflects Norway’s commitment to equality and its belief that higher education is an investment in both individual and societal progress.
The tuition-free education policy applies to both domestic and international students at public universities. However, students must be prepared for other costs, such as living expenses, and other necessary costs.
Norway’s public universities and their role in free education
Norway’s education system is structured to offer high-quality education through its public institutions. Public universities in Norway are funded by the government, allowing them to provide free education.
While the tuition is free, it’s important to note that some specialized programs and private universities might charge fees. Therefore, choosing Norway public universities is key to accessing tuition-free education.
Some of the best universities in Norway that offer free education include:
| University | QS World University Rankings (2025) | Popular programs |
| University of Oslo | 119 | Law, Humanities, Social Sciences |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) | 264 | Engineering, Technology, Natural Sciences |
| University of Bergen | 291 | Marine Research, Linguistics, History |
| UiT The Arctic University of Norway | 621-630 | Arctic Studies, Geosciences, Health Sciences |
| Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) | – | Business, Economics, Finance |
The presence of these world-class institutions makes Norway an attractive destination for international students, providing access to quality education without the burden of tuition fees.
What are the process in starting an international education?
How to apply to tuition-free universities in Norway
The application process for Norway universities for international students is straightforward but requires careful planning. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of admission:
1. Research the programs and universities
Choose the right public universities in Norway that offer programs aligned with your career goals. Make sure to check if the program is tuition-free.
2. Meet the admission requirements
Each university has specific academic requirements. Typically, international students will need a recognized secondary school certificate, a relevant bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate), and proof of proficiency in English or Norwegian.
3. Prepare documents
Most applications will require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE).
4. Submit the application
Norway universities have different application deadlines, typically from December to March for the autumn semester. Applications are submitted online via the university’s portal.
5. Obtain a student visa
Once accepted, you must apply for a Norwegian student visa. The requirements include providing proof of enrollment, demonstrating financial sufficiency, and having valid health insurance.
Cost of living and other expenses in Norway
Although tuition is free at Norway universities, students need to cover living expenses. The cost of living in Norway is relatively high compared to other European countries. Here’s a table enlisting estimated costs:
| Expense type | Monthly cost (NOK) | Monthly cost (INR) |
| Accommodation | 4,000 NOK – 7,000 NOK | ₹32,000 – ₹56,000 |
| Food | 2,500 NOK – 4,000 NOK | ₹20,000 – ₹32,000 |
| Transport | 500 NOK – 1,000 NOK | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 1,000 NOK – 2,000 NOK | ₹8,000 – ₹16,000 |
Students need to show proof of approximately NOK 128,887 (₹10,00,000) per year to obtain a student visa, which ensures they can support themselves while studying in Norway.
Also, please note that the monthly costs in the table above are for your reference only. The actual costs may vary depending on the various expenses and your lifestyle.
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Norway’s education system: Quality and structure
The Norway education system is renowned for its high academic standards and innovative teaching methods. It emphasizes critical thinking, practical learning, and interdisciplinary approaches, which prepare students for both professional and academic success.
Norwegian universities often collaborate with industries, research centers, and international institutions, offering students hands-on experience in their fields of study.
Best universities in Norway for international students
Norway boasts some of the best institutions in Europe. Here’s a closer look at some top Norway universities for international students:
1. University of Oslo
Located in the capital, this prestigious institution is known for its research programs and strong academic community. It offers a wide range of programs in English for international students.
2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology
The institution is highly regarded for its engineering and technology programs. It has a strong international presence and is known for collaborating with industries worldwide.
3. University of Bergen
This university excels in marine research and has close ties with global institutions. It offers numerous English-taught programs, making it accessible to international students.
4. UiT The Arctic University of Norway
For those interested in Arctic studies, UiT is the leading institution. It focuses on research that addresses climate change and environmental issues, making it a top choice for students in natural sciences.
5. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
NHH is renowned for its business and economics programs. International students flock here for its exceptional curriculum and global career opportunities.
Top 10 Benefits of Studying Abroad
Study in Norway for Indian students
For Indian students, studying in Norway offers a unique opportunity to access world-class education without the burden of tuition fees. Norway’s welcoming culture and the availability of programs in English make it an attractive destination. Additionally, Indian students benefit from Norway’s focus on research and innovation, which aligns well with the increasing demand for skilled professionals in fields like technology, engineering, and business.
Indian students should also be aware that while Norway’s free education covers tuition, other expenses, such as accommodation and living costs, need to be managed. Applying through MSM Unify overseas education consultants ensures that students get the right guidance in selecting programs, completing applications, and navigating visa procedures.
Scholarships for international students in Norway
Although tuition is free at public universities in Norway, securing a scholarship can further ease the financial burden, particularly for living expenses. Norway offers several scholarships for international students, allowing them to focus more on their studies and less on financial challenges. Here are some of the top scholarships available for those planning to study in Norway in 2024:
1. Norwegian Quota Scholarship Scheme
This scholarship aims to support students from developing nations in pursuing higher education in Norway. It covers tuition fees and provides grants and loans to cover living expenses. If the student returns to their home country after completing their studies, the loan portion may be waived, making this an attractive option for students from South Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
2. High North Fellowship Program
Targeted at students from Canada, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, the High North Fellowship Program is ideal for those studying topics related to the Arctic and Northern regions. It provides a stipend and travel grants, covering both housing and living costs.
3. BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships
BI Norwegian Business School offers several scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students. The BI Presidential Scholarship covers full tuition and offers a stipend for living expenses. It is highly competitive, focusing on students with excellent academic records.
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
This prestigious scholarship allows international students to pursue joint master’s degrees at Norwegian universities in collaboration with institutions across Europe. The scholarship covers both tuition fees and living expenses for the entire duration of the program.
5. University of Oslo Scholarships
The University of Oslo offers scholarships for international students, particularly at the master’s and PhD levels. One of the key programs, the International Summer School Scholarships, offers fully funded opportunities for students from Africa, Asia, and South America
6. NORAM Scholarships
This scholarship is designed for American students and provides financial support for both research and academic studies in Norway. Depending on the program, the award can range from NOK 10,000 to NOK 40,000.
7. Fulbright Scholarships
The Fulbright program offers full funding for American citizens to study or conduct research in Norway. This program includes tuition, living expenses, and health insurance, making it an excellent option for U.S. students.
8. A. Wilhelmsen Foundation Scholarship
Offered by BI Norwegian Business School, this scholarship provides up to NOK 150,000 per year for international students pursuing a master’s degree. It is a highly sought-after scholarship due to its generous funding.
By applying for these scholarships, students can significantly reduce the financial strain of studying in Norway. Remember to start early, as these scholarships are competitive and have varying deadlines, typically between December and March for the autumn intake.
MSM Unify overseas education consultants: Your partner in studying abroad
Navigating the process of applying to Norway universities can be daunting, but MSM Unify study abroad consultants can help streamline the process.
From selecting the right programs to managing documentation and visa procedures, MSM Unify overseas education consultants provide end-to-end assistance. Their personalized approach ensures that students find the best university for their academic goals, making the process smoother and more efficient.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, students can benefit from Norway’s free education system and enjoy a rewarding academic experience in 2024.
For personalized assistance, consult MSM Unify overseas education consultants to ensure you make the right decisions and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.
FAQs
- Is education free in Norway for international students?
Yes, international students can study for free at public universities in Norway, though they need to cover living expenses. - What is the cost of living in Norway for an international student?
Living costs can range from 8,000 NOK to 14,000 NOK (₹64,000 – ₹1,12,000) per month, depending on lifestyle and location. - Are there English-taught programs in Norway?
Yes, many universities in Norway offer English-taught programs, particularly at the master’s and PhD levels. - Do I need to learn the Norwegian language to study in Norway?
For undergraduate programs, learning Norwegian might be necessary, but for postgraduate programs, English is widely accepted. - What are the best universities in Norway for international students?
The University of Oslo, NTNU, and the University of Bergen are among the top universities offering programs for international students. - Can Indian students work while studying in Norway?
Yes, international students can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays. - How can I apply to Norway public universities?
Applications are submitted online through each university’s portal. Make sure to check specific entry requirements and deadlines. - What is the deadline for applying to universities in Norway?
Deadlines typically fall between December and March for the autumn intake, and each university might have different deadlines. - What financial proof is required for a Norwegian student visa?
You need to show proof of funds amounting to NOK 128,887 (approximately ₹10,00,000) to cover living expenses for one year. - Why should I use MSM Unify overseas education consultants for my application?
MSM Unify provides comprehensive support throughout the application process, helping you select programs, complete documentation, and navigate visa procedures seamlessly.
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