Norway is the country that takes education to a unique international level. Most of the universities from Norway don’t charge tuition fees, so students can find accessible high-quality degree courses.Studying abroad in Norway will be a challenging, but rewarding, experience, that will lead to a valuable academic degree that will be a remarkable addition to your CV. To make it easier for you, we made a quick guide to all you should know about studying in Norway.

Norway’s dramatic fjords may top your bucket list, but these natural wonders are far from the only reason to consider Norway for your international education.

5 Reasons to Study in Norway

1. An Unbeatable Standard of Living : If living well is your end game, then look no further than Norway. The UN consistently ranks Norway — eight times in a row and counting! — at the top of its annual list of best countries across factors including global wealth, education and health and safety. Throw in the troll dolls, and why wouldn’t you want to study here?

2. Foodie Fun : Norway’s has a thriving fishing industry….along with the fish to show for it, including world-famous pickled herring, mackerel and salmon. But the country’s celebrated cuisine encompasses far more than fish: from waffles with sour cream and jam filling to an abundance of adorable cafes, you won’t go hungry here. Luckily, you’ll also have access to plenty of exercise thanks to….

3. Winter Fun : Skiing has been Norway’s national pastime dating back to 5100 B.C., and long snowy winters continue to make it an amazing place for skiers and snowboarders. But summer has plenty of offerings too thanks to 24 hours of sunlight…along with the festivals and celebrations that go along with it.

4. Embracing Innovation : While Norway is often acknowledged for its rich past, it has an equally bright future thanks to a national mindset which prioritizes knowledge, technology and innovation.

5. A Native Tongue : While Norwegian is Norway’s primary language, English is a predominant as the country’s second language. Norwegians began studying Norwegian in primary school, so by the time they hit university age, they’re well-versed. While speaking the local language is always a plus, it’s entirely possible to live in Norway without knowing a word of Norwegian.

University Tuition Fees in Norway

In Norway, some public universities don’t charge tuition fees. This is valid for undergraduate degree courses, Master’s programmes and PhDs, and for students from all countries, regardless if they are members of the EU/EEA or not.

There is, though, a semester student union fee that has to be paid in full, which is around 32 – 64 EUR.

Student Living Costs in Norway

Attending a university in Norway involves living costs comprised of accommodation, books and other studying supplies, food and utilities. Although living costs may be above average European countries, they are still some of the best for a Nordic country. And, as a bonus, the quality of life is very rewarding.

Other smaller cities in Norway usually have an average monthly living cost of 700 – 800 EUR.

Accommodation costs

Students pay around 36% out of the total living costs on accommodation, so invest in something proper.You will, generally, pay a monthly average of 1,500 EUR for accommodation in a private rental apartment, with utilities included. Accommodation prices in Oslo can lead up to 1,700 EUR per month, for instance.

Students look for accommodation on campuses and in private apartments. Here are some of the average monthly costs for housing in Norway:

  • Students who live alone: 639 EUR
  • Students who live with their partner/children: 787 EUR
  • Students who live in residence halls: 564 EUR

Accommodation in the university halls is limited in Norway, so only 15% of the students from the entire country live on-campus, according to a European study. However, the rooms they share have high standards, since 69% of the students living in residence halls are satisfied with their housing. If you plan an evening out, you will spend 34 EUR in an inexpensive restaurant and 85 EUR in an average one, for a meal of two. If you also want to drink something light, you will spend an extra 4 EUR, so plan your nights out wisely.

Transportation costs

In Norway, 41% of the students use public transportation and use their discounts provided by the university card. The total cost of a monthly transport pass is between 55 and 72 EUR, and additional transportation can have:

  • A starting price of 10 EUR and 1.6 EUR/kilometre, for taxis;
  • A rate of around 55 EUR for 7 months, for bike rentals
Extra costs

During your studies, you will need books, magazines, and other supplies for your courses and research. These usually reach around 530 EUR per semester, but you can also buy used books from libraries and save some money.For social activities, you should prepare an estimate of 70 EUR/month.