Norway is an appealing destination for international students seeking high-quality education, a strong research environment, and an international study experience in one of Europe's most scenic countries. Norwegian higher education institutions offer programmes in areas such as engineering, technology, business, environmental science, social sciences, health, and the natural sciences. There are also around 350 programmes taught in English, with most available at master's level.
However, understanding how to apply to study in Norway requires more than choosing a university and completing an online form. Admission procedures differ between bachelor's and master's programmes, and international applicants must meet specific academic and language requirements. Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland also need to consider tuition fees and immigration requirements.
This guide explains the main application steps and practical issues international students should understand before applying.
Step 1: Choose the Right Programme
Start by identifying the subject, degree level, and type of institution that best match your academic and career goals.
Norway offers universities and university colleges, with programmes ranging from undergraduate degrees to master's and doctoral studies. The official Study in Norway portal provides a searchable database of English-taught programmes by level, subject, region, and institution.
When comparing programmes, look at:
- Course content and specialization
- Degree duration
- Language of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Tuition fees
- Location
- Living costs
- Internship opportunities
- Research opportunities
- Career prospects
- Scholarship or funding options
Do not choose a university solely because it appears highly ranked. A programme with the right curriculum, academic environment, and career opportunities may be more valuable for your goals.
English-Taught Programmes
English-taught programmes are widely available in Norway, particularly at master's level. Most bachelor's programmes, however, are taught in Norwegian.
If you do not speak Norwegian, search specifically for English-taught programmes and check the language of instruction before applying.
Step 2: Check the Academic Requirements
Norway uses the Higher Education Entrance Qualification (GSU) as the general basis for admission to higher education.
For applicants with foreign qualifications, the GSU list specifies the educational requirements for individual countries. For some countries, secondary education is sufficient, while applicants from others may need one or two additional years of higher education after secondary school.
Programme-specific requirements may apply in addition to the general qualification. For example, a technical degree may require particular mathematics or science subjects.
Bachelor's Degree Requirements
Applicants for bachelor's programmes generally need an educational qualification equivalent to the Norwegian higher education entrance requirement.
For programmes taught in Norwegian, applicants also need to document the required Norwegian language proficiency. English-taught bachelor's programmes have their own institutional admission procedures.
Master's Degree Requirements
Master's applicants normally need a bachelor's degree comparable to a Norwegian 180-ECTS bachelor's degree from a recognized institution.
The previous degree generally needs to include at least 1.5 years of full-time study in a subject relevant to the master's programme. Some programmes also set minimum grade requirements or additional academic prerequisites.
Step 3: Check the Language Requirements
Language requirements depend on the programme's teaching language.
For English-taught programmes, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to the requirements established by the institution. Accepted tests and minimum scores can vary between universities and programmes.
For Norwegian-taught programmes, applicants must document the required Norwegian language proficiency.
International applicants should not assume that an English-medium education automatically provides an exemption from language testing. Check the exact requirements for your country and programme.
Take Language Tests Early
If you need IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted examination, complete it well before the application deadline. An early result gives you time to retake the test if necessary and prevents a missing document from delaying your application.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Create a document checklist before beginning your application.
Depending on your programme, you may need:
- Valid passport or identification
- Secondary-school certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Bachelor's degree certificate
- Proof of English or Norwegian proficiency
- CV or résumé
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- Portfolio
- Evidence of relevant work experience
- Programme-specific documents
The exact requirements vary, so use the programme's official admissions instructions as your checklist.
Check Your Country's GSU Requirements
One of the most important steps for international applicants is checking the GSU requirements for the country where you completed your education.
The GSU list covers both educational qualifications and language requirements. It is particularly important for applicants seeking admission to first-cycle studies, where the list is binding for admissions purposes.
If your country requires additional higher education after secondary school, you need to account for that before applying.
Step 5: Understand the Application System
Norway does not use one identical application process for every degree.
For Norwegian-taught bachelor's and other undergraduate programmes, applications are generally handled through the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service, commonly known as Samordna opptak or NUCAS. Some private institutions have their own admission systems.
For master's programmes, applications are normally submitted directly to the university or university college offering the programme.
This distinction is important because students should not assume that every Norwegian university application begins through the same portal.
Applying for an English-Taught Bachelor's
English-taught bachelor's programmes generally use the institution's own application system rather than the centralized NUCAS process.
Check the university's application page for instructions, deadlines, and required documents.
Applying for a Master's
Master's applications are submitted directly to the institution. Each university can establish its own application period, documentation requirements, selection criteria, and deadlines.
For example, some master's programmes have separate deadlines for applicants from outside the EU/EEA and for EU/EEA applicants.
Step 6: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
Deadlines vary considerably between programmes.
Norwegian-taught bachelor's programmes using NUCAS generally follow the national admissions calendar, while master's and English-taught programmes can have institution-specific deadlines.
Non-EU/EEA applicants should pay particular attention to early deadlines. Some universities set earlier deadlines for applicants who need a study permit so there is enough time for immigration procedures.
Before submitting, verify:
- Application deadline
- Document deadline
- Language-test deadline
- Application fee, if applicable
- Programme-specific requirements
- Whether additional forms are required
Never rely on the deadline from another programme or university.
Step 7: Apply for Scholarships and Funding
Financial planning is essential when considering Norway.
A common misconception is that all international students can study at Norwegian public universities without tuition fees. This changed significantly in recent years.
Degree-seeking students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland normally pay tuition fees at Norwegian institutions, although several exemptions apply, including for certain doctoral candidates, exchange students, and students covered by specific schemes. Fees vary by institution and programme.
Norway does not offer a universal government scholarship open to all international degree students. Students should investigate university-specific scholarships, external funding, exchange schemes, and other eligible sources.
Build a Complete Budget
Your budget should include:
- Tuition fees, if applicable
- Accommodation
- Food
- Transportation
- Health and insurance costs
- Study materials
- Phone and internet
- Personal expenses
- Travel
- Emergency savings
Study in Norway estimates student living costs at NOK 15,488 per month or NOK 170,368 per year for 2026–2027. Students should also expect a semester fee of approximately NOK 1,000 to the student welfare organization associated with their institution.
Step 8: Receive and Accept Your Admission Offer
If you are accepted, carefully review your admission letter.
Check:
- Programme title
- Start date
- Tuition fee
- Scholarship information
- Conditions of admission
- Enrolment instructions
- Payment deadlines
- Housing information
If your offer is conditional, complete the outstanding requirements as quickly as possible.
Once your place is secure, begin arranging accommodation. Student housing can be competitive, especially in larger cities such as Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Stavanger.
Step 9: Apply for a Norwegian Study Permit
Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who intend to study in Norway for more than three months generally need a study permit.
Before applying, you must normally have:
- Admission to a university or university college
- Full-time student status
- Sufficient funds
- Somewhere to live
- Money to cover tuition, if applicable
- The required application documentation
- Payment for the immigration application fee
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) currently states that university and university-college students need at least NOK 15,488 per month or NOK 170,368 for an academic year to demonstrate sufficient living funds.
The money may come from personal funds, student loans, grants, or certain other accepted sources. If tuition fees apply, you must also demonstrate that you can cover them or provide evidence of payment according to UDI requirements.
Work Rights for International Students
A Norwegian study permit normally gives students permission to work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.
However, part-time employment should be treated as additional income rather than your primary financial plan. Norway's cost of living is relatively high, and finding suitable employment can take time.
Step 10: Prepare for Your Move to Norway
After admission and immigration arrangements are complete, organize the practical aspects of your relocation.
Arrange:
- Student accommodation
- Travel
- Banking
- Transportation
- Insurance and healthcare arrangements
- University registration
- Important documents
- Initial living expenses
Keep your passport, admission letter, housing confirmation, financial documents, and study-permit information easily accessible.
Learning basic Norwegian is also worthwhile, even if your programme is taught in English. It can make everyday communication easier and may broaden future employment opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming Every Programme Is Free
Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland normally pay tuition fees, although exemptions exist. Check the exact fee for your programme.
Using the Wrong Application Portal
Bachelor's and master's applications often follow different routes. Bachelor's programmes may use NUCAS, while master's applications are generally submitted directly to institutions.
Ignoring the GSU List
Your country's educational requirements can differ significantly from those of another country. Check the GSU list before applying.
Applying Too Late
Some English-taught master's programmes have early deadlines, particularly for applicants who require a study permit.
Underestimating Living Costs
The official 2026–2027 estimate is NOK 170,368 per year, excluding additional expenses such as tuition and travel.
Relying on Part-Time Work
Although eligible study-permit holders can work up to 20 hours per week, employment should not replace a realistic source of financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I apply to study in Norway?
Start preparing six to twelve months before your intended intake. Applicants who need language tests, scholarships, document verification, or study permits should begin even earlier.
Can I study in Norway in English?
Yes. Norway offers around 350 English-taught programmes, with most at master's level.
Do I need to speak Norwegian?
Not if you are accepted into an English-taught programme and meet its language requirements. Norwegian is generally required for programmes taught in Norwegian.
How do I apply for a bachelor's degree in Norway?
Norwegian-taught bachelor's programmes are generally handled through Samordna opptak/NUCAS, while English-taught bachelor's programmes are generally handled through the institution's own admissions system.
How do I apply for a master's degree in Norway?
Master's applications are normally submitted directly to the university or university college offering the programme. Requirements and deadlines vary by institution.
Do international students pay tuition fees in Norway?
Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland normally pay tuition fees at Norwegian institutions, although exemptions apply to certain categories. The amount varies by institution and programme.
How much money do I need to study in Norway?
For 2026–2027, the estimated student living-cost requirement is NOK 15,488 per month or NOK 170,368 per year. This does not necessarily represent your complete personal budget, particularly if tuition fees apply.
Can international students work while studying?
Students with a Norwegian study permit can generally work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.
Conclusion
Knowing how to apply to study in Norway starts with choosing the right programme and understanding the country's different admission routes. Bachelor's and master's applications are not necessarily submitted through the same system, so identifying the correct application process should be one of your first priorities.
International students should then check the GSU requirements for their country, confirm programme-specific academic prerequisites, meet the appropriate language standard, and prepare complete documentation. Applying early is particularly important for students who need a study permit.
Financial planning is equally important. While Norway has a strong reputation for public higher education, students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally face tuition fees, and all students need sufficient funds to cover their living expenses. For 2026–2027, the official estimated living-cost requirement is NOK 170,368 per year.