Making Study Abroad Easy
Making Study Abroad Easy
Why Should you Study in Norway?
Find all the study programs in Norway
About- Norway
Norway is a country located in northern Europe, with a population of around 5.4 million people. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, fjords, mountains, and vibrant cities. Here are some key facts and information about Norway:
Language: The official language of Norway is Norwegian, but many Norwegians also speak English fluently. Other minority languages such as Sami, Romani, and Finnish are also spoken in certain regions.
Currency: The currency used in Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK).
Education: Norway has a highly developed education system, with free education for all students, including international students. Norwegian universities offer a range of degree programs taught in English, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Climate: The climate in Norway varies depending on the region, but in general, the country experiences long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The northern part of Norway experiences the phenomenon of the midnight sun during the summer months, where the sun does not set for weeks.
Culture: Norwegian culture is influenced by its Viking history and is known for its emphasis on equality and social welfare. The country is also known for its outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing.
Government: Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The country is known for its high levels of political stability and social welfare programs.
Economy: Norway has a mixed economy that is heavily dependent on the oil and gas industry. The country is also known for its strong welfare state, with high levels of social welfare and a progressive tax system.
Overall, Norway is a modern and prosperous country with a high standard of living and a strong emphasis on social welfare and equality. It offers a unique cultural experience for visitors and students alike, with a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a welcoming population.
Religion
The majority of the population in Norway are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway, which is the official state religion. However, in recent years, the number of people identifying as members of this church has declined, with around 67% of the population belonging to the church in 2020. There are also significant minority religious groups in Norway, including Muslims, Roman Catholics, and various Protestant denominations. In addition, there is a growing secular population in Norway, with many people identifying as atheist or agnostic. The Norwegian constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and the country is generally known for its religious tolerance and acceptance of diversity.
Tourist Attractions
Norway is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning natural scenery, fjords, mountains, and vibrant cities. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Norway:
Fjords: Norway’s fjords are world-renowned and offer some of the most breathtaking views in the country. Some of the most famous fjords include the Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, and Sognefjord.
Northern Lights: The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that can be seen in the winter months in Northern Norway. Many tourists come to Norway specifically to see this spectacular display of light in the sky.
Cities: Norway has several vibrant and beautiful cities, including Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Tromsø. Each city offers its own unique charm and attractions.
Outdoor activities: Norway is known for its outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The country has many national parks and nature reserves that offer a wide range of outdoor activities.
Historical sites: Norway has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to visit, including the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, and the Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen.
Coastal attractions: Norway has a long coastline and many beautiful coastal attractions, including the Atlantic Ocean Road, Lofoten Islands, and the Trollfjord.
Overall, Norway offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience, with stunning natural scenery, rich history and culture, and a welcoming population. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a truly unique and immersive travel experience.
Food
Norwegian cuisine is known for its simplicity, fresh ingredients, and use of fish and seafood. Here are some of the most popular foods in Norway:
Fiskesuppe (Fish Soup): Fiskesuppe is a traditional Norwegian fish soup made with a variety of fish and vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and leeks.
Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew): Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and potatoes. It is typically served during the fall and winter months.
Lutefisk (Lye Fish): Lutefisk is a traditional Norwegian dish made with dried whitefish that has been soaked in lye. It is typically served with boiled potatoes and cream sauce.
Smoked Salmon: Norway is known for its high-quality smoked salmon, which is often served as an appetizer or on open-faced sandwiches.
Kjøttkaker (Norwegian Meatballs): Kjøttkaker are Norwegian meatballs made with ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, and spices. They are typically served with boiled potatoes, lingonberry jam, and gravy.
Brunost (Brown Cheese): Brunost is a traditional Norwegian cheese made from whey, milk, and cream. It has a unique sweet and nutty flavor and is often served on bread or crackers.
Overall, Norwegian cuisine is simple, yet flavorful, and emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fish and seafood are a staple of the Norwegian diet, but there are also many delicious meat and dairy dishes to try.
Language
The official language of Norway is Norwegian. Norwegian is a North Germanic language and is closely related to other Scandinavian languages such as Swedish and Danish. There are two official written forms of Norwegian: Bokmål and Nynorsk. Bokmål is the most widely used written form and is based on the language spoken in and around Oslo, while Nynorsk is based on regional dialects.
In addition to Norwegian, many Norwegians also speak English, which is widely taught in schools and is used as a second language in many parts of the country. Other common second languages in Norway include German and Spanish.
It is worth noting that Norwegian can be a difficult language to learn for English speakers due to its complex grammar and pronunciation. However, most Norwegians are welcoming and appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak the language, even if it is just a few basic phrases. If you plan to travel to Norway, it is a good idea to learn some basic Norwegian phrases, such as “hei” (hello), “takk” (thank you), and “ha det bra” (goodbye).
Politics
Norway is a constitutional monarchy, which means that the country has a king or queen as its head of state, but the monarch’s role is largely ceremonial. The real political power in Norway lies with the Prime Minister and the Parliament (Stortinget).
Norway has a multi-party system, with several political parties represented in the Parliament. The two largest parties are the Labor Party and the Conservative Party, but there are also several smaller parties that hold seats in the Parliament. The Norwegian system of government is known for its strong emphasis on consensus and cooperation, with most decisions being made through negotiation and compromise.
In terms of international relations, Norway is a member of the United Nations, NATO, and the European Free Trade Association, among other international organizations. Norway has historically been known for its commitment to peace and diplomacy, and is a strong advocate for environmental and human rights issues on the global stage.
Overall, Norwegian politics is characterized by a strong emphasis on democracy, cooperation, and social welfare. The country has a high degree of political stability and is generally considered to be a well-functioning democracy.
Currency
The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK). One krone is divided into 100 øre. The krone is abbreviated as “kr” or “NOK” and is used for all transactions in Norway.
Banknotes in Norway come in denominations of 50 kr, 100 kr, 200 kr, 500 kr, and 1000 kr. Coins come in denominations of 1 kr, 5 kr, 10 kr, and 20 kr. The 50 øre coin was phased out in 2012 and is no longer in circulation.
It is recommended that visitors to Norway exchange their currency for Norwegian kroner, as most places in Norway do not accept foreign currencies. There are many exchange offices and banks throughout the country where you can exchange your currency, and ATMs are widely available in most towns and cities.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Norway, and many shops, restaurants, and hotels also accept contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Geography
Norway is a long, narrow country located in Northern Europe on the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The country shares borders with Sweden to the east, Finland and Russia to the northeast, and is bounded to the west and north by the North Sea and the Norwegian Sea, respectively.
The country has a total area of about 385,178 square kilometers (148,729 square miles) and has a varied landscape that includes mountains, forests, lakes, and fjords. The Norwegian coastline is one of the longest in the world, stretching over 83,000 kilometers (52,000 miles) and includes over 50,000 islands.
Norway is known for its rugged terrain, with over 90% of the country being covered by mountains, plateaus, and forests. The highest point in Norway is Galdhøpiggen, which stands at 2,469 meters (8,098 feet) above sea level. The country is also home to many glaciers, including the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which is the largest glacier on the European mainland.
Norway has a number of major rivers, including the Glomma, which is the longest river in Norway, and the Drammen and Numedalslågen rivers, which are important sources of hydroelectric power. The country’s numerous fjords, including the famous Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are a major attraction for tourists and are considered some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world.
Studying in Norway
Norway is home to several world-renowned universities, and studying in Norway can offer many benefits to international students. Here are some key points to consider when considering studying in Norway:
High-quality education: Norwegian universities are known for providing high-quality education, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Many Norwegian universities are ranked highly in international rankings, and degrees from Norwegian universities are recognized worldwide.
Free education: In Norway, higher education is free for all students, including international students. This means that students can study at a Norwegian university without paying tuition fees, although some universities may charge a small semester fee.
English-language programs: Many Norwegian universities offer programs taught in English, making it easier for international students to study in Norway. International students are not required to speak Norwegian to enroll in most degree programs.
Student support: Norwegian universities offer a range of support services for international students, including language courses, housing assistance, and career services. The Norwegian government also offers financial support to help cover living expenses for students.
Cultural experience: Studying in Norway can offer a unique cultural experience, as the country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. International students can also take advantage of Norway’s location to explore other parts of Europe.
To study in Norway, international students typically need to apply for admission to a Norwegian university and obtain a student visa. Students may also need to demonstrate proficiency in English and provide evidence of financial support.
Why Norway for Studies?
Norway is an excellent choice for international students who want to pursue higher education in a country that offers high-quality education, a unique cultural experience, and a safe and welcoming environment. Here are some of the key reasons why Norway is a great destination for students:
Free education: Norway offers free education at public universities for all students, including international students. This means that students can save a lot of money on tuition fees compared to other countries.
High-quality education: Norwegian universities are known for their high-quality education, with a focus on research and innovation. Many Norwegian universities are ranked highly in international rankings, and degrees from Norwegian universities are recognized worldwide.
English-language programs: Many Norwegian universities offer programs taught in English, making it easier for international students to study in Norway. Students can also take Norwegian language courses if they wish.
Welcoming culture: Norwegians are known for being friendly and welcoming to people from other countries. The country is safe and has a low crime rate, making it an ideal place for international students to study.
Unique cultural experience: Norway offers a unique cultural experience, with stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Students can experience Norwegian traditions such as skiing, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Work opportunities: International students in Norway are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer. After graduation, students can apply for a work visa and remain in Norway to work.
Financial support: The Norwegian government offers financial support to help cover living expenses for international students, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Overall, Norway offers a unique and high-quality educational experience that is well-suited to international students who want to study in a safe and welcoming environment while experiencing a unique culture and beautiful natural landscapes.
Cost of Studying in Norway
Studying in Norway can be expensive in terms of living expenses, but tuition fees are generally free for both domestic and international students at public universities. However, some universities may charge a small semester fee, which is typically around 300-600 Norwegian Krone (NOK) per semester (roughly 35-70 USD).
The cost of living in Norway is generally high, and students should budget for expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily expenses. Here are some approximate costs for international students studying in Norway:
Accommodation: Rent for a single room in a student dormitory or shared apartment can cost between 3,500-5,500 NOK (roughly 400-630 USD) per month. Private apartments can be more expensive, with rents ranging from 5,500-8,500 NOK (roughly 630-970 USD) per month.
Food: A typical meal at a restaurant can cost between 150-250 NOK (roughly 17-28 USD), while a fast food meal can cost around 100 NOK (roughly 11 USD). Groceries for a week can cost around 500-700 NOK (roughly 57-80 USD).
Transportation: Public transportation in Norway can be expensive, with a single one-way ticket for local transport costing around 30 NOK (roughly 3.50 USD). Monthly transportation passes cost around 600-700 NOK (roughly 70-80 USD).
Other expenses: Additional expenses for entertainment, travel, and personal items can vary, but students should expect to spend around 2,000-3,000 NOK (roughly 230-340 USD) per month.
International students in Norway are allowed to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during holidays, which can help offset some of the costs. Additionally, the Norwegian government offers financial support to help cover living expenses for international students through scholarships, grants, and loans.
Educational System of Norway
The educational system of Norway is based on the principles of equal access to education and lifelong learning. The system is designed to provide high-quality education at all levels, from primary school to higher education. Here is an overview of the education system in Norway:
Primary and secondary education: Primary education is compulsory for all children in Norway, and children start school at the age of 6. Primary education lasts for 7 years, and is followed by secondary education, which lasts for 3 years. Secondary education is divided into two tracks: general education and vocational education.
Higher education: Higher education in Norway is divided into three levels: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Higher education in Norway is generally free for both domestic and international students, although there may be a small semester fee at some universities. Most higher education programs are taught in Norwegian, but there are also many programs taught in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels.
Lifelong learning: The Norwegian educational system is designed to promote lifelong learning, and there are many opportunities for adults to continue their education throughout their lives. The government provides funding for adult education programs, and there are also many private and non-profit organizations that offer educational opportunities for adults.
The Norwegian education system is known for its focus on innovation, research, and high-quality teaching. The system is designed to provide equal access to education for all, and to promote lifelong learning and personal development.
Life in Norway
Life in Norway is known for its high standard of living, social equality, and natural beauty. Here are some key features of life in Norway:
Social welfare: Norway has a strong social welfare system, with universal access to healthcare, education, and social services. This system is supported by high taxes, but it ensures that all citizens have access to basic necessities and a good quality of life.
Nature: Norway is known for its natural beauty, with fjords, mountains, and forests that attract tourists from all over the world. Many Norwegians enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, and the country has a strong culture of environmentalism and sustainability.
Work-life balance: Norwegians place a high value on work-life balance, and many workers have access to flexible working hours and generous vacation time. This allows Norwegians to enjoy their leisure time and pursue hobbies and interests outside of work.
Culture: Norway has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions such as folk music, dancing, and storytelling that are still celebrated today. Norwegians also have a strong literary and artistic tradition, with many famous writers, painters, and musicians.
Food: Norwegian cuisine is known for its use of fresh, natural ingredients, such as fish, meat, and berries. Some popular Norwegian dishes include smoked salmon, meatballs, and waffles.
Overall, life in Norway offers a high standard of living, a strong social welfare system, and a rich cultural and natural heritage. While living in Norway can be expensive, the quality of life is generally considered to be worth the cost.
Accommodation Available
There are several options for accommodation in Norway, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the most common types of accommodation available in Norway:
Student housing: Many universities in Norway offer student housing, either on campus or in nearby apartment buildings. Student housing can be a good option for those who want to live close to their university and have a built-in social network.
Private apartments: Private apartments can be rented through online platforms such as Finn.no, Hybel.no, or Airbnb. Renting a private apartment can be more expensive than student housing, but it offers more independence and privacy.
Shared apartments: Shared apartments, or kollektiv, are a popular option in Norway. In a shared apartment, several people rent a larger apartment and share common spaces such as the kitchen and living room. Shared apartments can be a good option for those who want to save money on rent and enjoy a social living environment.
Hostels: Hostels can be a good option for short-term stays, especially for backpackers or those on a budget. Hostels offer shared dormitories and private rooms, and usually have shared kitchens and common areas.
Homestays: Homestays involve living with a local family in their home. Homestays can be a good option for those who want to immerse themselves in Norwegian culture and practice their language skills.
Overall, there are several options for accommodation in Norway, depending on your preferences and budget. It’s important to research the options available in your city or town and plan ahead to secure a suitable place to live.
Other Living Expenses
In addition to accommodation, there are several other living expenses to consider when studying in Norway. Here are some of the most common expenses you may encounter:
Food: Norway is known for its high cost of living, and food is no exception. Eating out at restaurants can be quite expensive, so it’s recommended to cook your own meals at home. Grocery stores such as Rema 1000 and Coop are more affordable options for purchasing food.
Transportation: Public transportation in Norway is generally reliable and efficient, but it can also be expensive. Many students choose to bike or walk to save money, but if you need to take public transportation, consider purchasing a monthly pass to save money.
Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance while studying in Norway. If you don’t have insurance coverage through your home country, you will need to purchase health insurance in Norway. The cost of health insurance varies depending on the provider and level of coverage.
Personal expenses: Personal expenses such as clothing, toiletries, and entertainment can add up quickly. It’s important to budget for these expenses and prioritize your spending.
Leisure activities: Norway offers many opportunities for leisure activities, such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the natural beauty of the country. However, many of these activities can be expensive, so it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly.
Overall, the cost of living in Norway can be high, but it’s possible to manage your expenses with careful planning and budgeting. It’s also worth noting that Norway has a high standard of living and a strong social welfare system, which can help offset some of the costs.
Top Universities- Norway
Norway is known for its high-quality education system and there are several top-ranked universities in the country. Here are some of the top universities in Norway:- University of Oslo (UiO)
- University of Bergen (UiB)
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
- University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT)
- BI Norwegian Business School
- Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)
- Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
- Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL)
- Nord University
- University of Stavanger (UiS)
Degrees Available
Norway has a wide range of degree programs available in various fields of study. Some of the most popular programs include: Bachelor’s Degree: This is a three-year undergraduate program that provides students with basic knowledge in their field of study. Norwegian universities offer a variety of bachelor’s programs, including business, engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, and more. Master’s Degree: A two-year graduate program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen field. Norwegian universities offer a range of master’s programs, including business, engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, and more. PhD Degree: A doctoral program that provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research and contribute to their field of study. Norwegian universities offer PhD programs in a variety of fields, including business, engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, and more. Professional Degrees: Professional degrees are specialized programs that prepare students for specific careers. Some of the professional degree programs available in Norway include law, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and psychology. In addition to these programs, Norway also offers a range of vocational and technical training programs, as well as short-term courses and certifications. Many Norwegian universities offer programs taught in English, making them accessible to international students.Study Visa- Norway
If you are planning to study in Norway as an international student, you will need to apply for a study visa. Here are the general steps you need to take:
Apply to a Norwegian educational institution: Before you can apply for a study visa, you need to be accepted into a Norwegian educational institution.
Check the visa requirements: Once you have been accepted into a Norwegian educational institution, you will need to check the visa requirements for your country of citizenship. The requirements may vary depending on your country of origin, so it’s important to check with the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country.
Gather required documents: You will need to provide a range of documents to support your visa application, including a passport, proof of admission to a Norwegian educational institution, proof of financial support, and travel insurance.
Submit your visa application: You can submit your visa application online or in person at the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to pay a fee for the visa application.
Wait for the visa decision: The processing time for a study visa application can vary depending on your country of origin and the time of year. Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a letter of approval.
Travel to Norway: Once you have received your visa approval, you can travel to Norway and begin your studies.
It’s important to note that Norway has a high cost of living, so it’s important to budget accordingly and have adequate financial support for your studies.
Requirements of a Study Visa
The requirements for a study visa for Norway may vary depending on your country of citizenship, but in general, you will need to provide the following:
Acceptance letter: You will need to provide proof that you have been accepted into a recognized Norwegian educational institution. This could be a letter of admission or an acceptance email.
Financial support: You will need to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in Norway. This could include bank statements, scholarships, or other sources of income.
Travel insurance: You will need to provide proof of travel insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay in Norway.
Passport: You will need to provide a valid passport that has at least three months of validity beyond the end of your intended stay in Norway.
Passport-sized photos: You may be required to provide passport-sized photos as part of your application.
Application fee: You will need to pay a fee for your visa application.
In addition to these requirements, you may be required to provide additional documentation depending on your country of citizenship and the nature of your studies. It’s important to check with the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country to find out the specific requirements for your situation.
Applying in University
If you’re interested in applying to a Norwegian university, here are the general steps you will need to take:
Research universities and programs: First, you’ll want to research Norwegian universities and the programs they offer to find the best fit for you.
Meet admission requirements: Each university may have its own admission requirements, so make sure you meet them before applying. This may include language proficiency, test scores, and previous academic records.
Submit application: You will need to submit an application through the university’s online portal or through the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS) website, which is the central organization for handling applications to Norwegian universities.
Pay application fee: You will need to pay an application fee when you submit your application.
Provide supporting documents: Depending on the university and program, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as transcripts, language test scores, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement.
Wait for admission decision: After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for the university to review and make a decision. You may be contacted for an interview or additional information.
Accept admission offer: If you are accepted, you’ll need to formally accept the admission offer and pay a deposit to secure your place in the program.
It’s important to note that admission to Norwegian universities can be competitive, so it’s a good idea to apply to multiple universities and have backup options in case you are not accepted to your first choice.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for Norwegian universities may vary depending on the institution and program you are applying to, but here are some general requirements you should be aware of:
Educational qualifications: You will need to have completed a secondary education that is equivalent to Norwegian upper secondary education, which includes 13 years of primary and secondary education.
Language proficiency: Depending on the language of instruction of the program you are applying to, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in Norwegian, English, or another language. This may involve taking language tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or a similar test.
Minimum grade point average (GPA): Some universities may require a minimum GPA in order to be considered for admission. This can vary depending on the program you are applying to.
Relevant coursework: Depending on the program you are applying to, you may need to have completed certain coursework in high school or have relevant coursework at the university level.
Test scores: Some programs may require test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, as part of the application process.
Letters of recommendation: Depending on the program you are applying to, you may need to provide letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other academic or professional references.
Personal statement: Some programs may require a personal statement or essay as part of the application process.
It’s important to note that admission requirements can vary widely depending on the program and institution, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific university you are interested in to determine their admission requirements. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews or portfolio submissions, so be sure to research the specific program you are interested in to ensure you are meeting all of the necessary requirements.
Norway- Scholarships
Norway offers a range of scholarships to international students who want to study in the country. Here are some of the scholarship options available:
Quota Scheme: The Quota Scheme is a scholarship program for students from developing countries who want to study at Norwegian universities. It covers full tuition fees, living expenses, travel expenses, and a small amount of money for books and other study materials. Students must apply through their home country’s embassy in Norway.
Erasmus+ Programme: The Erasmus+ Programme is an EU-funded program that provides scholarships for students who want to study in Europe. It covers tuition fees and living expenses and is available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education (SIU) Scholarships: The SIU provides a range of scholarships for international students who want to study in Norway, including the Norwegian Partnership Program for Global Academic Cooperation (NORPART), the North2North Mobility Program, and the High North Fellowship Program.
Research Council of Norway: The Research Council of Norway provides scholarships for international students who want to pursue research opportunities in Norway. These scholarships are available to students at the master’s and doctoral level.
University-specific scholarships: Many Norwegian universities offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.
It’s important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can vary widely depending on the program and institution, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific university you are interested in to determine their scholarship options and requirements. Additionally, many scholarships have early application deadlines, so it’s important to apply early to ensure that you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
