Higher education in Norway for international students

Norway is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe, whose mainland territory includes the western and northernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Unlike many Western European countries, there are no ancient medieval universities in Norway. The oldest university in Oslo was founded in 1811. It was based on the progressive model of the University of Berlin at that time, created at the initiative of the largest reformer of higher education Friedrich Wilhelm Humboldt. Such a dynamic start partly explains the innovative nature of the development of higher education in the country.

Norway is a constitutional monarchy. University status can be assigned to an educational institution only with the consent of the reigning monarch of Norway.

 Below the advantages of obtaining education in Norway are provided:

• Innovation of Master's programs

Norwegian universities pay great attention to the most pressing problems and interdisciplinary research: from marine architecture and Arctic urban planning to global journalism and geotechnics. It is no coincidence that Norway ranks 19th in the world according to the Global Innovation Index. Specialties in the oil industry, renewable energy, responsible ("sustainable") management, and information technology are particularly popular. Global warming, Arctic and Scandinavian studies are popular in the country.

• Modern campuses and facilities

In terms of one university student, Norway spends almost 22,000 USD per year and in this indicator it is second only to Sweden and Luxembourg in Europe. Norwegian universities are equipped with libraries, laboratories, leisure and sports centres, which are located in picturesque coastal cities all over the country: from dynamic Oslo to polar Tromso.

• Free doctoral studies

The foreign students can get a PhD at a public university in Norway for free. The remaining programs for international students from March 2023 are paid.

Norway's commitment to the Bologna Process since 2003 ensures that its higher education system aligns with other European countries, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

1. Structure of Higher Education Programs

In Norway, obtaining a bachelor's degree typically requires three years, a master's degree two years, and a doctorate an additional three years. Many universities offer a unique five-year single-tier master's program, which combines a bachelor's and master's degree, particularly in fields like architecture, engineering, and law.

2. English-Language Programs in Norwegian Universities

Over 200 master's and bachelor's programs are taught in English, catering to international students. For example, the University of Oslo offers diverse programs in humanities, law, sciences, and more. Additionally, courses like "Norwegian for Academics" are available for those without prior knowledge of Norwegian.

3. Academic Calendar and Application Deadlines

The academic year in Norway is split into two semesters, beginning in August. Applications for state universities must be submitted by December 1, while some private institutions accept applications until early May. For English-language programs, proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are required, and for Norwegian programs, the Bergenstest is necessary.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice do you have for those aspiring to attend top universities?

Thoroughly research your chosen university, including tuition fees, as these can vary widely. Prepare well for English proficiency tests like IELTS, which are essential for admission to any university. Focus on your preferred courses, checking their specific academic requirements, and ensure you are well-prepared in those areas.

Norwegian higher education institutions are categorized into three main types:

• Universities: These state-owned research institutions offer a broad range of programs in fundamental sciences. To gain university status, institutions must have accredited master's and PhD programs. The Norwegian University of Technology is one of the prestigious universities that have received this status.

• Profile Universities: Specialized in specific fields, these universities cater to students aiming for careers in areas like architecture, music, or economics. They provide an immersive environment for specialized learning.

• University Colleges: Formed by merging smaller technical and vocational schools, these colleges focus on applied sciences and are instrumental in training professionals like nurses, teachers, and engineers. They are distributed across Norway, even in smaller towns.

Interesting Facts about Higher Education in Norway

• The Norwegian Association of Higher Education Institutions (UHR) unites all state-accredited universities, including recently added accredited private institutions. This organization is key for international students seeking to study in Norway.

• While Norway doesn't have a direct equivalent to the Ivy League, certain universities like those in Oslo, Bergen, and Tromso have long-standing reputations. The Norwegian University of Natural and Technical Sciences is also noteworthy for its rich history.

• International collaborations are significant, with universities like Stavanger and Bergen being part of major European and international associations, fostering values of multiculturalism and social responsibility.

Each university in Norway may have different requirements, but generally, international applicants should prepare the following:

• A completed online application.

• Official educational documents, apostilled and translated into English or Norwegian.

• A motivation letter.

• A resume.

• Recommendation letters.

Additional materials, like academic essays or research plans, might be required depending on the program.

Requirements vary from university to university in Norway, but the standard package of documents includes:

• Completed online application;
• Official documents on education, certified by apostille and notarized translated into English or Norwegian: school certificate and all diplomas of higher education together with appendices;
• Motivation letter;
• Resume;
• Recommendation letters.

Additionally, an academic essay, a research plan and other documents may be required.

Costs: Higher Education in Norway Fees

The cost of higher education in Norway varies. International students should research specific universities to understand the fee structure and overall cost of living in Norway, as this can influence the decision-making process.

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