Admission Process

Study in Norway from Bangladesh

Everything Bangladeshi students need to plan, apply, and relocate to Norway—admissions, language tests, visas, finances, housing, travel, health, and arrival steps—presented with local context and official links.

Why choose Norway

High‑quality education: English‑taught programs, strong research environments, and practical learning.

Safe & student‑friendly: Inclusive campuses, strong public services, and nature on your doorstep.

Work opportunities: Part‑time work is possible with conditions; global career relevance.

Transparent processes: Clear admission and immigration rules with official guidance.

Admissions & eligibility Academic background

Bachelor’s entry: Requirements depend on the program and the GSU list for Bangladesh. Many universities require completed Higher Secondary (HSC) plus additional higher education. Always check the program page and the national requirements list.

Master’s entry: A relevant bachelor’s degree (often 4 years or equivalent). Some programs accept 3‑year degrees with specific content—verify with the institution.

Grades & prerequisites: Competitive GPA and required subjects (maths/science for STEM; portfolio for design/architecture; prerequisites for economics/CS, etc.).

Application components

Passport, academic transcripts/marksheets, degree certificates, grading scale.

English test (if required), CV, statement of purpose, references.

Portfolio or research plan where relevant.

Certified translations to English/Norwegian where needed.

Program search and entry requirements: studyinnorway.no · National requirements (GSU list): check your target university’s admissions page or hkdir.no.

Intakes & timelines

Main intake: Autumn (August). Some institutions also have a Spring (January) intake for selected programs.

When to apply: Typically October–January for the next Autumn start (varies by university and nationality). Some programs close earlier.

Prepare early: English tests, document collection, scholarship deadlines, and proof‑of‑funds planning can start 6–12 months ahead.

Documents from Bangladesh

Academic records: SSC, HSC marksheets/certificates; university transcripts/degree certificates for tertiary study.

Certification & translation: Follow your university’s rules on certified copies and translations into English/Norwegian. Keep originals for verification.

Name consistency: Ensure the same spelling across passport, academic records, and applications.

Scholarships: Add award letters and funding confirmations if applicable.

English language tests (common options)

IELTS Academic: Many programs require overall 6.5 (or 6.0–7.0 depending on program). Sub‑score requirements may apply.

TOEFL iBT / iBT Home Edition: Typical ranges 80–90+ (verify program rules).

PTE Academic / Cambridge: Accepted by some institutions—check the program page.

Exemptions: Possible for certain prior education in English—university policy applies.

Always confirm required tests and scores on the program’s official page.

Student residence permit (Bangladeshi nationals)

Choose the right route: Most degree students need a student residence permit (over 90 days). Short courses may require a different visa. See UDI’s study pages.

Apply online: Complete the application and pay the fee via UDI’s portal.

Book an appointment: Submit biometrics and documents at a VFS centre or a designated embassy/consulate handling Norway for Bangladesh. Check local instructions.

Prepare documents: Passport, admission letter, accommodation plan, financial proof (maintenance funds and tuition), insurance, and any translations per UDI guidance.

Processing: UDI/embassy process your case. Track your application and watch for any document requests.

Decision & travel: If approved, follow instructions for entry (D‑visa if required). On arrival, attend your police/ID appointment to collect your residence card.

Guidance & appointments: UDI udi.no · Country‑specific/embassy: norway.no · Appointments: visa.vfsglobal.com

Finances, proof of funds & remittance

Maintenance funds: UDI sets an annual living‑cost requirement (separate from tuition). Confirm the current NOK amount and acceptable proof types on UDI’s site.

How to show funds: Personal bank statements, approved education loans, scholarships, or a deposit to a Norwegian institution’s account (if offered). Sponsors may be allowed—include relationship proof and sponsor financials per UDI rules.

Remitting from Bangladesh: Work with an authorised bank to transfer tuition and living‑cost deposits. Keep the SWIFT receipt and bank letter as proof. Use the correct purpose code (education) and maintain consistent documentation.

Currency & statements: Keep recent bank statements (often 3–6 months), avoid large unexplained cash deposits, and provide clear conversions to NOK when needed.

After arrival: If your funds are held by the university, you can transfer to your Norwegian bank account once opened.

Housing options

Student welfare housing: Apply early for rooms or family units near campus through your local student welfare organisation (samskipnad).

Private rentals: Shared flats (kollektiv), studios, or apartments. Verify leases, deposits, and what utilities are included.

Move‑in timing: Align start date with your arrival and orientation.

Student housing providers: SiO (Oslo) · Sit (Trondheim/Gjøvik/Ålesund) · Sammen (Bergen region) · SSN (SE Norway) · Samskipnaden (Tromsø/Finnmark) · SiS (Stavanger)

Flights & travel tips

Routes: Common one‑stop routes from Dhaka via Doha, Istanbul, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi. If transiting Europe/UK, check if you need an airport transit visa for your nationality and route.

Arrival plan: Keep admission and permit documents in hand luggage. Plan airport‑to‑housing transport and first‑night essentials.

Weather: Pack for seasons and check forecasts before travel: yr.no.

Health & insurance

Stays 12+ months: You usually become eligible for Norway’s National Insurance Scheme after you register your residence. Bring private travel/health insurance to cover the gap until membership is active.

Stays under 12 months: Arrange private health insurance for the entire stay (emergency care, hospitalisation, repatriation).

TB screening: Students from countries with higher TB incidence may be asked to attend TB screening after arrival—your university/municipality will advise.

Official health info: helsenorge.no · National Insurance: nav.no

Arrival & registration

Police/ID appointment: Attend on time to receive your residence card. Book early—slots fill quickly.

Address registration: Update your address with authorities and your university.

Bank & phone: Open a bank account (bring passport, residence proof) and choose a local SIM plan.

Student card & discounts: Collect your student ID and explore travel/culture discounts.

Part‑time work & taxes

Work rights: Student permits can include limited work rights during term and extended hours in holidays—always verify current UDI rules and any conditions on your permit.

Tax card & ID: To work, you need a tax deduction card and ID number/D‑number from the Norwegian Tax Administration.

Plan realistically: Treat part‑time income as a supplement, not your primary funding source.

Tax & ID: skatteetaten.no

Official resources

Study in Norway (programs & guidance): studyinnorway.no

Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (requirements): hkdir.no

Immigration (students): udi.no

Embassies/consulates (country info): norway.no

VFS (appointments where applicable): visa.vfsglobal.com

Health info: helsenorge.no

Tax Administration: skatteetaten.no

Frequently asked questions Can I get admission with HSC only?

Often, HSC alone is not sufficient for bachelor’s entry. Many institutions require additional higher education (per the GSU list). Check the exact requirement on your program’s page.

Do I need IELTS?

Most English‑taught programs require an approved English test (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL/PTE). Minimum scores vary—verify with the university.

How much money must I show?

UDI sets an annual maintenance amount for living costs, separate from tuition. The figure changes—confirm the current amount and accepted proof types on UDI’s website.

How do I transfer my living‑cost deposit from Bangladesh?

Use an authorised bank to remit funds with education as the purpose. Keep the SWIFT confirmation and any bank letters. If your university offers a deposit account, follow their instructions exactly.

Is a “blocked account” required like in some countries?

No. Norway typically accepts proof via personal funds, scholarships/loans, or a deposit to a Norwegian institution’s account (if offered). Follow UDI’s accepted methods.

How long does the permit process take?

Processing times vary by season and location. Apply early and check UDI’s current estimates. Book biometrics promptly.

Can my spouse/children join me?

Family immigration has separate rules and processing. Review eligibility and documents on UDI’s website.

Do I need a transit visa for layovers?

It depends on your route and nationality. Some Schengen/UK airports require an airport transit visa for Bangladeshi passport holders. Confirm with the airline and the relevant embassy.

Get tailored support for Bangladesh

Share your program, intake, and city. We’ll build a step‑by‑step plan for admissions, English testing, proof of funds, visa appointments, housing, travel, and arrival tasks—aligned with official guidance.

Plan your Norway journey

Important notes

Study Norway provides guidance and signposting. We do not make university or immigration decisions and do not provide legal advice.

Requirements, fees, and processes can change—always verify on official websites (UDI, university, embassy/VFS).

Keep copies of all documents, SWIFT receipts, and correspondence for your records.