Study Business in Norway: A Complete Guide for International Students
If you aspire to build a successful career in global commerce, finance, or management, choosing to study business in Norway is a smart and rewarding decision. Norway, known for its stable economy, innovation, and sustainability, offers world-class business education to international students. With globally recognized degrees, practical teaching methods, and affordable tuition options, many students from around the world choose to study business in Norway every year. Whether your goal is to become an entrepreneur, financial analyst, or corporate leader, studying business in Norway provides the knowledge, skills, and network you need to succeed in today’s competitive market.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about how to study business in Norway, including the best universities, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, and future career prospects.
Why Study Business in Norway?
There are numerous reasons to study business in Norway. The country is a global leader in education, innovation, and sustainable development. Norwegian universities are known for offering top-quality programs that combine theory with practical experience, helping students understand real-world business challenges.
Here are the top reasons why you should study business in Norway:
- High-Quality Education: Norwegian business schools focus on developing analytical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
- Internationally Recognized Degrees: A degree from Norway holds global recognition and opens doors to international career opportunities.
- English-Taught Programs: Most business programs are available in English, making it easy for international students to adapt.
- Affordable Education: Public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education, even for non-EU students.
- Networking Opportunities: Studying business in Norway connects you with global companies and industries.
Top Universities to Study Business in Norway
Norway is home to several prestigious institutions offering top-notch business education. If you want to study business in Norway, here are some of the best universities to consider:
1. BI Norwegian Business School (BI)
BI is Norway’s largest and most renowned business school, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in business, economics, and management. It is one of the few business schools in Europe with triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA). Programs are taught in English, and the school maintains close ties with global industries.
2. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
Located in Bergen, NHH is Norway’s leading institution for economics and business administration. The university is internationally recognized for its research and innovative teaching. It offers undergraduate programs focused on finance, management, and international business.
3. University of Oslo (UiO)
UiO’s Faculty of Social Sciences offers excellent business and economics programs that emphasize sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. Many international students choose to study business in Norway here for its academic excellence and research-oriented approach.
4. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
NTNU, known for engineering and technology, also offers interdisciplinary business programs that combine management with innovation and digital transformation.
5. University of Agder (UiA)
UiA provides bachelor’s programs in International Business and Management, giving students global exposure through exchange programs and internships.
Admission Requirements
To study business in Norway, international students must meet certain academic and language criteria. Requirements vary depending on the university and the level of study, but generally include:
- Educational Qualification: Completion of secondary education equivalent to the Norwegian upper secondary school for bachelor’s programs.
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 80). Some universities also accept other language tests.
- Documents Required:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Passport copy
- Updated CV (for master’s applicants)
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
One of the main reasons international students choose to study business in Norway is the affordability. Most public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education, even for non-EU students. However, you will need to pay a small semester registration fee of around NOK 600–800.
While tuition is free, the cost of living in Norway can be relatively high. Students should budget around NOK 10,000–12,000 per month (approximately USD 950–1,100), which covers accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Average monthly expenses:
- Housing: NOK 4,000–6,000
- Food: NOK 3,000–4,000
- Transport: NOK 500–800
- Miscellaneous: NOK 1,000–1,500
Many students work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) to help with living expenses while they study business in Norway.
Scholarships for Business Students
Even though tuition is free at public universities, several scholarships are available to help cover living costs for international students who study business in Norway.
Some popular options include:
- Erasmus+ Scholarships: For students from EU and partner countries.
- Norwegian Government Quota Scheme: Provides financial support for students from developing countries.
- BI Presidential Scholarship: Offered by BI Norwegian Business School to high-achieving international students.
- University Scholarships: Many institutions provide merit-based grants and fellowships.
Work and Internship Opportunities
When you study business in Norway, you have the opportunity to work part-time during your studies.
Norway’s strong economy and business-friendly environment offer numerous internship opportunities with multinational companies, startups, and government agencies. These experiences allow students to gain real-world exposure, build networks, and enhance their career prospects.
After graduation, you can apply for a post-study work visa that allows you to stay in Norway for up to 12 months to look for a job related to your field of study.
Life as a Business Student in Norway
Choosing to study business in Norway means you’ll be living in one of the most advanced and safest countries in the world. Norwegian cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim offer a perfect blend of modernity, nature, and cultural diversity.
Students enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring Norway’s scenic beauty. Norwegians are friendly and fluent in English, making it easy for international students to adapt and make friends.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates who study business in Norway have a wide range of career opportunities both within Norway and internationally. The country’s strong economy and global outlook create demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as:
- Finance and Banking
- Marketing and Sales
- International Business
- Human Resource Management
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Entrepreneurship
Final Thoughts
Deciding to study business in Norway is an excellent investment in your future. With tuition-free education, globally recognized degrees, and a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Norway offers everything you need to build a successful career in business.
By choosing to study business in Norway, you’ll gain valuable international experience, learn from expert faculty, and become part of a global network of leaders and innovators. Start your journey today and unlock your potential in one of the world’s most advanced economies.
FAQs – About Study Business in Norway
1. Can international students study business in Norway?
Yes, Norway offers many business programs for international students at top universities.
2. Is business study in Norway free?
Most public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education for all students.
3. Are business programs in Norway taught in English?
Yes, several bachelor’s and master’s business programs are available in English.
4. Which universities are best for business studies in Norway?
Top options include BI Norwegian Business School, NHH, and the University of Oslo.
5. How long is a bachelor’s degree in business in Norway?
A bachelor’s degree in business usually takes 3 years to complete.
6. What are the admission requirements for business programs?
Applicants need a high school diploma, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and good academic results.
7. Can Bangladeshi students study business in Norway?
Yes, Bangladeshi students can apply if they meet academic and language criteria.
8. Are scholarships available for business students in Norway?
Yes, universities and organizations offer scholarships for international students.
9. Can I work while studying business in Norway?
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.
10. Is a Norwegian business degree recognized internationally?
Yes, business degrees from Norwegian universities are respected worldwide.
11. What are the popular specializations in business studies in Norway?
Finance, Marketing, Management, International Business, and Entrepreneurship are popular options.
12. Do I need to learn Norwegian for business studies?
It’s not required for English-taught programs, but learning Norwegian is helpful for work and daily life.
