Study in Norway

Why study in Norway

• World‑class education: Research‑driven universities and practice‑oriented colleges with many English‑taught programs.
• Safe, inclusive society: High trust, strong public services, and a culture of equality.
• Nature on your doorstep: Fjords, mountains, northern lights, and endless summer daylight.
• Student support: Dedicated student welfare organisations, discounts, and accessible campus services.

Quick facts

• Official languages: Norwegian (Bokmål & Nynorsk); Sámi languages are also official in designated areas. English is widely spoken.
• Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK). Cards and contactless are accepted almost everywhere.
• Time zone: CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2 in summer).
• Electricity: 230V, 50Hz; plug types C and F.
• Emergency numbers: 110 (Fire), 112 (Police), 113 (Medical). Non‑emergency medical advice: 116 117. Mental health helpline: 116 123.

Regions & student cities

• Oslo (East): Capital city; vibrant culture, start‑ups, and top research institutions.
• Bergen (West): Coastal heritage and rain‑kissed mountains; strong marine, energy, and arts programs.
• Trondheim (Mid‑Norway): Tech and engineering hub; lively student community.
• Stavanger (South‑West): Energy and innovation; gateway to fjords.
• Tromsø (North): Arctic science, northern lights, and unique winter experiences.
• Smaller cities & towns: Close‑knit campuses, lower housing costs, and strong community feel.

Language & communication

• English proficiency: High across Norway, especially in academia and services.
• Learning Norwegian: Helpful for part‑time jobs and integration; look for university courses and local language cafés.
• Communication style: Direct, respectful, and punctual. First‑name basis is common, including with lecturers.

Climate, daylight & seasons

• Winter: Cold and dark, especially in the north; invest in warm layers and waterproof footwear.
• Summer: Mild to warm; long days and midnight sun above the Arctic Circle.
• Daylight: Short winter days, long summer evenings—plan study and travel with this in mind.
• Check forecasts: yr.no provides reliable, hyperlocal weather updates.

Nature, friluftsliv & outdoor safety

Norwegians value friluftsliv—the outdoor life. You can roam freely under the Right to Roam (allemannsretten) with respect and care.

• Pack layers, check conditions, and tell someone your route for hikes and winter activities.
• Observe leave‑no‑trace principles; take litter with you and respect wildlife.
• Avalanche or glacier trips require training and proper gear—check advisories on varsom.no.
• For trails and cabins, see the Norwegian Trekking Association: english.dnt.no.

Daily life, money & costs

• Cost of living: High by global standards; plan a realistic budget and use student discounts.
• Payments: Cards are king; cash is rare. Mobile payments (e.g., Vipps) are common but may require a Norwegian ID and bank account.
• Shopping hours: Many shops close early on weekends; limited Sunday opening.
• Food: Cook at home to save; look for store brands and student canteens.

For planning budgets and funding, see Scholarships & Study Costs in Norway.

Transport & getting around

• Journey planner: Use the national planner for rail, bus, ferry: entur.no.
• Cities: Reliable public transport; student passes available. Cycling and walking are common.
• Intercity: Trains are scenic; long‑distance coaches and domestic flights connect remote regions.
• Winter travel: Allow buffer time; weather can impact roads and flights—check yr.no.

Student life & academics

• Teaching style: Independent study, critical thinking, and group work are emphasized.
• Assessment: Mix of coursework and exams; academic integrity is taken seriously.
• Student welfare (samskipnad): Housing, gyms, counselling, and campus services vary by city.
• Clubs & culture: Join language groups, outdoor clubs, and societies to meet people fast.

Part‑time work & taxes

• Work permissions: Student residence permits may allow limited work during term and more in holidays—always verify current rules with UDI.
• Tax & ID: You need an ID number/D‑number and a tax deduction card to work; apply via the Norwegian Tax Administration.
• Language: Basic Norwegian helps for many roles; universities often list on‑campus and local jobs.

Immigration: udi.no · Tax: skatteetaten.no

Health, insurance & safety

• Healthcare: Students staying 12+ months typically join the National Insurance Scheme after registering; bring private insurance to cover any gap. Stays under 12 months usually require private health insurance for the whole period.
• Insurance types: Consider travel, contents/liability (tenants), electronics, and winter sports cover.
• Safety: Norway is generally safe; keep normal precautions and save emergency numbers.

Official health info: helsenorge.no

Culture & etiquette

• Punctuality: Being on time shows respect.
• Equality & informality: Flat hierarchies; first names and direct communication are normal.
• Personal space: Privacy is valued; small talk can be brief but friendly.
• Home customs: Shoes off indoors is common. Quiet hours in buildings are typical.
• Alcohol: Sold in supermarkets (low‑alcohol/limited hours); stronger beverages at state stores (Vinmonopolet) with age limits.

Sustainability & the environment

• Recycling & deposits: Sort waste and return bottles/cans for a refund (pant).
• Low‑impact travel: Prefer trains/coaches where possible; combine trips to reduce journeys.
• Leave no trace: Protect fragile environments; follow marked trails and local rules.

Accessibility & inclusion

• Campuses and transport strive for universal design; ask about accessible routes, housing, and exam accommodations.
• Anti‑discrimination protections apply; for guidance, see the Equality and Anti‑Discrimination Ombud: ldo.no.
• Share your needs early with your university to arrange reasonable adjustments.

Official resources

• Study in Norway (programs & life): studyinnorway.no
• Immigration (students): udi.no
• Police (residence card appointments): politiet.no
• Health information & rights: helsenorge.no
• Tax Administration (ID & tax cards): skatteetaten.no
• Journey planner (national): entur.no
• Weather & forecasts: yr.no
• Avalanche & outdoor warnings: varsom.no

Frequently asked questions

Plan your Norway journey

Ready to go deeper? Explore visas, housing, travel, insurance, and budgeting with our student‑first guides—and get tailored support for your city and program.