Tuition fees and living costs
There are no tuition fees at public universities in Norway for EU/EEA students.
If you’re a non-EU/EEA student, you will need to pay tuition fees for most study programmes. These fees vary by institution and programme, with the typical range being NOK 130,000–390,000 per year (€11,000–€33,000).
All students must also pay a small semester fee of approximately NOK 600 (€50–€60).
According to the Norwegian national higher education office, estimated monthly living costs are around 166 860 NOK per year in 2025-2026.
Get more details on tuition and living costs
Visa requirements
EU/EEA students do not need a visa to study in Norway. HOwever, you must register with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) within 3 months of arriving.
If you are a non-EU/EEA student, you’ll need to apply for a student resident permit before you arrive.
You will need to have
- admission letter
- proof of sufficient funds (minimum NOK 137,907 per year)
- health insurance
- housing documentation
Processing time can take several weeks, so make sure you apply early.
Find out if you need a study permit
Education system
Norway offers high-quality education at all levels, with most higher education institutions being public and research-based. There are universities, university colleges, specialised universities and private institutions (some of which charge tuition feeds for all attending students).
Get a list of study institutions
Degree structure
- Bachelor's degree: 3 years
- Master's degree: 2 years
- PhD: 3–4 years
Language of instruction
Most master’s programmes and many bachelor’s courses are offered in English.
Application process
- Find a programme on studyinnorway.no
- Check admission requirements, including language tests (usually IELTS or TOEFL for English)
- Apply directly to the institution, usually via their application platform
- Deadlines vary by institution and programme, but for autumn intake
- EU/EEA students: often between December and March
- Non-EU/EEA students: often earlier, from December to February
- Receive your offer and prepare for arrival
Scholarships
Some universities offer tuition waivers or partial funding for international students.
While individual scholarships are not available from the Norwegian government, there are other programmes and schemes such as Erasmus Mundus that you may be able to apply for.
Students can also apply for Erasmus+ mobility grants through their home universities.
Student life
Norway offers a safe, modern society with easy access to nature, skiing, hiking, and cultural life.
Language
Norwegians speak excellent English, and many classes are taught in English.
Part-time work
If you are a Nordic/EU/EEA/Swiss citizen you can work in addition to your studies. If you are a citizen from a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland you can only work up to 20 hours a week while you are studying, and full-time during holidays.
Housing
Student housing is available but competitive – apply early!
Welfare
Student welfare organisations offer discounts, activities, health services, and counselling.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Norway for free?
Yes, if you are from an EU/EEA country. Non-EU/EEA students must pay tuition fees at most public universities as of 2023.
Do I need to speak Norwegian?
No. Many programmes, especially at master’s level, are taught in English. However, learning basic Norwegian is useful for daily life.
Can I work while studying?
If you are a Nordic/EU/EEA/Swiss citizen you can work in addition to your studies. If you are a citizen from a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland you can only work up to 20 hours a week while you are studying, and full-time during holidays.
Are there any scholarships?
Some institutions offer scholarships or tuition waivers for international students. Erasmus+ funding may also be available.
How expensive is life in Norway?
Monthly living expenses are around NOK 12,000 (~€1,050), depending on location and lifestyle.