MBA in Norway: Everything You Need to Know

Norway has become one of the appealing study destinations in Europe for higher education. There are many positives to pursuing your MBA in Norway such as a world class education, globally recognized educational institutions, tuition is more affordable than many universities as they are public and most importantly, considerable career opportunities in Europe’s business environment.  

You will learn about leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, and innovation while studying for an MBA in Norway and a lot of students also get into sustainable development as well as international business. The top universities in Norway such as BI Norwegian Business School, NHH Norwegian School of Economics and the University of Oslo are globally recognized and provides programs with international accreditations that is beneficial in providing various job opportunities.  

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about doing your MBA in Norway: eligibility, how to apply, costs, scholarships, top universities, and career prospects after graduation.

Why Should You Choose Doing an MBA in Norway? 

Norway provides a unique environment for MBA students, with high quality education with a good quality of life. The emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and a strong economy offers students opportunities to gain practical experience in various industries.  

Let us take a look at the following table and the various benefits and factors that you can consider to pursue an MBA in Norway.  

Factor	Description
Tuition-Free Education	Public universities in Norway offer free tuition, including for international students, which makes studying an MBA much more cost-effective than other European countries.
High-Quality Education	The top universities are globally ranked, offering research-based, practical MBA programs with strong focus on practical application.
Global Career Opportunities	Norway has thriving industries in oil & gas, renewable energy, tech, and shipping that provides excellent career opportunities for MBA graduates.  Various multinational companies like Equinor, Telenor, DNB, and Kongsberg hire.
Work-Life Balance	Norway is famous for its balanced lifestyle, with a strong emphasis on both career and personal life.  Students can also work part-time (20 hrs/week during term).
Cultural & Global Exposure	The diverse and inclusive environment makes it suitable for international students to adapt and network in Norway.
Post-Study Work Opportunities	1-year job seeker visa available post-graduation.  International students can apply for a residence permit after their MBA to search for jobs in Norway.

Top Universities for an MBA in Norway 

Choosing the right university is very essential when pursuing a MBA in Norway. Knowing the top universities helps you identify programs that align with your research interests and career goals.   

Here is a quick overview of the top universities offering MBA in Norway and it’s equivalent: 

University / Business School	Program Type
BI Norwegian Business School	Full-Time & Executive MBA
NHH Norwegian School of Economics	Executive MBA & MSc Programs
University of Stavanger (UiS Business School)	MSc Business Administration, EMBA
University of Agder (UiA)	MBA / MSBA
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)	MBA-equivalent masters
Nord University Business School	MSc Business, MBA-equivalent

For a more comprehensive list, read here: Top Universities in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide 

Do Norwegian Universities Offer Full-Time, Part-Time, and Executive MBAs? 

Pursuing an MBA in Norway gives students and professionals the flexibility to choose from Full-Time, Part-Time, and Executive MBA programs, depending on their career goals and schedules. These programs provide strong networking opportunities, and global exposure and knowing about them will help you choose which MBA program is suitable for you.  

MBA Format	Description	Best Suited For
Full-Time MBA	It is a 1- 2 year program designed for students who want to focus fully on their studies.	• Recent graduates  • Professionals seeking career shifts
Part-Time MBA	The program has a flexible structure that allows students to balance work and academics easily.	• Working professionals  • People who want to upskill without leaving jobs
Executive MBA (EMBA)	This is an advanced program which is mainly focused on leadership, strategy building and international business.	• Senior managers & executives  • Professionals with 8–10+ years of experience

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for an MBA in Norway? 

Here are the eligibility criteria for studying an MBA in Norway for Indian students: 

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Educational Requirements	A bachelor’s degree from an accredited Indian university, equivalent to a Norwegian degree (3–4 years).
GPA Score	Minimum of Second Class Upper or equivalent (~60%+ or 3.0/4.0).
Standardized Test Scores	GMAT/GRE is not required by most public universities; some Executive MBAs may ask for them.
English Language Requirements	IELTS: 6.5 or 7.0,   TOEFL iBT: 80–90  PTE Academic: 59–62 (wherever accepted)
Resume/CV	An updated CV showing education, work experience, leadership roles, and achievements.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	A personal essay outlining academic background, career goals, and motivation for MBA in Norway.
Work Experience	For Executive MBAs, 2-3 years of work experience is preferred but not mandatory for regular MBA-equivalent master’s programs.
Proof of Financial Support	You must show funds for tuition (if applicable) and living costs NOK 166,859 for one year.

Do You Need Work Experience for MBA Admission in Norway? 

Yes, most MBA programs in Norway require applicants to have a minimum of 2-3 years of professional work experience. This ensures that students can contribute to and benefit from the practical aspects of the program. 

What English Language Proficiency Tests Are Accepted in Norway for MBA? 

The accepted tests include: 

• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5 is required 
• TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 63 

Some universities may also accept other English proficiency tests. 

Does MBA in Norway Require GMAT or GRE Scores? 

Some universities may waive the GMAT or GRE requirement based on professional experience or academic background. These requirements vary by institution make sure to check the specific requirements of the university before you apply. 

Cost to Study MBA in Norway

One of the biggest advantages of pursuing an MBA in Norway is the affordable cost of education, especially at public universities where tuition fees are minimal or free. However, international students need to budget for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transport, and insurance.  

Knowing the cost breakdown helps applicants prepare financially before starting their MBA journey. 

What Is the Average Tuition Fee for an MBA in Top Universities in Norway?  

The tuition fees for MBA programs in Norway range from NOK 80,000 to NOK 150,000 per year (approximately INR 6.4L to INR 12L) for international students.  

University	Program Type	Approximate Tuition Fee
BI Norwegian Business School	Full-time MBA	NOK 435,000 (INR 36L)
BI Norwegian Business School (Executive)	Executive MBA	NOK 465,000 (INR 38L)
University of Agder	MBA	NOK 90,000/year (INR 7.5L)
Nord University	MBA – Sustainability	NOK 85,000/year (INR 7L)
NHH (equivalent Master)	MSc – Business	Tuition-free (public university)

Note:  Amounts mentioned above are approximate and may vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.   

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Norway as an MBA Student? 

The estimated living costs for students in Norway are NOK 15,169 per month or NOK 166,859 in a year. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. 

Here is a cost breakdown which can help you manage your expenses effectively:   

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (NOK/INR)
Accommodation	3,000 – 5,000 NOK (Rs.26,075 – Rs. 43,459)
Food & Groceries	2,500 – 4,000 NOK   (Rs. 21,729 – Rs. 34,767)
Transportation	500 – 800 NOK   (Rs. 4,345 – Rs. 6,953)
Utilities	500 – 1,000 NOK   (Rs. 4,345 – Rs. 8,691)
Miscellaneous	1,000 – 2,000 NOK   (Rs. 8,691 – Rs.17,383)

Note:  Amounts mentioned above are approximate and may vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.   

Tip: You can use student housing accommodations and welfare services to keep costs manageable.  

Scholarships for MBA in Norway

Many universities in Norway, the government, and private institutions offer scholarship opportunities based on merit, need, or academic excellence. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living costs, or research expenses. Applying for scholarships alongside the admission process can significantly improve affordability and open doors to studying at top Norwegian universities. 

Which Government or University Scholarships Can MBA Students in Norway Apply For?

Below is a table of the most popular scholarships MBA students in Norway can apply for: 

Scholarship Name	Provider	Eligibility	Description
Quota Scheme (Norwegian Government)	Government of Norway	Students from developing countries and certain regions	Full/partial tuition (wherever applicable) + living expenses support
BI Presidential Scholarship	BI Norwegian Business School	International students with outstanding academic records	Covers full or partial tuition fees (for entire MBA program)
BI Norwegian Business School MSc International Scholarship	BI Norwegian Business School	International students with strong academic performance applying for MSc/MBA	Full tuition or partial coverage
NTNU Scholarships	Norwegian University of Science and Technology	International students applying to graduate/MBA-level courses	Tuition fee waivers + limited stipends
Nord University Scholarships	Nord University	Non-EU/EEA international students	Partial tuition waivers, renewable based on performance
University of Oslo Scholarships	University of Oslo (UiO)	International graduate students including MBA	Tuition support + sometimes monthly stipends
Erasmus+ Scholarships	European Union	International students (non-EU included if programs partner with EU universities)	Tuition fee coverage, living stipend, travel allowance
Aker Scholarship	Aker Foundation	Outstanding students from Norway (sometimes extends to internationals in partner universities)	Full tuition + living costs for select programs
Partial Research/Departmental Scholarships	Offered by MBA departments/universities individually	Varies; based on merit, financial need, or research contribution	Tuition discounts or assistantship stipends

What Is the MBA Admission Process in Norway?

Applying for an MBA in Norway is simple process but requires careful preparation. Universities focus on your academic background, professional experience, and leadership potential, along with the English language proficiency. Understanding the admission steps, required documents, and deadlines in advance helps international students to make a strong application.  

Following the right process helps to maximize your chances of securing a seat in your preferred MBA program and make the most of your MBA program. 

How Can International Students Apply for MBA Programs in Norway? 

The application process typically involves: 

1. Online Application: Submit through the university's official portal. 
2. Required Documents: Include academic transcripts, proof of work experience, English proficiency test scores, and letters of recommendation. 
3. Application Fee: Pay the applicable fees. 
4. Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process. 

What Documents Are Required for MBA Admission in Norway?

The commonly required documents include:  

• Bachelor's Degree Certificate 
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE). 
• Resume/CV 
• Statement of Purpose 
• Letter of Recommendation 

What Is the Application Deadline for MBA Programs in Norway? 

The application deadlines vary by university and program. It's essential to check the specific deadlines on the university's official website. Generally, deadlines fall between January and March for programs starting in the fall. 

What Is the Duration of an MBA in Norway? 

The duration of an MBA in Norway varies depending on the program type. Most full-time MBAs are designed to be completed within one to two years, while part-time or executive MBAs may take longer. Some universities also offer internships or exchange programs that extend the timeline.  

Do MBA Programs in Norway Include Internships or Exchange Programs? 

Most MBA programs in Norway go beyond classroom learning and focus more on practical experience and global networking. 

• Internships: Many universities, like BI Norwegian Business School and NHH, collaborate with top Nordic and global companies to give students real-world management experience. 
• Exchange Programs: MBA students can also join global exchange programs through partner universities in Europe, the US, or Asia that can significantly help them to build a strong international network. 
• Industry Projects: Students generally get involved with live projects with companies helping them apply their theory into practice, as well as gaining exposure to different industries.

What Career Opportunities Can I Get After MBA in Norway? 

Earning an MBA in Norway means there is way more to do than to simply earn a degree - you often start working in one of the fastest-growing industries in Europe. It provides access to many different fields from finance and consulting to technology and sustainability, all in demand.  

With this background, you can also choose where you want to work and explore top cities such as Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger that are hubs for consulting, finance, and tech-driven companies. 

What Are the Average Salaries for MBA Graduates in Norway? 

The average salaries for MBA graduates in Norway vary based on industry and experience. On average, graduates can expect to earn between NOK 600,000 and NOK 900,000 per year. 

Which Industries in Norway Hire MBA Graduates the Most? 

Let us look at the top industries in Norway that hire international students and MBA graduates:

Industry Sector	Approximate Salary (NOK/INR)	Top Industries
Consulting / Strategy	NOK 710,000–890,000   (Rs.61,70,263 – Rs. 77,35,726 )	Equinor, DNV, PwC, Telenor, Statkraft
Finance / Finance Consulting	NOK 1,095,000 (Rs. 95,17,551)	Local consulting firms, corporate finance teams
Tech / Digital Transformation	Up to NOK 890,000   (Rs. 77,35,726)	Telenor, Accenture, Capgemini Invent
Sustainability / Green Tech	Up to NOK 890,000 (Rs. 77,35,726)	Statkraft, Scatec, Nel ASA, Aker, Multiconsult
Energy / Renewables	Within NOK 710k–890k consulting roles   (Rs.61,70,263 – Rs. 77,35,726)	Equinor, Vår Energi, Statkraft, Aker Solutions

Note:  Amounts mentioned above are approximate and may vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.   

Do International Students Get Job Opportunities After MBA in Norway? 

Yes, international students can find job opportunities in Norway after completing their MBA. However, securing employment may require proficiency in the Norwegian language, depending on the industry. 

What Is the Stay-Back Period for MBA Graduates in Norway? 

International students who complete an MBA in Norway can apply for a job seeker visa, which allows them to stay back and look for work. 

• Duration: Up to 12 months stay-back period after graduation 
• Purpose: To search for jobs related to your degree or apply for residence based on job.  
• Pathway: Once you secure a job, you can apply for a skilled worker residence permit, which can later lead to permanent residency 

This stay-back option makes Norway an attractive choice for MBA aspirants, as it provides a  from student life to professional opportunities. 

How Can MBA Graduates Apply for Work Visas in Norway? 

After completing an MBA in Norway, international graduates can apply for a Skilled Worker Residence Permit to stay and work in Norway. This permit allows you to take up employment with a Norwegian company that matches your qualifications. 

The following are the key requirements to apply for a work visa in Norway: 

• Job Offer – You must have a concrete job offer from a Norwegian employer. 
• Relevant Role – The job should require a higher education qualification (your MBA degree). 
• Salary Requirement – 
• Minimum NOK 448,900/year (≈ INR 37.05 Lakh) for skilled workers. 
• Minimum NOK 480,900/year (≈ INR 39.67 Lakh) if the job doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree but still qualifies. 
• Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months. 
• Application Form & Fees – You can apply online via UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) and pay approx. NOK 6,300 (INR 52,000). 
• Proof of Accommodation – You must show a proof of accommodation to stay in Norway. 

Tip: If you haven’t landed a job yet, you can apply for a Job Seeker Visa, which gives you 6–12 months to stay in Norway and search for a job. 

What Is Student Life Like While Pursuing MBA in Norway? 

MBA student life in Norway is dynamic, balanced, and enriching. Students experience a mix of academics, cultural activities, and career-focused events. With Norway’s safe environment and high quality of life, international students can easily adapt and thrive. 

Classes & Learning: 

• Small, discussion-based classes with a focus on collaboration 
• Case studies, real-world projects, and input from industry experts 

Networking & Career Events: 

• Career fairs with leading Nordic and global companies 
• Guest lectures, alumni sessions, and professional workshops 

Social & Cultural Activities: 

• Student clubs, outdoor adventures, and cultural festivals 
• Opportunities to experience Norway’s nature – hiking, skiing, fjords 

Living in Norway: 

• Safe, inclusive society with high living standards 
• Affordable transport for students and plenty of international communities 

Knowing what student life in Norway looks like helps students prepare to balance academics, career building, and enjoying a good quality time during their MBA.

How Is the Campus Experience for MBA Students in Norway? 

The campus life in Norway is both enriching and enjoyable, balancing academics, networking, and cultural immersion. Students have access to modern facilities, student organizations, and cultural events. MBA students in Norway also get plenty of opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and global experience. 

Academic Life: 

• Interactive classes with case studies, group projects, and real-world applications 
• Guest lectures and workshops from Norwegian and international industry leaders 

Networking & Career Growth: 

• Career fairs, alumni events, and company presentations on campus 
• Student-run business clubs and leadership forums for peer learning 

Social & Cultural Life: 

• Student associations organize parties, festivals, and cultural activities 
• Access to hiking, skiing, and nature trips – very popular among international students 

Campus Facilities: 

• Modern libraries, study lounges, and tech-enabled classrooms 
• Affordable on-campus cafeterias and fitness centers 

Conclusion 

Choosing to pursue an MBA in Norway offers numerous benefits, including high-quality education, strong industry connections, and a rich cultural experience. There are a variety of programs available and international students can find opportunities that align with their career goals. Understanding the application process, costs, and career opportunities can help you make informed decisions.  

Prepare strategically and focus on showcasing your strengths. An MBA can open doors to vast career opportunities and long-term growth – both personally and professionally. 

Still unsure about applying for a MBA in Norway or feeling overwhelmed with the process? upGrad can support you every step of the way. Book your free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts and get personalized guidance for your PhD journey.