Study in Norway for Free in 2026

Studying in Norway for free is possible because public universities do not charge tuition fees for international students, regardless of nationality. Instead of paying tuition, students only pay a small semester fee (usually NOK 600–900/INR 5,274-7,032), which covers access to campus facilities, libraries, and student welfare services.  

To study for free, students must apply to public universities, meet academic and language requirements, and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses, this is mandatory for visa approval, not a tuition cost. 

In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about studying in Norway for free. We’ll cover tuition-free public universities, eligibility requirements, documents, scholarships, cost of living, part-time jobs, and how to study in Norway without IELTS.  

This guide also includes tables, application timelines, and step-by-step instructions to help students plan their journey effectively. 

 

How to Study in Norway for Free (Practical Methods) 

Norway offers free higher education at public universities, making it possible to study without paying tuition fees. However, living expenses can be high, so using smart cost-saving strategies can significantly reduce the overall cost of studying abroad. 

Practical Ways to Study in Norway for Free 

Strategy / Method	How It Helps
Choose a public university in Norway	No tuition fees for international students in bachelor's and master’s programs.
Apply for government & university scholarships	Covers living expenses like rent, food, and travel.
Work part-time (20 hrs/week) during studies	Earn approx. NOK 10,000–18,000 (INR 88,000-1,58,000) /month, lowering living costs.
Opt for student housing through SiO or student unions	Cheaper than private renting; can save up to 40% on housing costs.
Apply early (6–10 months before intake)	Higher chances of getting scholarships and subsidized housing.

Also Read: Top Universities in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide 

Are Public Universities in Norway Really Free? 

Yes, public universities in Norway offer 100% tuition-free education, even for international students. This applies to both bachelor’s and master’s programs across public institutions, as the Norwegian government funds higher education through tax revenue. 

What “Free Education” Actually Means: 

• No tuition fees for international students, regardless of nationality. 
• Applies to most public universities and state institutions. 
• Students only pay a semester/student union fee of: 
• NOK 500–1,000 per semester (approx. ₹4,200–₹8,500). 
• The semester fee includes: 
• Access to libraries, labs, gyms, and sports facilities 
• Discounted transport and student benefits 

Why Norway Offers Free Education: 

• Norway follows an equal education policy, treating Norwegian and international students the same. 
• Education is funded by the Norwegian government, not student tuition. 

Key Advantage: 

• Unlike the USA, UK, or Australia, where tuition can cost ₹20–50 lakhs per year, you only pay living expenses in Norway, making it one of the most affordable European study destinations. 

Tuition-Free Universities in Norway 

Norway is home to several public institutions that offer tuition-free education for international students, making it one of the best destinations for affordable higher studies.  

These universities are known for strong academic infrastructure, research opportunities, and globally recognized programs. 

Here is the list of Norway's Free Universities for Indian students:

University	Popular Programs	City
University of Oslo (UiO)	Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Political Science, Economics	Oslo
Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU)	Engineering, Data Science, Architecture, Renewable Energy	Trondheim
University of Bergen (UiB)	Marine Science, Biology, Medicine, Social Sciences	Bergen
Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)	Economics, Business Administration, Finance	Bergen
UiT The Arctic University of Norway	Biotechnology, Psychology, Tourism, Arctic Studies	Tromsø

Why these are considered tuition-free universities in Norway: 

• They charge no tuition fees, even for students outside the EU. 
• Only a semester fee of NOK 500–1,000 applies (₹4,200–₹8,500 approx.). 
• Programs are offered in English at the master’s level, and many universities accept applicants without IELTS (if English proficiency proof is provided). 

These free universities for international students make Norway one of the rare countries where cost doesn't limit access to high-quality education. 

Step-by-Step Application Process (How to Apply for Free Study in Norway) 

Applying to Norway’s free universities is a structured and transparent process. International students can apply online, upload documents digitally, and receive updates through the application portal. 

How to apply to Norwegian universities: 

Step	Action	Details
Step 1: Research Universities & Programs	Shortlist tuition-free public universities	Check program availability, language of instruction, and deadlines.
Step 2: Check Eligibility	Review academic requirements	Minimum marks + English requirement (IELTS/TOEFL or MoI, based on university rules).
Step 3: Prepare Documents	Collect required academic and financial paperwork	Includes transcripts, passport, SOP, LORs, CV, language proof.
Step 4: Apply Online	Submit the application through the university portal	Pay small processing/portal fee (if applicable).
Step 5: Wait for Admission Decision	Receive offer letter via email	If accepted, proceed with visa documentation.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa	Submit proof of living expense funds	Required amount: approx. NOK 128,887/year (INR 11,34,000).

Important notes about the Norway study process: 

• Applications open between October–December for the following August intake. 
• Some universities don’t require IELTS if you can submit an English Proficiency Certificate from your previous institution. 
• Norway does not charge tuition fees, but the deposit proof for living expenses is mandatory for the visa. 

Eligibility & Admission Requirements 

To study in Norway as an international student, you must meet certain academic, language, and documentation requirements. Public universities follow strict eligibility criteria to ensure applicants are prepared for academic rigor. 

General Eligibility to Study in Norway (Bachelor’s & Master’s) 

Requirement Category	What Universities Expect
Academic Scores	12 years of schooling for bachelor’s; a relevant 3–4 year bachelor’s degree for master’s programs.
Minimum Percentage	Most universities expect 65%–75% or higher, depending on the program.
Prerequisite Subjects	Required for technical/engineering programs (ex: Maths for CS/Engineering).

Required Documents 

To complete the Norway university application, students typically need: 

• Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, bachelor’s degree) 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
• Letter of Recommendation (LORs) (1–2 depending on university) 
• Updated CV or Resume 
• Passport scan 
• Proof of funds (for visa after admission) 
• Portfolio (only for architecture/design courses) 

Language test Requirements for Norway (Accepted English Tests) 

Most Norwegian universities require proof of English proficiency. 

Accepted Test	Minimum Score Required
IELTS	6.0 – 6.5
TOEFL iBT	80 – 90
PTE Academic	55 – 62

However, some universities allow students to apply without IELTS if they can submit a Medium of Instruction (MoI) letter, proving their previous education was in English. 

Apply early, because document verification and visa processing take longer for international students. 

Scholarships in Norway for International Students 

While public universities offer tuition-free education, students still need to cover living expenses. Scholarships can help reduce or fully cover these costs, making it possible to study in Norway for free. 

Below are some of the most popular Norway scholarships 2025 for international students: 

1. Erasmus+ Scholarship (For Master’s Students) 

Erasmus+ is one of the largest European scholarship programs, allowing students to complete part or full studies in Norway. 

Benefits: 

• Covers living expenses, travel costs, and insurance 
• Monthly stipend offered 
• Available for select master's programs 

Who can apply: 

• Students enrolled in Erasmus-partner universities 

2. Norwegian Government Scholarship (Quota Scheme / SIU Scholarship) 

This scholarship supports international students applying for tuition-free master’s programs in Norway. 

Benefits: 

• Covers living expenses (up to NOK 12,000/INR 1,05,000 per month, varies by program) 
• Travel allowances may be included 

Who can apply: 

• Students from partner countries (including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, etc.) 

Other Scholarships You Can Explore 

Scholarship Name	What It Covers
BI Presidential Scholarship (BI Norwegian Business School)	Full tuition + living expenses stipend
Nordplus Scholarship	Covers part of studies or exchange period
University-Specific Scholarships (UiO, UiB, NTNU)	Living cost assistance, research funding

Even though tuition is free, scholarships help reduce living costs, making scholarships in Norway for free study a key option for international students aiming to minimize overall expenses. 

Also Read: Study Abroad for Free in 2026: Top Scholarships & Universities 

Cost of Living in Norway for International Students 

While tuition at public universities is free, Norway is known for being a high-cost country. Understanding the overall cost of living in Norway helps students plan expenses better. The major living costs include accommodation, food, transport, and utilities.  

However, students get access to SiO (Student Housing) and discounts on transportation, meals, and healthcare, which significantly reduce the cost. 

Average Monthly Cost of Living in Norway (NOK/INR) 

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (NOK)	Approx. Cost in INR (₹)
Student Housing (SiO residence)	4,500 – 6,500 NOK	₹39,150 – ₹56,550
Private Accommodation (shared / studio)	7,000 – 11,000 NOK	₹60,900 – ₹95,700
Food & Groceries	3,000 – 4,500 NOK	₹26,100 – ₹39,150
Transportation (student discount)	450 – 550 NOK	₹3,915 – ₹4,785
Utilities + Internet	600 – 900 NOK	₹5,220 – ₹7,830
Miscellaneous (mobile, entertainment, etc.)	1,000 – 1,500 NOK	₹8,700 – ₹13,050

Note: INR conversions are approximate and may vary based on the currency exchange rates 

Total Estimated Living Cost (per month): 

10,000 – 15,000 NOK/ INR 87,000 – ₹1,30,500 

Students can reduce their expenses by applying for student housing through SiO or university student unions, which is 30–40% cheaper than private accommodation. 

Also Read: Cost of Living in Norway 

Part-Time Jobs for Students in Norway 

International students are allowed to work part-time while studying in Norway, helping them manage monthly living expenses. Part-time work is permitted alongside full-time study, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress. 

Work Eligibility under Norway Student Visa 

• You need a student residence permit, which automatically includes work rights. 
• Initially granted for 20 hours per week during the semester. 
• During holidays (summer/Christmas/Easter), students may work full-time. 

Part-Time Jobs Norway Salary (Average Pay) 

Job Type (Popular Roles)	Avg. Pay per Hour (NOK)	Approx. Monthly Income (20 hrs/week)
Retail / Supermarket	150–180 NOK	12,000–14,400 NOK
Restaurant / Café / Hotel	160–200 NOK	12,800–16,000 NOK
University Assistant (Library / Lab Support)	180–220 NOK	14,400–17,600 NOK
Freelance / On-campus jobs (admin, tutoring)	200–250 NOK	16,000–20,000 NOK

Note: INR conversions are approximate and may vary based on the currency exchange rates 

Start applying for jobs early through platforms like NAV.no and Finn.no to increase your chances of landing part-time work. 

Also Read: 5 Benefits of Part-time Jobs for International Students 

Post-Study Work Visa & Jobs in Norway 

Norway allows international students to stay back and search for jobs after completing their degree. After graduation, you can apply for a Job-Seeking Residence Permit (also known as a post-study work visa), giving you time to find relevant employment in Norway. 

Post-Study Work Visa (Job-Seeking Permit) 

• Duration: Up to 12 months after graduation 
• Purpose: Allows you to stay in Norway and look for skilled employment 
• Eligibility: You must have completed a degree from a Norwegian accredited university 
• Financial proof: Must show funds covering 1 year of living expenses (NOK 139,000/INR 12,24,000 as per UDI) 

Once you get a full-time skilled job offer, you can switch to a skilled worker visa, which is a step toward Permanent Residency (PR). 

Jobs After Studying in Norway (MBA, Engineering, IT, Data Science) 

Norway has a strong employment market in areas like: 

• Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, Renewable energy) 
• IT & Software Development 
• Data Science & AI 
• Finance & MBA roles 
• Maritime and Energy sectors 

Average Graduate Salary in Norway (Yearly): 

Degree/Field	Average Salary (NOK/year)	Approx. INR(₹)
Engineering (Mechanical / IT / Petroleum)	600,000 – 750,000 NOK	₹52 – 65 lakh
MBA / Business Management	550,000 – 700,000 NOK	₹48 – 61 lakh
Data Science / AI / Software	650,000 – 850,000 NOK	₹56 – 74 lakh
Health & Nursing	500,000 – 650,000 NOK	₹43 – 56 lakh

Note: INR conversions are approximate and may vary based on the currency exchange rates 

Conclusion 

Studying in Norway for free is not just a dream, it’s a real opportunity for international students, including those from India. With tuition-free public universities, high-quality education, and globally recognized degree programs, Norway offers one of the most financially accessible study destinations in Europe.  

Norway’s transparent application system, strong job market, and post-study work visa pathways make it an excellent choice for students seeking an affordable international degree with long-term career potential.  

If you plan strategically, apply to tuition-free universities, prepare your documents early, and leverage scholarships, you can reduce costs significantly and study in Norway almost for free.