For the 2026 intake at NTNU, application deadlines are: non-EU/EEA applicants by 1 December 2025, EU/EEA/Swiss applicants by 1 March 2026, and Norwegian/Nordic applicants by 15 April 2026.
Norway has emerged as a leading destination for higher education in Europe. With 312,000 students currently enrolled in universities, the education system in Norway has grown by nearly 50,000 students over the last decade. Among all fields, health, welfare, and sports attract the highest number of students, with over 64,000 enrolled. Women make up the majority of students across all disciplines.
If you plan to study in Norway for free, you can benefit from tuition-free education at most public universities. This guide helps you explore the top universities in Norway, understand the education system in Norway, and take the right steps from the start.
Study in Norway for Free: Overview and Stats
Norway has over 24,000 international students in higher education, offering more than 350 English-taught programs. Before 2023, education was free for each student (even international). However, the government has denounced the free education system for international students and introduced a nominal annual tuition fee.
If you want to study abroad for free in Norway, you can take help from scholarships and financial aid provided by the universities.
The table below outlines key details you must know before applying.
Particular
Details
Duration of Courses
UG: 3 Years
PG: 1 to 2 Years
Cost of Education
Free for EU/EUA students.
Top Universities
University of Oslo
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
University of Bergen
Norwegian University of Life Sciences
High-Paying Roles after Graduation
Software Engineer: NOK 700K (INR 5.81L)
Data Analyst: NOK 705K (INR 5.86L)
Post Study Work Permit
Up to 12 Months
Now that you have an overall idea of what education in Norway looks like. Let’s check which public universities in Norway offer tuition-free programs for international students.
Study in Norway for Free: Top 10 Affordable Universities
International students choose Norway because of its academic quality and advanced teaching in science and technology. Around 36% pursue natural sciences and technology, while 53% say the main reason is the high-quality education in Norway.
You can explore the followingtop universities to study in Norway that offer affordable education to international students.
Now understand if you qualify for these affordable programs and what requirements you must meet.
Study in Norway for Free: Eligibility and Key Requirements
To study in Norway for free from India, you must meet specific academic and language criteria. For most master’s programs, you need an IELTS band score of at least 6.5, while bachelor’s programs may accept a 5.0 to 6.5 range.
Check the table below to understand what you need for each level of study.
Category
Bachelor's Degree Requirements
Master's Degree Requirements
Academic Qualifications
Secondary education equivalent to Norwegian upper secondary school.
Like CBSE or ICSE
Refer to the GSU-list for country-specific requirements.
Bachelor's degree equivalent to a Norwegian bachelor's degree (180 ECTS).
Some programs, like an MBA, may require specific subject backgrounds or grade averages.
Financial documentation showing ability to cover living expenses
Note: Specific programs or institutions may have different requirements and minimum scores.
Now that you know the entry requirements, explore how scholarships can support your goal to study in Norway for free.
Study in Norway for Free: Scholarships for International Students
Scholarships support students aiming to study in Norway for free from India. Some grants offer up to NOK 13,700 (INR 1.14L) per month, while others cover full tuition and travel costs for selected programs. These funding options ease financial pressure during your stay.
Explore the scholarships below that international students frequently use.
Scholarship Name
Type
Benefits
Erasmus+ Grant
Exchange Students
Covers travel and subsistence costs
The amount varies by country and duration.
Nordplus Higher Education Grant
Exchange Students
Financial support for students from institutions participating in the Nordplus program.
Covers Tuition & Semester Fees
Mobility Grant for Norwegian Language, Literature and Culture
Master's and PhD Students
Travel stipend: NOK 4,000– NOK 6,000 (INR 33.2K – INR 49.9K)
Monthly residence stipend: NOK 13,700 (INR 1.14L) for 1–3 months of fieldwork in Norway.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degrees (EMJMD)
Master's Students
Full scholarships covering tuition, travel, and living expenses for selected joint master's programs.
North2North Mobility Program
Exchange Students
Scholarships ranging from NOK 8,000 to 12,000 (INR 66.5K – INR 99.7K)
The amount depends on tuition fees for students studying in the Global North.
Now that you know about fully-funded scholarships in Norway, prepare to understand your monthly budget while living and studying in Norway.
Cost of Living in Norway for International Students
Living expenses in Norway are significantly higher than in many countries. Compared to India, the cost of living is 297.2% higher, and rent is 469.1% higher. You must plan your budget carefully if you want to study in Norway for free from India.
Below is a breakdown of typical monthly costs you should expect as a student.
Expense Category
Estimated Monthly Cost (NOK)
Estimated Monthly Cost (INR)
Housing
NOK 4,000– NOK 7,000
INR 33.2K – INR 58.2K
Food
NOK 3,000– NOK 5,000
INR 24.9K – INR 41.6K
Transportation
NOK 500– NOK 1,000
INR 4.1K – INR 8.3K
Utilities & Internet
NOK 800– NOK 1,200
INR 6.6K – INR 10K
Books & Supplies
NOK 300– NOK 600
INR 2.5K – INR 5K
Leisure & Miscellaneous
NOK 1,000– NOK 2,000
INR 8.3K – INR 16.6K
Note: INR amounts are approximate and are subject to change.
Now that you understand the living costs, explore what career options you can consider after graduation in Norway.
Career Options after Graduation in Norway
Norway offers strong job prospects for qualified graduates. About 91% of young men and 89% of young women with tertiary education find employment. In contrast, employment drops to 68% for those without upper secondary qualifications.
Review the high-paying job roles below with their average salaries to plan your career after you study in Norway for free.
If you plan to study in Norway for free from India and want to work after graduation, knowing who hires international graduates matters. Some global and national companies in Norway actively recruit foreign talent in various fields.
Top Recruiters in Norway for International Graduates
Finding a job in a new country can feel uncertain, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local employers. If you plan to study in Norway for free from India, you should know which companies hire international graduates across different sectors.
The recruiters below are known for offering high-demand job roles to qualified international students after graduation.
Recruiters
Industry
Equinor
Energy
Telenor Group
Telecommunications
DNV
Maritime & Engineering
Aker Solutions
Oilfield Services
Statkraft
Renewable Energy
DNB ASA
Banking & Finance
Nordea Bank
Financial Services
Yara International
Chemicals & Agriculture
Kongsberg Gruppen
Defense & Aerospace
ABB Norway
Electrical Engineering
Now that you know the recruiters, you need to focus on how to apply to universities that allow you to study in Norway for free. Understand the step-by-step application process next.
Application Process to Study in Norway for Free
Applying to universities abroad can feel overwhelming, especially with unfamiliar procedures and document requirements. If you're trying to study in Norway for free from India, you must follow a clear application path to avoid delays or rejections.
Below is a step-by-step breakdown to help you apply confidently and correctly.
1. Choose a Study Program
Select a bachelor's or master's program from the university's offerings.
Ensure the program aligns with your academic background and career goals.
2. Check Admission Requirements
Review the specific academic and language requirements for your chosen program.
For bachelor's programs, consult the GSU-list to verify if your qualifications meet the Higher Education Entrance Qualification.
For master's programs, ensure your bachelor's degree is equivalent to a Norwegian bachelor's degree (180 ECTS) and relevant to the master's field.
Letters of recommendation, if required by the program.
4. Apply Online
Submit your application through the university's online application portal within the specified deadlines.
Ensure all required documents are uploaded and the application fee is paid, if applicable.
5. Await Admission Decision
After submission, the university will review your application.
Admission decisions are typically communicated within a few months, depending on the institution and program.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for Arrival
If admitted, accept the offer as per the university's instructions.
Apply for a student residence permit through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).
Arrange accommodation and plan your travel to Norway.
Now that you know how to study abroad in universities in Norway and how to apply, it's time to learn what you need to get your student visa approved without issues.
Student Visa for Norway
Norway has a 30–40% visa rejection rate, often due to incomplete documentation or lack of financial proof. If you plan to study in Norway for free from India, preparing your visa file correctly is just as important as securing admission.
Now learn what makes Norway a smart destination for international education in 2025.
Why Study in Norway in 2025?
Studying abroad can feel expensive and uncertain, but Norway changes the equation. Public universities offer tuition-free education, and international students have rated their experience 9 out of 10, placing Norway seventh in Europe for satisfaction.
If you're planning to study in Norway for free from India, these advantages make the destination hard to ignore.
Explore the reasons below that explain why you should study in Europe for free in Norway in 2025.
Tuition-Free Education: Public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education to all students, regardless of nationality. Only a nominal semester fee of approximately NOK 300–600 (INR 2.49K – INR 4.99K) is required, making it one of the cheapest countries to study abroad.
High International Student Satisfaction: Norway received a score of 9 out of 10 in the International Student Satisfaction Awards, ranking seventh in Europe. This reflects the positive experiences of international students studying in Norway.
Global Recognition of Degrees: Every Norwegian university adheres to the Bologna Process, ensuring that degrees are compatible and recognized across Europe and beyond. This facilitates further education and employment opportunities internationally.
English-Taught Programs: Many Norwegian universities, like the University of Oslo, offer a wide range of master's programs taught entirely in English, making them accessible to international students.
High Quality of Life: Norway consistently ranks among the top nations globally for quality of life, prosperity, security, and environmental quality.
Research and Innovation: Norwegian universities are known for their strong emphasis on research and development, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects.
Now discover how upGrad can support your goals and simplify your plan to study in Norway for free from India.
How Can upGrad Help You Study in Norway?
Planning to study in Norway for free from India involves more than just applying to a university. You need to shortlist suitable programs, understand documentation rules, meet strict eligibility conditions, and apply for a student visa on time. Missing even a small detail can delay or ruin your chances. That’s where upGrad comes in.
Here’s how upGrad helps you stay prepared and on track throughout the process:
Personalised University Shortlisting: Get expert guidance to select the best public universities in Norway based on your background, goals, and preferred field of study.
Eligibility Review and Support: Know exactly what academic and financial criteria you must meet, as per your target programs and the GSU-list.
Test Preparation and ELP Support: Receive help in understanding required English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, along with tips to improve your scores.
Scholarship Identification: Discover relevant grants such as Erasmus+ or EMJMD, and receive help with completing the applications accurately.
Visa Filing Assistance: Learn the correct process to apply for a student residence permit in Norway, including proof of funds and biometric requirements.
Want to know if the University of Oslo or NTNU fits your profile? Book afree 1:1 counselling session with upGrad’s experts to explore suitable programs, deadlines, scholarships, and more.
FAQs
Is studying in Norway better than studying in Germany or Switzerland?
Norway offers tuition-free education at public universities, even for non-EU students, unlike Germany and Switzerland, where fees may apply. With strong English-taught programs and high living standards, Norway is a preferred choice for many international students.
Is a degree from Norway recognised worldwide?
Yes, degrees from Norwegian universities are globally recognised. Institutions follow the Bologna Process, ensuring compatibility with European and international education systems. This enables graduates to pursue further studies or employment across Europe, North America, and other regions.
Can I study in Norway without knowing Norwegian?
Yes, many Norwegian universities, like Nord, offer a wide range of master's and some bachelor's programs entirely in English. However, daily life outside campus may require basic Norwegian skills, especially in smaller towns or for part-time jobs.
Do Norwegian universities have exchange programs with other countries?
Yes, Norwegian universities maintain extensive exchange agreements globally. For instance, the University of Bergen has partnerships with approximately 450 universities worldwide, facilitating student exchanges across various disciplines.
How competitive is the admission process for international students in Norway?
Admission competitiveness varies by program and institution. For example, NTNU requires a minimum GPA of C on the ECTS scale, but emphasizes that admission is highly competitive. Applicants are ranked based on GPA conversions from their home countries.
Can I bring my spouse or children while studying in Norway?
Yes, spouses and children can apply for family immigration to join you. Each must submit a separate application and meet specific requirements. Processing times may vary, and applications are typically submitted from their home country.
Do part-time jobs require Norwegian language skills?
While many part-time jobs in Norway require Norwegian proficiency, some positions, especially in larger cities like Oslo and international environments, may not. However, learning Norwegian can enhance job prospects and enrich your cultural experience.
Are online or distance learning options available for free in Norway?
Yes, several Norwegian universities offer free online courses. For example, the University of Oslo provides MOOCs like "Introduction to Norwegian". These courses are accessible to international learners and cover various subjects.
How safe is Norway for international students?
Norway is considered one of the safest countries globally, offering a secure environment for international students. Universities and student welfare organizations provide support services to ensure student well-being throughout their studies.
Can I transfer credits from another country to a Norwegian university?
Yes, Norway uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), facilitating credit recognition. However, acceptance of transfer credits is determined by individual institutions and depends on course equivalency and relevance. Consult your chosen university for specific guidelines.
Do I need to buy private health insurance while studying in Norway?
Yes, if your stay is under 12 months, you must have private health insurance covering your entire stay. For stays over 12 months, you may become a member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme, granting access to public healthcare.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.