Study in Norway for Free: Top Universities, Application, Cost of Living

Latest Update 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 following top universities to study in Norway that offer affordable education to international students.

Universities	QS World Rankings 2025	Annual Tuition Fee
Norwegian School of Economics	21 (for MBA)	NOK 136K – NOK 196K  (INR 11.3L – INR 16.3L)
University of Oslo	119	NOK 191K – NOK 276K  (INR 15.9L – INR 22.9L)
Norwegian University of Science and Technology	264	NOK 170K – NOK 510K  (INR 14.1L – INR 42.4L)
University of Bergen	=291	NOK 190K – NOK 376K  (INR 15.8L – INR 31.2L)
Norwegian University of Life Sciences	691–700	NOK 80K – NOK 275K  (INR 6.6L – INR 22.8L)
University of Stavanger (UiS)	801–850	NOK 165K – NOK 190K (INR 13.7L – INR 15.8L)
Nord University	NA	NOK 136K – NOK 522K  (INR 11.3L – INR 43.4L)
University of Agder	NA	NOK 145K – NOK 415K  (INR 12L – INR 34.5L)
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences	NA	NOK 130K – NOK 500K  (INR 10.8L – INR 41.5L)
University of South-Eastern Norway	NA	NOK 130K – NOK 250K  (INR 10.8L – INR 20.8L)

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.
English Language Proficiency (ELP)	TOEFL iBT: 60–90 IELTS Academic: 5.0–6.5 PTE Academic: 51–62 Cambridge English: FCE (B), CAE (C), CPE (C)	TOEFL iBT: 85–90 IELTS Academic: 6.5 PTE Academic: 62 Cambridge English: CAE (C), CPE (C)
Competitive Exams	Not typically required for general admission.	GMAT: 555–600 GRE: 152–158
Academic Transcripts	Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, translated into English or Norwegian if necessary.	Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, translated into English or Norwegian if necessary.
Other Requirements	Valid passport. Financial documentation showing ability to cover living expenses	Letter of Recommendation Statement Of Purpose CV Resume Valid passport. 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.

Job Roles	Annual Average Salary (NOK)	Annual Average Salary (INR)
Human Resource Manager	NOK 862K	INR 7.16L
Data Analyst	NOK 705K	INR 5.86L
Marketing Manager	NOK 737K	INR 6.12L
Software Engineer	NOK 700K	INR 5.81L
Registered Nurse	NOK 579K	INR 4.81L

Source: Glassdoor

Note: INR amounts are approximate and are subject to change. 

Also Read: Best Job Opportunities in Europe for Indians in 2025

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.
• 3. Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents, including:
  • Certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas.
  • English Language proficiency levels for English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if required.
  • Copy of passport or national ID.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) and motivation letter, if applicable.
  • 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.

Use the table below to understand the full requirements for a Norwegian student visa

Category	Details
Eligibility	Admission to a full-time program at an approved institution Sufficient funds: NOK 166,859 per year (INR 13.86L) or NOK 15,169 per month (INR 1.26L) Accommodation arranged Intent to return home after studies
Required Documents	Valid passport Admission letter from the institution Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement, scholarship, or deposit in Norwegian bank) Proof of accommodation Health insurance Receipt of paid application fee
Application Process	1. Apply online via the UDI Application Portal 2. Pay the application fee 3. Schedule an appointment with the Norwegian embassy or consulate 4. Submit biometric data and required documents 5. Wait for processing and decision
Processing Time	Varies; most applicants receive a decision within 8 months. Delays may occur during peak periods.
Work Rights	Permitted to work part-time up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.
Family Members	Spouses and children can apply for family immigration permits to join the student in Norway.
Renewal	Possible if progressing in studies; must apply before the current permit expires and meet financial and academic requirements.

Also Read: Your One-Stop Study Abroad Checklist

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 a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad’s experts to explore suitable programs, deadlines, scholarships, and more.