Explore Courses

Top Universities in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide

By upGrad Abroad Team

Updated on Jun 09, 2025 | 0.6k+ views

Share:

Did You Know?

  • The University of Oslo, Norway's oldest university, founded in 1811, has produced 5 Nobel Prize laureates and is ranked among the top 100 research universities globally.
  • All public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education to both domestic and international students for bachelor's and master's degree programs, making high-quality education accessible globally.

Norwegian universities consistently rank well internationally, reflecting their strong academic reputation and research excellence. The University of Oslo is ranked 119th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 116th in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings

Other top institutions include the University of Bergen (ranked 259th globally) and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU, ranked 276th), highlighting Norway's growing appeal as a study destination.

Beyond rankings, Norway offers free education at public universities, specialized programs in fields like engineering and marine research, and a high standard of living. Its safe, welcoming environment and diverse international community make it an attractive choice for students worldwide.

This guide aims to help students explore top universities in Norway, their programs, and the distinct benefits, so they can select the best university that matches their goals.

Top Universities in Norway: Best 12 Picks to Consider

Norwegian universities are highly affordable, with most public institutions charging no tuition fees for EU and EEA students and relatively moderate fees for non-EU and EEA students. The tuition fees typically range from NOK 80,000 to 150,000 (approximately INR 6.7 L – INR 12.6 L) per year, depending on the program. 

Moreover, the education system in Norway emphasizes high-quality faculty expertise, maintains strong industry connections, especially in technology. Before exploring the 12 top universities in Norway in detail, let's have a brief overview:

University  QS Ranking 2025 Tuition Fees for International Students
University of Oslo (UiO) 119 23,000 NOK- 286,000 NOK (INR 1.9L- 2.4L)
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) 264 170,500NOK – 198,800NOK (INR 14L-16L)
University of Bergen (UiB) 291 190,000NOK – 380,000NOK (INR 16L-32L)
UiT The Arctic University of Norway 621-630 Tuition-free, Semester fee NOK 625 (INR 5300)
Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) 691-700 Not Available
University of Stavanger (UiS) 801-850 Tuition-free, Semester fee NOK 600-700 (INR 5 K- 6 K)
BI Norwegian Business School 51-100* (by subject) 120,000NOK – 180,000NOK (INR 10L-15L)
Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) NA 130,000NOK-  180,000NOK (INR 11L-15L)
Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) NA 190,000NOK – 370,000NOK (inr 16L-31L)
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) NA Not Available
Nord University NA 136,000 NOK– 522,000NOK (INR 11L-44L)
Norwegian School of Sport Sciences NA 80,000NOK -180,000NOK (INR 6L-15L)

Now, let’s explore the top universities in Norway in detail, based on the QS World University Rankings 2025.

1. University of Oslo (UiO)

The University of Oslo (UiO) is a prestigious institution known for its excellence in the humanities, law, and natural sciences. Located in Norway's capital, Oslo, UiO has a diverse student body and offers strong research opportunities, supported by world-class faculty in a vibrant academic environment.

The university hosts around 75,000 students, with a gender ratio of 63% female and 37% male. International students make up about 17% of the student body. UiO maintains a student-to-staff ratio of 11.7, ensuring quality interaction and support.

Here's an overview of the University of Oslo:

        Criteria

 

Details
Founding Year 1811
Number of Courses 800
Popular Courses
  • Medicine
  • Law
  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences
  • Natural Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
  • UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications
  • PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications
English Proficiency
  • UG: 
  • PG: 
    • IELTS: 6.5 
    • TOEFL: 90+
Tuition Fees
  • UG: 23,000 NOK- 28,330 NOK (INR 1.9L-2.4L)
  • PG: 198,000 NOK- 286,000 NOK (INR 16.6L-24.1L)
Rankings 2025
  • QS World Ranking: #119
  • THE Ranking: #116
  • U.S. News Ranking: #104

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

NTNU, based in Trondheim, is a leading university in Norway for engineering, technology, and applied sciences, with over 40,000 students. 

The university employs 8,000+ staff and offers 390+ courses in fields like engineering, architecture, and medicine. NTNU maintains strong industry connections, particularly in energy, maritime technology, IT, and manufacturing, providing students with hands-on research opportunities.

Here's an overview of NTNU: 

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1968
Number of Courses 390
Popular Courses

Engineering

Technology

Natural Sciences

Eligibility Criteria
  • UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications
  • PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications
English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90+ 
  • PTE 62

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90+ 
  • PTE 62
Tuition fees 170,500 NOK- 198,800 NOK (INR 14.3L- 16.L)
Rankings 2025

QS: #264

THE: #301-350

U.S. News: #267

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

3. University of Bergen (UiB)

Ranked 291st globally in QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Bergen is a research-intensive and internationally recognized institution with about 20,000 students and over 4,200 faculty and staff.

UiB is Norway's second-oldest university and leads the way in marine biology, climate science, medicine, and the humanities. It is Norway's most cited university and a key player in sustainability research. The university hosts seven faculties and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Here's an overview of UiB:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1948
Number of Courses

UG: 1357

PG: 1289

Popular Courses

Marine Biology

Climate Science

Medicine

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90+ 
  • PTE 62

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90+ 
  • PTE 62
Tuition Fees 190,000 NOK – 380,000 NOK (INR 15.6–31.1L)
Rankings 2025

QS World Ranking: #291

THE Ranking: #251–300th

U.S. News Ranking: #259

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

4. UiT The Arctic University of Norway

UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, ranked 621-630 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, is the world's northernmost university, located in Tromsø. It has approximately 16,000 students and 3,500 staff, with around 10% of the students and 20% of the academic staff being international. 

UiT specializes in Arctic studies, indigenous culture, environmental sciences, and climate research, reflecting its unique Arctic location. The university offers more than 20 English-taught master's programs and a broad range of courses across eight faculties.

Here's an overview of UiT:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1968
Number of Courses 390
Popular Courses

Arctic Studies

Indigenous Studies

Environmental Sciences

computer science

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 5.0 
  • TOEFL 60
  •  PTE 51
  • APIEL 3
  • MELAB 85

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 85
  • PTE 62
  • APIEL 3
  • MELAB 85
Tuition Fees
  • No tuition fees for international students. 
  • However, international students have to pay a semester fee of NOK 625 (INR 5300)  per semester.
Rankings 2025
  • QS Ranking: #621-630
  • THE Ranking: #601-800
  • U.S. News Ranking: #577

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

Also Read: Free Education Countries for Students in 2025

5. Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is a leader in research, with over 20,700 publications and 730,000 citations, particularly in fields like biology, veterinary sciences, medicine, and engineering. 

Known for its commitment to sustainability, agriculture, and environmental sciences, NMBU offers 21 English-taught master's programs. 

With a community of 6,500 students and 2,000 staff, the university has consistently topped national student satisfaction surveys for nine consecutive years, further highlighting its academic excellence and student-focused approach. 

Here's an overview of NMBU:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1859
Number of Courses NA
Popular Courses

Environmental Science

Veterinary Medicine

Agriculture

Biology

Engineering

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Langugae Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80
  •  PTE 59

PG: 

  • IELTS 7.0 
  • TOEFL 92
  • PTE 65
Tuition Fees NOK 80,000 to 150,000 (INR 6.7 L- 12.6 L)per year
Rankings 2025
  • QS Ranking: #691-700
  • THE Ranking: #801–1000th
  • U.S. News Ranking: #880

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

6. University of Stavanger (UiS)

The University of Stavanger (UiS) is a growing public research university with over 15,000 students and 2,000 staff. It is organized into six faculties, including Science and Technology, Arts and Education, and Social Sciences, alongside the Museum of Archaeology. 

UiS is recognized for its strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and close collaboration with industry, especially in the energy sector. The university hosts over 50 research centers and institutes, promoting research in renewable energy, digitalization, and the social sciences.

To give you a clear picture of what to expect, here's an overview of the University of Stavanger’s key highlights:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 2005
Number of Courses
  • 28 international study programmes
  • 5 PhD programmes
Popular Courses

Engineering

Energy Technology

Social Sciences

Business

Education

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90
  • PTE 53

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90
  •  PTE 62
Tuition Fees
  • Tuition-free
  • Semester fee NOK 600-700 (INR 5K-6K) )
Rankings 2025
  • QS Ranking:  #801-850
  • THE Ranking: #601–800th
  • U.S. News Ranking: #743

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

7. BI Norwegian Business School

BI Norwegian Business School is the largest business school in Norway, with over 20,000 students and more than 1,500 staff

BI is well-regarded for its focus on leadership, finance, and strategic management, offering 50+ undergraduate and graduate programs

Before you make your decision, take a look at the important details about BI Norwegian Business School:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1943
Number of Courses 50+ undergraduate and graduate programs
Popular Courses

Leadership

Finance 

Strategic Management

Marketing

Economics

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80
  •  PTE 59

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80
  • PTE 59
Tuition Fees Approx. NOK 120,000 – 180,000  (INR 10L-15.1L)per year
Rankings 2025
  • QS Ranking: # 51-100 (By subject)
  • THE Ranking: NA
  • U.S. News Ranking: NA

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

8. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)

The Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) is renowned for its programs in economics, finance, and business management. 

NHH enrolls 3,500 students and has 300+ academic staff. Known for its research excellence, NHH offers 10+ specialized master's and MBA programs and has a solid reputation for producing graduates who go on to lead in global business environments.

Here's a quick snapshot of the Norwegian School of Economics and what it offers:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1936
Number of Courses Not specified
Popular Courses

Economics

Finance

Business Administration

Accounting

Marketing

Eligibility Criteria
  • UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications
  • PG: Bachelor's degree (90 ECTS in economics/business), GMAT/GRE, CV, financial proof
English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90
  • PTE 62

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90
  • PTE 62
Tuition Fees
  • UG: NOK 130,000 per year
  • PG: NOK 180,000 per year
Rankings 2025
  • QS: NA
  • THE: NA
  • U.S. News: NA

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

9. Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)

Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) specializes in applied sciences, offering practical programs in health sciences, education, and technology. 

With more than 20,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in Norway. OsloMet has a student-focused approach, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in urban settings like Oslo, with strong industry connections that help students gain practical experience.

Explore the essential information about Oslo Metropolitan University below:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 2018
Number of Courses

UG: 90+ 

PG: 40+

Popular Courses

Health Sciences

Education

Social Sciences

Technology

Design

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

PG: 

  • IELTS 5.0 
  • TOEFL 60
  • Duolingo 95
Tuition Fees 190,000 to 370,000 NOK (INR 16L- 31.1L)per year
Rankings 2025 U.S. News Rankings: 1132

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

10. Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL)

Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) serves around 7,000 students and offers a strong focus on applied learning in fields like renewable energy, engineering, and maritime operations. 

HVL's programs are closely aligned with the region's needs, providing practical knowledge that can be directly applied in various industries.

The table below outlines the key aspects of studying at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 2017
Number of Courses NA
Popular Courses

Health & Social Sciences

Engineering

Teacher Education

Maritime Studies

Renewable Energy

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80
  •  PTE 59

PG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80
  • PTE 59
Tuition Fees Not available
Rankings 2025 U.S. News: #1039

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

11. Nord University

Located in Northern Norway, Nord University is a leader in business development, aquaculture, and sustainable innovation. 

The university enrolls over 7,000 students and offers a range of programs with a focus on regional development and indigenous communities. Nord is committed to providing quality education in fields like business, health, and technology.

For a better understanding, here's a summary of the important features of Nord University:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 2016
Number of Courses 180+ programs
Popular Courses

Aquaculture

Business

Nursing

Teacher Education,

Social Work

Circumpolar Studies

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG: 

  • IELTS 5.0 
  • TOEFL 60
  •  PTE 51

PG:

  •  IELTS 6.5 
  • TOEFL 90
  • PTE 62
Tuition Fees NOK 136,000–522,000/year (INR 11.4L-43.8L)
Rankings 2025 U.S. News:  #1344

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

12. Norwegian School of Sport Sciences

The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences focuses on elite performance, sport sciences, and health promotion. 

With approximately 1,200 students, it works closely with national sports organizations and offers a unique learning environment for those pursuing careers in sports and physical education. 

Check out the table below for important insights into the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences:

        Criteria Details
Founding Year 1968
Number of Courses

UG: 15+ 

PG: 15+

Popular Courses

Sports Science

Physical Education

Sports Psychology

Sports Management

Exercise Physiology

Eligibility Criteria

UG: Secondary education + relevant qualifications

PG: Bachelor's degree + relevant qualifications

English Proficiency

UG & PG: 

  • IELTS 6.0 
  • TOEFL 80+ (for English-taught courses)
Tuition Fees

UG: Approx 80,000 NOK (INR 6.7L) 

PG: Approx 180,000 NOK (INR 15.1 L)

Rankings 2025 CWUR: #1609th

Note: Relevant qualifications refer to subject-specific requirements. 

Also Read: Cheapest Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025

With your university options clear, it's time to look at how you can fund your education through scholarships available across these top universities in Norway. 

Scholarships in Norway for International Students

Norway offers several scholarships for international students, mainly based on merit and academic excellence. The BI Presidential Scholarship is a top option, fully covering tuition and providing a living stipend of about NOK 150,000 (~INR 12.6 lakh) per year for outstanding master’s students. 

The Mobility Grant for Norwegian Language and Literature offers up to NOK 50,000 (~INR 4.1 lakh) for master’s and PhD research. 

Here's a breakdown of both types of study abroad scholarships for international students in Norway: 

Internal Scholarships for International Students in Norway

Internal scholarships are those provided directly by Norwegian universities. These scholarships are often merit-based and may cover tuition fees partially or fully, along with stipends for living costs. 

Over 40 Norwegian universities and colleges offer internal scholarships for international students, with around 50 to 60 distinct scholarship programs available each year. Plus, most scholarships cover tuition fees of NOK 120,000–150,000 per year (~INR 9.6L–12L).

Below is an overview of notable internal scholarships available at leading Norwegian universities: 

Scholarship Name Type Eligibility & Benefits
BI Presidential Scholarship Fully funded

Eligibility: For students with a GPA of A or equivalent, applying for a Master of Science. 

Benefits: Covers full tuition and living stipend for up to two years.

University of Oslo Scholarship Tuition waiver

Eligibility: International students enrolled in master's programs

Benefits: Partial scholarships and grants

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Scholarships Partial/Full Tuition

Eligibility: Merit-based scholarships for international master's students.

Benefits: Vary by program

External Scholarships for International Students in Norway

The Norwegian government itself does not provide general scholarships open to all international students but runs specific schemes for students from developing countries and certain regions to provide fully funded scholarships.

Popular external scholarships include the Norwegian Quota Scheme (for students from developing countries), Erasmus+ Scholarships (for EU and partner countries), and private scholarships like the NORAM Scholarship for American students. 

The scholarship amounts typically include monthly stipends of around NOK 8,500 (~INR 69.8K) for candidates holding a bachelor's or master's degree. 

Below is a detailed overview of notable external scholarships available at top universities in Norway: 

Scholarship Name Type Eligibility & Benefits
Norwegian Quota Scheme Government scholarship

Eligibility: For master's and PhD students. 

Benefits: Covers living expenses and travel.

High North Scholarship Mobility grant

Eligibility: For students from Canada, the US, Russia, Japan, and South Korea. 

Benefits: Supports studies at selected institutions in Northern Norway.

Erasmus+ Scholarships EU scholarship

Eligibility:  For EU/EEA and partner countries.

Benefits: Covers monthly stipend and travel costs for exchange students

Mobility Grant for Norwegian Language and Literature Research grant

Eligibility: For master's and PhD students conducting research related to the Norwegian language/literature.

Benefits: Covers travel and living expenses (~NOK 5,000 or INR 42,000).

Want to estimate the total cost of your education journey in Norway? Use upGrad's Cost Calculator to get an accurate breakdown of your tuition, living expenses, and other costs.

Also Read: How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad: A Simple Guide

After exploring funding options and finding the right fit, the next step is securing your student visa. Let's break down how the Student Visa process for Norway works.

Student Visa Process for Norway: Step-by-Step Guide

Securing a student visa early is crucial for a smooth transition to studying in Norway, as visa processing can take up to two months or more. 

Norway requires a student residence permit, also known as a student visa, for non-EU/EEA students planning to study in Norway for more than three months.  This permit allows you to live, study full-time, and work part-time in Norway.

Here's a complete breakdown of all the documents, timelines, and steps you'll need to follow while applying for a Norway visa

1. Required Documents

Here’s a complete list of the required documents that you must have to obtain a student visa for Norway:

Document Description
Valid Passport Must have at least 6 months' validity and two blank pages
Student Visa Application Form Completed and signed the application form
Passport-sized Photos Two recent photos on a white background
Offer Letter / Admission Confirmation From a recognized Norwegian university or college
Proof of Financial Means Minimum NOK 126,357 per year (~INR 1.06 lakh) to cover living expenses
Proof of Accommodation Rental agreement, university housing confirmation, or other proof
Health Insurance Proof Private health insurance card or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Visa Application Fee Receipt Proof of payment of the visa application fee
Return Ticket Reservation or Intent to Leave Evidence of plans to leave Norway after studies

Once you're in Norway, the next step is to focus on what happens after graduation. 

Post-Study Work Visa in Norway: What You Need to Know

Norway offers a post-study work permit that lets international graduates stay for up to 12 months after completing their degree to find a job or start a business. This permit is available to non-EU/EEA students who have completed a full-time degree at a recognized Norwegian institution and hold a valid residence permit for students. 

Here are the details: 

Metric Details
Eligibility Non-EU/EEA students who have completed a full-time degree at a recognized Norwegian institution.
Duration Up to 12 months (1 year) after graduation.
Work Rights Full-time or part-time work is allowed in any field during the permit period.
Application Timeline Must apply before the student residence permit expires.
Visa Cost Application fee for residence permit varies; typically NOK 4,900–6,500 (INR 40k–52k).

Note:

  • Your qualification affects the duration of your work visa; higher-level degrees typically offer longer work rights.
  • Relevant work experience can help if you plan to apply for residency later.
  • Start job hunting and exploring industries early to be ready when your student visa ends.

This visa opens the door to Norway's professional world. Your next steps will depend on whether you're looking to settle long-term or use the experience for global growth.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Norway for Students

With your visa in hand, the focus shifts to your career opportunities. Let’s break down the career opportunities available to international graduates in Norway.

Career Opportunities in Norway After Graduation

Norway has a strong and competitive market, with over 3 million active workers and an employment rate of 77.4%, which is significantly higher than the European Union (EU) average. 

Norway offers international graduates diverse career options in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and energy, with many roles available to English speakers despite the advantage of knowing Norwegian.

Below are some of the best career options available in Norway after graduation: 

Job Role Average Annual Salary (NOK) Average Annual Salary (INR)
Software Developer NOK 6L - 6.5L INR 57L - INR 62L
Civil Engineer NOK 5.6L INR 53L
Mechanical Engineer NOK 5.7L INR 54L
University Lecturer NOK 7.0L INR 66L
IT Specialist NOK 6.3L INR 60L
Marketing Executive NOK 5.7L INR 54L

Note: Salaries are approximate averages; actual pay depends on experience, location, and sector

Now, let's explore the companies and industries actively hiring professionals in Norway. 

Top Recruiters in Norway

Norway's recruitment in 2025 features specialized agencies and staffing firms catering to industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and leadership. 

Key players include Dedicare Assistance (healthcare), Globus.ai (AI-driven staffing), and Temp Team (general staffing), as well as global agencies such as Manpower and Experis. 

Although exact recruiter-specific salary data is not publicly disclosed, here is a comparative overview of top recruiters and their salary ranges. 

Industry/Recruiter Avg. Salary (NOK/year) Avg. Salary (INR/year)
Healthcare (Dedicare) 500k–700k NOK INR 41.5L–58.1L
IT (Experis/Globus.ai) 600k–900k NOK INR 49.8L–74.7L
Engineering (Temp Team) 550k–800k NOK INR 45.65L–66.4L

Source: GoodFirms

Note: The exact amount may vary based on currency exchange rates.

After exploring Norway’s career options, take time to reflect on your education path, choosing the right university is key to shaping your future success.

How Do You Select the Best University in Norway?

Choosing the best university in Norway depends on the benefits of studying in Norway, academic reputation, faculty quality, and industry links. With many English-taught programs and no tuition at public universities, Norway offers quality education aligned with your goals.

However, when choosing a university in Norway, consider the following factors:

  • Program Options: Look for universities that offer programs matching your academic interests and career aspirations. Popular programs include:
    • Arctic Studies: UiT, Nord
    • Business/Finance: BI, NHH
    • STEM: NTNU, UiB
    • Applied Sciences: OsloMet, HVL
    • Research-intensive institutions like UiO and UiB excel in fields like marine biology and climate science.
  • Location: Consider whether you prefer an urban campus with access to cultural activities and job opportunities, such as those found in Oslo, Bergen, or Trondheim, or a more tranquil, rural setting. For instance: 
    • Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim  provide vibrant city life and networks.
    • UiT, Nord, and HVL (regional universities) offer specialized programs in quieter environments.
  • Reputation and Rankings: Research university rankings and academic reputation to determine the quality of education and research output. For instance: 
    • The University of Oslo (ranked 119) and NTNU (ranked 264) consistently rank highly internationally in QS world rankings and are well regarded by employers.
  • Costs and Financial Aid: While most public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees, living costs can be high, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses; therefore:  
    • Prioritize public universities like the University of Oslo and NTNU to reduce tuition fees (if EU/EEA).
    • Explore scholarships (e.g., BI Presidential Scholarship) to offset living expenses.
    • Be sure to budget carefully for living costs, especially in cities like Oslo and Bergen.
  • Language of Instruction: Check the language requirements to determine if the program is taught in English or Norwegian. 
    • Over  200+  English-taught master’s programs are available at universities like UiO, NTNU, and UiB.
    • Most undergraduate programs require Norwegian proficiency.
  • Student Support Services: Consider the availability of academic advising, career counseling, and integration programs for international students to support your academic and personal growth. 

By keeping these factors in mind, you can select the best university in Norway for your studies. 

Also Read: Best countries to study abroad for Indian students in 2025

While the journey to studying in Norway can seem complex, the right guidance can make it easy. upGrad offers the expertise and resources to support you at every stage of the process.

How Can upGrad Help You Choose the Best University in Norway?

upGrad offers comprehensive study abroad services that can significantly ease your journey to study in Norway by providing expert guidance and support at every step. From selecting the right university to providing post-arrival support, upGrad is dedicated to making your journey as seamless as possible.

Here's how upGrad can assist you in your study abroad plans:

  1. University Research and Selection: You'll get personalized advice to help you select the right university and program that aligns with your career goals.
  2. ELP Exam Guidance: You will get expert support for English Language Proficiency (ELP) exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, including preparation tips and resources.
  3. Application Management: upGrad helps streamline your application process, ensuring that all your documents are in order and deadlines are met.
  4. Visa Assistance: Provides expert guidance in securing your study visa, ensuring you have everything in place for a smooth transition.
  5. Career Support: From career counseling to resume building, upGrad prepares you for New Zealand's competitive job market, equipping you with essential skills for success.

By choosing upGrad, you get a trusted partner in your study abroad journey, offering continuous support from start to finish so you can confidently take the next step toward your global education goals.

Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts and apply today with confidence!

FAQs

What services can international students expect at Norwegian universities?

How much does it cost for students to live in Norway?

In what ways do Norwegian universities encourage diversity and inclusivity?

Which programs are most sought-after at universities in Norway?

What are the language proficiency requirements for studying in Norway?

How does the academic structure in Norway differ from other countries?

Are there specific entrance exams needed for admission to Norwegian universities?

What career paths are available to graduates of Norwegian universities?

How do Norwegian universities collaborate with the industry and businesses?

What financial aid options or scholarships can international students access in Norway?

What can you expect from campus life at Norwegian universities?

Top Study Abroad Destinations

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2735 articles published

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...

Looking for Expert Advice?

+91
referer

Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000

Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.

upGrad Abroad Logo
LinkedinFacebookInstagramTwitterYoutubeWhatsapp

Download our App

Bachelor programs

Top Destinations

Masters programs

Study Abroad Important Blogs