Imagine studying in a country where mountains, fjords and modern cities exist side by side, while universities place strong emphasis on research, innovation, sustainability and practical learning.

For international students looking beyond the traditional destinations of the UK, USA, Canada and Australia, Norway can be an interesting study-abroad option in 2027. The country has internationally respected universities, a strong research environment and a growing selection of degree programs taught in English.

But there is one major change prospective students need to understand before making plans.

Norway is no longer universally tuition-free for students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Since the introduction of tuition fees for many non-EU/EEA/Swiss degree students, applicants now need to consider both tuition and living expenses when preparing a Norwegian study budget.

At the same time, Norway still offers important exemptions, scholarship opportunities and tuition-free routes for certain categories of students.

So, if you are a student from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda or another country outside Europe and you are considering Norway for 2027, what should you expect?

This comprehensive guide explains how to study in Norway in 2027, tuition fees, top universities, scholarships, admission requirements, Student Permit requirements, living costs, part-time work and practical application steps.

Note: Tuition fees and immigration financial requirements can change. Where 2027–28 figures have not yet been officially published, this guide uses the latest official 2026–27 figures as a planning reference rather than presenting them as confirmed 2027 prices.

Why Study in Norway in 2027?

Norway has developed a strong international reputation for higher education, research and innovation.

The country’s universities and university colleges offer programmes across areas such as:

Engineering
Computer Science
Artificial Intelligence
Renewable Energy
Environmental Science
Marine Science
Business
Economics
Data Science
Biotechnology
Public Health
Social Sciences
Education
Architecture
Agriculture
Fisheries
Natural Sciences

Norway is particularly interesting for students whose academic interests connect with sustainability, energy, technology, climate, marine studies and engineering.

The official Study in Norway portal currently lists hundreds of English-taught study programmes, with the majority at master’s level but also opportunities at bachelor’s and other levels.

This means students searching for English-taught master’s programmes in Norway will generally have more options than students searching for English-taught bachelor’s programmes.

Is Norway Free for International Students in 2027?

This is one of the biggest questions international applicants ask.

The short answer is:

Not necessarily.

Students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland are generally exempt from tuition fees at public Norwegian higher education institutions.

However, degree-seeking students from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland must normally pay tuition fees.

That includes many applicants from African countries, including Nigeria.

However, there are important exceptions.

Some students may be exempt from tuition fees because they are:

Doctoral candidates
Exchange students
Covered by institutional exchange agreements
Studying through certain international programmes
Participating in Erasmus Mundus joint degrees
Covered by specific bilateral or international agreements
Beneficiaries of certain recognised schemes such as NORPART, NORHED, Fulbright or Students At Risk

The exact exemption depends on the student’s circumstances and institution.

Therefore, the old statement that “Norway is completely free for all international students” is no longer accurate.

Always check the tuition policy of your specific university and programme before applying.

Norway Tuition Fees for International Students in 2027

Tuition fees in Norway vary significantly.

There is no single national tuition price for all international students.

Fees depend on:

University
Programme
Degree level
Subject
Faculty
Laboratory requirements
Whether the programme is covered by an exemption

Some programmes can cost substantially more than others.

For example, programmes involving specialist facilities, laboratories, professional training or high-cost equipment may have higher fees than classroom-based programmes.

Because the official national Study in Norway portal currently publishes 2026–27 living-cost figures rather than a universal 2027 tuition table, students preparing for 2027 should treat individual university fee schedules as the final authority.

Estimated Tuition Budget for Norway

Instead of assuming one fixed amount, prospective students should build their budget using the exact programme fee.

A typical planning formula is:

Annual study budget = Tuition fee + Living expenses + Semester fee + Insurance + Travel + Other personal costs

For example, a student paying NOK 120,000 in annual tuition and budgeting NOK 170,368 for living expenses would need at least:

NOK 290,368 per academic year

before adding travel, insurance, books and other expenses.

A programme costing NOK 200,000 annually would require a much larger budget.

This is why checking tuition before accepting an offer is essential.

Do All Norwegian Universities Charge Tuition?

No.

The rules depend on the student’s nationality, programme and institution.

The main distinction is between:

EU/EEA and Swiss students

These students are generally exempt from tuition at public institutions.

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss degree students

These students normally pay tuition unless they qualify for an exemption.

Exchange students

Students participating in qualifying exchange agreements are normally exempt from tuition at public institutions, although the precise arrangement depends on the exchange agreement.

PhD candidates

Doctoral candidates are among the categories normally exempt from tuition at public institutions.

Erasmus Mundus students

Students studying through qualifying Erasmus Mundus joint-degree programmes can also benefit from tuition arrangements associated with the programme.

Best Universities in Norway for International Students

Norway has several universities and specialised institutions with strong academic and research profiles.

Here are some of the institutions international students should investigate for 2027.

1. University of Oslo (UiO)

The University of Oslo is one of Norway’s leading universities and is located in the country’s capital.

It offers programmes and research across:

Humanities
Social Sciences
Law
Medicine
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Education
Technology
Informatics

Students interested in research-intensive master’s and doctoral opportunities should investigate UiO carefully.

2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

NTNU is particularly well known for:

Engineering
Technology
Computer Science
Natural Sciences
Architecture
Economics
Innovation
Marine studies

For students interested in engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, energy or technology, NTNU is one of the Norwegian institutions worth researching.

NTNU has campuses in Trondheim, Gjøvik and Ålesund.

3. University of Bergen (UiB)

The University of Bergen is a major research university located on Norway’s west coast.

It has strengths across:

Natural Sciences
Marine Research
Climate Studies
Health
Social Sciences
Humanities
Psychology
Technology

Its location also makes it particularly relevant to students interested in marine and environmental research.

4. UiT The Arctic University of Norway

UiT is Norway’s northernmost university.

It offers opportunities in areas including:

Arctic studies
Environmental science
Marine science
Engineering
Health sciences
Technology
Social sciences
Indigenous studies

Students interested in the Arctic, climate change and northern-region research should explore UiT’s programmes.

5. Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

NMBU is especially relevant for students interested in:

Agriculture
Biotechnology
Environmental Science
Food Science
Sustainability
Forestry
Economics
Animal Science
Renewable resources

For students interested in environmental sustainability and agricultural development, NMBU can be particularly relevant.

6. University of Stavanger (UiS)

The University of Stavanger has academic strengths in areas including:

Engineering
Energy
Petroleum-related studies
Business
Health
Social Sciences
Technology

Its location in Stavanger also places students in one of Norway’s major energy regions.

7. University of Agder (UiA)

The University of Agder offers programmes across:

Technology
Business
Engineering
Health
Social Sciences
Humanities
Education

International students should check the university’s current English-taught programme list for 2027.

8. Nord University

Nord University has campuses across northern and central Norway.

It offers programmes in:

Business
Biosciences
Aquaculture
Social Sciences
Education
Nursing and health
Technology

It can be an interesting option for students who want to study outside Norway’s largest cities.

9. OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University

OsloMet focuses strongly on professional and applied education.

Relevant areas include:

Health
Nursing
Engineering
Computer Science
Social Sciences
Education
Business
Technology

Students interested in career-oriented programmes should examine its international offerings.

10. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)

NHH is a specialised institution focused primarily on economics and business.

Potential areas include:

Economics
Finance
Business
Strategy
Accounting
International business

It can be particularly attractive to students interested in economics and finance.

Other Norwegian Institutions to Consider

Other recognised institutions include:

BI Norwegian Business School
Oslo National Academy of the Arts
Norwegian Academy of Music
Oslo School of Architecture and Design
Molde University College
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
University of South-Eastern Norway
VID Specialized University
Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Volda University College
Østfold University of Applied Sciences

The official Study in Norway database allows students to filter programmes by institution, subject, level and region.

Popular Courses to Study in Norway in 2027

International students can find programmes across many disciplines.

Popular areas to investigate include:

Computer Science and IT

Computer Science
Artificial Intelligence
Data Science
Cybersecurity
Software Engineering
Information Systems
Machine Learning

Engineering

Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Renewable Energy Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Marine Engineering
Environmental Engineering

Environmental and Climate Studies

Norway is particularly relevant to:

Climate Science
Environmental Management
Renewable Energy
Sustainability
Marine Science
Arctic Studies
Environmental Engineering

Business and Economics

Students can investigate:

Finance
Economics
Business Analytics
International Business
Entrepreneurship
Management
Marketing

Health and Life Sciences

Possible areas include:

Public Health
Biomedical Science
Biotechnology
Nursing
Health Management
Global Health
Nutrition

Programme-specific language and professional requirements may apply to health-related degrees.

Admission Requirements to Study in Norway

Admission requirements vary by programme and institution.

However, international applicants generally need to satisfy the academic requirements for their chosen programme.

For bachelor’s and master’s programmes, Norway uses the Higher Education Entrance Qualification (GSU) as the general basis for admission.

For applicants with foreign education, country-specific requirements are listed in the GSU framework.

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

Applicants may need:

Secondary school certificate
Academic transcripts
Proof of English proficiency where required
Specific subject requirements
Passport
Programme-specific documentation

Some bachelor’s programmes are taught in Norwegian rather than English.

This means students must carefully check the language of instruction before applying.

Master’s Degree Requirements

A typical master’s application may require:

Relevant bachelor’s degree
Academic transcripts
Minimum academic performance
Relevant coursework
English-language proficiency
CV
Motivation letter where required
References where required
Programme-specific prerequisites

Some programmes require applicants to have completed specific courses during their bachelor’s degree.

A general bachelor’s degree may therefore not automatically qualify you for every master’s programme.

English Language Requirements

English-taught programmes normally require applicants to demonstrate sufficient English proficiency unless they qualify for an exemption.

Accepted tests and minimum scores vary by institution and programme.

Possible tests can include:

IELTS
TOEFL
PTE Academic
Cambridge English qualifications

Do not assume that every Norwegian university accepts the same test or minimum score.

Check the individual programme page.

Can You Study in Norway Without IELTS?

Possibly, depending on your educational background and the university’s rules.

Some institutions may accept alternative proof of English proficiency or provide exemptions for applicants who meet specified education-based criteria.

However, you should never assume that studying previously in English automatically guarantees an IELTS waiver.

The university makes the final determination based on its published admission rules.

Norway University Application Deadlines

Deadlines vary considerably.

Some programmes may have earlier deadlines for international students requiring a residence permit.

This is particularly important for applicants from countries outside the EU/EEA.

A programme may have:

Early international application deadline
Regular application deadline
Separate deadline for exchange students
Different deadlines for bachelor’s and master’s applicants

For 2027 admission, students should begin checking university websites during 2026 rather than waiting until the beginning of 2027.

Scholarships to Study in Norway in 2027

This is another area where international students need realistic expectations.

The Norwegian government does not offer one universal scholarship that covers every international degree student.

The official Study in Norway portal explicitly states that there are no individual Norwegian government scholarships open to all international students.

However, several other funding routes exist.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus is one of the most important scholarship opportunities for international students interested in studying in Europe.

Norwegian higher education institutions participate in Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programmes.

These programmes are usually delivered by multiple universities across different countries.

Depending on the specific scholarship, funding can include support toward:

Tuition
Travel
Living expenses
Insurance
Other study-related costs

The application is made through the specific Erasmus Mundus programme, not through a general Norwegian scholarship application.

2. University Scholarships

Individual Norwegian universities may offer:

Tuition waivers
Partial tuition scholarships
Programme-specific funding
Research funding
Assistantships
Grants

Availability changes from university to university.

This means students should search the funding page of their chosen institution rather than assuming every university offers the same scholarship.

3. PhD Funding in Norway

PhD opportunities are different from ordinary bachelor’s and master’s programmes.

In Norway, PhD positions are often advertised as employment positions rather than conventional student admissions.

A funded doctoral position can therefore include:

Salary
Employment benefits
Research funding
Access to university facilities

Students interested in PhD opportunities should search Norwegian university career pages and academic vacancy portals.

4. Erasmus+ and Exchange Funding

Students already enrolled at universities outside Norway may have opportunities to study in Norway through exchange agreements.

Funding may come through:

Erasmus+
Bilateral university agreements
Institutional exchange programmes
Government or foundation schemes

This route can be financially different from applying for a full Norwegian degree.

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

Norway is not a low-cost destination.

Students should budget carefully for:

Rent
Food
Transport
Electricity
Internet
Mobile phone
Books
Clothing
Insurance
Leisure
Travel
Semester fees

For the 2026–27 academic year, Study in Norway lists estimated student living costs at:

NOK 15,488 per month

or approximately:

NOK 170,368 per year

These figures are useful for 2027 planning, but the amount for the 2027–28 academic year may be revised.

Estimated Monthly Student Budget in Norway

A student’s actual budget depends heavily on location and lifestyle.

Expense	Approximate Planning Range
Accommodation	NOK 5,000–10,000+
Food	NOK 3,000–5,000
Transportation	NOK 500–1,000
Phone/Internet	NOK 300–700
Study materials	NOK 300–800
Personal expenses	NOK 1,000–3,000+
Miscellaneous	NOK 500–1,500

These are planning ranges, not official fixed prices.

Students living in major cities may spend more, particularly on private accommodation.

Accommodation for International Students

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses.

Students may choose between:

Student Housing

Student welfare organisations, known as Samskipnad, provide housing and other student services.

Advantages can include:

Lower cost than some private options
Student community
Convenient location
Furnished options
Access to student services

However, housing can be competitive, especially in larger cities.

Shared Apartments

Sharing an apartment can significantly reduce costs.

Students may share:

Kitchen
Bathroom
Living room
Utilities
Internet

This can be a practical option for students with limited budgets.

Private Accommodation

Rentals may include:

Studio apartments
Private rooms
Shared flats
Apartments

Private accommodation can be considerably more expensive depending on the city.

Cost of Living in Oslo vs Other Norwegian Cities

Oslo is generally more expensive than many smaller Norwegian cities.

Students studying in cities such as:

Trondheim
Bergen
Stavanger
Kristiansand
Tromsø
Ålesund

may encounter different rental and transport costs.

However, lower rent does not automatically mean lower total living expenses.

Consider:

Accommodation
Transport
Food
Employment opportunities
Distance from campus
Climate
Availability of student housing

before choosing a city.

Norway Student Visa: Student Residence Permit

International students from outside the EU/EEA generally need a study permit if they intend to study in Norway for more than three months.

The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) is responsible for the immigration process.

The official Study in Norway portal states that non-EU/EEA/Swiss students need a study permit and must meet requirements including admission, full-time study, accommodation and financial support.

Norway Student Permit Requirements for 2027

Applicants should generally be prepared to demonstrate:

Admission to an approved Norwegian institution
Full-time study
Sufficient financial support
Accommodation in Norway
Valid identity documentation
Payment of the applicable application fee
Compliance with other UDI requirements

The exact requirements can depend on nationality and individual circumstances.

How Much Money Do You Need for a Norway Student Permit?

For the 2026–27 academic year, UDI lists the required living-cost amount as:

NOK 15,488 per month

or:

NOK 170,368 per year

This is the latest official amount available for planning purposes.

For a 2027–28 application, applicants should check UDI again because the financial requirement may be adjusted.

The money may be documented through sources such as:

Personal funds
Student loans
Grants
Funds held in a Norwegian bank account
Funds deposited in an institution’s account
A combination of permitted sources

If tuition fees apply, you must also demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover them or provide the required evidence of payment/exemption.

Does a Norway Study Permit Allow You to Work?

Yes.

International students granted a Norwegian study permit are generally allowed to work:

Up to 20 hours per week during the study period

and:

Full-time during holidays.

However, students should remember that studying is the primary purpose of the residence permit.

A part-time job should therefore supplement your budget rather than become the financial foundation of your study plan.

Popular Student Jobs in Norway

International students may find part-time opportunities in areas such as:

Restaurants
Cafés
Retail
Warehouses
Cleaning
Hospitality
Delivery
Customer service
University support roles
Research assistance
Tutoring

Norwegian language skills can increase the number of opportunities available.

Can Part-Time Work Pay Your Living Costs?

It may help, but you should not build your entire financial plan around part-time employment.

There are several reasons.

Your work hours may vary.

You may need time for:

Lectures
Assignments
Exams
Research
Group projects

You may also need to spend time learning Norwegian or adapting to a new academic system.

Most importantly, you must meet the immigration financial requirements before receiving the study permit.

Therefore:

Scholarship or personal funding first. Part-time employment second.

Health Insurance and Student Welfare

International students should understand the healthcare and insurance rules that apply to their situation.

Student welfare organisations also provide services that can include:

Student housing
Health services
Counselling
Sports facilities
Food services
Childcare
Student welfare support

The specific services vary by location.

Norwegian Language: Do You Need It?

You do not necessarily need Norwegian to study an English-taught programme.

However, learning Norwegian can be extremely useful.

It can help with:

Part-time employment
Social integration
Daily communication
Internships
Networking
Long-term employment
Understanding local culture

Students planning to remain in Norway after graduation should seriously consider learning Norwegian during their studies.

Best Study Areas for Students from Africa

Norway can be particularly interesting for African students considering fields related to:

Engineering

Renewable energy
Civil engineering
Mechanical engineering
Electrical engineering
Marine engineering

Technology

Computer science
Artificial intelligence
Data science
Cybersecurity
Software development

Environment

Climate science
Environmental management
Sustainability
Marine science
Arctic studies

Agriculture

Agricultural science
Food science
Biotechnology
Forestry
Animal science

Health

Public health
Global health
Biomedical sciences
Health management

Programme eligibility should always be checked individually.

Study in Norway Without Tuition: How to Look for Opportunities

If you are from Nigeria or another non-EU/EEA country and your budget is limited, do not simply search for:

“free universities in Norway.”

Instead, search for:

Tuition-exempt programmes
PhD positions
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Exchange programmes
University scholarships
Tuition waivers
NORPART opportunities
NORHED opportunities
Students At Risk opportunities where applicable
Fulbright opportunities where applicable

This approach produces more realistic results.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply to Study in Norway in 2027

Step 1: Choose Your Programme

Start with your academic field.

Use the official Study in Norway programme database to search for English-taught programmes.

Step 2: Check the Academic Requirements

Confirm:

Degree requirements
Required subjects
Minimum grades
English requirements
Work experience
Portfolio requirements
Programme-specific prerequisites

Step 3: Check Tuition

Determine whether:

You are exempt
The programme charges tuition
A tuition waiver exists
A scholarship is available
Payment is required before the Student Permit application

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Common documents may include:

Passport
Academic certificates
Academic transcripts
English test result
CV
Motivation letter
References
Portfolio where applicable
Course descriptions
Proof of work experience where required

Step 5: Apply to the University

Follow the institution’s application procedure carefully.

Do not submit incomplete applications simply because you are trying to beat a deadline.

Step 6: Apply for Scholarships

Where applicable, apply separately for:

Erasmus Mundus
University scholarships
External foundations
Exchange funding
PhD vacancies

Do not assume that admission automatically makes you eligible for every scholarship.

Step 7: Receive Your Admission

Once admitted, review the offer carefully.

Check:

Tuition
Start date
Registration deadline
Conditions
Deposit requirements
Housing information

Step 8: Arrange Accommodation

Apply for student housing as early as possible.

This is particularly important in cities where student accommodation is competitive.

Step 9: Prepare Your Student Permit Application

If you are a non-EU/EEA applicant, follow the current UDI process.

Prepare evidence of:

Admission
Funding
Housing
Tuition payment or exemption where applicable

Step 10: Travel to Norway

After receiving the necessary immigration approval, arrange:

Flight
Accommodation
Insurance
Airport transportation
Registration requirements
Bank arrangements
Student orientation

Study in Norway 2027 Application Timeline

A sensible preparation schedule can look like this:

2026

August–September

Research universities
Identify programmes
Check tuition
Review GSU requirements
Check English requirements

October–November

Prepare documents
Take IELTS/TOEFL if necessary
Contact universities
Research scholarships

November–January

Submit applications where deadlines fall during this period
Apply for relevant scholarships
Prepare financial documents

2027

January–April

Receive admission decisions
Confirm funding
Arrange accommodation

Spring/Summer 2027

Prepare Student Permit application
Pay tuition where applicable
Finalise travel arrangements

August–September 2027

Arrive in Norway
Complete registration
Attend orientation
Begin studies

Deadlines vary by programme, so this timeline should be adjusted to your university’s actual schedule.

Common Mistakes International Students Make

Mistake 1: Assuming Norway Is Free

The tuition-free reputation of Norway is outdated for many non-EU/EEA degree students.

Always check the current programme fee.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Living Costs

Even a tuition-exempt programme can become expensive if you cannot afford housing, food and transportation.

Mistake 3: Applying Only to Oslo

Norway has excellent institutions outside Oslo.

Consider:

Bergen
Trondheim
Stavanger
Tromsø
Kristiansand
Ålesund
Bodø
Other university cities

Mistake 4: Waiting Until 2027 to Start Research

For many international students, preparation needs to begin months before the intended intake.

Start researching in 2026.

Mistake 5: Relying on Agents

You do not need to pay an unofficial agent simply because they claim to have “inside access” to Norwegian universities.

Always verify information through the university and official government websites.

Mistake 6: Applying for a Programme You Are Not Academically Qualified For

Read the programme’s prerequisites carefully.

A strong academic record cannot replace a required prerequisite course.

Mistake 7: Assuming Part-Time Work Will Fund Everything

Part-time work is limited by the conditions of your study permit.

Your primary financial plan should already be secure before you travel.

Is Norway a Good Study Destination for Nigerian Students in 2027?

Norway can be worth considering for Nigerian students who are academically qualified and financially prepared.

However, the decision should be based on the complete cost of study rather than the old idea that all Norwegian public universities are free.

A Nigerian applicant should consider:

Tuition
Living costs
Student Permit requirements
Accommodation
Travel
Currency exchange rates
Scholarship availability
English-taught programmes
Career plans after graduation

For students interested in technology, engineering, sustainability, marine science, energy and environmental fields, Norway can be particularly relevant.

Can International Students Stay in Norway After Graduation?

Graduation does not automatically give an international student permanent residence or a right to remain indefinitely.

After completing studies, graduates need to determine which residence route may be available based on their circumstances.

Potential pathways can depend on:

Employment
Qualifications
Job offer
Salary
Immigration status
Other UDI requirements

Students who intend to build a career in Norway should research post-study immigration options well before graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Norway in 2027

Is Norway tuition-free for international students in 2027?

Not generally for degree-seeking students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Many such students must pay tuition, although exemptions apply to certain categories.

How much does it cost to study in Norway?

Costs depend on the university and programme. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students should budget for tuition where applicable in addition to living costs.

How much money do I need for the Norway Student Permit?

For the 2026–27 academic year, UDI lists at least NOK 170,368 for a full academic year, equivalent to NOK 15,488 per month. The 2027–28 amount may change.

Can I study in Norway in English?

Yes. Norway currently has hundreds of English-taught programmes, particularly at master’s level.

Can I study in Norway without IELTS?

Some applicants may qualify for alternative English documentation or an exemption, depending on the university and programme. Check the specific admission requirements.

Can Nigerian students study in Norway?

Yes. Nigerian students can apply to eligible Norwegian programmes. If they are not EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, they will generally need a study permit for studies lasting more than three months.

Can international students work in Norway?

Students with a Norwegian study permit can generally work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.

Are there fully funded scholarships in Norway?

There is no universal Norwegian government scholarship open to all international degree students. However, Erasmus Mundus, institutional scholarships, exchange schemes and funded PhD positions can provide significant financial support.

Is a master’s degree in Norway expensive?

It can be, particularly for students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland who are required to pay tuition. The exact cost depends on the programme.

Can I get a scholarship after receiving admission?

Some scholarships require admission first, while others use a separate application process. Check the scholarship’s own deadline and eligibility rules.

Does Norway offer PhD scholarships?

PhD positions in Norway are often advertised as employment opportunities. Some positions include salary and other employment benefits rather than being structured as ordinary tuition-paying student places.

Official Websites to Explore

For 2027 applicants, use official sources whenever possible because tuition fees, financial requirements, deadlines and immigration rules can change.

Study in Norway – Scholarships for Degree Students

Studying in Norway – Costs and Requirements

Study in Norway – Higher Education Institutions

Final Thoughts

Studying in Norway in 2027 can be an exciting opportunity for international students who want a research-focused education, strong academic environment and exposure to one of Europe’s most innovative societies.

But prospective students should approach Norway with realistic financial expectations.

The biggest change international applicants need to understand is that Norway is not universally tuition-free for students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Many degree-seeking students from countries such as Nigeria will normally need to pay tuition unless they qualify for a specific exemption.

At the same time, there are still ways to reduce the financial burden. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, university-specific funding, exchange programmes, tuition exemptions and funded PhD positions can all be worth investigating.

The latest official figure for student living costs is NOK 15,488 per month or NOK 170,368 per year for 2026–27. Students planning for 2027 should use this as a planning benchmark while waiting for the next official update.

For non-EU/EEA students, the Student Permit is another critical part of the process. You generally need admission to a qualifying full-time programme, adequate financial support and suitable accommodation. Once granted, the permit normally allows up to 20 hours of work per week during studies and full-time work during holidays.

The smartest approach is to start early.

Research programmes in 2026, compare tuition fees, identify scholarships, prepare your academic documents, check English-language requirements, apply before the relevant deadlines and verify every immigration requirement directly through UDI.

Norway may not be the cheapest destination in Europe, but for the right student, the combination of academic quality, research opportunities, international exposure and strong study infrastructure can make it a destination worth serious consideration in 2027.