The Ultimate Guide to Schools in Norway Offering Scholarships and How to Apply (2025)

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Norway has long been recognized as one of the top countries for quality education, equality, and access to opportunities. Its progressive policies and tuition-free public education make it a sought-after destination for international students. However, the cost of living in Norway is relatively high, which is why scholarships play a crucial role for many international applicants.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about schools in Norway that offer scholarships, including eligibility criteria, application steps, deadlines, and tips for success. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, you’ll find valuable insights here.

1. Why Study in Norway?

Here are some reasons Norway attracts thousands of international students every year:

  • Tuition-Free Education at Public Universities

  • High Quality of Life and Safety

  • English-Taught Master’s and Doctoral Programs

  • Innovative and Research-Oriented Institutions

  • Rich Cultural and Natural Environment

  • Work Opportunities for Students

  • Focus on Critical Thinking and Global Perspectives

2. Overview of Norway’s Education System

  • Bachelor’s Degree: 3 years

  • Master’s Degree: 2 years

  • Ph.D.: 3–4 years (with salaries for doctoral candidates)

Language of Instruction:

  • Bachelor’s: Mostly Norwegian, with some programs in English

  • Master’s/PhD: Numerous programs offered in English

3. Types of Scholarships Available in Norway

There are several types of scholarships for international students:

  • Government-Funded Scholarships

  • University-Specific Scholarships

  • Private Foundation Grants

  • Country-Based Scholarships

  • Research Scholarships (mainly for PhD and Postdoc)

  • Erasmus+ Mobility Grants

  • Quotas for Developing Countries (some being revived under new formats)

4. Top Universities in Norway Offering Scholarships

Here are some of the top Norwegian universities that provide financial support to students:

a. University of Oslo (UiO)

  • Oldest and largest public university

  • Offers PhD research grants, postdoc funding, and Erasmus+ grants

  • Some master’s programs offer tuition waivers or fellowships

b. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

  • Offers industrial PhD fellowships, research funding

  • Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

  • Specific scholarships through EU projects and partner institutions

c. University of Bergen (UiB)

  • Tuition-free education

  • Erasmus+, NORPART, and collaboration-based scholarships

  • Fully-funded PhDs available in many departments

d. BI Norwegian Business School

  • Private institution offering merit-based scholarships for Bachelor’s and Master’s

  • BI Presidential Scholarships

  • MSc International Scholarships for top-performing students

e. NHH Norwegian School of Economics

  • No tuition fees for EU/EEA students

  • Scholarships for excellent international MSc applicants

f. Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)

  • Scholarships through Erasmus+, EEA Grants

  • Focus on master’s and PhD collaboration programs

5. Scholarships for International Students

Though most Norwegian universities offer free tuition, scholarships help cover living expenses, which can be around NOK 120,000–150,000 (~$11,000–$14,000) per year.

Types of support include:

  • Monthly Stipends

  • Research Grants

  • Travel Allowances

  • Housing Subsidies

Most scholarships target master’s and PhD levels, with limited undergraduate opportunities.

6. Government-Funded Scholarships

a. Quota Scheme (Previously Active)

  • For students from developing countries

  • Covered tuition, living expenses, and travel

  • Currently replaced by NORPART and NORHED programs

b. Erasmus+ (EU Commission Program)

  • Students can study in Norway through exchange

  • Grants cover travel and living costs

c. NORPART (Norwegian Partnership Program for Global Academic Cooperation)

  • Scholarships for master’s and PhD students

  • Mainly available to students from Africa, Asia, and Latin America

d. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)

  • Fully-funded international programs

  • Norway participates in several EMJMD programs

7. University-Specific Scholarships

Here are examples of universities offering scholarships directly:

a. BI Norwegian Business School

  • BI Presidential Scholarships: Full or partial tuition for top academic performers

  • Bachelor International Scholarships

  • Renewable based on academic results

b. Nord University

  • Research scholarships for PhD in Biosciences, Business, and Education

  • Some internal funding for low-income international students

c. OsloMet

  • Scholarships for students from EEA/EU

  • Joint degrees with scholarship opportunities

d. UIT – The Arctic University of Norway

  • Funded PhD fellowships and postdoctoral positions

  • Partner-based scholarships through NORPART

8. Private and External Scholarships

Several private organizations and NGOs also offer funding:

  • The Leiv Eiriksson Mobility Programme

  • Eurasmus+ Partner Country Scholarships

  • The Research Council of Norway (RCN)

  • NOKUT Scholarships

  • NORHED Program

Students can also explore scholarships through:

  • Rotary International

  • Fullbright (for US students)

  • DAAD (for German citizens studying abroad)

9. Scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD Students

Bachelor’s Scholarships

  • Rare but available at private schools like BI and some through Erasmus+

Master’s Scholarships

  • Most widely available

  • Erasmus+, NORPART, and university-specific programs

PhD Scholarships

  • Fully-funded positions are common

  • Treated as paid job roles with salary and benefits

10. Scholarships by Country or Region

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Region Scholarship Opportunities
Africa NORPART, NORHED, Erasmus+
Asia Erasmus+, Joint Degrees, Partner Programs
Latin America NORPART, UiO and NTNU Collaborations
EU/EEA Tuition-free + Erasmus+ mobility funding
USA/Canada Fullbright, private scholarships

11. Scholarships for African, Asian & Developing Countries

Norwegian institutions are particularly open to students from:

  • Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda

  • India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal

  • Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines

  • Brazil, Colombia, Mexico

  • Many students from these regions receive support through NORPART, Erasmus+, and university partnerships

12. Tuition-Free Education in Norway

All public universities in Norway offer tuition-free education, even for non-EU international students. Students only need to pay a small semester fee (NOK 300–600).

However, living expenses are NOT covered, making scholarships necessary to live and study comfortably.

13. How to Apply for Scholarships in Norway

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Find Your Program

  • Use portals like StudyinNorway.no

  • Choose the program and verify the admission deadline

Step 2: Check Scholarship Availability

  • Visit the university’s official website

  • Look for “Financial Aid,” “Scholarships,” or “Funding” pages

Step 3: Prepare Documents

  • Academic transcripts and diplomas

  • CV/resume

  • Motivation letter

  • Research proposal (for PhD)

  • English language test (IELTS/TOEFL)

  • Reference letters

Step 4: Apply Online

  • Follow university application systems

  • Indicate scholarship interest in the admission form (some require separate applications)

Step 5: Await Admission and Funding Decision

  • If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview

  • Funding decisions usually arrive with admission letters

14. Common Application Requirements

  • GPA: Strong academic record (2:1 or higher)

  • English Test Scores: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+

  • Statement of Purpose: Clear goals and alignment with the program

  • Recommendation Letters: From academic or professional referees

  • Portfolio: For design or creative programs

  • Work Experience: Preferred for MBA or certain MSc courses

15. Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

  • Start Early: Application cycles begin 6–10 months before the intake

  • Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Show how you align with the university’s vision

  • Highlight Global Perspective: Norwegian schools value international collaboration

  • Apply to Multiple Programs: Increase your chances

  • Consider Smaller Universities: Less competition and more accessible scholarships

16. FAQs About Scholarships in Norway

Q: Can I work while studying in Norway?
A: Yes, up to 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

Q: Is there a tuition fee for international students in Norway?
A: No tuition fee at public universities, but private institutions like BI do charge tuition.

Q: Can I apply without knowing Norwegian?
A: Yes. Many master’s and all PhD programs are in English.

Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Yes. Spouse and children can apply for family reunification visas.

17. Living and Studying in Norway: Costs & Life

Expense Average Monthly Cost (NOK)
Rent 4,000 – 6,500
Food 2,500 – 3,500
Transportation 600 – 900
Books & Materials 300 – 700
Miscellaneous 1,000 – 2,000

Total Estimate: NOK 9,000 – 12,000/month (~USD 850 – 1,100)

18. Student Visa Process

Required Documents

  • Letter of admission from a Norwegian institution

  • Proof of financial means (approx. NOK 137,907 for one academic year)

  • Passport and ID photos

  • Health insurance

  • Visa application fee (NOK 5,300)

Application Process

  • Apply via Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website

  • Book an appointment at the nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate

  • Processing time: 1–3 months

19. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Norway remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking quality education, tuition-free universities, and funded opportunities. With a wide range of scholarships from the government, universities, and private partners, your dream of studying in a world-class country is within reach.

Whether you’re aiming for a master’s degree in business, a PhD in energy systems, or a bachelor’s in IT, start planning now. Apply early, craft a compelling application, and embrace your journey to study in Norway with a scholarship in 2025.

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