Your Ultimate Guide to Student Life in Norway (6 Tips)

Who would not love to stay in the country dubbed as the ‘world’s happiest nation’? We definitely do not want to miss the chance, and we know you have the same thought. Well, your chance to experience the jovial Norwegian life can happen when you go to study in Norway. Although it is located in the northernmost part of the European continent, Norway has several striking features which will convince you to choose it as your study abroad destination. Before you make travel arrangements and apply for university admission and your student visa, we think you could use some guidance for your upcoming endeavor. At Edarabia, we want you to get the most comprehensive information about the journey you wish to embark on.

What you need to know about Norway

Besides being the world’s happiest country, Norway is also one of the world’s most peaceful countries.
Originally known as Nordweg (meaning the”Northern Way”), Norway is officially called the Kingdom of Norway or “Kongeriket Norge”.
Norway exports the largest supply of salmon.
The Norwegians are sporty folks, fond of playing football, ski, and chess.
You can witness the breathtaking Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights in Norway.
There is a large concentration of fjords in the country. In fact, the Geiranger Fjord and the Nærøy Fjord are two Norwegian fjords on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The popular Nobel Peace Prize awarding ceremonies happen in Norway.

3 Reasons to Study in Norway

While we know you do not need further convincing about going to Norway for your degree program, allow us to mention the top reasons that make Norway irresistible for international students. Below are the three primary reasons why you should pick Norway as your number one study abroad destination choice.

1. Ideal Society and Lifestyle
Norway did not earn the label ‘world’s happiest country’ for nothing. It got the recognition because of its citizens’ positive perception on national corruption, freedom, peace, and generosity. Of course, the economic and medical welfare of the people are included in the criteria, for which Norway scores very high. Everyone can say that Norway is a modern society that fuses traditional principles with innovative standards. When you live in this country, you will not only enjoy the convenience of life through up-to-date technologies, but a safe environment where you can walk the streets at night without fear of getting robbed or fooled.

2. Education Standard
In Norway, international students have a lot of universities to choose from. Even though it is a small country, Norway has public and private universities and specialized institutions. It offers degree programs taught using the English language so as to cater to international students. This is a country where education is given priority by the government. Hence, it might surprise you that free education is a real assistance in the country, even for international students.

3. Natural Beauty
Norway is a natural beauty. From its concentration of fjords that belong to the UNESCO World Heritage list to the midnight sun, Norway will be a perfect destination for international students who want a new environment. As you pore over your books, we know you wish to go for an escape from time to time. Well, in Norway, this is possible. You can just travel for a few hours, and witness the northern lights. You can also try outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing. All of these are within your reach as an international student in Norway.

Norway is not one to disappoint. This is one of those countries which you will always return to and discover something new every time.

Things to Prepare Before Studying in Norway

Studying abroad is a huge step. It will contribute to your development as a social being, as well as to your professional development, which will open new doors for you. Before you take on the journey, however, there are things you should prepare to make sure you will have a clear and paved path. Take note of the list below for the essentials you need to take care of before flying to Norway:

Register in the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS) before March 1st to begin your university admission applications in Norway.
If you are an EU/EEA citizen, you are allowed to study in Norway without a visa, although you will need to apply for a residence permit. This will ask you to detail how you plan to finance your studies in the country.
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you have to undergo the process of securing a visa and a student residence permit. Check out our How to Apply for a Student Visa in Norway article to help you.
Arrange your accommodation in Norway. You have several options on where to spend your student life in the country, although we would recommend that you stay in student residence halls provided by your university as they are comparatively cheaper.
Make sure you have a secure financial plan for the duration of your stay in Norway. While there may be free education, the cost of living in the country is high.
Book your travel tickets to Norway. The easiest way to go to this country is via air transfer, although you can also opt for other options, such as land or ferry.

What to Expect of Norway

We know your expectations of Norway are high given the information above. Nonetheless, here are other aspects of Norwegian student life you ought to know.

As an international student in Norway, you need to have an 11-digit Norwegian identity number (your date of birth plus a random 5-digit personal number), issued by a local tax office. This is an important identity number which will let you open a bank account, get a student card, or do other transactions in Norway. You may ask your university for further guidelines.
Even though tuition fees are practically free in Norway, you should expect to pay student and miscellaneous fees upon enrolment.
International students can turn to student welfare organizations located in university campuses for whatever assistance they may need.
Students in Norway will find a welcoming environment that will suit their learning and living preferences.

Now that you have a better idea of what international student life in Norway is like, you are ready to take on this important journey. Check out our related pages below to further assist in your preparations.