Completing a university degree is often considered to be an expensive endeavour and tuition fees are usually making up the bulk part of the cost. Most Norwegian universities and state university colleges are publicly funded and the Norwegian government considers access to higher education for all to be an important part of the Norwegian society. Thus, as a rule Norwegian state universities and university colleges do not charge tuition fees. This also applies to foreign students, no matter which country you come from. However, you should take into consideration that living expenses in Norway are higher than in many other countries.
"Nothing is for free" is a saying that is true in many cases. But in Norway it is possible to get quality education without having to pay tuition fees. If certain prerequisites are met you could also be eligible for financial support that can pay for your living expenses. Through various fellowship programs, scholarship schemes or student loans, international students can receive funding for a full degree or a limited number of semesters.
No tuition fees
Generally, students at state universities and university colleges do not pay tuition fees. This is true for all levels, including undergraduate studies, Masters programs and Ph.D. programs. However, students must pay a semester fee of NOK 300-600 each semester. To take an exam this fee must be paid in full. But the fee also grants you membership in the local student welfare organisation, which in turn entitles you to several benefits. These benefits may include on campus health services, counselling, access to sports facilities and cultural activities.
Payment of the semester fee is also necessary to get an official student card that, among other things, gives you reduced fares on most forms of public transport and lower ticket prices to various cultural events.
Programs and courses with tuition fees
Most private institutions have tuition fees for all their programs and courses. But the fees are usually significantly lower than those of comparable studies in most other countries. Also, foreign students don't pay higher tuition fees than Norwegian students.
State universities and university colleges may have tuition fees for a few specialized programs. Typically these programs are at the Masters level.
