Scholarship in Norway: Requirements and more

Are you planning to study in the land of fjords and northern lights? In that case, knowing which are the best 5 scholarships to study in Norway will be of great help to you. This destination is known for its high academic standards, with universities and schools offering a wide variety of courses and programmes in English for students from all over the world. Added to this is the country’s excellent quality of life, its modern cities and beautiful landscapes. In short, studying in Norway is a unique opportunity to train professionally in one of the happiest countries in the world.

Today we tell you about the different scholarship options for undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate studies in any field of knowledge. With them you can cover part or all of your tuition, accommodation and living costs, allowing you to focus on your studies without additional worries.

Why study in Norway?

We’ll soon tell you about the 5 best scholarships to study in Norway, but first we want you to write down some reasons why you should choose Norway. For a start, it has one of the best education systems in the world, which in itself is a compelling reason to choose it.

But let’s not just focus on purely academic aspects. Norway is also the perfect destination for nature lovers, with majestic fjords, aurora borealis, national parks, crystal-clear lakes… If there’s one place in the world that allows you to combine academic training with the opportunity to explore natural wonders, Norway is it. Among other things, you can go hiking, kayaking or even take a cruise on Geirangerfjord, Norway’s most famous fjord and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nor should we forget its neat and safe cities, such as the country’s capital, Oslo, as well as Stavanger, Bergen and Tromso.

On the other hand, Norway’s economy is characterised by stability. As well as being one of the world’s largest oil and gas producers, it’s a pioneer in renewable energy, technology and sustainability, ensuring long-term economic growth. Its unemployment rate is one of the lowest in Europe and its labour market is characterised by dynamism. Training in technology, health or renewable energies is therefore a good idea. In addition, many programmes offer opportunities to work while you study, allowing you to gain work experience and support your expenses.

And if it’s the language you’re worried about, you’ll be glad to know that English is spoken in every corner of the country. Although Norwegian is the official language, most university programmes are available in English, making them accessible to students from all over the world. Even in cities like Oslo and Bergen, you can find work without speaking Norwegian.

If this isn’t enough for you, knowing that Norway is one of the safest countries in the world will convince you of the advantages of studying there. Cities and towns offer peace of mind to residents and visitors, with extremely low crime rates and a stable political environment.

In short, Norway offers a unique combination of Viking history, modern Nordic culture and a focus on human rights and environmental sustainability. Living and studying in this country will allow you to integrate into an open, advanced society, to perfect your English and to have access to the highest level of education.

The 5 best scholarships to study in Norway

That said, it’s time to tell you about the 5 best scholarships to study in Norway. They represent a great opportunity to study the country, providing the financial support students need to concentrate on their studies and enjoy all it has to offer.

First, here are two tips to help make your study abroad experience a success. For starters, be sure to sign up for a Holafly global Internet plan. With them you’ll have an unlimited connection that’ll allow you, among other things, to participate in uninterrupted virtual classes, download files (such as study material) and stay in touch with your loved ones all the time. The other piece of advice is to take out a health insurance. While some scholarships include it as part of their cover, if not, you can take it out privately and have the peace of mind that, in the event of any illness or accident, you won’t have to pay out large sums of money for medical care.

1. Scholarships from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has a scholarship programme for students wishing to pursue Master’s degrees in English in areas such as Chemistry, Biology, Health, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and many more. 

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology scholarships are a unique opportunity for those interested in training at one of the world’s most innovative and respected institutions. With benefits ranging from academic funding to access to cutting-edge resources, these are designed for students looking to make a difference in their fields of specialisation.

Coverage: NTNU scholarships are aimed at providing financial support and other essential benefits for students:

1. Tuition fee waiver: Additional administrative or academic costs.
2. Monthly stipend: Monthly stipend to cover accommodation, food and other basic expenses. Amounts typically range from kr11,000 NOK to kr13,000 NOK ($1,000 to $1,200) per month.
3. Research funding: In the case of PhDs, candidates can access additional funding for specific projects.
4. Health insurance: Access to the Norwegian public health system for international students.
5. Access to university resources: Including libraries, laboratories, technological tools and professional networking opportunities.

Requirements: In order to apply for this scholarship you’ll have to meet the following requirements:

• Be outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, or countries selected according to the specific calls.
• Be accepted in a master’s or doctoral programme at the University of Liège.
• Have an outstanding academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent in their previous studies.
• Proficiency tests in English such as TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent certificates.
• Present a clear and well-structured research proposal.

Programmes offered: NTNU scholarships are available for the following academic levels:

1. Master’s programmes: In areas such as technology, environmental sciences, engineering, biotechnology, computer science, architecture and more.
2. Doctoral programmes: In scientific, technological and social research.
3. Joint Programmes: NTNU collaborates with other international universities to offer dual degree or exchange programmes.

How to apply? The application process for NTNU scholarships is carried out through the following steps:

1. Choose a master’s or doctoral programme from NTNU’s educational offer.
2. Gather the required documents:
   • Cover letter.
   • Curriculum Vitae
   • Academic and language certificates.
   • Research proposal (for PhD).
3. Complete the application form through the official NTNU website.
4. Indicate interest in the scholarship through an additional form (only requested in some cases).
5. Send the application before the closing date for registration.

Opening date: Generally October each year.

Closing of applications: Around December/January of the following year.

2. Erasmus+ Scholarship

This EU-sponsored programme isn’t specific to Norway, but allows students to spend a semester or year at Norwegian universities as part of an exchange. Erasmus+ scholarship beneficiaries have the opportunity to study in high quality institutions, developing global skills and accessing multicultural experiences. The programme not only funds higher education, but also supports research projects and internships in key sectors.

Coverage: Erasmus+ is widely known for its generous coverage, making it one of the best scholarships to study in Norway. It includes:

• Monthly living allowance: A stipend that varies according to the cost of living in the host country. In Norway, this amount is considerably higher to cover the standard of living, due to the higher costs in the country.
• Tuition fee waiver: In most cases, the scholarship covers the full tuition fee for the academic programme.
• Transport support: Finances travel costs between the country of origin and the country of destination.
• Health and accident insurance: Provides basic medical cover to ensure the safety of the student during their stay.

Requirements: If you’re interested in obtaining this scholarship, you’ll have to meet the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in an academic programme that is part of the Erasmus+ consortium or be admitted to an Erasmus Mundus joint master programme.
• Be a citizen of an EU/EEA member country, associated country or global partner (in some cases).
• Have an outstanding academic average in the previous level of studies.
• Have certification of proficiency in the language in which the programme will be taught (usually English or the language of the host country).

Programmes offered: mainly exchanges for undergraduate and master’s programmes. Areas of expertise include genetics and animal breeding, social work, renewable energies and embedded computer systems.

How to apply? To apply for this scholarship you will have to select one of the programmes participating in the Erasmus+ consortium at Norwegian universities and submit your application to the relevant institution. The necessary documents are:

• Academic and language certificates.
• Cover letter and academic references.
• Erasmus+ application form.

Application date: Generally in January and February, although it varies according to the calendar of the home university.

Closing of applications: Between March and May, depending on the programme and the university.

Which universities participate in the programme? The University of Oslo, NTNU and the University of Bergen.

3. Scholarships for International Students of the University of Oslo (UiO)

The scholarship sponsored by the University of Oslo is aimed at international students interested in Master’s programmes taught in English. It offers financial support to students with outstanding academic performance, who seek to study in a first-class educational environment. The programmes focus on key areas such as natural sciences, humanities, technology and social sciences.

Coverage: The scholarship for international students at the University of Oslo includes:

• Full coverage of the tuition fees of the academic programme.
• An allowance to cover living expenses for the duration of the programme (between kr11,000 NOK and kr12,000 NOK per month, approximately $960 – $1,050).
• Basic health coverage through the Norwegian system.
• In some cases, it includes an additional amount for public transport and study materials

Eligibility: To be eligible as a beneficiary of the scholarship you’ll have to meet the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
• Have been accepted onto a master’s or doctorate program at UiO.
• Have a minimum average equivalent to a Norwegian B average or higher.
• Present a certificate of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent).
• Demonstrate the need for financial support in the scholarship application.

Programmes offered: Master’s degrees in areas such as technology, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities and public health; and doctorates.

How to apply? To apply for a scholarship at the University of Oslo you’ll first need to make sure that you meet the requirements of the programme you are interested in. Then, apply for admission before the closing date by submitting the following documentation:

• Academic certificates.
• Cover letter.
• Language tests.
• Scholarship application form (available on the UiO portal).

The entire process is carried out through the university’s web portal.

Opening of calls for applications: Usually in January.

Closing date for applications:End of March or according to the specific programme.

Start of the programme: In August of the corresponding academic year.

4. BI Presidential Scholarship

This scholarship is offered by BI Norwegian Business School, an independent foundation and Norway’s leading provider of business and management expertise. It’s aimed at outstanding international students who wish to pursue master’s programmes in business and management. With a strong focus on the business world, BI distinguishes itself as an educational institution for future leaders.

The BI Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious programmes of the Norwegian Business School. It aims to attract the best international and national talent, offering a unique opportunity to study in a high-level academic environment.

Coverage: The scholarship is highly competitive and offers comprehensive coverage including:

• Full tuition fee waiver: You won’t have to pay tuition fees for the entire duration of the programme (two years).
• In some cases, an additional allowance for living expenses is granted. This benefit is especially important for international students who need to finance their stay in Norway.
• International recognition: Being part of this programme guarantees a competitive advantage in the global job market due to the prestige of BI Norwegian Business School.

Requirements: The criteria you will have to meet in order to apply for this scholarship are:

• Demonstrate an outstanding academic record, with an outstanding average in previous studies.
• You must have been accepted to one of BI Norwegian Business School’s Master’s programmes.
• A strong letter of motivation is required, explaining your reasons for choosing the university and how the scholarship will contribute to your personal and professional goals.
• It’s recommended to include letters of reference highlighting relevant academic or work achievements.

Programmes offered: The scholarship is available exclusively for Master’s programmes in Finance, Business Administration, Strategy and Leadership and Quantitative Economics offered by BI Norwegian Business School. Date of implementation: Generally from November to March.

Where to apply: Directly through the BI Norwegian Business School portal. The steps to follow are:

1. Submit an application for admission to one of the eligible master’s programmes.
2. During the application process, select the option to apply for the BI Presidential Scholarship.
3. Attach the required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of motivation and references.
4. Meet deadlines to avoid exclusion from the process.

Opening and closing dates: Generally, the call for applications opens at the end of November and usually closes at the beginning of March, although it’s important to check the exact dates on the official website each year.

5. Nordplus Scholarship

The Nordplus Scholarship is an educational exchange programme promoted by the Nordic Council of Ministers. It’s designed to foster academic cooperation and mobility between the Nordic and Baltic countries, providing unique opportunities for students seeking international experiences in an enriching cultural and educational environment. It’s therefore aimed at students from Nordic and Baltic countries who wish to study in Norway as part of exchange programmes.

Coverage: The Nordplus Scholarship offers a set of benefits aimed at facilitating the student’s experience:

• Financial support for mobility: Funds are provided to cover travel and accommodation costs during the stay in the host country. The amounts vary depending on the distance between the country of origin and destination, but are generally between €200 ($209.54) and €600 ($628.61)
• Tuition fee exemption at participating universities.
• Access to academic and cultural networks: As a beneficiary, you’ll be able to participate in development programmes, workshops and events to enhance your knowledge and skills.
• Insurance coverage: In some cases, the programme covers basic health and accident insurance during the exchange period.

Eligibility: The criteria for applying for the scholarship are:

• Be citizens or permanent residents of one of the participating Nordic and Baltic countries: Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
• Be enrolled in a recognised higher education institution in one of the participating countries.
• Justify your interest in doing an exchange at a university or institution participating in the Nordplus programme.
• Demonstrate commitment to studies and a satisfactory academic record.

Programmes offered: Undergraduate, master’s and doctorate in various areas. Nordplus promotes cooperation in specific areas of research and joint programmes between universities.

Date of implementation: Depending on the participating university.

Where to apply: Through the student’s university or the official Nordplus website. The application process varies slightly depending on the participating institution, but the general steps are as follows:

1. Confirm eligibility: Verify that the home and host institutions are registered in the Nordplus programme.
2. Apply for the scholarship through your home university: Contact the international relations office of your university.
3. Complete the Nordplus application form: Include academic details, exchange proposal and estimated budget.
4. Send the required documents: Motivation letters, academic transcripts and letters of recommendation.

Opening: Calls for applications usually open in January.

Closing date: Applications are generally due by the end of March or early April, depending on the institution.

Tips on how to get a scholarship in Norway

You already know what are the nest scholarships to study in Norway. Now, you have the challenge of being chosen among all the participants. This challenge can be somewhat hard, as outstanding students from all over the world apply for them. Don’t worry! Far from discouraging you, this should be a motivation to do your best and get that scholarship you are longing for.

To help you, here are some tips to help you stand out from the competition:

1. Research available scholarships: Of course, the first thing to do is to research the different programmes offered by the government, universities and international organisations. Review the specific requirements for each case, their benefits and the focus of the programmes to identify which one best suits your profile.

2. Be academically prepared: Not everyone can get a scholarship to study in Norway, so make sure you meet certain requirements. For starters, you are required to maintain a high GPA in your previous studies (generally above 3.5 out of 4.0 or equivalent); to have a good command of English; and to have outstanding achievements such as publications, relevant projects or academic awards. If you have such acknowledgements, don’t hesitate to include them.

3. Develop a strong cover letter: A good cover letter can make the difference with the rest of the candidates. Try to be as original as possible and don’t use set phrases. The idea is to make it clear why you are choosing the country and programme you are applying to and how this relates to your personal and academic goals. At the same time, it doesn’t hurt to describe why you need the grant and what you can achieve with it.

4. Look for outstanding recommendations: Including letters of recommendation from professors, employers or academic supervisors to support your application can make a difference. Make sure your referrers know you well and are able to highlight your potential, achievements and skills.

5. Improve your English: Most of the study programmes offered in Norway are in English. A certification such as IELTS or TOEFL with scores above the minimum required will strengthen your profile. If you don’t feel confident with the language, you can take an intensive course before applying for the scholarship.

6. Familiarise yourself with the Norwegian education system: Knowing how universities and programmes work in Norway will help you demonstrate a genuine interest. Research teaching methodology, educational culture and how they link to your goals.

7. Present a clear study plan: Some scholarships, especially for master’s and doctoral degrees, require you to present a research or study plan. Make sure it’s well-structured and detailed and relevant to the programme or area of knowledge you are interested in. In addition, you can focus on how you’ll contribute through it to academic and social development.

8. Prepare all the required documentation: Getting a scholarship is a bureaucratic process in which a number of documents have to be submitted. These include academic certificates officially translated into English or Norwegian, an up-to-date CV adapted to the programme and, in some cases, a valid passport or study visa.

9. Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Applying early will allow you to correct mistakes, gather additional documents and submit a stronger proposal.

10. Take advantage of networking: If you have the possibility to consult with people who’ve obtained scholarships to study in Norway, don’t hesitate to do so. Their advice can help you better understand the process and avoid common mistakes.

11. Research additional costs: While scholarships usually cover tuition and some expenses, be sure to plan for additional costs such as accommodation, transport and materials. Some scholarships also require proof of additional funds for living expenses. If the scholarship allows it, you can work at the same time as you study. In that case, this guide will be of great help to you.

12. Use official resources: Always consult reliable sources such as official websites of Norwegian universities, scholarship programmes and embassies. This will ensure that you have the most up-to-date and correct information.

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The best universities to study in Norway

Education in Norway is an aspect to which the government attaches great importance, hence it has institutions of great prestige. Among the country’s leading universities are the University of Oslo, the University of Bergen, the University of Tromso, the University of Stavanger and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Each excels in specific areas and provides access to high quality programmes, master’s and doctoral degrees for national and international students.

The University of Oslo is Norway’s most prestigious university and enjoys worldwide recognition in the field of research. It has been established in the country’s capital since 1811 and has produced great talents, including 5 Nobel Prize winners in various fields of study. It currently has just over 28,000 enrolled students, 8 faculties, 2 museums and a library.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is based in the city of Trondheim and is a national leader in the field of technology. Established in 1760, it has over 40,000 students enrolled, making it the largest in the country. Its most relevant study programmes are in the fields of engineering, natural and physical sciences.

The cities of Tromso, Stavanger and Bergen are also home to major Norwegian universities. The first of these is located in the coastal town of the same name, in the north of the country and close to the Arctic Circle. It’s mainly focused on the field of climate change research, although it has a variety of study programmes.

Stavanger University is one of the newest and most modern universities in the country, having opened its doors in 2005. It has about 11,000 students and offers academic programmes in different fields of study. Finally, the University of Bergen was founded in 1946 and since then has been fully focused on research, mainly on marine and climate change related issues.

Scholarships to study in Norway: Frequently Asked Questions

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