- Public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students, making it an affordable destination for higher education.
- While the cost of living is high, averaging NOK 12,000 to NOK 20,000 per month, the lack of tuition fees offsets some of these expenses.
- Norway offers a wide range of Bachelor's and Master's degrees, catering to various academic interests and career goals.
Norway is an exceptional European destination for international students, celebrated for its world-class academic standards and breathtaking natural scenery. While the cost of living ranges from NOK 12,000 to NOK 20,000 per month, Norway remains a premier choice for students worldwide because public universities do not charge tuition fees for domestic or international students. This policy allows you to access a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost found in other countries.
Browse our comprehensive portals to explore a vast array of study programs tailored to your academic interests and future career aspirations.
Affordable universities in Norway, according to our data:
Below is a selection of Norwegian universities that offer cost-effective, high-standard Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs for both local and international students:
- (UiO)
- (NTNU)
- (UiB)
- (NHH)
- (UiT)
While many institutions provide affordable options, these universities are highly recommended based on the wealth of programs available on our portals. Explore the details for each below:
1. University of Oslo (UiO), Oslo
The University of Oslo, located in the nation’s capital, is the oldest and largest public university in the country. Renowned for excellence in research, law, medicine, and the humanities, UiO provides tuition-free education. Students only need to pay a modest semester fee. You will enjoy a vibrant campus life in a city known for its rich cultural history and stunning natural scenery.
2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim is Norway’s leading institution for engineering and technology. Known for pioneering research in natural sciences and tech fields, NTNU offers tuition-free study with only a small semester fee. Students thrive in Trondheim's dynamic, community-oriented atmosphere filled with diverse student organizations.
3. University of Bergen (UiB), Bergen
The University of Bergen (UiB) is a premier public university celebrated for its research output in social sciences, humanities, and marine studies. UiB provides tuition-free academic programs, requiring only a small semester fee. Situated in a picturesque coastal city, Bergen offers a rich cultural backdrop and a lively, engaging student life.
4. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH), Bergen
The Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) in Bergen is a top-tier business school renowned for its rigorous programs in economics and administration. As a public institution, NHH offers tuition-free education with a small semester fee. Its strong industry connections provide excellent career prospects, while the active student community ensures an enriching experience.
5. University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), Tromsø
The UiT The Arctic University of Norway, based in Tromsø, is uniquely focused on indigenous and Arctic studies, along with robust programs in fisheries and health sciences. Providing tuition-free education for everyone, the university offers a one-of-a-kind Arctic experience, including opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights and outdoor adventures in a tight-knit campus environment.
6. Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås
The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), situated in Ås, specializes in veterinary medicine, environmental sciences, and agriculture. NMBU provides tuition-free education with only a nominal semester fee. The campus is known for its strong community spirit and a deep focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
7. Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, various locations
The Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) operates across multiple campuses, including Bergen and Sogndal. It is highly regarded for its professionally oriented curricula in health, education, and engineering. As a public university, it provides tuition-free education plus a small semester fee. Students enjoy a supportive atmosphere and access to the spectacular natural landscapes of Western Norway.
What are the most affordable tuition options for international students in Norway?
Norway is exceptional for its tuition-free policy at public universities, which applies regardless of your nationality. This covers most undergraduate and postgraduate programs, cementing Norway’s status as a highly accessible destination for global scholars. Note that private universities do charge tuition fees, which can be significant.
Conclusion
- Tuition fees are pretty much non-existent for domestic students in public institutions for both Bachelor’s and Master’s. However, private institutions may charge fees. The same applies to international students.
- Most non-free Master’s programmes for international students in Norway listed on Online Result cost between NOK 8,000 and can go higher than NOK 35,000.
- Regarding paid Master’s in Norway, anywhere between 8,000 and 15,000 NOK can be considered moderately affordable.
The tuition data provided for domestic and international students is derived from programs listed on our platforms as of the publication date of this guide.
In summary, Norway provides a rare opportunity to earn a high-quality degree without tuition fees at public institutions. While the cost of living is a factor to consider, the lack of tuition makes the country a highly attractive option. With prestigious institutions and diverse programs, students can achieve their academic goals while enjoying Norway’s innovative culture and natural beauty.
Methodology
- We used real data from Online Result analysts to compile the list of universities and tuition fees for affordable degrees.
- We examined all full-time Bachelor's and Master's degrees in this country that are listed on our portals for both domestic and international students.
- In this article, "cheap" or "affordable" means that the tuition fees are lower than what 75% of other universities charge on our website.
- Sometimes, we use the term “moderately affordable,” which means the tuition fees are cheaper than what half of the universities charge but more expensive than the lowest 25%.
- For practical reasons, we've rounded up (or down) all tuition fee values.
Disclaimer: The information presented is subject to change. Please verify the current tuition fee policies directly on the official university websites, as details can vary between programs and academic years.
Other resources:
- Tuition-Free Universities in Finland, Norway and Germany
- How to Apply to an International University in Norway
- Study in Norway: Tuition Fees and Living Costs
- Best English-Taught Universities in Norway
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is tuition-free education available for international students in Norway?
Yes, public universities in Norway are tuition-free for both domestic and international students, making it a highly accessible choice for higher education.
2. How much are the living costs for students in Norway?
The average monthly cost of living in Norway ranges from NOK 12,000 to NOK 20,000. This estimate covers essential expenses, including housing, sustenance, transportation, and personal necessities.
3. Do private universities in Norway charge tuition fees?
Yes, private universities in Norway do charge tuition fees, which can differ substantially depending on the specific institution and the chosen course of study.
4. Are there any additional fees for students at public universities in Norway?
Students at public Norwegian universities are required to pay a nominal semester fee, which is utilized to support student welfare services and administrative functions.