Norway tuition-free universities and scholarships in 2025 provide a rare and exciting opportunity for international students to earn a world-class degree without paying tuition fees.
Unlike many countries where international education comes with a hefty price tag, public universities in Norway offer free education to all students — regardless of nationality.
While tuition is free, students must cover their own living expenses. To help offset this cost, various scholarships, grants, and student welfare services are available through Norwegian government programs, university-specific aid, and international cooperation agreements.
Whether you’re seeking a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program, this detailed guide will walk you through the top tuition-free universities, available scholarships, application procedures, eligibility criteria, and how to fund your studies in Norway in 2025.
Why Study in Norway?
Before diving into scholarships and free universities, here are compelling reasons why Norway attracts thousands of students globally every year.
✅ Free Tuition at Public Universities
Norway is one of the only countries in Europe where both domestic and international students study without paying tuition at public institutions.
Globally Ranked Education
Norwegian universities are internationally respected, especially in fields like environmental science, engineering, data science, and Nordic studies.
English-Taught Programs
Over 200 English-taught master’s programs and several bachelor’s courses are offered across disciplines.
Safe, Clean, and Environmentally Conscious
Norway consistently ranks high in global safety, sustainability, and quality of life indexes.
Are Universities in Norway Really Tuition-Free in 2025?
As of the 2025 academic cycle, public universities in Norway no longer offer free tuition to non-EU/EEA students across all programs due to recent policy changes introduced in 2023. However:
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Some programs still waive tuition fees based on bilateral agreements, partnerships, or scholarship awards.
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EU/EEA, Swiss, and certain partner-country students still enjoy full tuition-free education.
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For others, select universities provide partial or full scholarships to cover the new tuition fees.
Therefore, while universal free education is no longer automatic, tuition-free study is still possible for non-EU students under certain conditions.
Top Tuition-Free or Low-Tuition Universities in Norway (With Scholarships)
The following universities either:
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Offer tuition-free education to eligible students (EU/EEA or under partnership schemes)
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Provide scholarships or fee waivers to non-EU students
1. University of Oslo (UiO)
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Norway’s oldest and most prestigious university
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Offers master’s programs in English
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Participates in Erasmus+ and NORPART scholarship programs
2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
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Located in Trondheim, strong in engineering and technology
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Offers full tuition waiver for students under Quota Scheme successor programs
3. University of Bergen (UiB)
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Offers tuition-free PhD programs with full salaries
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Master’s programs available in science, humanities, and social sciences
4. Nord University
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Known for business, biology, and aquaculture programs
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Offers limited scholarships for non-EU applicants
5. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)
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Highly competitive and tuition-free for all master’s students (2025 confirmation required)
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English-taught business programs
6. Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences
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Offers teacher training, public health, ecology
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Known for active participation in Erasmus+ and Nordic exchanges
Popular Scholarships for Studying in Norway – 2025
Since tuition fees are now in place for many non-EU/EEA students, scholarships play a vital role in reducing overall costs.
Here are the key options:
1. Erasmus+ Scholarships (for Master’s and Exchanges)
Who Can Apply: Students enrolled in Erasmus+ partner universities
What It Covers:
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Monthly stipend (€850 – €1,200)
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Travel and installation grant
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Tuition waiver through Erasmus mobility agreement
How to Apply: Apply through your home university’s international office or the Erasmus Mundus portal.
2. Quota Scheme Successors (Now Replaced)
Previously, the Quota Scheme offered full scholarships to students from developing countries. Though discontinued, many universities have retained elements of the scheme under their institutional agreements.
What It May Include:
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Full or partial tuition waiver
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Monthly stipend or accommodation support
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Priority to students from the Global South
Contact each university directly to check if Quota-based support is still offered in 2025.
3. NORPART (Norwegian Partnership Program for Global Academic Cooperation)
Target Group: Students from developing countries with institutional partnerships
Coverage:
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Tuition waiver
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Living support
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Research exchange funding
Typically limited to graduate-level students and PhD researchers under university-to-university partnerships.
4. SIU Grants (Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education)
Though not offered to individuals directly, SIU-funded programs support exchange-based scholarships, including:
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North–South–South Program
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Eurasia Program
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NORHED
These are available through existing academic collaborations. You must be nominated by your home institution.
5. Research Council of Norway (RCN) Scholarships for PhD/Doctoral Programs
Who Can Apply: International students pursuing funded research degrees
Coverage:
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Full salary (not just stipend)
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Conference and research support
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No tuition charged
These are employment-based PhD programs. Positions are posted year-round on university websites or Jobbnorge.no.
Estimated Cost of Living in Norway (2025)
While tuition may be waived or funded, living costs are not covered by most Norwegian institutions. On average:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (in NOK) | Equivalent in USD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (shared) | 3,500 – 5,500 | $330 – $520 |
| Food and groceries | 2,000 – 3,000 | $190 – $285 |
| Public transport | 500 – 800 | $47 – $75 |
| Study materials | 400 – 600 | $38 – $57 |
| Personal expenses | 1,000 – 1,500 | $95 – $140 |
| Total (approx.) | 7,500 – 11,000 NOK/month | $710 – $1,050/month |
How to Apply for Tuition-Free Study and Scholarships in Norway (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Shortlist Eligible Programs
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Visit Study in Norway
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Filter for programs taught in English
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Check each program’s tuition policy and scholarship availability
Step 2: Verify Your Eligibility
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Ensure your academic background matches admission requirements
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Check if you are from a partner country or eligible for tuition waivers
Step 3: Prepare Application Materials
| Required Documents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Certified academic transcripts | Translated into English or a Scandinavian language |
| Bachelor’s degree certificate | Required for master’s applicants |
| Proof of English proficiency | IELTS (6.5), TOEFL (90+), or equivalent |
| Statement of Purpose / Motivation | Clear and personal (focus on goals, development impact) |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | In Europass or university-accepted format |
| Letters of Recommendation | Two preferred, academic or professional |
| Passport copy | Identity and nationality verification |
| Proof of financial ability | Required for visa, unless funded by scholarship |
Step 4: Apply Online Through University Portals
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Deadlines usually range from December 1, 2024 to March 1, 2025
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Each university has its own portal and deadlines
Step 5: Apply Separately for Scholarships (if applicable)
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Some scholarships require separate applications
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Others are awarded automatically based on your admission performance
Step 6: Secure Proof of Funding (Visa Requirement)
Even if tuition is waived, you must show NOK 137,907 (~USD $13,000) to get a study visa. Scholarships, bank statements, or sponsorship letters are accepted.
Key Deadlines for 2025 Intake
| University | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| University of Oslo (UiO) | December 1, 2024 – January 15, 2025 |
| NTNU | December 1, 2024 – February 1, 2025 |
| University of Bergen | Opens mid-November, closes March 1, 2025 |
| NHH (School of Economics) | November 1, 2024 – February 15, 2025 |
| Nord University | Opens December 2024 |
Tips to Improve Your Chances
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Apply early — Norway has limited international quotas
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Write a customized and impactful motivation letter
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Highlight why Norway fits your academic and career vision
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Use a consistent CV format (Europass recommended)
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Provide clear evidence of funding if not applying for scholarships
Post-Graduation Opportunities
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Graduates can stay in Norway for up to 1 year to find a job (Job Seeker Visa)
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Norway has a growing demand in IT, engineering, green energy, and healthcare
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Career services at universities help with internships and job placements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is tuition still free for international students in 2025?
A: Partially. As of 2023, non-EU/EEA students may need to pay fees at some universities. However, scholarships and waivers are still available.
Q: Can I work during my studies in Norway?
A: Yes, students on a study visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks.
Q: Is IELTS required for Norwegian universities?
A: Yes, unless you’ve studied previously in English-speaking institutions. Most programs require IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90+.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Yes, you may apply for family reunification, but financial support evidence is needed for dependents.
People also read: Australia Awards Scholarships for Developing Countries – Fully Funded
Norway tuition-free universities and scholarships in 2025 are still a practical and high-value option for international students.
While some tuition policies have changed, there remain numerous fully funded opportunities, especially for master’s and PhD programs backed by strong institutional and government support.
If you’re looking to study in a country known for its quality of life, academic rigor, and progressive values — Norway is still one of the best choices. Start early, choose programs strategically, and submit a strong, well-documented application to stand out in a competitive field.
