Fully funded scholarships in Norway for international students 2026. Scholarships in Norway 2026: Fully Funded Opportunities for International Students. Norway has quietly become one of the most attractive destinations for international students looking to pursue higher education without drowning in debt. Unlike many Western nations where tuition fees run into tens of thousands of dollars, Norwegian public universities have maintained a remarkable policy — free tuition for everyone, regardless of nationality. When you layer fully funded scholarships on top of that, the proposition becomes almost impossible to ignore.
I remember first discovering this while helping a friend research study abroad options back in 2019. We were both stunned. A country ranked among the world’s highest for quality of life, offering world-class education at virtually no cost? It sounded too good to be true. But it wasn’t. And in 2025-2026, the opportunities have only expanded. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about securing a scholarship to study in this beautiful Scandinavian country.
Scholarships in Norway
Scholarships in Norway cover a wide spectrum of funding opportunities designed for students at every academic level. Whether you’re seeking a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a PhD, Norwegian institutions and government bodies offer structured financial support that can cover your living expenses, provide a monthly stipend, and sometimes even fund your travel and accommodation. The landscape includes government scholarships, university-specific awards, research grants, and international programmes like Erasmus Mundus.
🌍 More Available Scholarships
What makes Norway particularly unique among European scholarships is that most public universities charge zero tuition to all students, including non-EU students. You typically only pay a small semester fee — usually around 300-600 Norwegian kroner — which grants you membership in the student welfare organisation and access to discounted services. Private university scholarships exist as well, though they follow different structures.
For students from developing countries, several dedicated schemes provide complete financial coverage, including health insurance, book allowance, and relocation assistance. The application process varies by institution and programme, but the core principle remains consistent: Norway genuinely invests in international education and academic cooperation.
Why Study in Norway on a Scholarship
Norway’s tuition-free public universities aren’t the only reason students flock here. The country consistently ranks among the top globally for research excellence, innovation, and sustainable development. Its progressive education system emphasises academic freedom, critical thinking, and collaboration — a sharp contrast to the rote memorisation models prevalent in many parts of the world.
The multicultural environment in cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim creates genuine international exposure. You’ll find English-taught courses across virtually every discipline, from marine biology to artificial intelligence. Norwegian universities appear prominently in the QS and Times Higher Education world rankings, which strengthens your credentials on the global job market.
🌍 More Available Scholarships
Beyond academics, Norway offers a safe country with an extraordinarily high standard of living. The Nordic culture values equality, transparency, and social welfare. Students can obtain a work permit during studies, typically allowing up to 20 hours per week of employment. After graduation, a post-study work visa gives you breathing room to find employment opportunities in a technology sector that’s booming with demand for skilled professionals. Add in the beautiful landscapes – fjords, northern lights, and the midnight sun – and it’s hard to find a more compelling combination for affordable study abroad.
Norwegian Government Scholarships for International Students
The Norwegian government scholarship ecosystem has evolved over the years. The former Quota Scheme, which funded thousands of students from developing countries and priority regions, was restructured. In its place, programmes like NORPART and those administered by DIKU (now part of HK-dir, the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education) continue to fund academic cooperation and student mobility.
Through NORPART, Norwegian institutions partner with universities in the Global South to facilitate student and staff exchange. These partnership programmes often include a monthly stipend, travel grant, and health insurance for participating students. The Norwegian Ministry of Education oversees the strategic direction, while individual institutions handle the application process.
Bilateral agreements between Norway and specific countries also open doors to scholarships. These government-funded opportunities focus on capacity building, cultural exchange, and research fellowship placements. Students from BRICS nations, South countries, and other priority regions often receive preferential consideration. The key is checking the application deadline early — these programmes fill up quickly. Some embassies also administer embassy scholarships for foreign nationals from specific countries.
Additionally, Lånekassen (the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund) provides financial support primarily to Norwegian and EEA students, but certain categories of international residents may also qualify depending on their immigration status and duration of residency.
University of Oslo Scholarships
The University of Oslo (UiO), Norway’s oldest and largest university, located in the capital city, offers numerous scholarship paths for international students. Founded in 1811, UiO has a storied history — it even hosts the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony annually. With faculties spanning the Faculty of Humanities, Faculty of Social Sciences, Faculty of Law, and Faculty of Medicine, the range of disciplines is vast.
For master’s scholarship seekers, UiO offers several English-taught master’s programmes that are completely tuition-free. The competition lies not in affording the programme but in gaining admission. Academic merit, a strong GPA requirement, compelling recommendation letters, and a thoughtful statement of purpose are your tickets in. Some faculties also offer dedicated PhD fellowship positions and research assistantship roles that come with full salary packages.
Fully Funded Scholarships in the USA for International Students (2027 Guide)
Doctoral research and postdoctoral fellowship opportunities at UiO are typically advertised as employment positions rather than traditional scholarships. This means you receive a competitive Norwegian salary, pension contributions, and full benefits. The application portal UiO (Jobbnorge) is where most of these positions are listed. The Oslo metropolitan area offers reasonable student accommodation options through SiO housing, though demand consistently exceeds supply, so early application is critical.
The world ranking of the University of Oslo — regularly appearing in the top 100-150 on QS and Times Higher Education lists — adds significant weight to your degree. For anyone considering graduate admissions in Europe, UiO deserves serious attention.
University of Bergen Scholarships
Situated in western Norway, the University of Bergen (UiB) is a research-intensive institution with particular strengths in marine research, climate research, and global development studies. Bergen city itself is UNESCO-listed and offers a stunning coastal setting that makes daily student life genuinely enjoyable.
UiB offers tuition exemption on all its programmes and provides several research grants and fully funded PhD positions across its faculties. The Meltzer Foundation is one notable internal funding source that supports promising researchers. Faculty positions and PhD positions at UiB are regularly advertised with competitive salaries, making the doctoral experience financially comfortable.
The university’s international master’s programmes span social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, fine arts, and environmental science. English-medium instruction is standard at the graduate level. UiB also participates actively in Erasmus partnership networks and Nordic collaboration agreements, meaning students can spend semesters at partner institutions across Europe without additional costs.
The Bergen University Fund provides additional support for interdisciplinary research projects. The application process at UiB is straightforward—you apply through the university’s digital portal, submit your academic documentation, and await the graduate admissions decision. Student exchange opportunities further enrich the experience.
NTNU Scholarships (Norwegian University of Science and Technology)
NTNU — the Norwegian University of Science and Technology — is the country’s largest university and its premier technical university, headquartered in Trondheim. If your interests lie in engineering scholarships, STEM programmes, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or civil engineering, NTNU is where you want to be.
The university’s innovation campus culture fosters entrepreneurship alongside academic rigour. Programmes in architecture, applied mathematics, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and biotechnology attract top talent from across the globe. All tuition-free programmes at NTNU at the master’s and doctoral level are taught in English, and the semester fee at NTNU remains minimal.
NTNU PhD fellowship positions are salaried employment positions within Norway’s public pay scale. They include pension, holiday pay, and social security benefits. For master’s students, the NTNU master’s scholarship opportunities are more limited in number but still accessible, particularly for students from partner institutions in developing countries. NTNU international students form a vibrant community, and student housing in Trondheim is managed by the local Studentsamskipnaden.
The NTNU application deadline typically falls between December and February for autumn admission. The faculty of engineering and departments in industrial ecology and renewable energy are among the most competitive. Checking the specific programme’s application portal well in advance is essential.
UiT The Arctic University of Norway Scholarships
If you’re drawn to unique research environments, UiT — The Arctic University of Norway — in Tromsø is the world’s northernmost university and a leader in Arctic research. From marine biology and space physics to indigenous studies and Sami culture, UiT covers academic ground that few institutions anywhere can match.
UiT scholarships for international students include PhD fellowships at UiT, postdoctoral positions, and research grants at UiT. The university’s master’s programmes at UiT are predominantly English-taught programmes in Tromsø, making them fully accessible to non-Norwegian speakers. Research into the polar environment, climate change research, fisheries science, telemedicine, and rural health receives substantial government and institutional backing.
UiT participates actively in international collaboration initiatives, including the Arctic Council working groups. Tuition-free education at UiT applies to all international students at the public institution level. Student life in Tromsø is surprisingly vibrant for a city above the Arctic Circle — the northern lights are a genuine daily spectacle during winter months. Campus housing at UiT is affordable relative to southern Norwegian cities. Check the application portal UiT for current openings and deadlines.
Scholarships in Norway Without IELTS
One of the most common questions I encounter is whether you can get Norway scholarships without IELTS. The answer is yes — many Norwegian universities offer an IELTS waiver or accept English proficiency alternatives. This is a significant advantage for students who may find the IELTS test expensive, inaccessible, or simply unnecessary given their educational background.
If your previous degree was taught entirely in English, most universities will accept a medium of instruction certificate from your former institution as proof of language proficiency. Some universities also accept the Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, Cambridge English qualifications, or a TOEFL waiver scenario where your undergraduate studies were conducted in English.
The University of Oslo without IELTS is achievable if you hold an English-taught bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution. Similarly, NTNU without IELTS and UiB without IELTS have provisions for students from Commonwealth countries or those who can demonstrate their English language requirement has been met through prior education. This language proficiency exemption path makes Norway one of the most accessible study-without-IELTS destinations in Europe.
Always verify the specific documentation requirements and alternative English proof accepted by your target program. Each faculty may have slightly different standards. The key is proactive communication with the admissions office — in my experience, Norwegian universities are remarkably responsive and helpful.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway 2025-2026
The phrases “fully funded scholarships Norway 2025” and “fully funded scholarships 2026” generate enormous search interest – and for good reason. A complete financial coverage package eliminates the stress of figuring out how to afford life in one of the world’s most expensive countries.
A typical full scholarship benefits package includes tuition coverage (which, at public universities, is already zero), a monthly stipend amount ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 Norwegian Kroner per month, a travel allowance for initial relocation, health insurance coverage, and sometimes an accommodation support component. PhD candidates hired as research fellows earn substantially more — often 500,000+ NOK annually — since their positions are classified as employment rather than scholarships.
Additional perks can include a book allowance, research funding for fieldwork or lab materials, conference travel grant allocations, and even mentorship programme support. Some institutions provide visa sponsorship assistance and orientation programme services for incoming students. The goal of these fully funded master’s Norway and fully funded PhD Norway packages is to create a no-financial-burden pathway to world-class education.
The scholarship value varies by institution, programme, and funding source. Government-backed schemes tend to offer the most generous financial support package, while university-internal awards may focus primarily on the living allowance component. Always calculate your total budget planning needs against the tax-free stipend offered.
Norway Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
Finding undergraduate scholarships in Norway requires a slightly different approach than graduate-level funding. Since tuition-free bachelor’s programmes at public university institutions are already free, the primary financial challenge for bachelor’s degree students in Norway is covering living costs.
Some students explore the folk high school route – unique Scandinavian institutions offering a foundation year of non-degree study that can ease the transition into Norwegian higher education. Certain private foundations and organisations offer freshman scholarship awards, though these are less common and more competitive. International bachelor’s programmes taught in English are available but less numerous than master’s-level options.
The application deadline for undergraduate admissions typically requires submission of your high school diploma, academic transcript, and proof of English proficiency. Minimum GPA thresholds vary by programme. Extracurricular activities, volunteer experience, and demonstrated leadership qualities can strengthen your application at institutions that use holistic review.
For young scholars considering a gap year before applying, Norway’s system is generally flexible about age requirement considerations. Credit transfer from other institutions and sophomore transfer options exist but are handled case-by-case. The university admission bachelor’s process goes through the centralised Norwegian admission system for most programmes, with entrance examination requirements differing by field.
Norway Scholarships for Masters and PhD Students
The bulk of funded international positions in Norway exist at the graduate level. Master’s scholarships in Norway and PhD scholarships in Norway are where the real abundance lies. Graduate scholarships and postgraduate funding options range from partial living cost support to full employment-level salaries.
For research-based master’s and thesis-based programme tracks, some departments offer teaching assistantship positions that provide both income and valuable academic experience. The master’s thesis component is central to most Norwegian graduate programmes, and strong research proposal writing can set you apart during the application process.
PhD study in Norway is structured as employment. A doctoral fellowship or PhD candidate position typically lasts three to four years, includes research project funding, and requires a supervisor requirement to be met before or during the application. Your academic CV, academic publications, and scholarly output — particularly in peer-reviewed journals — weigh heavily in the selection process.
Advanced opportunities include cotutelle agreement arrangements (joint supervision between Norwegian and foreign universities), joint degree and dual degree programmes, and participation in national research schools. Conference participation, building your H-index, and contributing to interdisciplinary PhD research projects are all valued. Graduate school admission in Norway is highly competitive at the doctoral level but incredibly rewarding for those who succeed.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in Norway
The Erasmus Mundus programme, funded by the European Commission, offers some of the most prestigious and financially generous scholarship opportunities accessible through Norwegian universities. These joint master’s degree programmes involve studying at multiple consortium universities across different European countries — a truly transformative cross-cultural experience.
An Erasmus scholarship under the EU-funded scholarship framework typically includes full tuition coverage, a monthly allowance of approximately €1,400 for non-European students, travel cost reimbursement, and installation costs to help with initial setup in each country. The Erasmus+ programme also supports credit mobility for shorter exchange periods.
Several Norwegian partner universities participate in Erasmus Mundus joint programme offerings across fields like environmental science, public health, engineering, and education. Students from partner countries (essentially non-EU/EEA nations) receive the largest scholarship packages. The Erasmus application portal centralises most applications, though individual programme consortia may have their own submission systems.
The selection is fiercely competitive — academic excellence at Erasmus is non-negotiable. A strong academic record, clear motivation, and relevant experience are essential. The learning agreement and inter-institutional agreement frameworks ensure your credits are recognised across all participating institutions. For students in programme countries (EU/EEA), smaller but still meaningful grants are available. If you’ve ever dreamed of studying across borders within European higher education, Erasmus Mundus through a Norwegian university is the gold standard.
Research Council of Norway Funding
The Research Council of Norway (Norges Forskningsråd) is the country’s primary body for national research funding. While it doesn’t directly offer scholarships to individual students, it funds the research grants in Norway that universities then use to hire PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and project staff. Understanding this system is crucial for anyone targeting research-intensive positions.
The Council supports basic research, applied research, and innovation funding across all academic domains. Its priority research areas include climate and environment, energy research, health research, social sciences research, humanities funding, and technology innovation. The FRIPRO programme specifically targets young research talents and competitive funding for groundbreaking independent research.
Through its Centres of Excellence scheme, the Research Council provides long-term funding to the country’s strongest research groups. Industry collaboration and industrial PhD programmes bridge the gap between academia and the commercial sector. Research infrastructure investments ensure that Norwegian institutions remain at the cutting edge.
Norway also participates in Horizon Europe, making researchers eligible for ERC grants and Marie Curie fellowship opportunities. Bilateral research cooperation agreements with countries worldwide facilitate international research partnership projects and researcher mobility through postdoctoral grant schemes. For ambitious researchers, the Research Council’s funding ecosystem represents a gateway to some of the world’s best-resourced academic environments.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Norway
Navigating the scholarship application process in Norway can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into manageable steps simplifies everything. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide based on both research and personal experience helping applicants.
First, identify your target programmes and scholarships. Use the Study in Norway official portal and individual university websites. Prepare your application documents well in advance: this includes your academic transcripts (often requiring certified copies and sometimes notarised documents), CV preparation aligned with European standards, a compelling motivation letter, and strong recommendation letters from academic referees. Some programmes require translation requirements — documents not in English or Norwegian must be professionally translated.
Submit your online application through the university’s application portal Norway or the centralised Norwegian admissions system. Pay attention to any application fee (many Norwegian universities don’t charge one, but some programmes do). The admission timeline generally runs from October through February for the following autumn semester. Early application advantage is real — submitting early shows seriousness and sometimes allows time for corrections.
After submission, the shortlisting process begins. The scholarship committee evaluates applications based on selection criteria, including merit evaluation, relevant experience, and alignment with programme goals. Some programmes conduct interviews — interview preparation matters. Once selected, you’ll receive an acceptance letter and must complete enrolment confirmation. Then begins the student visa application process: you’ll need a residence permit from UDI, a police certificate, proof of financial guarantee, and sometimes a health examination. Create a thorough pre-departure checklist to stay organised.
Eligibility Criteria for Norway Scholarships
Understanding eligibility requirements before you apply saves enormous time and frustration. Norway’s scholarship landscape has both universal standards and programme-specific conditions.
Most scholarships require a minimum academic qualification — typically completion of a bachelor’s degree for master’s programmes or completion of a master’s degree for doctoral studies. A minimum GPA requirement is common, often around 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. English proficiency requirements must be demonstrated through IELTS, TOEFL, or approved alternatives. Age limit restrictions are rare in Norwegian higher education, though some fellowship programmes targeting young scholars may specify ranges.
Nationality requirement and country-specific eligibility apply to certain schemes. Government scholarships often target developing country preference candidates from the GSU list or quota country designations. Your academic background and relevant field of study must align with the programme offerings. Some doctoral positions require work experience, research experience, or professional experience in addition to academic credentials.
Norway places genuine emphasis on disability inclusion, gender equality, and supporting applicants from under-represented communities. Dedicated refugee scholarship programmes exist at several institutions. For international credentials, NOKUT recognition ensures your foreign degrees are assessed for equivalence — the equivalence assessment process confirms your previous degree requirement meets Norwegian standards. General student competence requirements dictate minimum qualifications for bachelor’s-level admission. Conditional admission and provisional offer mechanisms allow students to begin the process while completing final documentation or document verification.
Cost of Living in Norway for International Students
Let’s be honest — the cost of living in Norway is high by global standards. But with proper budget planning and the support of a scholarship, it becomes entirely manageable. Understanding your monthly expenses upfront prevents nasty surprises.
Accommodation cost is typically the largest expense. The average rent in Oslo for a student room runs approximately 5,000-7,000 NOK per month. Average rent in Bergen and average rent in Trondheim are slightly lower, often 4,000-6,000 NOK. University-managed student housing through organisations like SiO Housing (Oslo) or Studentsamskipnaden (other cities) offers the most affordable dormitory room or shared apartment options. The demand far exceeds supply, so apply for campus jobs in Norway’s housing the moment you receive your admission offer.
Food expenses average 3,000-4,000 NOK monthly if you cook at home. Grocery costs in Norway are higher than in most European countries, but smart shopping at budget chains like Rema 1000 and Kiwi helps. Dining out cost is genuinely expensive — a restaurant meal can easily exceed 200 NOK. Transportation cost is manageable with a student discount on monthly public transport pass subscriptions, typically 500-700 NOK.
Other personal expenses include a mobile phone plan (200-300 NOK), internet cost (often included in student housing), a clothing budget (especially winter gear — not optional), and utility bills (frequently included in dorm rent). Health insurance student coverage is generally provided through the Norwegian national system once you register as a resident. The entertainment budget varies wildly — Norway’s natural beauty offers plenty of free recreation. Your books and supplies costs are minimal for most programmes. Overall, a realistic Norwegian krone monthly budget ranges from 11,000 to 14,000 NOK for a student living modestly. Part-time work and student job income through permitted 20 hours per week employment can significantly offset these costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (Latest Google People Also Ask)
Can I Study in Norway for Free as an International Student?
Yes, most public universities in Norway charge no tuition fees to international students, regardless of nationality. You only pay a small semester fee (around 300-600 NOK) for student union membership. However, you must cover your own living expenses, which is where scholarships and financial aid become crucial. This tuition-free education policy applies to bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and PhD programmes at state-funded institutions.
Are There Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway for 2025?
Absolutely. Multiple fully funded scholarships exist for the 2025-2026 academic year. These include university-specific PhD fellowships, government-backed programmes through HK-dir and NORPART, and international programmes like Erasmus Mundus. A fully funded package typically covers tuition (where applicable), a monthly stipend, a travel allowance, and health insurance. PhD candidate positions are structured as paid employment with full Norwegian salary and benefits.
Do Norwegian Universities Accept Applications Without IELTS?
Many Norwegian universities accept students without IELTS if they can demonstrate English proficiency through alternative means. A medium of instruction certificate confirming your previous degree was taught in English is widely accepted. Some institutions also recognise the Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English certifications. Students from native English-speaking countries are frequently exempt from any language test requirement.
What Is the Cost of Living for Students in Norway?
The estimated cost of living for a student in Norway ranges from 11,000 to 14,000 NOK per month, depending on location. Oslo is the most expensive city, while Trondheim and smaller cities are more affordable. Major expenses include rent (4,000-7,000 NOK), food (3,000-4,000 NOK), and transportation (500-700 NOK). Part-time work up to 20 hours per week is permitted on a student visa, helping to offset these costs.
How Do I Apply for a PhD in Norway?
PhD positions in Norway are advertised as employment vacancies, not traditional scholarship applications. You search for open positions on university job portals (like Jobbnorge), prepare your academic CV, research proposal, and academic publications list, then submit through the institutional application portal. A relevant master’s degree and identified research supervisor are typically required. Successful candidates receive a full salary, not a stipend.
Is Norway Better Than Germany for International Students?
Both countries offer tuition-free education at public universities, but they differ in key ways. Norway has a higher cost of living but also allows more part-time work hours and offers higher salaries for PhD candidates. Germany has more universities and a larger international student community. Norway excels in quality of life, safety, and English-taught programmes at the master’s level. The best choice depends on your field of study, language skills, and personal priorities.
What GPA Do I Need for a Scholarship in Norway?
Most Norwegian scholarship programmes require a minimum GPA equivalent to a B average (approximately 3.0 on a 4.0 scale). However, competitive programmes — especially PhD fellowships and prestigious master’s scholarships — often expect significantly higher grades. Your academic transcript, recommendation letters, research experience, and motivation letter collectively determine your competitiveness beyond raw numbers.
Conclusion
Norway stands out as one of the most generous countries in the world for international students seeking quality higher education without financial devastation. Between tuition-free public universities, fully funded scholarships, and salaried PhD positions, the opportunities for 2025-2026 are substantial and growing. The key is starting your research early, preparing strong application documents, and targeting the programs that align with your academic background and career ambitions. Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Oslo, the fjords of Bergen, or the Arctic skies of Tromsø, scholarships in Norway can genuinely transform your academic and professional trajectory.
Official Scholarship & University Resources
| Resource | Official Link | Deadline / Status |
|---|---|---|
| University of Oslo – Scholarships | Apply Link | Varies by program –
Check the portal. |
| University of Bergen – International Scholarships | Apply Link | Varies |
| NTNU – Scholarships and Funding | Apply Link | Rolling & program-specific |
| UiT The Arctic University – Scholarships | Apply Link | Check individual program pages |
| Norwegian Government – Lånekassen | Apply Link | Currently Open |
| DIKU / HK-dir – Norwegian Partnerships | https://hkdir.no/en | Program-dependent |
| Research Council of Norway | Apply Link | Multiple deadlines annually |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees | Apply Link | (varies by program) |
| NOKUT – Recognition of Foreign Qualifications | https://www.nokut.no/en/ | Ongoing |
| Study in Norway – Official Portal | Apply Link | Always Open |
| Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) | https://www.udi.no/en/ | Rolling –
Visa Applications |
