Norway is renowned for its high-quality education system, advanced research, and innovative teaching methods. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, technology, and global collaboration, Norway has emerged as a top choice for international students seeking world-class higher education. Its universities, such as the University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and University of Bergen, offer a variety of programs in English, making them accessible to students from around the world.
In 2025, Norway provides fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs. These opportunities allow international students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies without worrying about financial constraints.
Why Study in Norway?
- Tuition-free or low tuition costs at public universities for international students.
- Fully funded scholarships covering living expenses and other essentials.
- Programs taught in English across multiple disciplines.
- Emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainability.
- Safe, multicultural, and student-friendly environment.
- Opportunities for internships and careers in Europe.
Eligibility Criteria
General eligibility requirements include:
- Strong academic record in previous studies.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) or Norwegian where applicable.
- International student status (non-Norwegian citizens).
- Motivation letter, CV, and recommendation letters.
- Research proposal for PhD programs.
Overview Table
Here’s a summary of the main scholarships available in Norway for international students:
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligible Levels | Fields of Study | Deadline 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwegian Quota Scheme | Tuition, living stipend, travel costs | Master’s & PhD | Various disciplines | March 2025 |
| Erasmus+ in Norway | Tuition, stipend, travel allowance | Master’s & PhD | All disciplines | Varies |
| NTNU Global Scholarship | Tuition waiver + living support | Master’s & PhD | Engineering, Science | April 2025 |
| University of Oslo International Scholarships | Tuition + living stipend | Master’s & PhD | Multiple disciplines | February 2025 |
| University of Bergen Scholarships | Tuition + accommodation + monthly allowance | Master’s & PhD | Arts, Sciences, Business | May 2025 |
| BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships | Tuition + partial living support | Master’s | Business, Economics, Finance | March 2025 |
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway
1. Norwegian Quota Scheme
Funded by the Norwegian government, this scheme is targeted at students from developing countries.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend, travel costs, and health insurance.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Multiple disciplines including social sciences, technology, and humanities.
- Deadline: March 2025.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarships in Norway
Erasmus+ offers scholarships for students studying at Norwegian partner universities.
- Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend, and travel allowance.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Wide range of academic disciplines.
- Deadline: Varies by program.
3. NTNU Global Scholarship
Norwegian University of Science and Technology provides scholarships for high-achieving international students.
- Coverage: Tuition waiver and monthly living support.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
- Deadline: April 2025.
4. University of Oslo International Scholarships
The University of Oslo provides fully funded scholarships for outstanding students.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, and health insurance.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences.
- Deadline: February 2025.
5. University of Bergen Scholarships
This university offers scholarships to attract top international talent.
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, and monthly allowance.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Arts, sciences, business, and law.
- Deadline: May 2025.
6. BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships
BI Norwegian Business School provides scholarships to meritorious students in business and finance fields.
- Coverage: Tuition and partial support for living expenses.
- Level: Master’s.
- Fields: Business, economics, and finance.
- Deadline: March 2025.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway
- Full tuition coverage at top Norwegian universities.
- Monthly stipends for living costs (€800–€1,200 per month on average).
- Health insurance and visa support.
- Travel allowance for international students.
- Access to Norway’s world-class research facilities and innovation centers.
- Networking opportunities with global students and professionals.
Application Process
- Choose a University & Program – Identify your preferred program.
- Check Scholarship Availability – Visit university websites and the Norwegian Quota Scheme portal.
- Prepare Documents – Academic transcripts, English test scores, CV, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
- Apply Online – Submit applications via official portals.
- Interviews (if applicable) – Some programs require online interviews.
- Wait for Results – Scholarship notifications are sent via email or official university portals.
Conclusion
Norway offers an ideal environment for international students, combining high-quality education, innovation, and a safe, multicultural environment. With fully funded scholarships in 2025, students can pursue higher education without financial stress. From government-backed initiatives like the Norwegian Quota Scheme to prestigious university-specific awards at NTNU, University of Oslo, and University of Bergen, there are multiple avenues for talented students. Early preparation and careful application increase your chances of securing one of these prestigious scholarships and studying in one of Europe’s most progressive countries.
FAQs
Q1: Do Norway scholarships cover living costs?
Yes, most fully funded scholarships provide monthly stipends to cover accommodation and personal expenses.
Q2: Can international students study in Norway without knowing Norwegian?
Yes, many programs are offered in English, especially at Master’s and PhD levels.
Q3: Which is the most prestigious scholarship in Norway?
The Norwegian Quota Scheme is considered the most competitive and highly recognized for international students.