What to Expect if You Study in Norway

According to StudyPortals International Student Satisfaction Awards 2014, Norway is a highly appreciated study destination in Europe. The awards are based on the views of almost 7,000 students who shared their impressions on the world’s largest database of international student experiences, STeXX.eu.

Norway received a final score of 9 out of 10, taking seventh place in Europe terms of international student satisfaction. The results are based on the reviews of 155 international students, who commented on their experience of what it was like to study in Norway. The Student Satisfaction Awards offer interesting information about how international students view their experiences of studying abroad in Norwegian universities and elsewhere in Europe.

Six universities in Norway received a distinction as part of the awards. BI Norwegian Business School ranked first and was rated excellent, with a score of 9 out of 10, followed by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), UiT The Arctic University of Norway and the University of Oslo, also with an ”excellent” rating. Other awarded Norwegian universities, regarded as very good, are the University of Agder and the University of Bergen.

What do Norwegian universities offer students?

According to international students, Norwegian universities seem to have something to offer for everyone. Universities in Norway provide a great number of high-quality English-taught programs in a wide range of specializations. The majority of students have only good things to say about the teaching staff and the university services offered to those who study in Norway. Teaching focuses on student interaction, independent project-work and independent thinking. Facilities are well equipped with the latest technology. The great amount of practical experience opens the way to a multitude of career opportunities.

“It is a really modern university, everything is well organized, they chose the best tutors for every subject. Besides, the university offers a wide range of free-time activities.” – student from Hungary

”Studying in Norway is different, I think better than in my university. They focus on the important and practical subjects in every course, not only theoretical.” – student from Poland

Students also comment positively on the city life in Norway. The quality of living is regarded as high and even if some locals are seen as a bit reserved, most are polite and helpful. The overall atmosphere in the cities, as well as at the campus, is internationally oriented. In smaller towns students mention a strong sense of community, reinforced by a great number of student activities organized by student associations and universities.

“The size of the city (~50'000 people) ensures a good infrastructure for almost anything, while not covering everything in the area in concrete, but rather merging with nature, which can be found all over and around town. The atmosphere of the city located on an island is very relaxed and cozy.” – student from Switzerland 

“I had the opportunity to experience beautiful nature, excellent university classes and wonderful people (Norwegians as well as other exchange students) all in one place for a whole year, and it as the best decision of my life so far. The Norwegian society is one of the most liberal in the world and it has been a pleasure to explore their political system and the mentality of the Norwegian people.” – student from Germany

What to consider before deciding to study in Norway

The great variety of educational options and student facilities at universities in Norway comes at a price. Most students mention the high living expenses and accommodation costs, which may discourage students coming from lower-income countries. Nevertheless, most students considered their overall experience well worth the extra costs.

Students more sensitive to the cold weather may dislike outdoor activities during winter, but nature lovers consider Norway a great study destination. While it may sometimes seem hard to interact with locals, especially in more remote parts of the country, learning a few words in Norwegian and showing interest in the culture is sure to warm people up.

For more information about the Student Satisfaction Awards and universities in Norway, visit the StudyPortals country overview. If you’re planning to study in Norway, you can also find information about more than 200 English-taught master’s programs, bachelor’s programs and PhDs.