Oslo

Norway’s capital offers two prestigious institutions – the University of Oslo, the largest and oldest in the country, and BI Norwegian Business School.

The city gets a strong score in the desirability indicator of the ranking, and is a regular feature in lists of the world’s “most liveable” cities. It’s also often ranked among the world’s most expensive places to live. However, for students, high living costs are to some extent counterbalanced by the fact that public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees, for either domestic and international students. Fees are charged at private institutions.

In terms of things to do, Oslo has everything you’d expect from a European capital: historic architecture, galleries, museums, parks, and cafés. More unique attractions include the chance to go skiing just outside the city, boat trips on the Oslo fjord, open air public swimming pools, and the city center’s large free ice-skating rink.

When asked to name the best things about Oslo, one student survey respondent said: “Great standard of living, very good public spaces, and great atmosphere in the university area.” Another praised “The people, the socially liberal attitude of the city and the public transport system.”