Student Discounts and Benefits in Norway: Maximizing Your Savings

Studying in Norway offers not only access to world-class education but also a range of student discounts and benefits that can significantly reduce the cost of living. From transportation and dining to cultural activities and technology, students in Norway can take advantage of numerous perks designed to make life more affordable and enjoyable. Whether you’re an international or local student, understanding these discounts will help you stretch your budget while exploring everything this beautiful Nordic country has to offer.

In this guide, we’ll explore the various student discounts and benefits available in Norway, how to access them, and tips for making the most of them.

1. Public Transportation Discounts

Public transportation is essential for getting around Norway’s cities, and students benefit from significant discounts on travel passes.

• Oslo (Ruter) :
  • Students under 30 can purchase discounted monthly or yearly transport passes for buses, trams, metros, and ferries.
  • A reduced-rate monthly pass costs approximately NOK 590–780, compared to the standard price of over NOK 1,000.
• Bergen (Skyss) :
  • Full-time students aged 16–30 are eligible for discounted bus and light rail tickets.
  • Monthly subscriptions start at around NOK 600.
• Trondheim (AtB) :
  • Similar to other cities, AtB provides discounted fares for students under 30.
  • Single tickets and monthly passes are available at reduced rates.
• Train Travel (Vy) :
  • Students can apply for a Minipris Ung ticket, which offers heavily discounted train fares for travelers under 26.
  • A single ticket between Oslo and Bergen can cost as little as NOK 199 with this discount.

2. University and Housing Benefits

Many universities in Norway provide additional financial support and housing assistance for students.

• Free Tuition for EU/EEA Students :
  • Public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees for students from EU/EEA countries.
  • Non-EU students pay higher fees but may qualify for scholarships or grants offered by universities.
• Housing Allowance :
  • Low-income students can apply for a housing allowance (boligsosialhjelp ) through the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV). This subsidy helps cover rent costs, especially in expensive cities like Oslo.
• University Services :
  • Most universities offer free or discounted access to libraries, sports facilities, counseling services, and career guidance.

3. Cultural and Entertainment Discounts

Norway’s rich cultural scene offers plenty of opportunities for students to enjoy museums, theaters, and events at reduced prices.

• Museums :
  • Many museums, such as the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo and the Bergen Aquarium, offer free or discounted entry for students with a valid ID.
  • Some institutions even provide free admission on certain days of the week.
• Cinemas :
  • Chains like SF Kino and Nordisk Film offer discounted movie tickets for students, often ranging from NOK 80 to NOK 120 per ticket.
• Theaters and Concerts :
  • Student discounts are common for performances at venues like the Oslo Opera House or the Bergen International Festival.
  • Look out for special promotions during university orientation weeks or cultural festivals.

4. Dining and Shopping Discounts

Students can save money on food and shopping by leveraging exclusive deals and loyalty programs.

• Meal Vouchers :
  • Some universities partner with organizations like SiO (Student Welfare Organization) to provide subsidized meals at campus cafeterias.
• Grocery Stores :
  • Supermarkets like Rema 1000 and Kiwi occasionally run student-specific promotions. Always carry your student ID to inquire about discounts.
• Clothing and Electronics :
  • Retailers such as H&M, Zara, and Apple offer seasonal sales or education-based discounts for students.
  • Websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans aggregate global and local student discounts, including those in Norway.

5. Gym Memberships and Sports Facilities

Staying active doesn’t have to break the bank—many gyms and sports centers cater specifically to students.

• University Gyms :
  • Most universities have on-campus fitness centers with heavily discounted membership rates for students.
• Commercial Gyms :
  • Chains like SATS, Anytime Fitness, and Aktiv365 often provide student memberships starting at NOK 200–400 per month.
• Outdoor Activities :
  • Joining university hiking clubs or outdoor groups can provide access to group discounts on equipment rentals and guided tours.

6. Technology and Software Discounts

As a student, you can access software, hardware, and tech tools at discounted prices or for free.

• Microsoft Office 365 :
  • Many Norwegian universities provide free access to Microsoft Office 365 for enrolled students.
• Adobe Creative Cloud :
  • Adobe offers discounted subscriptions for students and educators, typically saving up to 60% off the regular price.
• Laptops and Devices :
  • Brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo frequently run back-to-school promotions with exclusive pricing for students.

7. International Student-Specific Benefits

International students in Norway can take advantage of unique perks tailored to their needs.

• ISIC Card :
  • The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) grants access to thousands of global and local discounts, including travel, accommodation, and attractions.
  • Available online or through your university’s international office.
• Language Courses :
  • Many universities offer free or low-cost Norwegian language courses to help international students integrate into Norwegian society.
• Tax Exemptions :
  • Non-resident students may qualify for tax exemptions on income earned through part-time work or internships.

8. Part-Time Work Opportunities

While not a traditional “discount,” working part-time can offset living expenses.

• Work Permits :
  • Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.
  • EU students face fewer restrictions and can seek employment freely.
• Internships :
  • Paid internships are common in fields like engineering, IT, and business, providing valuable experience and income.
• Campus Jobs :
  • Universities often hire students for roles in libraries, administrative offices, or research projects.

9. Tips for Maximizing Student Discounts

To ensure you’re making the most of available benefits:

1. Carry Your Student ID Everywhere : Always bring your official student card to prove eligibility for discounts.
2. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs : Register for retailer rewards programs to receive personalized offers.
3. Join University Clubs : Many clubs negotiate group discounts for members, whether for travel, events, or activities.
4. Stay Informed : Follow your university’s newsletters and social media channels for announcements about exclusive deals.
5. Network with Fellow Students : Exchange tips with classmates about hidden gems and lesser-known discounts.