Best Universities in Norway for International Students

Norway is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, offering high-quality education, innovative research opportunities, and a welcoming environment for international students. With its stunning natural landscapes, strong emphasis on sustainability, and tuition-free education for many programs (for EU/EEA students), Norway is an attractive destination for students seeking a world-class education. Below is a list of the best universities in Norway for international students, along with their key features.

1. University of Oslo (UiO)

• Location : Oslo
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • Norway’s oldest and largest university, consistently ranked among the top in Europe.
  • Offers over 80 English-taught master’s programs in fields like law, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine.
  • Strong focus on research, with cutting-edge facilities and partnerships with global institutions.
  • Located in Oslo, Norway’s capital, providing access to cultural, political, and economic opportunities.
• Popular Programs : Environmental Science, Political Science, Medicine, and Law.

2. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

• Location : Trondheim
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • A leading institution for science and technology, known for its innovation and research output.
  • Offers a wide range of English-taught programs in engineering, natural sciences, and architecture.
  • Collaborates with industry leaders and provides hands-on learning opportunities.
  • Located in Trondheim, a student-friendly city with a vibrant cultural scene and affordable living costs.
• Popular Programs : Engineering, Computer Science, Renewable Energy, and Architecture.

3. University of Bergen (UiB)

• Location : Bergen
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • Known for its strong focus on marine research, climate studies, and humanities.
  • Offers over 30 English-taught master’s programs , including Oceanography, Environmental Studies, and Social Anthropology.
  • Located in Bergen, a picturesque coastal city surrounded by fjords and mountains.
  • Active international student community with support services for newcomers.
• Popular Programs : Marine Biology, Environmental Science, and Social Sciences.

4. University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT)

• Location : Tromsø
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • The northernmost university in the world, specializing in Arctic research, climate change, and indigenous studies.
  • Offers unique English-taught programs in fields like Peace and Conflict Transformation, Indigenous Studies, and Space Physics.
  • Located in Tromsø, a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and northern lights viewing.
  • Affordable living costs and a tight-knit international student community.
• Popular Programs : Indigenous Studies, Arctic Geopolitics, and Space Science.

5. BI Norwegian Business School

• Location : Oslo
• Language of Instruction : English for many programs.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • One of Europe’s largest business schools, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong connections to the corporate world.
  • Offers highly regarded English-taught programs in Business Administration, Finance, and Marketing.
  • Located in Oslo, providing excellent networking opportunities with multinational companies and startups.
  • Strong alumni network and career support services.
• Popular Programs : Master in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, and Marketing.

6. Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)

• Location : Oslo
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • Focuses on applied sciences, social sciences, and urban development.
  • Offers English-taught programs in fields like Urban Planning, Social Work, and Journalism.
  • Modern campus located in the heart of Oslo, close to internships and job opportunities.
  • Welcoming environment for international students, with dedicated support services.
• Popular Programs : Urban Studies, Journalism, and Social Work.

7. Norwegian School of Economics (NHH)

• Location : Bergen
• Language of Instruction : English for many programs.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • One of Europe’s top business schools, known for its focus on economics, finance, and strategy.
  • Offers English-taught programs in Economics, Business Analytics, and Strategic Marketing Management.
  • Located in Bergen, a charming coastal city with a rich cultural heritage.
  • Strong emphasis on practical learning and collaboration with industry partners.
• Popular Programs : Economics, Business Analytics, and Strategic Marketing.

8. Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL)

• Location : Bergen, Stavanger, and other cities
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but some programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • Focuses on applied sciences, health, and technology.
  • Offers English-taught programs in fields like Nursing, Renewable Energy, and Music Performance.
  • Multiple campuses across western Norway, providing diverse study environments.
  • Affordable tuition fees and scholarship opportunities for international students.
• Popular Programs : Nursing, Renewable Energy, and Music.

9. Nord University

• Location : Bodø and other cities in northern Norway
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but many programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • Specializes in fisheries, aquaculture, and rural development.
  • Offers English-taught programs in fields like Fisheries and Aquaculture, Tourism, and Education.
  • Located in northern Norway, offering unique opportunities to explore Arctic landscapes and culture.
  • Personalized attention for students, with small class sizes and close interaction with faculty.
• Popular Programs : Fisheries and Aquaculture, Tourism, and Education.

10. Kristiania University College

• Location : Oslo
• Language of Instruction : Primarily Norwegian, but some programs are offered in English.
• Why It’s Great for International Students :
  • A private university college offering innovative programs in design, health, and technology.
  • Offers English-taught programs in fields like Design, Psychology, and Information Technology.
  • Located in Oslo, providing access to internships, networking, and cultural experiences.
  • Smaller class sizes and a personalized learning experience.
• Popular Programs : Design, Psychology, and IT.