How to Find Student Housing in Norway
Finding suitable student housing is one of the most important tasks for international and local students planning to study in Norway. With its high cost of living, competitive rental market, and limited availability in popular cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, securing affordable accommodation can be challenging. However, with careful planning and persistence, you can find a place to live that fits your budget and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to find student housing in Norway and provide tips to make the process smoother.
1. Start Early
The key to finding good student housing is to begin your search as early as possible—ideally 3–6 months before your arrival. Accommodation options fill up quickly, particularly at the start of the academic year (August/September).
2. Understand the Types of Student Housing
Norway offers a variety of housing options tailored to students’ needs and budgets:
University Dormitories (Studentboliger)
- Managed by universities or student welfare organizations (SiO , Sammen , Sit , etc.).
- Affordable and often located close to campuses.
- Shared facilities like kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas are common.
- Ideal for first-year students or those on a tight budget.
Private Rooms or Studios
- Renting a private room in a shared apartment or a small studio.
- Typically includes basic amenities but may require sharing a kitchen or bathroom with other tenants.
- Prices vary depending on location and size, ranging from NOK 5,000 to NOK 12,000 per month.
Shared Apartments (Kollegie or WG)
- Renting a room in a shared apartment with other students.
- Offers a balance between affordability and independence.
- Monthly rent usually ranges from NOK 4,000 to NOK 8,000, depending on the city and amenities.
Independent Apartments
- Fully self-contained units for students who prefer more privacy.
- More expensive than dorms or shared apartments, starting at NOK 8,000–NOK 15,000+ per month.
- Best suited for students with higher budgets or those staying long-term.
3. Use Online Platforms
Several websites specialize in helping students find housing in Norway:
Student Housing Portals
- HousingAnywhere: Connects international students with available rooms and sublets.
- Finn.no: One of Norway’s largest classified ad platforms, offering listings for all types of housing.
- Studenthousing.no: Focuses on student accommodation across Norway.
- Uniplaces: A platform specifically for student housing, with verified listings.
University Resources
Most universities have dedicated housing offices or online platforms to assist students:
- SiO (OsloMet, UiO): Provides dormitories and shared apartments in Oslo.
- Sammen (UiB): Manages student housing in Bergen.
- Sit (NTNU): Offers accommodation options in Trondheim.
- Other University Housing Services: Check your university’s website for specific resources.
4. Network Locally
Building connections can help you secure housing faster:
- Join University Forums: Participate in Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or forums specific to your university.
- Attend Welcome Events: Orientation programs often include information sessions about housing options.
- Ask Fellow Students: Reach out to current students or alumni for recommendations or leads on available rooms.
5. Consider Location
Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly impact your experience:
- Proximity to Campus: Living near your university saves time and transportation costs.
- Public Transport Access: Ensure there are bus, tram, or metro stops nearby if you’re farther from campus.
- Safety and Amenities: Look for areas with grocery stores, cafes, and other conveniences.
Popular student neighborhoods:
- Oslo: Grünerløkka, Majorstuen, Torshov
- Bergen: Nygårdshøyden, Damsgård, Årstad
- Trondheim: Moholt, Lademoen, Singsaker
6. Budget Wisely
Accommodation costs vary widely depending on the city:
- Oslo: Most expensive, with rents averaging NOK 7,000–NOK 12,000+ per month.
- Bergen and Trondheim: Moderate prices, typically NOK 5,000–NOK 9,000 per month.
- Smaller Cities (e.g., Tromsø, Stavanger): More affordable, ranging from NOK 4,000–NOK 8,000 per month.
In addition to rent, factor in utilities (water, electricity, internet), which can add NOK 500–NOK 1,000 monthly.
7. Prepare Your Documents
Landlords and housing agencies often require specific documents to verify your eligibility:
- Proof of enrollment at a Norwegian university.
- Copy of your passport or ID.
- Financial proof (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.).
- Reference letter from a previous landlord (if applicable).
For international students, having a Norwegian guarantor (someone who guarantees payment) may also be necessary, though some platforms offer alternatives like deposit insurance.
8. Be Cautious of Scams
Unfortunately, rental scams are common, especially among international students. To protect yourself:
- Avoid paying deposits or rent upfront without verifying the landlord’s identity.
- Inspect the property in person or via video call before signing any agreements.
- Use trusted platforms and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
9. Explore Temporary Housing Options
If you’re unable to secure permanent housing before arriving, consider short-term solutions:
- Hostels or Guesthouses: Affordable and flexible for a few weeks.
- Airbnb: Useful for temporary stays while searching for long-term accommodation.
- Sublets: Rent a room from students leaving for holidays or internships.
Universities often provide emergency housing lists for incoming students.
10. Negotiate Rent and Terms
Don’t hesitate to negotiate rent or ask questions about the lease agreement:
- Clarify what’s included in the rent (utilities, internet, etc.).
- Check the policy on maintenance, repairs, and security deposits.
- Confirm the duration of the lease and termination conditions.
