The Norwegians are known for their pragmatism. They also understand the need for immigration to contribute towards the economy in order to support their ageing population. This being the case, about 25 percent of the population of the city comprises of ethnic groups from other countries.
Norway attracts its share of foreign students, many of whom eventually settle their lives in the country.
If you’re planning to do a bachelor’s degree, you must have a good knowledge of the Norwegian language since almost all the courses are conducted in Norwegian. For the master’s program the universities have a wide choice of courses where the medium of instruction is English. For your bachelor’s degree from another country you will have to obtain the recognition from the university you will be applying to before you are admitted to the master’s program. Alternatively, you will approach the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education who will assist you towards the recognition of your foreign qualifications.
Although most of those living in Oslo speak English it is advisable to learn Norwegian especially if you’re planning to build your career in the country. The universities also assist you in learning the language if you have decided to do your bachelor’s course. Many foreign students take advantage of this and begin learning the language about one year before they begin their course.
If you’re going to earn while you learn as a student from the EU or EEA you will not need a work permit and if you are from a non EU or EEA country you can apply for a work permit and this will allow you to work 20 hours a week. The minimum wages in Norway are quite high, approximately equivalent to US $ 21/hour.
Oslo is a delightful city. Although a city, it comprises of many islands. The people of Oslo are also known to be health conscious and are given to enjoying the forests during weekends not just for picnics but also for hiking.
As for the food, you will have many choices of international cuisine apart from the local food which is well balanced.
As we usually cover only the public universities, here are their websites which we would recommend you visit to identify the courses most suited to you:
University of Oslo
Official website
Norwegain University of Life Sciences
Official website
Norwegian School of Sport Sciences
Official website
Norwegian Academy of Music
Official website
Oslo National Academy of Arts
Official website
Oslo School of Architecture and Design
Official website
Oslo Metropolitan University
Official website
Cost of Living
Norway is an expensive country. However, for an international student the costs are offset by almost free education and if you apply for accommodation through what is known as Sammen Student Housing, you will most likely get a room for as little as approximately 460$ . Even then you must budget for around 1100 $ per month.
Photos: Shutterstock
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