For a long time, Norway has been known as one of the few places where you could go to school for free. But recent changes mean that the system is no longer completely free for all international students, especially those from Nigeria and other countries.
That being said, Norway is still one of the best places to get a fully funded education by combining low-cost or free tuition with scholarships.
This guide makes everything clear, from which colleges don’t charge tuition to the most recent rules and the best scholarships you can use to study in Norway for free in 2026.
Is college free in Norway in 2026?
This is the first thing you need to know.
Norway used to let all international students study for free. But:
- Since 2023, most students from outside the EU/EEA, including Nigerians, have to pay tuition.
- Depending on the programme, tuition can cost between €11,000 and €35,000 a year.
But you can still study for free in other ways:
You Can Still Go to School for Free If:
- You are a citizen of the EU or EEA.
- You are an exchange student, like Erasmus+.
- You get a scholarship that pays for everything.
- You are a resident or have special status in Norway.
There are also talks about policy changes that could give universities more freedom when it comes to tuition fees, which could improve things in the future.
The Best Colleges in Norway That Don’t Charge Tuition
Fees are now required in many cases, but public universities in Norway are still the most affordable option. Some programmes remain free or receive funding through scholarships.
1. The University of Oslo
One of the best universities in Norway.
Important points:
- Provides English-language programmes
- Strong focus on research
- International students can get scholarships.
Best for:
- Social studies
- The law
- Health science
2. NTNU, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology
NTNU is one of Norway’s largest colleges.
Important features:
- Good programmes in engineering and technology
- Education based on research
- Possibilities for PhD programmes with funding
3. Bergen University
A well-known public university that is one of the best in the world.
What makes it appealing:
- Programmes that focus on research
- International students can get scholarships and grants.
- Cheaper than in a lot of other countries
4. UiT The University of Norway in the Arctic
This university is located in northern Norway and is known for the following:
- One-of-a-kind research chances
- Studies about the environment and the Arctic
- Programmes taught in English
5. The University of Nord
An institution that is growing and offering:
- Business and social science studies
- International students have chances
- In some cases, help with scholarships
6. The University of Oslo
This school is all about:
- Science that is useful
- Programmes for professionals
- Education that is useful for getting a job
Important Information About Tuition
You will still have to pay even if tuition is free or cheap:
- Fee for the semester (small administrative cost)
- Costs of living
Norway is a costly country, so scholarships are necessary.
The Best Scholarships in Norway for Students from Other Countries (2026)
Tuition is no longer free for everyone, scholarships are now the best way to study in Norway for free.
1. Fully Funded Erasmus+ Scholarship
This is one of the best choices you have.
What it talks about:
- All tuition costs
- Monthly payment
- Costs of travel
- Insurance
You can study in Norway through a European programme.
2. Scholarships from the Norwegian government (Quota Scheme and other similar programmes)
Even though the original quota plan has changed, there are still ways to get money that are similar.
What it talks about:
- Costs of living
- Costs of travel
- Insurance for health
Best for:
- Students from poor countries
3. Scholarships from BI Norwegian Business School
These are some of the most generous scholarships in Norway.
Some choices are:
- Scholarships that cover all of your tuition
- Scholarships that pay for everything for African students
- Scholarships for women in tech and finance
Some of these are:
- Full cost of school
- Living allowance
4. Joint Master Scholarships from Erasmus Mundus
These scholarships are fully funded and are open to students from Norway.
What they talk about:
- Fees for school
- Monthly payment
- Money for travel
- Housing
This is one of the best ways to get to Norway that is fully paid for.
5. Scholarships for specific universities
A lot of universities in Norway have their own money.
For example:
- Money from the University of Oslo
- Grants for research at NTNU
- Scholarships from the University of Bergen
These often have:
- Full or partial payment of tuition
- Funding for research
- In some cases, help with living
What you need to do to study in Norway
You need to meet certain requirements in order to apply successfully.
Requirements for School
- A bachelor’s degree is needed for master’s programmes.
- Good grades in school
What papers do you need?
- Transcripts from school
- CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Passage
Need for Money
You need to show that you can pay for your own living expenses in Norway.
Requirements for language
Most programmes need:
- TOEFL or IELTS
Some programmes might accept:
- Language of Instruction (MOI)
How to Apply Step by Step
Step 1: Pick Your Programme Choose a university and course that are right for your level of education.
Step 2: Look at the policy on tuition Check to see if your programme:
- Charges for school
- Gives out scholarships
Step 3: Fill out an application for admission Use the university portal to send in your schoolwork.
Step 4: Apply for financial aid You usually have to apply for each scholarship separately.
Step 5: Get ready to show proof of your finances You need to show money for your visa.
Step 6: Get a Student Visa Apply for your residence permit after you are accepted.
Living Expenses in Norway
You need to plan for your living costs even if your tuition is free or covered.
Monthly costs on average:
- €800 to €1,500
This includes:
- Housing
- Food
- Getting around
- Costs for yourself
Scholarships can help pay for these costs or lower them.
Advantages of Studying in Norway
Norwegian universities are known around the world for their high-quality education.
Programmes taught in English There are a lot of programmes that are in English.
Job openings Students can work up to 20 hours a week.
Norway is one of the safest places in the world to live.
Things to do after school You can stay after you graduate to look for work.
Useful Advice for Free Study in Norway
Target scholarships that cover all costs This is now the safest way to go.
Sign up for Erasmus programmes These often don’t even include tuition.
Pay attention to strong applications Your CV and personal statement are very important.
Apply early. Deadlines are usually between November and January.
Pick research programmes. PhD programmes in Norway often pay for everything.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- If Norway is still free for everyone
- Not applying for financial aid
- Not taking into account living costs
- Sending in weak applications
- Not meeting deadlines
Last Thoughts
It’s still possible to study in Norway for free in 2026, but you need to plan and be smart about it.
The truth is:
- Most international students no longer get free tuition.
- Scholarships are very important now.
- There are still fully funded programmes.
The best ways for you are:
- Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus grants
- Funding from the Norwegian government
- Scholarships for specific colleges
- Business and research programmes that are fully funded
You can still study in Norway for little or no money if you find the right university and the right scholarship. This will give you access to one of the best education systems in the world.