How to Study Nursing in Norway – Complete Guide

Our free guide on how to study nursing in Norway; find out the information you need to make a decision. Cost of studying, the best universities in the country offering nursing etc.

In contrast to numerous other countries, Norway’s educational regulations ensure that public universities offer education without tuition fees. Tuition rates at private institutions are more affordable compared to public colleges in Europe and the United States. This has made Norwegian higher education institutions particularly appealing to international students.

Being a nurse is considered one of the most esteemed professions in Norway. Qualified nurses with the necessary skills and experience are consistently in high demand. They have opportunities to work not only in hospitals but also in schools, charitable organizations, and nursing homes for the elderly.

When a qualified nurse or caregiver moves to Norway, they must navigate a prolonged and detailed job authorization process. Therefore, foreigners aspiring to work as nurses or caregivers in Norway should obtain a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from one of the country’s universities. Today, we will discuss the nursing education programs provided by Norwegian universities and key points for prospective international nursing students studying in Norway.

In Norway, the importance of professional education is stressed for anyone interested in a medical career.

Norwegian universities offer a range of full-time nursing programs. For instance, VID Specialized University and the University of Agder provide Bachelor’s degree programs in nursing. A Master’s degree in nursing at the University of Bergen can help trained nurses and caregivers enhance their skills and expand their knowledge.

How to Study Nursing in Norway, what you need to know

Cost of Studying Nursing

The Financial Aspect of Nursing School

As mentioned earlier, public universities in Norway provide tuition-free education at higher levels. Nonetheless, all students must pay a semester fee, with the exception of those participating in exchange programs.

This fee covers student registration, examinations, social services, and other related costs. It might also include a small optional contribution to the Students’ Assistance Fund.

For more details about semester fees, refer to the official Semester Fee page of the University of Bergen, the University of Adger, and the VID Specialized University.

Living expenses in Norway are quite high, making it advisable for students to start saving before they are expected to arrive and begin their studies at the chosen university. On the whole, many students opt to rent accommodation through Student Housing Organizations. The average cost of a furnished apartment ranges from 3000 to 4000 Norwegian Krones per month.

While there are various costs involved, there are opportunities to study nursing at no cost in Norway, which numerous international students have taken advantage of. If you’re interested, find out how to study for free in Norway (9 Steps).

Requirements for International Students to Study Nursing in Norway

International students aspiring to study nursing in Norway need to gather and submit specific documentation to their chosen university. Some institutions may request more extensive documentation than others, but there are key documents that remain consistent.

All international applicants seeking a bachelor’s degree program must acquire a Higher Education Entrance Qualification Certificate in addition to their passport and secondary education certificate. Candidates from outside the European Union must provide a scanned copy of a bank statement that verifies they have enough funds to support themselves in Norway.

For those intending to apply for a master’s degree in nursing, a certified copy of their bachelor’s degree is necessary. Depending on the language of the diploma, translation and notarization may be needed.

We have created a guide on How to Study in Norway for International Students to assist you in preparing for your nursing education in Norway. If you are feeling uncertain, be sure to check out the guide!

Do you study nursing in any other language?

When it comes to the language of instruction in educational programs, Norway maintains strict standards. All nursing bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are conducted in Norwegian. For instance, VID Specialized University and the University of Agder offer these courses. Although the University of Bergen allows students to submit their theses in English, the entire program is delivered in Norwegian.

As Norwegian is the primary language of instruction, all international candidates must possess a certificate demonstrating their proficiency in Norwegian. Additionally, since certain modules and/or courses may be taught in English, a good command of that language is also necessary.

Best Nursing Schools in Norway for International Students

1. University of Adger

Bachelor’s degrees are offered. Graduates possessing the right combination of theory and practical experience acquire all necessary knowledge and skills regarding diseases and healthcare, research methods, and nursing ethics.

At this nursing institution in Norway, students learn not only to depend on theoretical knowledge but also to analyze challenges and discover improved solutions while upholding core principles.

One of Adger University’s core beliefs is that nursing is a profession of global significance. Consequently, students in their second and third years of study are encouraged to participate in the exchange program. While studying at one of the partner universities in Australia, the United States, Europe, or Africa, all participants will have the chance to enhance their knowledge and skill set.

2. University of Bergen

Master’s degrees are offered. Bergen University is a prominent institution of higher education and a leading research center. With the principles of freedom and curiosity central to all research, it’s understandable that each innovation and finding plays a crucial role in shaping the future of society.

Master’s degree programs in nursing cater to individuals who possess a bachelor’s degree in the field.

This nursing school in Norway provides a full-time, two-year program. It aims to foster independent inquiry, knowledge acquisition, and analysis. The final assessment takes the form of a culminating exam. In addition, students must create a thesis. This written work is intended to demonstrate their ability to think critically, logically present theories on a selected topic, and generate new insights.

3. VID Specialized University

Bachelor’s degrees are offered at this institution. VID Specialized University ranks as the last contender on our selection of top nursing schools in Norway for international students. As one of the largest private universities in Norway, VID Specialized University has locations in Bergen, Oslo, Stavanger, and Sandnes. Those interested in fields such as education, medicine, administration, religion, and social sciences can select from a variety of programs at all levels (Bachelor, Master, PhD).

The nursing bachelor’s program aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to provide high-quality health care in both local and global health care settings over a three-year course period.

Students are trained to respond quickly and utilize the skills they acquire through role-playing and simulation of real-life patient scenarios. A substantial focus is placed on clinical practice (which constitutes 50 percent of the overall course duration), allowing students to gather valuable practical experience essential for any nursing professional.

How to Apply to Nursing Schools in Norway

Meet Admission Requirements

For Norwegian or EU/EEA Citizens;

  • General university admissions certification (generell studiekompetanse).
  • Proficiency in Norwegian language (most undergraduate nursing programs are taught in Norwegian).
  • Some schools may require science courses such as biology or chemistry.

For Non-EU/EEA International Students;

  • A recognized high school diploma equivalent to Norwegian upper secondary school.

Norwegian language proficiency;

  • Pass Bergenstesten (Test in Norwegian) or
  • Pass Level 3 Norwegian course at a Norwegian university.

Some schools may accept English-taught master’s programs in nursing or public health.

Choose a Nursing Program and University

Top universities offering nursing programs include;

  • OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University
  • University of Bergen
  • University of Stavanger
  • University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway

For undergraduate nursing, programs are generally called Bachelor i sykepleie (Bachelor in Nursing) and are in Norwegian. Some relevant English-taught graduate programs include Global Health, Public Health, or Health Sciences.

Prepare Required Documents

Typical requirements;

  • Educational certificates (translated into English or Norwegian).
  • Language proficiency proof (Norwegian or English for graduate programs).
  • Motivation letter or statement of purpose.
  • CV/resume.
  • Passport copy.
  • Recommendation letters (for graduate programs).

Apply Through the Correct Portal

🇳🇴 – For Norwegian/Nordic/EU students;

  • Use Samordna Opptak (Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service).

For Non-EU/EEA international applicants;

  • Apply directly to the university offering the program.

Applications open typically between October and December, deadlines often in January or February for programs starting in August.

Understand Tuition and Funding

  • No tuition fees for students from EU/EEA countries.
  • Tuition fees now apply to most non-EU/EEA students (starting from 2023).
  • Living expenses in Norway are high—plan for at least NOK 137,907 (about €12,000) per year.
  • Look for scholarships offered by specific universities or external organizations.

Wait for Admission Results

  • Admissions for undergraduate programs are usually published in July.
  • Graduate program admissions may be notified between March and May.

Apply for Student Visa/Residence Permit

If accepted;

Requirements include;

  • Letter of admission.
  • Proof of financial ability (around NOK 137,907 per year).
  • Health insurance.
  • Housing proof.

Prepare for Relocation

  • Arrange for accommodation (some universities offer student housing).
  • Get health insurance.
  • Join university orientation programs for international students.

Conclusion on How to study Nursing in Norway

We trust that you found our resource on pursuing nursing education in Norway and the top nursing institutions in Norway helpful, feel free to explore other contents.

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Unwana Akpan
Unwana Akpan

The author is a google certified online publisher and marketer, great researcher, writer and a graduate of Applied Chemistry; she writes blog articles & manage blogs too.

Our passion at Study Eagles is helping job seekers and international students get quality info about jobs and study abroad opportunities.

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