Norway is one of the three Scandinavian countries in the Northern region of Europe. This is a diverse country with an explorative mindset. Norway holds a high standard of living. Norway can pride itself in a high quality education system wherein the students do not have to pay tuition fees at any level, be it undergraduate studies, Masters Programs or Ph.D.
Student Welfare Organisations
All institutions have a student welfare organisation. You can become a member upon payment of the compulsory semester fee usually between NOK 300-600, which is also needed in order to register for examinations. Depending on the size of the institution the student welfare organisations offer a broad variety of services like counselling, a mental health service, student accommodation and sports facilities.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation should be a priority when you are first applying to the university or University College. You can book and pay for accommodation online. The accommodation facilities range from student villages with several hundred units, to smaller housing units. Your Norwegian university or university college through The Student Welfare Association will apprise you about housing prospects once you are admitted as a student.
Living Cost in Norway
The minimum sum of money for a year, if you are a self financing student is around NOK 100,000.
The Approximate living expenses for a student in Norway for one semester: Housing: NOK 15, 000, Food: NOK 15, 000, Books & Supplies: NOK 5000, Transportation: NOK 3000 and other expenses: NOK 12 000
Working While You Study
Depending on your study program, you may be permitted to work part-time to help finance your stay. A student may work a maximum of 20 hours per week.
European Union/European Economic Area students do not require a work license, and can work in Norway after they have been registered with the police, whereas, Non-EU/EEA students can work 20 hours per week during their first year of study. Students when granted the first student residence permit in Norway can work up to 20 hours per week, and full-time work during the vacations.
Transportation
In Norway there is a well developed system of public conveyance. As a student, you will receive a discount when travelling by public transport as buses, trains and boats/ferries. Students should travel with an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) to avail the discount.
Going around by Taxis
There are taxis available in all cities and most towns, and drivers usually speak English. You can hail a taxi in the street or simply phone for one.
- Mode of Payment: Pay in cash (Norwegian kroner only) or by credit card. Taxis in Norway accept the cards such as VISA, American Express, Diners Club, Euro card and MasterCard.
Travelling In and Around by Trains
The Norwegian State Railways (NSB) has a well-developed network of tracks. "Minipris" train tickets can be booked through The Norwegian State Railway (Website: https://www.vy.no/en). There are many special offers and price reductions for international students.
Going around by Buses and Coaches
Every city and town in Norway has a local bus service and there is an extended network of express coaches throughout the country. One-day and weekly travel cards can be taken from the driver, kiosks and bus stations. As well, you can purchase your ticket on board
Source: http://www.visitnorway.com
Health and Safety
Norway is a safe country to live and study. Medical care in Norway is free. Once you have made the registration as a student in Norway, you are eligible to receive medical care facility against a small refundable fee.