Norway Scholarship 2026 For Nigerian Student| Apply Now

In this complete guide, you will find everything you need to know about the Norway scholarship for international students in 2026-2027 — from eligibility requirements and available programs to application tips and frequently asked questions. Whether you are looking for a fully funded master’s degree, a PhD fellowship, or an undergraduate scholarship, this article covers it all.

Why Study in Norway?

Before diving into the scholarships themselves, it is worth understanding why Norway stands out as a top study destination in Europe.

Tuition-Free Public Universities: Norway is one of the very few countries in Europe — and the world  where public universities do not charge tuition fees from students, including international students. Whether you come from Nigeria, Pakistan, India, Egypt, or Brazil, you can enroll in a Norwegian public university without paying tuition. This alone makes Norway one of the most cost-effective destinations for higher education globally.

Globally Ranked Universities: Norwegian universities consistently rank among the top institutions in Europe. The University of Oslo, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the University of Bergen, and UiT — The Arctic University of Norway are recognized internationally for research excellence, innovation, and academic quality.

English-Taught Programs: Norway offers hundreds of academic programs taught entirely in English, especially at the Master’s and PhD levels. International students do not need to learn Norwegian to pursue higher education, making the country highly accessible.

Safe and Inclusive Society: Norway regularly ranks among the top countries in the world for quality of life, safety, gender equality, and social inclusion. Students from diverse backgrounds can feel welcomed and respected in Norwegian society.

Research and Innovation Focus: Norwegian universities emphasize critical thinking, practical learning, and independent research. Students are trained to become problem-solvers and innovators, skills that are in high demand in the global job market.

Strong Work Opportunities: International students in Norway are permitted to work part-time while studying, which can help offset living expenses, which are admittedly higher compared to many other countries.

Understanding the Cost of Studying in Norway

While public university education in Norway is tuition-free, living in Norway is expensive. It is important to understand these costs before applying for scholarships, as funding bodies typically design their financial packages around them.

According to the official Study in Norway website, the estimated living cost for a student is approximately NOK 13,790 per month, which works out to around NOK 166,859 per year for the 2025-2026 academic year. This figure covers rent, food, transportation, and basic personal expenses.

In addition to monthly living costs, students also need to budget for a semester fee of approximately NOK 1,000 per semester paid to the student welfare organization (called Samskipnad in Norwegian), which in return provides access to student housing, sports facilities, healthcare services, and cafeterias at subsidized rates.

Students from outside the EU/EEA are also required to show proof of sufficient funds when applying for a Norwegian student permit (residence permit for studies). The minimum required is at least NOK 15,169 per month or NOK 166,859 per year. This is where Norway scholarships play a critical role — they help international students meet both the visa financial requirement and their actual living costs while studying.

Types of Norway Scholarships for International Students

There are several categories of scholarships available for international students who want to study in Norway. These include government-funded programs, university scholarships, international cooperation programs, and private foundation grants.

1. Norwegian Government Scholarship Programs

The Norwegian government funds several scholarship schemes, particularly targeting students from developing countries and underrepresented regions. It is important to note, however, that the Norwegian government does not offer a single open scholarship to all international students. Instead, funding is channeled through specific programs and institutions.

The most notable government-backed program is the Norwegian Quota Scholarship Scheme, which was historically available to students from developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. This scheme provided funding to both undergraduate and graduate students and was administered through Norwegian universities.

Another key government funding avenue is through NORPART (Norway-Partners Program for Global Education and Research), which supports partnerships between Norwegian and international higher education institutions, providing exchange and scholarship opportunities.

The High North Fellowship Program, funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is dedicated to students from Canada, Japan, Russia, South Korea, and the United States. Undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students can apply. The program aims to strengthen Norway’s academic and diplomatic relationships with these specific countries.

2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Scholarships (Norway)

Norway actively participates in the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) programs, which are funded by the European Union and offer some of the most generous scholarship packages available to international students. Norwegian institutions currently take part in 16 Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programs, providing Master’s-level students from all over the world with the opportunity to study across multiple European countries, including Norway.

Erasmus Mundus scholarships typically cover tuition fees, travel costs, accommodation, and a monthly living allowance for the full duration of the program, usually one to two years. These are highly competitive but extremely rewarding scholarships.

3. University-Specific Scholarships in Norway

In addition to national and international programs, several Norwegian universities offer their own scholarships to attract outstanding international students. Here is an overview of the major university scholarship programs.

BI Presidential Scholarship – BI Norwegian Business School

The BI Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by a Norwegian institution. It is awarded by BI Norwegian Business School, the largest business school in Norway and the second-largest in Europe, with campuses in Oslo and Bergen.

This scholarship is available to both Norwegian and international applicants admitted to a Master of Science (MSc) program at BI. Benefits include full tuition coverage for up to two years and a living stipend of approximately NOK 50,000 per semester. The scholarship is merit-based and is awarded to candidates with outstanding academic records.

For the 2026 intake, BI offers up to 20 scholarships for international applicants and 10 for Norwegian applicants. Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of B on BI’s ECTS scale each semester and meet academic progression requirements of 30 ECTS credits per semester to retain the award.

The deadline for the BI Presidential Scholarship application is typically 1 March. Applications must be submitted through BI’s official online admission portal alongside the Master’s program application.

University of Oslo Scholarships

The University of Oslo (UiO), the oldest and largest university in Norway, offers several scholarship options for international Master’s students. These scholarships are available for students from outside the EU/EEA who are pursuing Master’s degrees in disciplines including humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, law, medicine, and technology.

Applicants need to meet the program’s academic entry requirements and provide proof of English language proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores. The University of Oslo is also home to numerous research fellowships and PhD funding opportunities for qualified international students.

NTNU Scholarships – Norwegian University of Science and Technology

NTNU, Norway’s leading technical university, is based in Trondheim and focuses on engineering, natural sciences, and technology. NTNU does not generally offer blanket scholarships but facilitates access to several external funding opportunities for international students.

Notably, the Anglo-Norse Society Scholarship awards £3,000 each year to the best-qualified British citizen receiving admission to a Master’s degree at NTNU. Students do not need to apply separately — the award is automatic. Additionally, the GSEP (Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership) offers scholarships to outstanding Master’s-level students from developing countries pursuing studies in sustainable energy development at NTNU.

UiT – The Arctic University of Norway

UiT The Arctic University of Norway, located in Tromsø, offers the Quota Scholarships Program and has historically been active in supporting students from developing nations. UiT also participates in various international cooperation programs that provide exchange scholarships for students.

4. Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen)

The Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen) is a government program that provides financial support to Norwegian citizens and certain categories of international students residing in Norway. While it is primarily a loan and grant system for Norwegian nationals, some international students who have completed a bachelor’s degree at a Norwegian institution may be eligible.

The program provides a combination of grants and loans. The loan portion is forgiven once the student successfully returns to their home country after completing their studies in Norway, making it functionally similar to a scholarship under certain conditions.

5. University of Oslo International Summer School (ISS) Scholarships

The University of Oslo’s International Summer School offers scholarships to international students who want to take undergraduate and graduate summer courses in Oslo. Eligible applicants include citizens from Asia, Africa, Central and South America, Oceania, former Soviet Union states, EU/EEA countries, the United States, and Canada.

Successful scholarship recipients receive financial aid covering tuition fees, textbooks, transportation, and flight tickets to and from Oslo. The application deadline for this program is typically 1 February, and the Summer School begins in June each year.

Fully Funded Norway Scholarships: What Do They Cover?

A fully funded Norway scholarship typically covers the following:

• Tuition Fees: Covered either by the university’s tuition-free policy (for public institutions) or paid directly by the scholarship.
• Monthly Living Stipend: Most comprehensive scholarships provide a monthly living allowance to cover rent, food, and daily expenses.
• Accommodation: Some scholarships arrange or subsidize student housing through the Samskipnad (student welfare organization).
• Health Insurance: International students on full scholarships often receive health insurance coverage during their study period.
• Round-Trip Airfare: Government-backed schemes and programs like the ISS Scholarship cover travel costs to and from Norway.
• Research and Conference Allowance: PhD fellowships and research scholarships sometimes include funds for attending academic conferences.
• Visa and Study Permit Fees: Some programs reimburse or cover the cost of applying for a Norwegian study permit.

Eligibility Requirements for Norway Scholarships

While specific eligibility criteria vary by scholarship, the following general requirements apply to most Norway scholarship programs for international students:

• Nationality: Most scholarships are open to students from outside the EU/EEA, with a special focus on applicants from developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.
• Academic Level: Scholarships are available for undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students, depending on the specific program.
• Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is almost always required. Most competitive scholarships expect a minimum GPA or equivalent in the applicant’s previous studies.
• English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency is required for most English-taught programs, usually through IELTS (minimum score of 6.0-6.5) or TOEFL. However, IELTS may be waived if the applicant’s previous education was conducted entirely in English.
• Admission to a Norwegian University: Most scholarships require that the applicant has first been admitted — or has simultaneously applied for admission — to a qualifying program at a Norwegian institution.
• Motivation Letter: A well-crafted motivation letter explaining academic interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing Norway is typically required.
• Letters of Recommendation: Academic references from professors or supervisors are commonly required.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and extracurricular activities.

How to Apply for a Norway Scholarship: Step-by-Step

Applying for a scholarship to study in Norway requires careful planning and early preparation. Below is a general step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Research Available Scholarships

Start by identifying scholarships that match your academic level, field of study, and nationality. Use official sources such as the Study in Norway website (studyinnorway.no), university websites, and scholarship databases like ScholarshipTab and EduRoam.

Step 2: Choose Your University and Program

Since most Norway scholarships require that you be admitted or applying to a program at a Norwegian university, identify the university and program that aligns with your academic background and career goals. Confirm that the program is taught in English if you are not a Norwegian speaker.

Step 3: Check Admission Requirements

Review the admission requirements for your chosen program. This includes academic qualifications (degrees, transcripts), language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL), and any field-specific prerequisites such as GMAT or GRE scores for business programs.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents well in advance. Common documents include:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• A motivation letter / statement of purpose
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two to three letters of recommendation
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Passport copy
• Research proposal (for PhD applications)

Step 5: Submit Your Admission Application

Apply to your chosen Norwegian university through their official online admission portal. For most universities, applications are submitted through the Samordna opptak (Norwegian Universities and University Colleges Admission Service) or directly through the university’s own portal.

Step 6: Apply for the Scholarship

Submit your scholarship application alongside or immediately after your admission application. Many scholarship applications are integrated into the university admission process. For others, a separate scholarship application form and cover letter are required.

Step 7: Wait for Results and Accept Your Offer

After submission, wait for the outcome. If you receive a scholarship offer, accept it promptly and follow any additional instructions provided. If you are not shortlisted, many programs accept appeals or alternative funding applications.

Step 8: Apply for a Norwegian Student Permit

If you are from a country outside the EU/EEA, you will need to apply for a residence permit for studies (student permit) from the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). This typically requires proof of admission, proof of financial means, and valid health insurance. Many scholarships provide a letter confirming financial coverage to satisfy this requirement.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Getting a Norway Scholarship

Start early: Begin your research and document preparation at least 6 to 12 months before the application deadline. The best scholarships in Norway are highly competitive and fill up quickly.

Write a compelling motivation letter: Your motivation letter is often the most important part of your application. Clearly articulate why you want to study in Norway, what you hope to achieve, and how the scholarship aligns with your career and life goals.

Maintain strong academic grades: All merit-based Norway scholarships evaluate your academic record. A higher GPA or distinction in previous studies significantly improves your chances.

Tailor each application: Avoid sending a generic application to multiple scholarships. Research the specific priorities of each scholarship program and tailor your application accordingly.

Get strong recommendation letters: Letters from professors or supervisors who know your academic and professional work closely will carry far more weight than generic reference letters.

Check for IELTS waivers: If your previous education was entirely in English, many Norwegian universities and scholarship programs will waive the IELTS requirement. This can save you time and money.

Apply to multiple scholarships: Do not rely on a single scholarship. Apply to several programs simultaneously to maximize your chances of funding.

Top Universities in Norway for International Scholarship Students

Here is a quick overview of the top Norwegian universities where international scholarship students most commonly study:

University of Oslo (UiO) — The largest and most prestigious university in Norway, offering a wide range of programs in law, medicine, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. It is located in the capital city of Oslo.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) — Based in Trondheim, NTNU is Norway’s leading institution for engineering, technology, and natural sciences. It is a top choice for students in STEM fields.

University of Bergen (UiB) — Located on Norway’s west coast, UiB is internationally recognized for its research in climate, marine sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

BI Norwegian Business School — The largest business school in Norway, offering Master’s and Bachelor’s programs in business, economics, data science, and related fields. Its Presidential Scholarship is among the most competitive in the country.

UiT — The Arctic University of Norway — Located in Tromsø in the far north, UiT is famous for its arctic and marine research programs and actively supports international scholarship students.

Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) — Focused on applied sciences, education, health sciences, and social work, OsloMet offers several English-taught programs for international students.

Norway Scholarship Without IELTS

One of the most common questions from international students is whether they can apply for a Norway scholarship without IELTS. The good news is that many Norwegian universities and scholarship programs do not require IELTS if the applicant can demonstrate prior education in English.

Most Norwegian public universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency, including:

• A bachelor’s degree from an English-medium university
• An online English proficiency test conducted by the university itself
• A video interview in English, used by some institutions to assess communication ability

If the medium of instruction in your previous degree was English, you simply need to provide an official letter or certificate from your institution confirming this. This waiver makes Norwegian universities particularly accessible for students from English-speaking countries or those who studied at English-medium institutions.

Fields of Study Commonly Supported by Norway Scholarships

Norway scholarships are available across a broad range of academic disciplines. However, certain fields receive more dedicated funding due to Norway’s national priorities and research strengths. These include:

• Sustainability and environmental sciences
• Renewable energy and sustainable energy development
• Engineering and technology
• Marine sciences and aquaculture
• Climate studies and Arctic research
• Public health and medicine
• International development and social sciences
• Business, economics, and finance
• Information and communication technology (ICT)
• Education and pedagogy
• Humanities and cultural studies

Final Thoughts: Is a Norway Scholarship Right for You?

A Norway scholarship represents one of the most valuable opportunities available to international students today. With tuition-free public universities, a safe and inclusive environment, globally respected academic qualifications, and a growing number of scholarship programs, Norway offers an unbeatable combination for students who are serious about advancing their education and careers.

The key to success is preparation. Start researching early, build a strong academic record, craft a compelling application, and apply to multiple programs. Whether your goal is a Master’s degree in business, a PhD in engineering, a summer school experience, or a research fellowship in the Arctic, Norway has an opportunity designed for students just like you.

Bookmark this guide, share it with fellow students who are looking for scholarship opportunities, and take the first step toward your Norwegian academic journey today. The fjords are waiting.