Are you dreaming of pursuing your higher education in Europe without the financial burden? Norway, with its globally respected education system and tuition-free public universities, is one of the most attractive destinations for international students. The Norway Scholarships for Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD programs for the academic year 2025-2026 are now available, offering numerous opportunities for international students, including those from developing countries.
This guide provides a detailed overview of how you can apply for fully funded scholarships in Norway, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs. It includes top scholarship programs available at renowned institutions like the University of Oslo, NTNU, University of Bergen, and more. The best part? Many Norwegian universities allow students to study without IELTS under specific conditions.
Let’s dive into the full breakdown of scholarships in Norway for 2025-2026.
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Scholarship Benefits
One of the primary reasons international students choose Norway is the incredible financial support available. Below are the benefits typically offered through Norwegian scholarships:
- Tuition-Free Education: Most public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees to international students, including those from outside the EU/EEA.
- Monthly Living Allowance: Many scholarships provide a monthly stipend to cover accommodation, food, and other expenses.
- Travel Grants: Some scholarships include airfare or a one-time travel allowance.
- Health Insurance: Most scholarship programs cover the cost of medical insurance.
- Research and Study Material Allowance: PhD students often receive additional funds for research and materials.
These benefits ensure that students can focus on their studies without financial stress.
Host Country
The scholarships listed here are offered by Norwegian universities, meaning all selected students will pursue their studies in Norway, one of the safest, most student-friendly, and environmentally beautiful countries in Europe. Norway is globally known for its high-quality education, sustainability, equality, and emphasis on innovation.
Deadline
Application deadlines vary depending on the scholarship program and the university. Here are some general timelines for popular scholarships:
- Norwegian Government Quota Scheme: December 1, 2024
- BI Presidential Scholarships: March 1, 2025
- University of Bergen & NTNU Scholarships: December 1, 2024
- Erasmus Mundus Programs: Varies by course (typically between December 2024 and February 2025)
Students are advised to check the respective university’s website to confirm specific deadlines.
Eligible Countries
Most Norway scholarship programs are open to international students from all regions. However, some opportunities such as the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme specifically target students from developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Other scholarships are open to:
- Non-EU/EEA countries
- All nationalities (for programs like Erasmus Mundus and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions)
- Countries with bilateral education agreements with Norway
Always check the eligibility section of each program for detailed regional and academic requirements.
Available Majors
Norwegian universities offer a wide range of English-taught academic disciplines across all study levels. These include:
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental and Marine Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities and Arts
- Economics and Business
- Education and Pedagogy
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Law and Public Policy
Many of these programs are closely tied to Norway’s sustainability and innovation goals, making them globally competitive.
Available Academic Level
Norway scholarships for 2025-2026 are available for all academic levels:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Limited but available in select programs.
- Master’s Degree: Widely available with many English-taught programs and financial support.
- PhD Programs: Fully funded salaried positions, equivalent to full scholarships, across all major research fields.
Required Documents
To apply for scholarships in Norway, students typically need to prepare the following documents:
- Academic Transcripts (Certified)
- Passport Copy
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Proof of English Proficiency (waived by many institutions if prior education was in English)
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Portfolio (for arts/design-related programs)
- Work Experience (if required)
Note: Some universities accept alternative English proficiency proof such as a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution instead of IELTS.
Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for Norway Scholarships 2025-2026:
- Select a Program & University: Research tuition-free programs and available scholarships at Norwegian universities.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet academic qualifications, nationality requirements, and language criteria.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather and certify all required documents.
- Submit Scholarship & Admission Applications: Some scholarships are automatically considered with your university application; others require a separate application.
- Track Your Status: Follow up with universities for confirmation, additional requirements, or interviews.
- Apply for a Student Visa/Residence Permit: Once accepted, apply through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).
- Travel and Start Studies in Norway: Prepare travel documents, find accommodation, and attend the orientation at your university.
Top Norway Scholarships Without IELTS 2025-2026
Below are the top fully funded Norway scholarships that do not require IELTS if you meet alternative English proficiency criteria:
1. Norwegian Government Quota Scheme
- Eligibility: Developing countries
- Covers: Living expenses, travel, and tuition
- Apply via: Partner universities
- Deadline: December 1
2. University of Oslo Scholarships
- Eligibility: International bachelor’s and master’s students
- Benefits: Living costs support
- Language Requirement: IELTS waiver possible for MOI
- Deadline: Varies by department
3. BI Presidential Scholarships
- Host: BI Norwegian Business School
- Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA with academic excellence
- Covers: Full/partial tuition
- Deadline: March 1
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
- Eligibility: All nationalities
- Covers: Full tuition, travel, stipend
- Deadline: Program-specific
5. NTNU & University of Bergen Scholarships
- Eligibility: Master’s students
- Covers: Tuition support, living allowance
- Deadline: December 1
6. Norwegian PhD Research Fellowships
- Eligibility: Master’s graduates
- Benefits: Monthly salary (~€45,000-€55,000)
- Deadline: Varies by department
7. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
- Eligibility: International PhD researchers
- Covers: Salary, research budget
- Deadline: Varies
Study in Norway Without IELTS
While many countries require an IELTS score for admission, Norwegian universities often waive this requirement if:
- You studied previously in English-medium education.
- You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous institution.
- You are from an English-speaking country or meet specific university exemptions.
Always verify with your desired university before applying.
Final Thoughts
Norway stands out as one of the most inclusive, affordable, and academically strong destinations for international students. With its tuition-free education at public universities, ample scholarship opportunities, and no mandatory IELTS requirement for many programs, the 2025-2026 academic year is the perfect time to consider Norway for your higher studies.
Start early, prepare your documents carefully, and apply before the deadlines to maximize your chances. Norway doesn’t just offer education – it offers a life-changing international experience in one of the most peaceful and progressive countries in the world.
