“Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world, right?”
That’s a common assumption, but what many international students don’t realize is that Norway offers more than high costs. Its flexible work-study system, exceptionally low unemployment, and strong demand for skilled graduates make it an appealing destination for those seeking both education and career growth.
From autumn 2023, Norway introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students at public universities. Yet even with that change, many international students flourish here, thanks to supportive policies that allow students to work up to 20 hours per week during studies (and full-time during holidays) on their student residence permit. Add a low unemployment rate and a consistent need for tech-savvy professionals, and it’s clear why studying in Norway can lead to real job opportunities after graduation.
In this article, we’ll compare Norway’s cost of living to its Western European counterparts, explore how work options help balance living costs, and examine why Noroff University College in Kristiansand is an excellent launchpad for your global tech career particularly with its flexible online start and close connection to industry.
Understanding Norway’s Cost of Living
Data from Eurostat shows that the average monthly living expenses in Norway (which is around €1,125) ranks second in cost-of-living indexes in Europe, just after Switzerland. And while essentials like housing, food, and transport remain significant parts of any student’s budget across Europe, recent trends have made Norway more accessible than many assume. The Norwegian krone (NOK) has weakened in recent years, increasing the spending power of students with foreign currency. According to Science Norway, the price gap between Norway and the rest of Europe has narrowed, making the country more attractive and affordable than it once was, especially for international students who take advantage of smart budgeting and work opportunities during their studies.
Tuition for Non-EU/EEA Students: What’s Changing
Starting in autumn 2023, Norway introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students at public universities, ending its long-standing tradition of tuition-free education for all. Most public institutions now charge between NOK 130,000 to 200,000 (€11,000 to €18,000) annually, with some specialized programs costing even more. For instance, NTNU and the University of Oslo have fees ranging from ~150,000 to over 250,000 NOK depending on the degree. In comparison, private institutions like Noroff University College offer competitive rates at around 98,000 NOK per year (€8,500 to €9,000), making them a more affordable option for many international students.
Despite this policy shift, Norway remains an attractive study destination due to its outstanding quality of life, safety, clean environment, and high-ranking public services. While the tuition-free era may be over for many students, the value of a Norwegian education, especially at a tech-forward institution like Noroff, continues to justify the cost for those seeking a high-quality, future-ready academic experience.
Accommodation in Norway
Rent is often the largest monthly expense, but in Kristiansand, students benefit from more affordable housing options compared to other major cities in Europe. Student-friendly options in Kristiansand are significantly more accessible as university dorms and shared flats typically run between 3,500 to 5,500 NOK/month (utilities mostly included). That’s notably lower than student housing in Germany (€250 to 400) or France (€300 to 600) and far more manageable than capital city prices. Public and private student welfare services in Kristiansand keep housing competitive and accessible for students at Noroff University College.
Food and Transportation
Food and transport are essential expenses, but with the right approach, they’re easily managed and greatly enjoyed in Norway. On average, students spend around 2,500 to 4,000 NOK per month on groceries and approximately 500 NOK for a transit pass (about €50) . These costs are aligned with student budgets in other European countries—and they come with Norwegian quality.
Groceries may be slightly higher than in neighboring countries, but students typically control costs by cooking at home, choosing affordable chains like Rema 1000, Kiwi, or Coop Extra, and buying store-brand items. Dining at university cafeterias keeps meals budget-friendly (around 40 to 80 NOK), while grocery shopping habits such as bulk buys and seasonal produce help keep monthly food bills between 2,500 to 3,500 NOK .
Transport is equally accessible.students in Kristiansand are eligible for discounted bus fares through Agder Kollektivtrafikk (AKT). Students under 31 who are studying full-time are entitled to a discount. Cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand all offer well-connected networks, making walking, biking, or public transit a convenient choice over driving.
Leisurely Activities
Students in Norway enjoy an active and enriching social life without overspending. While a pint at a pub or cinema ticket may cost more here than elsewhere, students benefit from discounted venues and vibrant cultural hubs. Outdoor enthusiasts have full access to Norway’s stunning landscapes via the "allemannsretten" (right to roam), allowing free hiking, camping, or swimming nearly anywhere.
Social activities like board‑game nights, student association meetups, and volunteer‑run cultural festivals keep entertainment costs low while enriching your experience. Even winter essentials like clothing and equipment are easy to source affordably through second‑hand shops, borrowing, or shared gear within student networks. By tapping into these community-driven resources and embracing Norway’s outdoorsy culture, students can enjoy a full, balanced lifestyle without overwhelming expenses.
Smart Budgeting Tips for Students in Norway
- Choose Your City Wisely: Living costs vary across Norway because cities like Oslo are more expensive, while places like Kristiansand or Trondheim are more affordable. Studying in smaller cities also means lower rent, less competition for housing, and a closer student community.
- Take Advantage of Noroff’s Flexible Study Options: Noroff University College allows you to start online and later transition to campus, helping you save on living expenses early on. This flexibility can ease financial pressure while still giving you access to quality education and support.
- Work Part-Time (Legally): With a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during holidays and many jobs pay around NOK 150/hour. This can significantly supplement your budget, especially in cities with English-speaking roles or Noroff’s tech-related opportunities.
- Budget and Track Expenses: Use a spreadsheet or app to monitor your spending and set monthly limits for rent, food, and leisure. Norway is mostly cashless, so tracking transactions is easy—small habits like making coffee at home can save you thousands over time.
- Use Student Discounts Everywhere: Always ask for student discounts; you’ll find them on transport, museums, events, and even in some restaurants. Use student discount apps or get an ISIC card to maximize savings across Norway and Europe.
- Live like a Local (Frugally): Norwegians are practical, so bring packed lunches, enjoy the outdoors, and join student potlucks instead of dining out. Embracing these local habits saves money and deepens your cultural experience.
- Plan Travel Smartly: Travel off-season, book early, and use student discounts for trains or flights when exploring Europe. Carpooling or using ride-share groups is a great way to explore Norway cheaply while making new friends.
- Seek Scholarships or Grants: Look into scholarships from your home country or tech-specific funding for Noroff’s programs. On-campus roles and small grants may also be available once you’re enrolled—every little bit helps reduce costs.
Is Studying in Norway Worth It?
Country | Monthly Estimated Living Cost (€) | Tuition for Non‑EU (€) | Key Advantages |
Norway (Kristiansand) | €1,000 to 1,200 (≈ 10k to 12k NOK) | ~€8,500 to 9,500 at Noroff University College | Work-study (20 hrs/week), innovation-enhanced courses, high graduate employability, widespread scholarships, world-class living environment |
Germany (Munich) | €1,000 to 1,800 | Free (public), ~€250 admin fee | No tuition, quality education, widespread scholarships |
France (Paris) | €1,000 to 1,800 | ~€190 to 700 | Low tuition, strong student aid, vibrant cultural life |
Italy (Milan) | €850 to 1,450 | ~€800 to €4,000 | Affordable cost of living, historic campuses, warm climate |
Choosing Noroff University College in Kristiansand enhances this value further:
- With practical, innovative, tech-focused programs and strong industry ties, Noroff boosts employability.
- Flexible study options including an online start and rolling admissions allow better financial planning.
- Small city life means lower living costs) without compromising on a rich student experience.
Studying in Norway offers a compelling balance: manageable living costs, the ability to work during studies, affordable tuition compared with public universities in Norway, and strong career outcomes. With careful planning and an open mindset, international students can find Norway both enriching and financially viable, and one of the best places to launch a global tech career.
