Many international students considering studying in European countries. But in your study abroad decision checklist would be: english-taught programs, availability of my preffered program, lifestyle and how safe it is for international students. opportunity to work while studying, opportunity to work after graduation. These list might not be applied for all of international students, however most of them are those decision factors.
Many international students are considering studying in European countries. But in your study abroad decision checklist, there would be: English-taught programs, availability of your preferred program, lifestyle, how safe it is for international students, opportunities to work while studying, and opportunities to work after graduation. This list might not apply to all international students, but for most, these are key decision factors.
The most popular destination among international students in Europe is the United Kingdom because of its famous and prestigious universities. However, it’s becoming less attractive, and many students are losing confidence in studying in the UK due to the uncertainty of finding a job after graduation.
Norway has become one of the most underrated European destinations for international students. It checks off most of the important factors for studying abroad, and the country is now welcoming international students while offering opportunities to work during studies and after graduation. Many international students have said that they were able to get a job after graduation.
If you're curious to learn more about why you should study in Norway and the reasons why international students are starting to love it here…
Top Reasons why International Students Choose Norway
1) English is widely spoken in Norway
Many international students are looking for a country that is widely English-spoken. And in Norway, almost everyone can speak English and most of the programs offered here are English-taught programs.
Norway ranks 5th globally in the EF English Proficiency Index 2024, with "very high" proficiency levels, making it one of the most English-friendly countries for international students. According to students, people here are great people to be friends with and easy to get help if you need it.
2) Affordable competitive programs
Most of the universities in Norway offer high-quality education but affordable tuition. One great example is Noroff University College, they are offering programs that are practical and in-demand jobs and updated curriculum has close ties with businesses and industries, increasing your chances of internships, networking, and job placements. Many of their graduates go directly into exciting careers in tech, design, and digital marketing.
Note: The estimated living cost for students is NOK 13,790 per month (approximately $1,300 USD) according to official Norwegian education authorities, plus a semester fee of approximately 1,000 NOK per semester.
3) Work opportunities during and after study
Many international students look for a country that they can work while studying, this is to some of them to fund their studies, expand their skills, good for their resume and more. And good news is that Norway allowed international students permission to work part-time when granted a study permit. If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen you can work as much as you would like work in addition to your studies - but remember, you are first of all a full-time student. If you are non-EU you can work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during holidays.
Norway welcomes talents and with a low unemployment rate and many opportunities for skilled workers. With an unemployment rate of just 3.9% as of December 2024 and employment projected to grow by 1.39% through 2025, Norway offers excellent job prospects. After graduating in Norway you can stay and look for work for up to one year in an attractive labor market with low unemployment and high salaries. Read about the job seeker visa and finding jobs.
4) Safe and welcoming environment to international students
Norway is known for being a safe, inclusive, and progressive country. International students are warmly welcomed and supported through affordable student housing, student discounts, and active student organizations that help create a strong sense of community. The growing international student community of nearly 29,000 students creates a supportive network for newcomers.
The campus area is both beautiful and well-maintained, creating an attractive and welcoming environment. The location is also ideal, as it is right in the city center, making it easy to access everything you might need.
– Dior Anvarov
5) English-taught programs
As most people in Norway has excellent in English, so when you ask somebody for help you wouldn't need translator just to communicate. Especially the younger generations, you would surprise to hear them speak fluent in English.
In Norway, universities offers a wide range of English-taught degree programs at various levels, including Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD. Take for example, Noroff University College, the leading tech and digital media school located in Kristiansand, Norway, they are offering programs in Cyber Security, AI, Cloud computing, digital marketing, which all are current in-demand skills (and they also offer online programs).
6) A thriving job market
Norway has a booming tech industry, making it an attractive place for digital media and technology professionals. With a strong economy and a high demand for skilled workers, studying at Noroff University College for example, opens doors to exciting career opportunities both in Norway and internationally. The job vacancy rate in industry, construction and services was 3.7% in 2023, indicating strong demand for skilled workers.
Study in Norway
These are just a few reasons why Norway continues to attract students worldwide. Of course, every student's experience is unique, but the overwhelming majority discover that Norway exceeds their expectations and becomes a place they proudly recommend to others.
Join thousands of international students who have already discovered what makes Norway special. With its combination of world-class education, thriving job market, and welcoming culture, Norway offers a pathway to your future career and personal growth.
If these reasons have piqued your curiosity and sparked your interest in studying here, don't let this opportunity slip away.
About Noroff University College - Your Gateway to Tech Success
Noroff University College is located in Norway with campuses in four major cities across the country, in addition to their comprehensive Online Campus: Kristiansand, Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger.
If you are currently looking for exceptional options to advance your tech career, there's a leading university that stands out above the rest - Noroff University College. They proudly welcome international students to join their industry-leading programs in cyber security, advanced IT computing, digital marketing, and many more cutting-edge fields.
You can explore their comprehensive programs and find your perfect fit here. Or if you need personalized guidance with your options, you can book a call with one of our experienced student advisors here.
