5 Things To Know If You Are Going To Norway For Higher Education

Scandinavia is a region which is often hailed as the world’s best in terms of many indicators of human development. Added to that, it is blessed with a picturesque natural environment which makes the heart of any tourist beat faster and excitedly. Such is the magic of Scandinavia—and no one can disagree to this.

There are a handful of countries which comprise Scandinavia, and one such country is Norway, which aside from its fascination for Tesla Cars, is also one of the best places to pursue higher education. Obviously, Norway does not top when it comes to student choices, primarily because the fanfare around education systems in Canada, Europe, and the United States creates a nearly deafening effect. But, trust me, and a good amount of literature available of course, when I say that, the Norwegian education system is a great choice for a great career.

This being said, Norway is a country with distinct religious, cultural, economic and political aspects which you cannot find in countries such as Canada. Hence, it is recommended that you read and learn about Norway extensively before you decide to make a move.

To ease up the research process, I have written down a list of 5 things which you should know about Norway to make an informed decision. Pay good attention to each one of them and you should have a good groundwork to begin with.

1. It can Be Expensive
   This is no secret that Scandinavian countries are expensive. Even if you are great at budget-making and management, you will very easily feel the brunt of the expensive lifestyle you will have to sign up for. Unlike in other countries where you can simply hit the street to eat local food without thinking twice, here in Norway you might end up cooking for yourself (which, actually, is a good alternative).
   Just in case you come from a financially weak background, then you should seriously consider getting a scholarship for your own sake.
2. Norwegian Is the Way
   A breather for many international applicants is that the Norwegian population can speak English. However, you should know that the population prefers the native language (obviously) and hence, it is better that you learn a bit of Norwegian, preferably Bokmål which is most spoken here.

   

3. Study Materials Are Costly
   Most of the issues concerning higher education in Norway involve high-cost factor. While I have already discussed this, I would like to mention separately the case with study materials. In Norway, you will end up purchasing your own course support books, and mind you, they are very costly. The cost rises in case of certain specific courses such as law. Usually, students do not expect to spend a lot on course support books, but Norway is a different case altogether. You can, of course, find books online or get second-hand books; the latter being quite a popular activity.
4. Publicly Funded Universities
   One of the things about Norway which attract overseas students is that many universities here are entirely publicly funded. The Norwegian government supports the idea of access to education for all, and this includes international students. Even if you apply for a course in a private university, the tuition fee charged is very less in comparison to its counterparts in other countries. Of course, you will anyway end up spending a lot on living expenses so having not to pay tuition fees kind of helps students.

   

5. You Might End Up Getting A Bicycle
   Transportation is one of the many things a student considers when he intends to study in a foreign country. In Norway, there is a well-connected and highly maintained transportation system, but, as I have been saying again and again, it is costly. Even if you get a student discount, you will end up paying a lot. A bicycle is considered to be the best alternative for transportation. It is best you purchase a bicycle soon after coming here so that you can save money which you would otherwise spend away on public transport.

Yeah, I know what you are thinking: Expensive! But, Norway is an experience worth it all.

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