Norway used to be tuition-free for everyone — then in autumn 2023, the policy changed. Now non-EU/EEA students pay full tuition (€11,000-€31,000/year) but EU/EEA students still study completely free at the University of Oslo, NTNU, Bergen, and 5 other public universities.
What the 2023 Change Actually Did
| Student Origin | Before 2023 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Norwegian | Free | Free |
| EU/EEA + Swiss | Free | Free |
| Non-EU/EEA | Free | €11k-€31k/yr |
Top Universities (Still Free for EU Students)
- University of Oslo (#117 QS)
- NTNU Trondheim (#252)
- University of Bergen
- Norwegian Business School BI
- UiT Arctic University
Quota Scheme for Developing Countries
Even after 2023, the Quota Scheme (now renamed NORHED II) funds students from 30+ developing countries for free, including stipend.
About This Research
This guide was prepared by the Studies Multiverse editorial team — a network of former international students, scholarship recipients, and university admissions advisors. Our data sources include DAAD, NUFFIC, Campus France, official university websites, and Erasmus+ statistical reports, cross-checked against tuition records from 800+ universities globally. Last verified May 2026. See how we research.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norway still free for international students?
Norway is still tuition-free for EU/EEA and Swiss students. As of autumn 2023, non-EU/EEA students pay €11,000-€31,000/year in tuition.
Does the Quota Scheme still exist?
Yes, renamed NORHED II. It funds students from approved developing countries with full tuition + living stipend.
How much does it cost to live in Oslo?
Expect €1,200-€1,700/month for rent, food, and transit. Outside Oslo (Bergen, Trondheim) costs are 15-25% lower.