Funded Scholarships in Norway: Your Gateway to World-Class Education

Funded Scholarships in Norway. Norway is celebrated for its excellent education system, offering free tuition for international students at public universities. However, living expenses in Norway can be steep, making fully funded scholarships an invaluable resource for those seeking financial aid. This article explores the best fully funded scholarships in Norway, their eligibility criteria, application process, and tips to help you succeed in securing one.

Why Choose Norway for Higher Education?

World-Class Education System

Norwegian universities consistently rank among the best globally, offering cutting-edge research and innovative teaching methods.

Tuition-Free Education

Most public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees, regardless of the student’s nationality. However, other costs, such as accommodation, food, and transportation, remain significant.

Diverse English-Taught Programs

Norway offers a variety of master’s degree programs in English, eliminating the need for proficiency in Norwegian for academic purposes.

Safe and Inclusive Environment

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for international students.

Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway

Several scholarships cover tuition fees and living expenses, making higher education in Norway accessible to deserving candidates.

1. Norwegian Government Quota Scheme (Legacy Impact)

Though discontinued in 2015, the Quota Scheme paved the way for current initiatives supporting students from developing countries. Modern alternatives include government partnerships and university-specific scholarships inspired by the Quota Scheme.

2. Erasmus+ Program

Erasmus+ is a European Union initiative providing fully funded scholarships for international students, including those studying in Norway.

Eligibility: Enrollment in a partner institution and acceptance into a Norwegian university program.
Coverage:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel and insurance expenses
Fields of Study: All Erasmus-partnered programs, including engineering, social sciences, and business.

3. University of Oslo Scholarships

The University of Oslo (UiO) offers scholarships through various initiatives, including the International Summer School (ISS) program.

Eligibility:
- Exceptional academic record.
- Acceptance into a master’s degree program or summer course.
Coverage:
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Living stipend for high-need applicants.
Popular Programs: Natural sciences, education, and international relations.

4. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Scholarships

NTNU is a top destination for students interested in science, technology, and engineering, offering scholarships for outstanding international students.

Eligibility:
- Strong academic background.
- Enrollment in NTNU’s international master’s programs.
Coverage:
- Tuition waivers.
- Research funding.
- Monthly living stipends for select candidates.

5. BI Presidential Scholarships

BI Norwegian Business School provides fully funded scholarships to academically outstanding students.

Eligibility:
- High GPA from previous studies.
- Enrollment in a full-time master’s degree program.
Coverage:
- Full tuition waiver.
- Living expenses up to NOK 70,000 annually.
Focus Areas: Business administration, economics, and management.

6. NORAM Scholarships

Funded by the Norway-America Association, NORAM scholarships cater to North American students pursuing higher education in Norway.

Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of the USA or Canada.
- Proven academic excellence.
Coverage:
- Tuition fees.
- Living costs and travel expenses.

7. Fulbright Norway Grants

The Fulbright Program offers fully funded scholarships for American students and researchers aiming to study or conduct research in Norway.

Eligibility:
- U.S. citizenship.
- Acceptance into a Norwegian academic institution.
Coverage:
- Tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Travel grants.

How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Norway

Step 1: Identify Suitable Scholarships

Research scholarships that align with your academic and personal qualifications.
Consider eligibility criteria, coverage, and deadlines.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Most scholarship applications require the following:

Academic transcripts and certificates.
A strong statement of purpose or motivation letter.
Letters of recommendation.
Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Apply online via university portals or scholarship-specific websites.
Ensure your application is complete and submitted on time.

Step 4: Prepare for Interviews (if applicable)

Some scholarships may require an interview or additional selection rounds. Be ready to articulate your goals and demonstrate your suitability for the program.

Tips for Securing Fully Funded Scholarships

1. Start Early

Research and prepare well in advance. Deadlines for scholarships often fall several months before the academic term begins.

2. Tailor Your Application

Customize your statement of purpose to reflect the specific values and requirements of the scholarship program.

3. Demonstrate Excellence

Showcase academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership experiences that highlight your potential.

4. Seek Guidance

Consult professors, advisors, or previous scholarship recipients for advice and feedback.

5. Stay Persistent

Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success.

The Cost of Living in Norway and Financial Planning

While tuition fees are not a concern in Norway’s public universities, living expenses average around NOK 10,000-12,000 (approximately $1,000-1,200) per month. Fully funded scholarships often cover:

Housing
Food and groceries
Transportation
Study materials

Additional Financial Tips:

Part-time Jobs: International students can work up to 20 hours per week.
Student Discounts: Leverage discounts on transportation, cultural events, and more.
Budgeting: Plan your expenses carefully to make the most of your scholarship.

Success Stories of Scholarship Recipients

1. Maria from India

Maria secured an Erasmus+ scholarship to pursue a master’s in environmental engineering at NTNU. She emphasizes the importance of crafting a compelling motivation letter: “My application focused on how my research could address global sustainability challenges.”

2. David from Kenya

David received a BI Presidential Scholarship to study business administration. He says, “The financial support relieved the pressure of funding my education, allowing me to focus on academics and networking.”

3. Emily from the USA

Emily earned a Fulbright Norway Grant to study Arctic policy at UiT The Arctic University of Norway. She highlights the program’s support in connecting scholars with Norwegian experts: “The grant enabled me to build a strong network and gain valuable field experience.”

Conclusion

Norway offers unparalleled opportunities for international students through its fully funded scholarships, ensuring access to world-class education without financial strain. By identifying the right scholarship, preparing a strong application, and planning your finances effectively, you can unlock the door to academic success in Norway. With dedication and persistence, you could be the next success story.