If you want to study mechanical engineering in Norway, you usually start with a bachelor’s degree or apply directly to a master’s if you already have a relevant first degree. Many programmes are taught in English, but you should always check the exact language on the university’s programme page.
Norway can be a strong choice for students who like practical engineering, clean energy, machines, design and industry links. The main things to check are your previous grades, language level, tuition rules for your nationality, and the cost of living.
What study levels exist
Mechanical engineering is usually offered at two main levels:
- Bachelor’s degree - usually 3 years. This is for you if you are finishing secondary school or already have an upper secondary qualification that meets university entry rules.
- Master’s degree - usually 2 years. This is for you if you already have a relevant bachelor’s degree, often in mechanical engineering or a closely related field.
Some universities may also offer specialisations such as mechatronics, industrial design, renewable energy, marine engineering, or product development. The name can differ from one university to another, so read the programme title carefully.
Typical entry requirements
Admission rules vary by university and programme, but the following is common:
- Bachelor’s - a completed upper secondary education that matches Norwegian general university admission requirements, with good grades in maths and often physics.
- Master’s - a relevant bachelor’s degree, usually with enough credits in engineering, mathematics and related technical subjects.
- English - if the programme is in English, you often need proof of English ability, such as IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted test. Each university lists its own accepted tests and minimum scores.
- Documents - diploma, transcripts, passport copy, CV for some master’s programmes, motivation letter, and sometimes course descriptions.
For exact rules, check the university’s admissions page and the programme page. For national admission rules, use the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills or the university admissions office.
English-taught options
Norway has a good number of English-taught master’s programmes in engineering. Bachelor’s programmes in engineering are more often taught in Norwegian, although there are exceptions.
If you do not speak Norwegian, your easiest path is often:
- look for an English-taught master’s programme if you already have a bachelor’s degree
- check whether the bachelor’s programme has English teaching or a clear English track
- read the programme page carefully for language requirements and whether any Norwegian is needed for internships or project work
Do not assume that the title “international programme” means everything is in English. Always confirm the teaching language on the official page.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Norway changed in recent years, so you should always check the current rule on the university’s own site. In general, public universities often charge no tuition for EU/EEA students on many programmes, but fees for non-EU/EEA students are now common at many institutions. The exact amount varies a lot by university and programme.
A practical way to plan is this:
- EU/EEA students - often no tuition at some public universities, but always check the current policy because rules can change.
- Non-EU/EEA students - tuition is commonly charged, and the amount can differ by programme and university. Check the programme page for the exact fee.
Living costs are the bigger issue. Norway is expensive compared with many countries. You should plan for rent, food, transport, books and personal expenses. A realistic student budget is often in the high range of several thousand Norwegian kroner per month, and the university or national immigration authority may require proof of funds for visa or residence permit purposes. Check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration for the current financial requirement.
When to apply and what the timeline looks like
Deadlines vary by university, but a typical timeline is:
- 8 to 12 months before start - search programmes, compare entry rules, and prepare documents
- several months before the deadline - take any needed English test and collect certified copies or translations
- by the deadline - submit the application through the university or national application system, if used
- after admission - arrange housing, pay any required deposit or tuition steps, and apply for a residence permit if needed
For autumn intake, many universities open applications in the winter or early spring, but this is not the same everywhere. Check the programme page for the exact dates.
How to make your application stronger
Mechanical engineering is a technical subject, so universities usually look closely at your maths and science background. A strong application often includes:
- good grades in mathematics and physics
- a clear CV with projects, internships or lab work
- a motivation letter that explains why you want this field
- relevant coursework such as mechanics, materials, CAD, programming or thermodynamics
If you are applying for a master’s, try to match your previous degree to the programme focus. For example, a programme in energy systems may prefer applicants with a background that includes thermodynamics, fluid mechanics or power engineering.
Common questions
Can I study mechanical engineering in Norway without speaking Norwegian?
Yes, if you find an English-taught programme. This is more common at master’s level. For bachelor’s studies, many programmes still require Norwegian, so check each programme page carefully.
Do I need work experience?
Usually no for a bachelor’s programme. For a master’s, work experience is sometimes helpful, but it is not always required. Universities care more about your degree, grades and subject fit.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students can work part-time under residence permit rules, but the allowed hours and conditions depend on your permit and nationality. Check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration before you rely on this income.
How Eduuro helps
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