Bergen is one of Norway's main student cities. It is known for strong universities, a lively student scene, and a beautiful coastal setting. If you are planning to study there, it helps to know the main study options, the cost of living, and how admissions offices usually find students.
Main universities and colleges in Bergen
Bergen has a small number of major higher education institutions, so it is easier to compare them. Always check the official programme pages for the latest English-taught options and entry rules.
- University of Bergen - a large public university known for research, especially in fields like humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and marine-related subjects.
- Norwegian School of Economics - known for business, economics, finance, and management.
- Western Norway University of Applied Sciences - offers practical and professional study paths in areas such as teacher education, health, engineering, social sciences, and media.
- Bergen Academy of Art and Design is now part of the University of Bergen, so art and design studies are connected to the larger university structure.
Many students also come through exchange agreements. If you want a full degree, check whether the programme is taught in English and whether you meet the academic and language rules.
English-taught study and what to expect
Norwegian universities often offer some master's degrees in English, and fewer full bachelor's degrees in English. This changes by year and by subject, so the university's admissions page is the best source.
- Bachelor's level - English options are limited, especially for full degrees.
- Master's level - you will usually find more English-taught choices.
- Exchange study - there are often many English modules for visiting students.
If you are applying from outside Norway, admissions offices usually want proof of previous education, English level, and sometimes subject-specific background. Read the programme page closely, because some subjects need maths, science, or portfolio documents.
Typical living costs in Bergen
Bergen is not a cheap city, but it is often a bit easier to manage than the most expensive parts of Oslo. Your exact budget will depend on housing, food habits, and transport use. For current figures, use official student housing pages, rental sites, and the Norwegian student finance or tax sources if you need legal or financial rules.
- Rent - student rooms are usually the cheapest option. Private flats cost more, especially if you want to live alone.
- Food - supermarket shopping is usually cheaper than eating out.
- Transport - many students use monthly local transport passes instead of taxis.
- Books and study costs - these depend on your subject. Some courses need expensive books or equipment.
As a rough guide, living in Bergen is often in the medium-to-high cost range for Europe. Within Norway, it is usually below the very highest city centre rents in Oslo, but still clearly expensive compared with many other countries.
Student housing, transport, and daily life
Student housing is often the best first choice if you are new in Bergen. The student housing provider usually has rooms and shared flats for students, but demand can be high, so apply early and follow the housing office instructions.
- Student housing - often cheaper than private rent and easier for first-time international students.
- Public transport - Bergen has buses and a light rail system, and students often buy discounted passes if they qualify.
- Weather - Bergen is famous for rain, so plan for wet days and dress in layers.
- Student culture - there are many student clubs, sports groups, and social events, which can help you settle in.
Daily life is usually very organised. Many services are digital, so keep your login details, ID documents, and application emails in one place.
Part-time work and practical rules
Many international students want part-time work to help with expenses and to gain experience. The rules depend on your residence status, nationality, and study level, so always check the national immigration authority before you work.
- Work rights - students from outside the EEA may have limits on how much they can work.
- Language - some jobs need Norwegian, but student jobs in cafés, cleaning, delivery, and campus services may have different language needs.
- Finding work - university job boards, local job sites, and student unions can help.
Do not depend on part-time work to cover everything unless you have checked the legal rules and the realistic local job market. Employers usually expect you to manage your studies first.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
Admissions offices usually look for clear, complete profiles and applicants who match a specific programme. If you want to be noticed, make your information easy to find and easy to understand.
- Choose the right study field and level.
- Add your latest education and grades.
- State your English level honestly.
- Upload the documents the university usually asks for, such as transcripts, diplomas, passport pages, and language proof.
- Check the programme page for special requirements and deadlines.
Some universities and colleges search student profiles before they contact applicants. A complete profile can help them see if you fit the programme, especially for international and English-taught study.
Common questions
Is Bergen a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want a strong academic city with a student atmosphere. It is smaller than many European capitals, but it still has good study options and a clear student network.
Can I study in English in Bergen?
Often yes, especially at master's level and for exchange study. For bachelor's degrees, the number of English-taught programmes is usually smaller, so always check the university's official admissions page.
How expensive is Bergen compared with other Norwegian cities?
Bergen is generally expensive, as most of Norway is. It is often seen as a little less costly than the most expensive parts of Oslo, but you should still plan carefully and use official housing and programme sources for up-to-date figures.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This makes it easier to be seen by universities and colleges that are looking for students like you.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.