Studying economics in Norway can be a good choice if you want a strong public university system, many English-taught programmes, and a safe place to live. The path is different for bachelor's and master's level, so it helps to start with the level you want, then check the university's admissions page and the official Norwegian immigration and study rules.
What you can study
In Norway, economics is usually offered as a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or as a part of a broader business or social science programme. Some universities focus more on pure economics, while others combine economics with finance, management, or econometrics.
- Bachelor's - usually 3 years
- Master's - usually 2 years
- Related fields - business administration, finance, econometrics, development studies, public policy
Not every programme is taught in English. At master's level, there are more English-taught options. At bachelor's level, many programmes are in Norwegian, so always check the programme page before you plan your application.
Typical admission requirements
Entry rules depend on the university and the programme, but there are some common patterns. For international students, the admissions office usually checks your school results, your language level, and whether your previous education matches the level you want to enter.
- For bachelor's studies: a completed upper secondary school diploma, with enough maths and general academic level
- For master's studies: a relevant bachelor's degree, often in economics, business, finance, maths, statistics, or a close field
- English: many English-taught programmes ask for proof such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test
- Documents: transcripts, diploma, passport, CV, motivation letter, and sometimes course descriptions
Some programmes ask for specific grades in mathematics or quantitative subjects. If you are unsure whether your background fits, read the university's admission rules carefully and check the official entry requirements on the programme page.
Tuition and living costs
Costs in Norway depend on your citizenship and the university. Public universities in Norway were long known for low or no tuition, but rules have changed for many students from outside the EU or EEA. Because rules can change, always confirm the current tuition policy on the university's official website.
- EU or EEA students: some programmes may still have low or no tuition, but you must check the current policy
- Non-EU or non-EEA students: many programmes now charge tuition, often at a level that can be several thousand euros per year or more
- Living costs: Norway is expensive, so plan for housing, food, transport, books, and insurance
For visas and residence permits, use the official Norwegian immigration authority as your source. They explain the financial proof you may need, the residence permit rules, and the documents accepted for study stays. Do not rely on old forum posts, because the numbers and rules can change.
English-taught options and language tips
If you do not speak Norwegian yet, focus on English-taught programmes first. Master's level is usually easier for international applicants in English, while bachelor's level often requires Norwegian or a very limited set of English programmes.
Before you apply, check three things:
- Is the full programme taught in English?
- Does the university accept your previous school or university documents?
- Do you meet the English test requirement or other language proof?
Even if your programme is in English, learning basic Norwegian can help with daily life, part-time work, and later job options. Some universities also offer Norwegian language courses for international students.
Timeline and application steps
Application windows vary by university, but the process usually follows a similar order. Start early, because document collection and language tests can take time.
- Choose the level and field: bachelor's or master's in economics
- Check the programme page for entry rules, language proof, and deadlines
- Prepare documents: diploma, grades, passport, CV, motivation letter, and translations if needed
- Take the required English test if needed
- Apply through the university or the national application system, if used
- Wait for the result, then follow the instructions for tuition payment, housing, and residence permit
A practical rule is to begin 6 to 12 months before the intake. For autumn starts, many students begin preparing the previous year. The exact deadline can differ a lot, so always check the programme page and the admissions office's instructions.
How universities find candidates
Many universities do not wait only for direct applications. They also search student databases and recruitment platforms to find people who match a programme. They look for your field, education level, grades, language ability, and country of residence.
If you create a clear student profile, you make it easier for admissions teams to contact you first. This is useful if you are still comparing programmes or if you want universities to see that you are ready to apply.
- Keep your profile complete and honest
- Add your economics interest, maths background, and English level
- Upload documents that you already have, such as transcripts and certificates
- Update your profile when your grades or language test results change
Common questions
Can I study economics in Norway without speaking Norwegian?
Yes, sometimes. English-taught master's programmes are more common than English-taught bachelor's programmes. Always check the programme language on the university's official page.
Is Norway free for international students?
Not always. Tuition rules depend on your citizenship and the university, and many non-EU or non-EEA students now pay tuition. Living costs are also high, so check the official university and immigration sources before you budget.
When should I start preparing my application?
Start 6 to 12 months before your planned start date. That gives you time for documents, language tests, and any visa or residence permit steps.
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 saves time when you are comparing economics programmes in Norway and want universities to contact you directly.
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.