Studying international relations in Norway can be a good choice if you want strong public universities, an international classroom, and a country that often teaches many master's programmes in English. The main things to check are your level of study, your grades and subject background, your English proof, and the tuition rules for your nationality.
Use this guide as a starting point only. Always check the university's admissions page, the programme page, and the Norwegian immigration authority for the latest rules on fees, visas, and residence permits.
What you can study in Norway
International relations is often offered as part of political science, global studies, development studies, peace and conflict studies, or area studies. The exact name of the degree can differ from university to university.
- Bachelor's level - fewer programmes are fully focused on international relations. Many are taught in Norwegian, so English-taught bachelor's options can be limited.
- Master's level - this is where you usually find more English-taught options in international relations or closely related fields.
- Specialisations - you may see themes like diplomacy, security, human rights, conflict, global governance, or European studies.
If you are not sure which programme matches your goal, look for courses in political science, international politics, or global studies on the university website.
Typical admission requirements
Admission rules depend on the degree level and the university. Norway uses formal academic requirements, so you should read the exact programme page carefully.
For a bachelor's degree, universities usually ask for:
- an upper secondary school diploma or equivalent
- proof that your school background matches Norwegian general admission standards
- English language proof if the programme is taught in English
- sometimes specific school subjects or a minimum grade level
For a master's degree, universities usually ask for:
- a completed bachelor's degree in a related subject, often political science, international relations, or social sciences
- relevant academic content in your previous degree
- good grades, especially in the main subject area
- English language proof
- sometimes a CV, motivation letter, and references
For English tests, universities typically accept IELTS, TOEFL, or similar recognised tests. The exact minimum score can differ, so check the programme page or the university's language requirements page.
English-taught options and language rules
Many master's programmes in Norway are taught in English. At bachelor's level, English-taught options are fewer, and some are very competitive.
You should check these points early:
- Is the full programme taught in English, or only some courses?
- Do you need a formal English test, or can previous education in English count?
- Do you need Norwegian for daily life, internships, or optional courses?
- Does the programme ask for specific academic subjects from your previous studies?
Even if your course is in English, learning some Norwegian can help with work, daily life, and integration. It is not always required for admission, but it can still be useful.
Tuition fees and living costs
Norway is known for a high cost of living. Tuition rules also changed in recent years, so do not rely on old information from blogs or social media.
In general:
- EU/EEA students - some public universities may still have lower fees or no tuition for certain groups, but you must check the current policy for your nationality and programme.
- Non-EU/EEA students - many public universities now charge tuition fees, often in a broad range that can be several tens of thousands of NOK per year, depending on the programme.
For living costs, you should plan for housing, food, transport, books, and insurance. University and immigration pages often use an annual living-cost estimate for residence permit purposes, and that amount can change. Check the Norwegian immigration authority and the university website for the current figure.
Typical monthly costs in Norway can be high, especially in Oslo and other larger cities. Student housing can be cheaper than private rent, but places are limited, so apply early.
When to apply and how to prepare
Application timelines differ by university, but many programmes open months before the start date. For international applicants, it is smart to begin early.
A practical timeline:
- 9 to 12 months before start - choose programmes, check admission rules, and compare tuition and living costs
- 6 to 9 months before start - take your English test, request transcripts, and prepare documents
- during the application window - submit your application and upload all required papers
- after admission - apply for housing and, if needed, a residence permit as soon as possible
Documents often include:
- passport copy
- transcripts and diploma
- English test result
- CV for master's programmes
- motivation letter if required
- translated documents, if the university asks for them
Always use official translations if the university requires them. Missing or unclear documents can delay your application.
How universities find candidates
Many universities do not only wait for applications. They also search for students who match a programme profile and then make the first contact. This can help if you are still comparing options or waiting for the next intake.
They usually look for:
- your field of interest
- your current or completed education
- your English level
- your documents and grades
- your preferred country and study level
If your profile is clear, it is easier for a university admissions office to see whether you fit their programme. That can save time for both sides.
Common questions
Do I need Norwegian to study international relations in Norway?
Not always. Many master's programmes are taught in English. Bachelor's options are more often in Norwegian, so always check the language of instruction on the programme page.
Can I work while I study?
Many international students can work part-time, but the rules depend on your residence status. Check the Norwegian immigration authority for the current work rules before you plan around a job.
How do I know if my degree from another country is accepted?
The university decides based on its own admission rules and national standards. Read the programme page and admissions instructions, and contact the university if your background is unusual.
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.
That gives you a simple way to be noticed by universities while you keep control of where and when you apply.
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.