Norway offers high quality education in game design, programming, and art for international students. Admissions focus on your academic background, portfolio, and language skills. Check the official university admissions page and the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration for current rules.
Levels of study and program options
You can find game design and related tech programmes at both the bachelor and master levels in Norway. Bachelor programmes usually take three years of full-time study, while master programmes take one to two years.
- Bachelor of Game Design or Game Programming
- Master in Computer Science with a focus on game development
- Vocational diplomas and specialized arts degrees
Entry requirements and portfolios
To enter a bachelor programme, you need upper secondary school completion that meets general university admissions criteria in Norway. Master programmes require a relevant undergraduate degree, often in computer science, design, or digital media.
- Certified copies of your previous diplomas and transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL
- A strong portfolio of creative work, coding projects, or game prototypes
Tuition fees for EU and non-EU students
Historically, public higher education in Norway was tuition-free for all students. Today, non-EU and non-EEA students typically pay tuition fees set by each institution, while EU and EEA students often still benefit from free tuition at public universities.
- Public universities: check the programme page for exact non-EU fee rates
- Private colleges: tuition fees apply to all students regardless of nationality
- Semester fees: small student welfare fees apply across most institutions
Living costs and the student budget
Norway has a high cost of living, and you must prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself when you apply for your study visa or residence permit. Plan your monthly budget carefully before you arrive.
- Housing: student dormitories are the most affordable option
- Food and transport: local student discounts help reduce daily expenses
- Official source: check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration for exact financial requirements
Timeline and application steps
Applications for international students usually open several months before the academic year starts in August. Start your preparation early so you have time to translate documents and build your portfolio.
- Autumn: research universities and check specific programme deadlines
- Winter: take English tests and gather your academic transcripts
- Spring: submit your application and wait for admission results
Common questions
Do I need to speak Norwegian to study game design?
Many bachelor and master programmes in technology and design are taught entirely in English, especially at the master level. Check the specific programme page to confirm the language of instruction.
Can I work while studying in Norway?
Yes, student residence permits typically allow you to work a limited number of hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays.
How do I apply for a student visa?
You apply for a study residence permit through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website after receiving an official letter of admission from a university.
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.
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.