steps from the spectacular fjords to paper clips and the bubbly capital, Oslo, Norway, is popular for many reasons. While it’s a small country, Norway boasts institutions that deliver quality education and provide room for career possibilities. Besides the education standard, the Scandinavian country offers nature lovers a unique experience. We bet you’ll be intrigued by the skiing hot spots and snowy winters. Are you looking to study in a Norwegian university that promotes diversity? Do you want to boost your career opportunities? This article explores the steps to study in Norway from Nigeria. Here’s how to apply to a Norwegian university.
Select a program of study
Whether you’re a high school leaver looking to further your education or a graduate looking to specialise in an area, Norwegian universities offer a wide range of courses that suits your needs. What program are you pursuing? Are you looking for an undergraduate or postgraduate study? Consider this before proceeding with your application.
Choose a university
After you’ve decided on your course study, look for an institution that offers it. Research different universities, list of their study programs and their requirements. You can check here for study programs and universities offering them. Norway has several institutions, including 9 universities, 5 scientific colleges and 8 university colleges. While the Scandinavian country has fewer institutions compared to other universities in the world, they offer standard and high-quality education. Some top Norwegian universities include the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), BI Norwegian Business School, the University of Bergen, and the University of Stravanger.
Send in your application
Depending on the university, application and admission requirements may vary. Ensure you gather all the necessary documents and find out information about the deadline. Below are the minimum requirements for admission to Norwegian universities.
- A diploma or certification of academic qualifications.
- An undergraduate/Bachelor’s degree or equivalent of at least 3 years of study. The degree must include courses equal to at least 1 1/2 years of full-time studies in a subject relevant to the programme applied for. ( Masters and PhD).
- Academic Transcripts
- Duly completed and signed the application form.
- Letter of recommendation
- Proof of funds
Note that some study programs have specific admission requirements. Check with your university before you turn in your application. Typically, application for study in most Norwegian universities runs from October to December. Some universities extend applications till March in preparation for the resumption of a new academic year in August. Ensure you submit your application within the specified timeframe. Bear in mind that you will likely receive an early response when you submit your application on time. For more enquiries, you should contact the admissions office or check your preferred university’s website. While language proficiency certification is required, Nigerian students are exempted from writing the standardised tests. If you’re pursuing an undergraduate program, you’ll need to present Senior School Certificates in 6 subjects. This includes English, Mathematics, Science, etc.
Confirm your acceptance status
After submitting your application, be on the lookout for feedback from the university. Depending on schools and programs, some applicants may get feedback in early March, others in March, April or May. Once you’ve been granted admission, you’ll need to transfer NOK 126,527 (proof of funds) to the host school. After paying the sum, you’ll receive a confirmation of deposit from the host university. You can then go-ahead to apply for your study visa and residence permit, which comes with a Schengen sticker.
Apply for a student visa
Processing visa for Norway is relatively seamless compared to other countries. You won’t have to wait long, undergo an interview (except in some cases) or book an appointment during your visa application. Sort your documents and proceed to the embassy for your visa application.
Norway Student Visa Requirements for Nigerian Citizens
When applying for your visa, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
- Duly completed application form
- An international passport valid for at last 3 months.
- Letter of admission offered by your prospective university.
- Biodata copy page of your passport
- Two recent passport-sized photographs on a white background.
- Cover letter
- Medical insurance
- Flight tickets
- Proof of funds
- Proof of accommodation
- Birth certificate
How to Apply For Norway Student Visa In Nigeria
Register online
Online registration is usually the first step in applying for a Norwegian visa. Log on to the application portal, register yourself and fill all the necessary information in the application form. If the duration of your course is more than three months, you’ll need to choose a student residence permit.
Submit and track application
Submit your application alongside your documents at the Norwegian embassy. Your biometric data will be taken at the venue. Ensure you track your application progress to determine when your visa will be ready. Typically, visa processing takes 15-30 days. Hence, it’s best to start applying for your visa early.
Some essential things to know about the student visa
- All applicants must have a student visa.
- The Norway student visa is also known as a student residence permit.
- Norway will only grant a student residence permit to students who will return to their home country after completing their studies. If you want to stay back in Norway, you’ll need to renew your visa or apply for a different visa.
- Applicants must provide evidence of funds for the duration of the study. The funds must be sufficient to cater for the needs of any accompanying family.
- The money should be deposited in a Norwegian bank account.
- Most public universities are tuition-free except for some courses that will require you to pay a token. You’ll need to pay tuition fees for private universities.
- Once your application is granted, you’ll need to get a residence card.
- The residence card indicates that you’re eligible to live in Norway. The police station in Norway issues this card. Upon arrival in the country, you’re expected to obtain your residence card within the timeframe of 7 days.
Arrive in Norway
By now, your visa is ready, and you’ve begun plans to travel to your study destination. Get your accommodation and health insurance sorted before embarking on your trip to Norway. Experience quality education, culture and nature when you study in Norway. Explore your study opportunities in Norway today!
