Norway Proposes Higher Tuition Fee - What do International Students Think?

Most public institutions in Norway don't charge tuition fees, but the Norwegian government will likely change this decision. International students wishing to continue their higher education studies in Norway may have to pay university fees starting from the autumn semester of 2023. However, education will remain free for Norwegian and European students. This will deter international students from studying in Norway.

On the other hand, the decision would also affect Norway's economy since fewer students mean less money flowing into local economies. While many students will opt to withdraw from studying in Universities due to this reason, the operating cost will remain fixed even with smaller class sizes. So, logically, it will not be as money-saving a decision as it seems. The Norwegian government believes that due to this proposal, educational institutions in Norway will be motivated to attract many international students. They also thought Norwegian universities are well-fitted to attract international students because the quality of education is good. 

It is estimated that this proposal could save the government's expenditure on higher education by €115 million, and citizens will have to pay fewer taxes. But the number of international students paying those fees could drop by 70%. It will also free up to 2,600 study places for two-year courses for Norwegian and international students. The survey by study.eu reports that two-thirds of the international students weren't even aware of the fact. Moreover, the decision to introduce tuition fees for international students in a hurry could adversely affect the reputation of Norway's education sector and the country as a whole.

The ban on Norway's free education was an unfavourable decision for international students. However, the decision would allow international students to study in Norway. The country will still be willing welcome international students. Some international students can afford the education cost in Norway. Though the students had to pay the fees for student association exams, it didn't cost much.

Moreover, the withdrawal of many international students will affect the diverse cultural environment of the universities. Also, some programmes like international development studies or anything global south related programmes were running since international students were enrolling on them and the government was funding them. But due to this proposal, many such courses might close, making it disadvantageous for the other international students who are continuing their studies in Norway. Above all, the cost of living in Norway is also 49% higher than the average of other European countries (except Switzerland and Iceland).

Norway's free education was the core for international to study over there. Many international students decided to withdraw from Norwegian Universities after this change. However, some students chose to continue their studies in Norway, considering the other advantages like:

Amazing Place to Explore

The country has various beautiful places to explore. It is one of the most attractive destinations for international students. It has multiple locations to explore and enjoy, like islands, mountains, beaches, skiing in winter, hiking and northern lights. Moreover, Norway is a part of Schengen countries, which means international students can easily explore other European countries with a Norway visa.

High standard of Living

Norwegians have one of the greatest living standards in the world. It is one of the safest and most peaceful places to live. Also, Norway welcomes many people from different parts of the world yearly.

Excellent English

Most of the people in Norway are educated and speak English. So, there is no language barrier for international students in Norway. Also, various universities offer a wide range of English-taught programmes for international students.

Quality Education and Scholarship

Norway is home to some of the world's best universities, which offer a high-quality education to international students. Students can find a friendly atmosphere and quality lectures at the university. Moreover, the universities provide several scholarships for international students.

Various public universities in Norway offer free education to international students. Below are some of the best universities to study in Norway for international students. 

• Nord University

• Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)

• University of Bergen

• Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL)

• UiT The Arctic University of Norway (UiT)

• University of Stavanger (UiS)

• University of Oslo

• Oslo School of Architecture and Design

• Norwegian University of Science and Technology

• NHH Norwegian School of Economics

Moreover, students who wish to fulfil their dream of studying abroad may contact our expert counsellors at any branch of Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our expert counsellors will provide the best guidance and support for the admission and visa process. You can also take free online counselling through our website. For more information or any queries, you can mail us at application02@meridean.org or call us at our toll-free no. 1800-1230-00011.