Norway has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a safe learning environment. With globally respected universities, strong government support for education, and increasing opportunities for international researchers, Norway continues to draw students from around the world.

For the 2027 academic intake, numerous scholarship opportunities, funded research positions, and financial aid programs are expected to be available for bachelor's, master's, PhD, and postdoctoral applicants. One of the most appealing aspects for international students is that many Norwegian universities accept alternative forms of English language proof, allowing eligible applicants to study in Norway without IELTS.

Whether you are planning to pursue undergraduate studies, a master's degree, doctoral research, or postdoctoral training, this guide highlights the most promising Norway scholarships for 2027 and explains how to maximize your chances of securing admission and funding.

Why Study in Norway in 2027?

Norway consistently ranks among the world's best countries for education, innovation, and quality of life. Its universities are known for academic excellence, research productivity, and strong international collaboration.

World-Class Universities

Norwegian universities are recognized globally for delivering high-quality education and conducting influential research across numerous disciplines.

Many institutions maintain partnerships with leading universities and research centers worldwide, creating excellent opportunities for international collaboration.

Strong Research Infrastructure

Students and researchers benefit from:

• Modern laboratories
• Advanced research facilities
• Innovation hubs
• Technology centers
• Industry partnerships

This infrastructure supports both academic learning and practical research experience.

Safe and Student-Friendly Environment

Norway is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world. International students enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, excellent public services, and a high standard of living.

Career Opportunities

Graduates often benefit from:

• Strong employment prospects
• Research careers
• International networking opportunities
• Access to innovative industries
• Professional development pathways

Can You Study in Norway Without IELTS?

One of the most frequently asked questions among international applicants is whether IELTS is mandatory.

The Short Answer: Yes

Many Norwegian universities accept alternative proof of English language proficiency.

Depending on the institution and programme, students may qualify through several options.

Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate

Applicants who completed previous education in English may submit a Medium of Instruction certificate from their institution.

This document confirms that English was the language used for teaching and assessment.

Previous Degree in English

Some universities accept bachelor's or master's degrees completed entirely in English as proof of language proficiency.

TOEFL

Many institutions continue to accept TOEFL scores as an alternative to IELTS.

Duolingo English Test

Certain universities and programmes accept the Duolingo English Test as part of their admission requirements.

Cambridge English Qualifications

Recognized Cambridge certificates may also satisfy language requirements.

University Interviews

Some departments conduct online interviews to evaluate applicants' communication skills and English proficiency.

Applicants should always verify language requirements directly with their chosen university before applying.

Top Norway Scholarships and Funded Opportunities for 2027

Norway offers a wide variety of scholarship and funding opportunities for international students.

1. University of Oslo Scholarships and Funded Research Positions

The University of Oslo remains one of Norway's most prestigious institutions.

Funding opportunities frequently include:

• Master's scholarships
• PhD fellowships
• Research assistantships
• Postdoctoral positions
• Faculty-funded research projects

Popular Fields

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Law
• Computer Science
• Education
• Social Sciences
• Humanities

Benefits

Many funded positions include:

• Tuition support
• Monthly salary
• Research funding
• Health benefits
• Social security coverage

Official Website       Apply Now

2. University of Stavanger Scholarships

The University of Stavanger is recognized for its strengths in energy, technology, and business-related disciplines.

Key Study Areas

• Petroleum Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Energy Systems
• Business Administration
• Education

Students can apply for master's scholarships, doctoral positions, and industrial research projects.

Official Website       Apply Now

3. Norwegian University of Science and Technology Scholarships

NTNU is Norway's largest technical university and a major destination for international researchers.

High-Demand Programmes

• Engineering
• Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Biotechnology
• Renewable Energy
• Environmental Engineering

Funding Opportunities

NTNU regularly offers:

• Fully funded PhD positions
• Research grants
• Postdoctoral fellowships
• Research project funding

Most doctoral candidates receive employment contracts that include salary, pension contributions, and healthcare coverage.

Official Website       Apply Now

4. Oslo Metropolitan University Scholarships

OsloMet offers funding opportunities in:

• Public Health
• Education
• Information Technology
• Social Sciences
• Urban Studies
• Health Sciences

Available support may include:

• Research grants
• Doctoral fellowships
• International exchange funding
• Project-based scholarships

Official Website       Apply Now

5. BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships

Students pursuing business and management education can benefit from scholarship opportunities offered by BI Norwegian Business School.

Popular Programmes

• Finance
• Economics
• Marketing
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Business Analytics

Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition waivers
• Partial tuition waivers
• Merit scholarships
• Leadership awards
• International student grants

Official Website       Apply Now

6. University of Bergen PhD Scholarships

The University of Bergen regularly recruits international doctoral researchers.

Research Areas

• Marine Sciences
• Climate Studies
• Health Sciences
• Mathematics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Earth Sciences

Most PhD opportunities are fully funded and structured as employment contracts.

Official Website       Apply Now

7. UiT The Arctic University of Norway Scholarships

7Located in Northern Norway, UiT is internationally recognized for research related to Arctic environments and sustainability.

Popular Study Areas

• Arctic Studies
• Climate Science
• Marine Biology
• Renewable Energy
• Public Health
• Indigenous Studies

Funding Benefits

International doctoral candidates often receive:

• Monthly salary
• Social security benefits
• Research funding
• Conference support

Official Website       Apply Now

8. Norwegian University of Life Sciences Scholarships

NMBU specializes in environmental and agricultural sciences.

Key Areas

• Agriculture
• Veterinary Science
• Climate Change
• Food Sciences
• Sustainable Development
• Environmental Engineering

The university frequently announces funded doctoral and research positions throughout the year.

Official Website       Apply Now

9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Scholarships

Many Norwegian universities participate in Erasmus Mundus programmes.

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend
• Travel allowance
• Installation support
• Health insurance

These scholarships remain among the most competitive international funding opportunities.

Official Website       Apply Now

10. High North Fellowship Program

The High North Fellowship Program promotes academic cooperation between Norway and partner countries.

Support May Include

• Mobility funding
• Living expense support
• Research collaboration opportunities
• Exchange study funding

Additional Scholarship Providers in Norway

Students should also monitor opportunities from:

• University of Agder
• University of South-Eastern Norway
• Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
• Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences
• Kristiania University of Applied Sciences
• SINTEF
• NORCE
• Norwegian Computing Center
• Simula Research Laboratory

Many of these organizations advertise funded positions directly on their official websites throughout the year.

Official Website       Apply Now

Benefits of Norway Scholarships 2027

Funding packages vary depending on the scholarship and institution.

Financial Benefits

Many opportunities include:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipends
• Research salaries
• Travel grants
• Accommodation assistance

Research Benefits

Researchers often receive:

• Laboratory access
• Conference funding
• Research grants
• Publication support
• International collaboration opportunities

Employee Benefits for PhD Candidates

Most Norwegian PhD positions function as employment contracts.

Benefits may include:

• Salary
• Pension contributions
• Healthcare coverage
• Family support provisions
• Paid leave

How to Apply for Scholarships in Norway

Step 1: Select a Suitable Programme

Choose universities and programmes aligned with your academic goals and professional interests.

Step 2: Review Eligibility Requirements

Carefully examine:

• Academic qualifications
• Programme-specific criteria
• Language requirements
• Nationality restrictions

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Common application materials include:

• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• Recommendation letters
• Passport copy
• English proficiency documentation

Step 4: Submit Admission Applications

Complete applications through the university's official admissions portal.

Step 5: Apply for Scholarships

Some scholarships require separate applications, while many funded PhD positions automatically include financial support.

Step 6: Prepare for Interviews

Research supervisors and selection committees may conduct online interviews before making final decisions.

Tips for International Students

Start Early

Scholarship applications often require substantial preparation. Begin researching opportunities at least several months before deadlines.

Monitor University Websites

Many funded research positions are announced throughout the year rather than during a single admission cycle.

Strengthen Your Academic Profile

Strong grades, research experience, and recommendation letters can significantly improve your competitiveness.

Prepare Alternative English Proof

If you plan to apply without IELTS, ensure your alternative language documentation meets university requirements.