The application process
The application process depends on whether you are coming as an exchange student or for a full degree.
Application for exchange students
If you wish to have one or two exchange semesters in Bergen, and will do this as an exchange student still enrolled at another university, usually you will have help from them. The different academic institutions participate in different programs such as Nordplus and Erasmus, and also have a number of bilateral agreements. Norway does not have a specific student exchange program nationally, but nearly all of the institutions do international exchange programs. Erasmus is the exchange program mostly used by European students, while other international students can find exchange programs through the partner institutions of their respective schools. Many Norwegian institutions have their own list of partner universities!
Most often the evaluation of your academic credentials will go via the institution to which you are applying. If you need a general consideration of your academic credits, this can be obtained from NOKUT.
How to apply for bachelor’s degree programs (Undergraduate) in Norway
The Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS) also known as Samordna opptak, coordinates the admission to ordinary undergraduate study programs at all universities, university colleges, and some private university colleges in Norway. The NUCAS admission system is primarily meant for Norwegian citizens and individuals with a permanent or renewable residence permit in Norway.
Applicants have to meet the general admission requirements and document proficiency in the Norwegian language in order to be eligible for admission. Applicants can find information on general requirements on the GSU-list. Some study programs have requirements in specific subjects from upper secondary school, work experience or entrance tests in addition to the general requirements. It is, however, important to consider that in most cases universities in Norway require a tuition fee for international students coming to study at their university. Exchange students from EU/EEA are exempt from this. Read more about tuition fees in Norway.
How to apply for master’s programs (Graduate) in Norway
Application for the masters programs are administered by the academic institutions to which you are applying. Applicants can apply for admission either as self-financing student or student financed through the Quota Scheme.
In Bergen there are a number of masters programs taught in English. The general requirements are completed bachelor degree or equivalent, and you will also have to meet the English language requirement. The different institutions normally also have requirements regarding earlier fields of study, grades, motivational letter or admission test.
Application for the Doctoral Degree (PhD) and beyond
A PhD is awarded after three years of study following completion of a Masters degree or a professional degree/program. Doctoral programs are offered by all university-level institutions in Norway, some state university colleges and a few private institutions. You should contact the academic institutions directly for information about application and admission. Postdoc positions are fellowships that require a PhD. The application process for both PhDs and postdocs in Norway is similar to applying for a job. When funded, these positions are compensated as employment.
How to apply for studies in Bergen
Many institutions in Bergen offer either degrees or courses taught in English. It is also possible to take both bachelor’s and master’s degrees entirely in English. Visit the website of the institution you are interested in directly for more information on how to apply. Some universities and institutions in Bergen also offer Norwegian language courses, so you might have the possibility to take other courses taught in Norwegian later on (if you’re brave enough!)