Fully funded scholarships in Norway for 2025–2026 | do not require the IELTS

Norway has consistently positioned itself as a top destination for international students, thanks to its policy of providing free quality education and prestigious scholarships. Remarkably, the country’s public universities do not charge tuition fees, making higher education in Norway highly accessible. Now, for the academic year 2025–2026, several fully funded scholarships are available for students across the globe who wish to study in Norway without taking the IELTS exam. This guide offers everything you need to know about these opportunities, from scholarship benefits to eligibility requirements and the top universities offering them.

Why Choose Norway for Higher Education?

Norway’s public education system prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, making it an appealing choice for students worldwide. Several reasons make Norway a premier educational hub:

1. Tuition-Free Public Universities: In Norway, both Norwegian and international students can study for free at public universities, regardless of nationality.
2. High-Quality Education: Known for rigorous academic standards, Norway offers world-class education across various disciplines.
3. Safe and Progressive Society: Norway consistently ranks high for quality of life, safety, and environmental consciousness.
4. No IELTS Requirement for Many Programs: Many universities in Norway waive the IELTS requirement if applicants can provide proof of previous English-language education or demonstrate proficiency through alternative means.
5. Abundant Fully Funded Scholarships: With diverse scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and more, studying in Norway can be a highly affordable option.

Fully Funded Scholarships Available in Norway for 2025–2026

Here are some notable fully funded scholarships available in Norway for the upcoming academic year. These scholarships generally cover tuition, and many also offer living allowances, travel support, and health insurance.

1. University of Stavanger Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to all international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies.
• Benefits: Covers full or partial tuition and may include living allowances.
• Special Requirements: No IELTS required if previous education was conducted in English.

2. BI Norwegian Business School Scholarships

• Eligibility: Available to top-performing students applying to business-related degrees.
• Benefits: Full tuition coverage, with some scholarships including a stipend for living expenses.
• Language Requirements: IELTS may be waived if an applicant can demonstrate prior education in English.

3. NTNU Scholarships (Norwegian University of Science and Technology)

• Eligibility: Open to international students, particularly those in science and technology fields.
• Benefits: Full tuition waiver, with possible additional funding for research-oriented students.
• IELTS Exemption: Possible for applicants who provide proof of English proficiency via previous education or an English Proficiency Certificate.

4. NORAM Scholarship

• Eligibility: Intended for North American students pursuing advanced studies in Norway.
• Benefits: Covers tuition, accommodation, and sometimes travel expenses.
• Special Note: No strict IELTS requirement if candidates can verify English fluency.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to students pursuing joint master’s programs that include study in Norway.
• Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, travel, and insurance.
• IELTS Requirement: Exemption possible if previous academic qualifications were taught in English.

6. Lakselaget Foundation Scholarship

• Eligibility: For female students from the United States or Norway pursuing graduate studies.
• Benefits: Covers tuition fees and sometimes accommodation costs.
• IELTS Policy: Students may be exempt from the IELTS requirement with an English Proficiency Certificate.

Tuition-Free Universities in Norway

Norwegian universities offer a range of undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs with no tuition fees, creating ample opportunities for both local and international students. Here are some tuition-free universities in Norway where you can study for free:

• University of Tromsø (UiT): Known for its research in Arctic studies and environmental sciences.
• University of Oslo (UiO): Norway’s oldest and one of its most prestigious universities, excelling in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU): The leading institution for engineering, technology, and natural sciences.
• University of Bergen: Excels in marine research, social sciences, and humanities.
• BI Norwegian Business School: Top choice for business studies, offering several scholarships.

How to Apply to Norwegian Universities without IELTS

For students from non-English-speaking countries, many Norwegian institutions provide pathways to bypass the IELTS requirement:

1. Proof of English-Medium Education: If your previous degree (undergraduate or graduate) was taught in English, you could submit an English Proficiency Certificate from your previous institution.
2. Online Proficiency Tests or Interviews: Some universities may assess your English skills through an online interview or a standardized internal test, reducing the need for formal IELTS scores.

Exemptions by Country for IELTS Requirements

Norwegian universities offer IELTS exemptions for students from specific countries where English is the primary language of instruction at the secondary and tertiary levels. Here are a few examples:

• Gambia, Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana: Students from these countries can present their Senior School Certificates or equivalent to fulfill English requirements.
• South Africa and Zambia: Holders of a Matriculation or School Certificate are often exempted from submitting IELTS scores.
• Uganda and Zimbabwe: Applicants with General Certificate of Education (O-level) or A-level qualifications are typically exempted.

If you come from a country not listed but studied in English, you may submit an English Proficiency Certificate from your school to meet the language criteria.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Scholarship in Norway

1. Research Tuition-Free Institutions: Choose a Norwegian university that aligns with your academic goals and check if it offers tuition-free education.
2. Explore Scholarship Options: Identify scholarships for which you are eligible and review the application criteria and deadlines.
3. Prepare Necessary Documents: Common requirements include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a CV, recommendation letters, and, if applicable, an English Proficiency Certificate.
4. Submit Your Application: Apply directly to your chosen university through their online portal. For scholarships, you may need to apply separately if the scholarship is not automatically granted with admission.
5. Attend an Online Interview (If Required): Some universities conduct online interviews to gauge English proficiency.
6. Follow Up: Stay updated on your application status by regularly checking your email or the university portal.

Benefits of Studying in Norway

• No Tuition Fees: This feature extends to students from all over the world at public institutions, making Norway a highly affordable option.
• Work Opportunities: Students in Norway are allowed to work part-time alongside their studies, helping them offset living costs.
• High Standards of Living: With a stable economy, low crime rates, and advanced healthcare systems, Norway offers an ideal environment for academic and personal growth.

Conclussion

Studying in Norway without IELTS opens up numerous educational opportunities in a country known for its commitment to free education and inclusivity. With a range of fully funded scholarships available, students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams at some of Europe’s most respected institutions. By understanding the IELTS exemption criteria, scholarship options, and application process, you can set yourself on a path to success in one of the world’s most student-friendly countries.

For anyone interested in experiencing world-class education without the financial burden, Norway stands as an outstanding option for the 2025–2026 academic year. Take advantage of these fully funded scholarships, explore tuition-free institutions, and embrace the opportunity to study in Europe’s thriving education hub.

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