Norway, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and robust education system, offers a range of undergraduate programs at its universities and university colleges. These programs, typically taught in Norwegian, attract students worldwide, eager to experience high-quality education in a unique cultural setting. However, to gain admission, applicants must meet specific Norwegian and English language requirements. The Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS) manages the application process, ensuring that students are well-prepared linguistically for their studies. This article delves into the details of these language requirements and emphasizes the importance of learning Norwegian, offering a pathway to achieve this through the NLS Norwegian Language School. You can register for group Norwegian classes here.
The Importance of Learning Norwegian
Norwegian, as the medium of instruction, is more than just a language; it is the gateway to fully engaging with Norwegian academic life and culture. Mastery of Norwegian not only facilitates understanding lectures and course materials but also enriches the overall student experience, allowing deeper integration into Norwegian society. For many international students, learning Norwegian is a critical step in making the most of their time in Norway, both academically and socially.
Meeting the Norwegian Language Requirement
The Norwegian language requirement for undergraduate programs can be met through various methods, tailored to the applicant’s educational background. Below, we outline the pathways to fulfill this essential requirement:
Option A: For Applicants Meeting All Entry Requirements Except Norwegian
If you meet all the entry requirements for undergraduate programs except for the Norwegian language, you can choose from the following options to fulfill the language requirement:
- Norwegian Upper Secondary School Exam:
- Completion of the written and oral Norwegian exam at the third-year level in Norwegian upper secondary school.
- Norwegian Language Test A1-B2:
- Achieving a result of B2 or C1 in all four disciplines (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) of the Norwegian Language Test A1-B2, administered by the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills.
- Norwegian for International Students, Level 3:
- Completion of the Norwegian for International Students, Level 3 course offered at universities.
- 1-Year Norwegian Language Course:
- Completion of a 1-year Norwegian language course (60 ECTS) at a Norwegian university or university college.
- Test in Norwegian – Advanced Level:
- Obtaining a minimum score of “pass” (bestått) in both the written and oral parts of the Test in Norwegian – Advanced Level (Test i norsk – høyere nivå).
Historical Context: Discontinued Test in Norwegian – Higher Level
The Test in Norwegian – Higher Level (commonly known as The Bergen Test) was discontinued in October 2022. However, if you passed both the oral and written parts of this test before its discontinuation, you still fulfill the Norwegian language requirement.
New Combinations of Tests from 2023
From 2023 onwards, the following combinations of test results will also fulfill the Norwegian language requirement:
- A pass in the written Test in Norwegian – Higher Level combined with B2 or C1 in oral communication from the Norwegian Language Test administered by the Directorate for Higher Education and Skills.
- A pass in the oral Test in Norwegian – Higher Level combined with B2 or C1 in the reading, listening, and written parts of the Norwegian Language Test from the Directorate for Higher Education and Skills.
Option B: For Applicants Not Meeting General Entry Requirements
If you do not meet the general entry requirements, you must fulfill the Norwegian language requirement through the following:
- Completion of the written and oral Norwegian exam at the third-year level in Norwegian upper secondary school.
Learning Norwegian: The NLS Norwegian Language School
To effectively meet the Norwegian language requirement and ensure you are well-prepared for academic life in Norway, enrolling in a structured language course is highly recommended. The NLS Norwegian Language School offers comprehensive group Norwegian classes designed to equip students with the necessary language skills. These classes are tailored to different proficiency levels and provide a supportive environment for learning. Register for group Norwegian classes here.
Meeting the English Language Requirement
In addition to the Norwegian language requirement, demonstrating proficiency in English is crucial. This is typically assessed through standardized tests or previous education conducted in English. Commonly accepted tests and minimum scores include:
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based) or 550 (paper-based).
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0.
- Cambridge English: First Certificate in English (FCE) or Certificate in Advanced English (CAE).
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53.
Applicants who have completed secondary education in an English-speaking country or have taken English as a subject in their upper secondary school may be exempt from taking these tests.
Conclusion
Mastering the Norwegian language is not just a requirement but a vital component of a successful and enriching academic experience in Norway. By fulfilling the Norwegian and English language requirements, applicants can ensure they are well-prepared for their studies and can fully integrate into Norwegian society. To embark on this journey, consider enrolling in a course at the NLS Norwegian Language School. For more detailed information on specific programs and their requirements, applicants should consult the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS) or the respective institutions. Register for group Norwegian classes here and take the first step towards your academic future in Norway.
