Sorry, something went wrong here. We are currently experiencing issues with favourites. See all programmes Why Choose USN? An international university in the heart of Norway The University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) welcomes students from all over the world. As an international student, you’ll be a valued part of our campuses and contribute to an open and diverse learning environment. Practical, real world education USN offers a wide range of degree programmes with a strong focus on applied knowledge and close ties to industry. Our study areas include technology, engineering, business, health sciences, education, maritime studies, and environmental management. Flexible study options Choose from master's, or PhD programmes, or join us as an exchange or Erasmus+ student. We offer modern campuses, supportive teachers, and a student life surrounded by nature Learn more about Norway In Norway, students enjoy modern education, vibrant campus life, and easy access to breath taking mountains, fjords, and fresh air. All in one the safest and happiest societies on the planet. Norway is one of the Scandinavian countries located right next to Sweden with a beautiful coastline surrounding a large part of the country. The capital is Oslo and it is located in South-Eastern Norway. Norway is a constitutional monarchy and the reigning king is Harald V who has been our king since 1991. Norway has a democratic system where everyone over 18 can vote. The parliament is called Stortinget and is based in Oslo. Norway has a mix of weather, and it really depends on where you are in the country. Along the coast, especially in the west, the climate is mild and wet. Winters are not too cold, but it rains a lot, even in the winter months. Inland and up north, winters are much colder with snow and freezing temperatures, while summers can be warm and sunny. The weather can change quickly, so Norwegians like to say: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!” You can expect everything from snow and rain to sun and wind. Bring layers, and you’ll be fine! In Norway, everyone is free to believe in what they want, or nothing at all. Most people are members of the Church of Norway, which is a Christian church. But many don’t go to church very often, and religion isn’t a big part of daily life for most. There are also people in Norway who belong to other religions, like Islam, Catholicism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. And many people don’t believe in any religion. In elementary school, children learn about different religions and worldviews. The main goal is to understand and respect others, no matter what they believe. The national language in Norway is Norwegian but most people speak english as well. Norway has a well-developed and reliable public transport system. In cities, you can get around easily by bus, tram or local trains. Many students also use bikes, especially in smaller towns. Tickets are usually bought through mobile apps like Ruter (Oslo) or Entur (nationwide). Remember to always buy your ticket before boarding. Students often get discounts, so make sure to register for a student travel card or app in your region. Trains and long-distance buses connect cities across the country, and ferries are used in coastal areas and to reach islands. Plan for winter delays if travelling far. The currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone. One Krone equals 0.087 Euro. Language : Norwegian Language : Norwegian Weather : Unpredictable. Bring layers and warm clothes, even in summer. Weather : Unpredictable. Bring layers and warm clothes, even in summer. Culture : Be on time. People are polite but reserved at first. Culture : Be on time. People are polite but reserved at first. Indoors : Take off your shoes when entering homes or student housing. Indoors : Take off your shoes when entering homes or student housing. Money : Most people pay by card or phone (apple pay for example). Cash is rarely used. Money : Most people pay by card or phone (apple pay for example). Cash is rarely used. Food : Grocery stores close early on Saturdays and are closed Sundays. Food : Grocery stores close early on Saturdays and are closed Sundays.

Water : Tap water is clean (and delicious) and safe to drink. Water : Tap water is clean (and delicious) and safe to drink. Emergencies : Call 113 (ambulance), 112 (police), 110 (fire). Emergencies : Call 113 (ambulance), 112 (police), 110 (fire). Nature : Free access to nature. Hiking and outdoor life are a big part of Norwegian culture. Nature : Free access to nature. Hiking and outdoor life are a big part of Norwegian culture. Alcohol: Wine and spirits is only sold in special stores (Vinmonopolet) and beer and cider is sold grocery stores with limited hours. Legal drinking age is 18 for beer and wine, 20 for spirits. Prices are high. Alcohol: Wine and spirits is only sold in special stores (Vinmonopolet) and beer and cider is sold grocery stores with limited hours. Legal drinking age is 18 for beer and wine, 20 for spirits. Prices are high. Make the most of your student experience We want you to feel at home at USN and build lasting friendships with fellow students from around the world. That’s why we offer a wide range of social spaces and activities to help you connect and settle into life in Norway. We strongly encourage you to join the social events during orientation and take part in study groups, both are great ways to meet people and adjust to a new academic and cultural environment. You can also choose from a variety of student associations and organisations offering activities for many different interests. EU/EEA applicants For applicants from the EU/EEA. Applications open 1 February, and the application deadline is 15 April. Non-EU/EEA applicants, and applicants to SSIS For applicants from outside the EU/EEA, applicants who need a student visa to apply, and applicants to Smart Systems Integrated Solutions. Applications open 1 October. If your home university is one of our partner universities you can apply for exchange. Contact the exchange coordinator at your home university for information on how to be nominated for exchange. Questions? We can help you! keyboard_backspace Do you have questions about a specific programme? Contact the study advisor directly, you will find contact information at the bottom of every programme page. keyboard_backspace Unsure about admission and application rules? Check out our admission pages . keyboard_backspace Need help finding out where to live , need counselling or other serivces? Check out SSN they are excellent at giving advice and support. You can also see our frequently asked questions here Ann Sofie Kaalen Senior Adviser Department of Communication ann.kaalen@usn.no 31 00 93 70 Linda Dahlgren Senior Adviser Department of Communication linda.dahlgren@usn.no 35 02 64 53 Want to learn more? We will send you regular updates about studying at USN and in Norway! Stories from our students Student life at campus Kongsberg An outgoing student environment welcomes you in the inland town of Kongsberg. Student life at campus Notodden Campus Notodden offers a vibrant and inclusive student environment, with varied activities and nature-based experiences. Student life at campus Drammen Campus Drammen, which is centrally located by the Drammenselva in the knowledge park Papirbredden, offers a modern and accessible study environment within walking distance to the train station, student housing and the city's facilities. Student life at campus Porsgrunn Campus Porsgrunn is located in the heart of Grenland and offers an active and inclusive student environment. As a new student, you will be greeted with a variety of social and academic activities that make it easy to get to know both fellow students and the city. Student life at campus Bø Campus Bø is known for its engaged student community and nature-close location. With around 6,000 inhabitants and over 3,000 students, the village is characterised by youthful energy and a strong sense of community.