Norway is widely appreciated for its high standard of living and top-notch educational system. If that is the case and you’d like to enroll at a Norwegian university or college, you will be required to pass the IELTS test as a means of showing your fluency in English. However, students should also understand that having IELTS is not the only requirement to study in Norway.
In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to study in the country without taking this examination.
Studying in Norway Without IELTS: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is everything you need to know about studying in Norway without the International English Language Testing System examination.
Explore Norwegian Universities
The very first thing is to gather information about Norwegian universities, and the next thing will be to select a program that will appeal to you. Many of the universities in Norway provide courses delivered through the medium of English. Therefore, speaking Norwegian is not a must. Search for schools with decent international standing, that have an interesting and varied range of programs (that would suit your fundamental interests and career aims).
Check Language Requirements
IELTS is one of the most preferred and common entrance exams, but that does not mean this is the only way to show off your English linguistic skills. Many Norwegian universities are also looking for other English language exams apart from the IELTS a.k.a. the TOEFL or PTE. Some courses do not require a self-administered test, and you can use past academic transcripts or writing essays as proof. Make sure you send your applications to the universities wherein you find that the requirements are the same as you are looking forward to.
Consider a Preparatory Program
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you may succeed in enrolling in a preparatory session that aims at perfecting your knowledge of English. These programs are placed to step up the language proficiency level of international students before they start any study at a degree program. Lots of Universities give opportunities to take part in their preparatory programs, and you can also find private language schools all over Norway.
Apply for Admission
Having figured out the universities and programs you want to receive, it is time you submit applications. The admission process is going to follow the same procedure, and you are obliged to submit documents such as academic records, a personal essay, and any language proficiency test results. Take the time to read and understand specific application requirements and deadlines for the schools you are interested in applying to.
Secure Funding
Living in Norway to study may be costly but the students can use both self-financing and fund-raising to cover their expenses. A lot of universities’ finances are aimed at helping international students apply to study there via scholarships or they give some money. Besides the money you save, you can reduce your expenses by looking into student loans, grants, or even part-time jobs to take into account.
Obtain a Student Visa
If you are accepted to a Norwegian university then it is mandatory to get a student visa approved (studentvisum). This process may take up to 6 months, therefore, make sure you have enough time to get prepared. The required documentation entails the submission of your acceptance paper, financial evidence, and a valid travel passport.
Prepare for Your Move
Now that you have your visa, it is about time that you take your preparations for the move to Norway seriously. It ranges from flats and apartments to different types of houses and varied other features. Many universities are striving within this judgment to get the best result for all international students, an example of which is offering the necessary resources and support services for the process.
Being an international student in Norway, without IELTS, indeed, is not an easy task to do, but it is worth it in the end. You can realize the dream of studying in Norway by doing your research, getting a command of the language, and undertaking the arduous application and visa process.