Norwegian Quota Scheme: ​A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

Norwegian Quota Scheme

The Norwegian Quota Scheme stands out as a flagship initiative by the Norwegian government to provide fully funded educational opportunities to international students, particularly those from developing countries and select regions. This program reflects Norway’s commitment to fostering global educational equity and capacity building by enabling students to pursue higher education in one of the world’s most innovative and inclusive academic environments. By covering tuition fees and living expenses, the scheme empowers students to focus on their studies and return to their home countries equipped with skills to drive local development. This guide provides a detailed overview of the Norwegian Quota Scheme, including its purpose, structure, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process, tailored for international students planning to study in Norway.

About the Norwegian Quota Scheme

The Norwegian Quota Scheme is a government-funded scholarship program designed to promote the internationalization of higher education while supporting development in participating countries. Its primary objective is to provide students from developing nations, as well as Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Palestinian students from the Palestinian Authorities, with access to advanced education in Norway. The program emphasizes the importance of students returning to their home countries upon completion of their studies to contribute to local economies and societies. Managed by the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (previously SIU), the scheme has been a cornerstone of Norway’s international education strategy, with a history of supporting thousands of students since its inception.

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Scholarship Program Details

The Norwegian Quota Scheme is structured to provide comprehensive financial support, making it one of the most generous scholarship programs offered by the Norwegian government. Below are the key components of the program:

• Type of Scholarship: Fully funded, covering both tuition fees and living expenses.
• Study Levels: Primarily supports Master’s and Ph.D. programs, though certain professional degrees offered by participating institutions are also included.
• Funding Structure: Financial support is equivalent to what Norwegian students receive in similar programs. Approximately 30% of the funding is provided as a grant, while 70% is structured as a loan. Notably, the loan portion is waived if the student returns to their home country after completing their studies, effectively making the entire support package a grant for compliant students.
• Duration: The scholarship typically covers up to four years for a single study plan or a combination of two programs, ensuring flexibility for students pursuing consecutive degrees.
• Participating Institutions: The scheme is available at various Norwegian universities and university colleges, such as the University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and others listed in institutional resources like Africa & Science.
• The program’s focus on English-taught programs ensures accessibility for international students, aligning with Norway’s reputation for offering high-quality education in a global language.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Norwegian Quota Scheme, applicants must meet specific criteria related to their country of origin, academic background, and study intentions. The eligibility requirements include:

Country of Origin:

• Students from developing countries listed on the OECD’s Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list, specifically those categorized as “lower middle-income countries” or lower. A complete list of eligible countries is available through resources like Africa & Science.
• Students from Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Palestinian students from the Palestinian Authorities are also eligible.

Academic Admission:

• Applicants must be accepted into a study program at a Norwegian university or university college that participates in the Quota Scheme. Programs are typically at the Master’s or Ph.D. level and taught in English.
• Strong academic merit is essential, as institutions prioritize highly qualified candidates.

Language Proficiency:

• Since most programs are taught in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, as required by the admitting institution.

Return Commitment:

• Applicants must express a clear intention to return to their home country after completing their studies, aligning with the program’s goal of capacity building in developing regions.
• These requirements ensure that the scholarship supports students who are both academically capable and committed to contributing to their home countries’ development.

Benefits of the Scholarship

The Norwegian Quota Scheme offers a range of benefits that make studying in Norway accessible and financially viable for international students. The key benefits include:

• Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers all tuition fees at participating Norwegian institutions, eliminating one of the primary financial barriers to higher education.
• Living Expenses Stipend: A monthly stipend is provided to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other living costs. The stipend amount is designed to match the financial support provided to Norwegian students, ensuring a comfortable standard of living.
• Loan Waiver: The 70% loan portion of the financial support is waived if the student returns to their home country after graduation, effectively converting the entire funding package into a grant.
• Additional Support: Depending on the institution, students may receive assistance with travel allowances and health insurance, further reducing financial burdens.
• Access to World-Class Education: Recipients study at esteemed Norwegian institutions known for their academic excellence and innovative teaching methods, as highlighted in resources like PickAScholarship.

These benefits collectively enable students to focus on their academic and professional development without the burden of financial constraints.

Application Process

Applying for the Norwegian Quota Scheme involves several steps, requiring coordination between the student, the admitting institution, and the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). The process is outlined below:

Research and Apply to a Norwegian Institution:

• Identify a participating Norwegian university or university college offering a suitable Master’s, Ph.D., or professional degree program. A list of institutions can be found through resources like Africa & Science.
• Submit an application for admission directly to the institution, adhering to its specific deadlines and requirements. This typically involves providing academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and other documentation.

Secure Admission:

• Upon receiving an offer of admission, confirm with the institution whether the program is eligible for the Quota Scheme. The institution will verify the applicant’s eligibility for the scholarship.
• Apply for Financial Support:
• After securing admission, apply for financial support through the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). The institution may guide students through this process, as Lånekassen manages the disbursement of funds.
• Provide necessary documentation, such as proof of admission and financial need, as required by Lånekassen.

Apply for a Study Permit:

• Non-EU/EEA students must apply for a study permit (residence permit for studies) through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). This requires proof of admission, financial support (via the Quota Scheme), and sufficient funds for living expenses, estimated at NOK 151,690 per year..

​APPLY NOW 

Due date : Varies  check out official website on the link above

Prepare for Relocation:

• Once the scholarship and study permit are approved, arrange for travel and accommodation in Norway. Many institutions offer affordable student housing through student welfare organizations (Samskipnad), as mentioned in Study in Norway.
• The application process is institution-specific, so students should carefully review the requirements and deadlines of their chosen university or college. Early application is recommended due to the competitive nature of the program.

Summary

• Program Name  : Norwegian Quota Scheme
• Funding Type:  Fully funded (30% grant, 70% loan, loan waived upon return)
• Study Levels:  Master’s, Ph.D., certain professional degrees
• Eligible Countries :  DAC-listed developing countries, Central/Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Palestinian Authorities
• Benefits  : Full tuition, living stipend, potential travel/health support
• Application Steps :  Apply to institution, secure admission, apply via Lånekassen, obtain study permit
• Administering Body :  Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (Diku)
• Key Requirement : Return to home country post-study for loan waiver

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