Introduction
The University of Oslo offers several highly prestigious and competitive full scholarships each year for international students admitted to their English master's programs. These cover your program tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and more.
This guide covers in detail from A-Z the entire process of successfully applying for Oslo's scholarships as an international student. This includes eligibility criteria, finding the right program, the standard admission and scholarship applications, required documents, writing strong essays, gathering references, preparing academically, visa process, acceptance steps, and alternative funding options.
With advanced preparation, strategic planning, and a highly organized application, you can maximize your chances of securing the financial aid you need to study at one of the top universities in the Nordics.
Checking Eligibility for Oslo's Scholarships
Before applying, verify you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
- citizenship from a country outside the EU/EEA/EFTA area. Exceptions if you've lived/worked in Norway for 2+ years.
- applying for a full master’s program, not a single course or exchange semester.
- have an undergraduate degree comparable to a Norwegian bachelor’s degree with excellent grades. Exceptions made for developing countries.
- not previously received a degree from the University of Oslo
- proficiency in English per your program’s requirements. IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+ scores are often needed.
- able to begin studies in August and commit to the multi-year program.
- under the age of 35 by the application deadline.
- Scholarships are extremely limited for disciplines like humanities, social sciences, law, and arts. Prioritize technology, science, and math.
- have not resided in Norway for the last year on a student visa.
- willing to return home after completing studies. The scholarships have a development focus.
- agree to abide by the Norwegian Immigration Act rules to maintain legal residence.
Researching Programs at the University of Oslo
Once you determine your eligibility, the next vital step is extensively researching appropriate master's programs offered at the University of Oslo that align with your background, interests, and career aspirations.
Refer to the university's website and catalog for the full list of English-taught master's programs across all faculties and departments. Make a list of the ones that match your areas of previous study, experience, knowledge, and skills.
Evaluate each program in-depth reading the full description, curriculum details, required background preparation, application criteria, and graduate outcomes. Watch any available testimonial videos of current students to get insight into the actual experience.
Cross-reference your shortlist with the University of Oslo's scholarship page listing the master's programs eligible for the various scholarship schemes. Note application deadlines for each.
Consider location, size, academic reputation, research output, resources, networks, labs, partnerships, and global ranking of both the university and your individual program.
Email program coordinators to introduce yourself and ask specific questions not addressed on the website. Developing this direct connection can help strengthen your application.
Finalize your program selection based on the best fit for your future goals, the existing foundation to build upon, and funding availability.
Standard Admission Application Process
Submitting a standard application for admission to the University of Oslo via their online portal is required before you can be considered for scholarships as an international candidate. Here are the key steps:
- Check the application deadline for your selected program and prepare materials well in advance. Admission happens on a rolling basis before hard deadlines.
- Carefully review and gather all required documents like transcripts, English test scores meeting the minimum requirement, passport copy, CV, references, and evidence of finances to pay at least the first year's tuition and living costs.
- Draft a strong statement of purpose outlining your relevant background, academic interests, research goals, and future career ambitions. Highlight how the program is essential to your aspirations.
- Complete the online application form including educational history, test results, work experience, publications, and all other requested information. The system allows saving and editing before final submission.
- Pay close attention to instructions and guidelines. Proofread repeatedly to avoid any errors before submitting.
- Email the department if you have any trouble with the application portal or formatting documents. They can assist with technical issues.
Scholarship Application Process
After or simultaneous to the standard admission application, you must apply separately for the University of Oslo's scholarship programs. This includes:
Quota Scholarship Scheme - covers all costs and is extremely competitive. Apply via an online system.
Faculty Scholarships - awarded directly through departments. Ask the program coordinator.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships - for select interdisciplinary programs.
Norway-America Association - merit scholarships for US students.
To apply:
- Determine eligibility for each scholarship and application procedures from the UO website. Quota is most comprehensive for international students but most competitive with <10% acceptance. Faculty ones are slightly more attainable.
- Note: all annual application deadlines. These come 1-3 months after standard admission deadlines. Prepare and apply early.
- Read the criteria and instructions carefully. Scholarships are evaluated on academic merit, research goals, leadership skills, and relevance of the program to a future career.
- Address every point in essay questions and describe thoroughly in your statement of purpose how you meet the criteria. Quantify achievements.
- Get 2-3 strong letters of reference from professors detailing your exceptional academic ability, research potential, and personal qualities.
- Submit any required supplemental items like writing samples, CVs, transcripts, test scores, publications, awards, etc. Follow precise guidelines.
- Provide detailed information on financial need and how the scholarship will impact your future opportunities, community, and country.
Required Documents Overview
These are the core items needed for a complete University of Oslo admission and scholarship application:
- Online application form and personal essay
- Official bachelor's degree transcripts showing excellent marks
- Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts from all university studies
- English proficiency scores (IELTS or TOEFL) at the level required by the program
- Passport copy
- Detailed CV summarizing academic, professional, and volunteering experiences
- Motivation letter on qualifications, knowledge, and goals fit with the program
- 2-3 reference letters speaking to your aptitudes and merits
- Evidence of sufficient funds to self-finance for at least one year
- Additional test scores like GRE or GMAT as required
- Supplemental materials outlined in scholarship criteria like writing samples
Follow precise instructions provided on the university website and program pages about document formats, certification, submission methods, deadlines, etc.
Writing Strong Application Essays
The written statements and essays required for both the standard admission application and individual scholarship applications carry significant weight in selection decisions. Follow these best practices:
- Carefully read prompts and note any length or formatting requirements. Address every point.
- Brainstorm an outline covering your background, relevant experiences, academic and career goals, chosen program fit, planned research, and contributions you'll make.
- Write a strong opening paragraph introducing yourself and a summary of your aspirations in studying at the University of Oslo.
- Support claims with specific examples. Quantify research, achievements, and extracurricular activities.
- Explain how specific faculty, courses, resources, and labs at the university align with your interests and will help you achieve future goals.
- Demonstrate fit between your knowledge, skills, and this next logical step in your education and career progression.
- For scholarship essays, emphasize academic excellence, leadership, communication skills, knowledge-sharing plans, and development impact.
- Outline plans for research, thesis, involvement on campus, and collaboration with professors.
- Explain how the scholarship funding will enable your aspirations. Share background on financial need.
- Describe how an international education will contribute to your growth on both a personal and professional level.
- Conclude by restating your qualifications, passion for the program, and appreciation for consideration.
Academic Preparation
To strengthen your admission and scholarship chances:
- Complete upper-level undergraduate courses in areas like advanced math, statistics, experiment design, and research methods to build relevant skills.
- Get involved with professors' research projects at your university. Seek authorship on publications.
- Take on leadership roles in honor societies, clubs, and volunteering activities to demonstrate well-roundedness.
- Attend academic conferences and seminars in your field when possible.
- Consider taking the GRE or GMAT exams if not required, to showcase quantitative skills. Aim for the 80th percentile or higher.
- Enroll in extra curriculum like Coursera courses to expand your knowledge base.
- Improve English skills through tutoring, courses, TOEFL practice tests, reading/writing daily.
These preparations show your commitment to the subject and give you valuable experience to highlight in your application.
Visa Application Overview (200 words)
Once accepted, you must apply for a student residence permit to study in Norway:
- Submit an online application via the Norwegian Immigration Authority website.
- Provide proof of admission letter, scholarships or finances, housing, health insurance, passport, etc.
- Complete an appointment at your nearest Norwegian foreign service mission.
- Passports must be valid for the intended duration of stay.
- Processing time is 1-3 months so apply immediately after admission.
- Permits are issued for the duration of your study program - up to 2 years for masters.
- You are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week with a student permit.
- Family can apply for permits to accompany you but must prove adequate funds.
- Be aware rules may change so always check the immigration authority website for updates when applying.
Acceptance and Arrival
Upon admission and scholarship award from the University of Oslo:
- Officially accept your place in the program and sign the scholarship contract promptly by the deadline. Visa applications require proof of admission.
- Continue the visa application process and prepare all documents. Having the acceptance letter will strengthen your case.
- Discuss your scholarship fund disbursement plan with the program coordinator. Determine arrangements for periodic payments.
- Make travel arrangements for a move to Oslo at least 1-2 months before studies start in mid-late August.
- Join university pre-departure Facebook groups for accepted students. Ask questions and connect with fellow cohort members.
- Review welcome information and arrival/orientation details emailed by your department.
- Share your award on social media and local news! Recognize individuals who helped support your achievement.
- Excitedly prepare for this new adventure and chapter! You've worked hard to make it happen.
Alternative Funding Options
While the University of Oslo has prestigious scholarships for international applicants, competition is extremely fierce. Even qualified candidates may not successfully secure funding. You should have alternative funding plans in place through:
- Fellowships from foundations, corporations, or government programs in your home country that fund study abroad. Reach out to national education departments.
- Grants from international bodies like the UN, WorldBank, or scientific research organizations.
- Institutional partnerships between your home university and the University of Oslo. Ask about joint research programs or exchanges.
- Bank education loans with low-interest rates and flexible repayment plans.
- Support from family members who may contribute a portion of costs.
- Crowdfunding through platforms where you request donations from the public. Share your proposal on social media.
- Part-time job while studying - teaching assistant roles, retail, restaurants. This helps cover some living expenses.
- Applying for other private and institutional scholarships directly through the university like Erasmus Mundus. Ask program advisors for suggestions.
- Saving money ahead of time while working full-time to self-finance for at least the first year. Then you can apply for support later on.
Have a few different funding options in mind rather than depending exclusively on the university's scholarship. With diligence and creativity, you can find alternative assistance.
Conclusion
The University of Oslo offers a prestigious learning opportunity with its wide range of outstanding English-taught Master's programs across fields like technology, natural sciences, mathematics, and social sciences. International students who dream of studying at this leading Scandinavian institution have a chance through its competitive scholarships covering all costs.
This guide has provided you detailed, step-by-step support on the rigorous yet rewarding process of applying for the University of Oslo's scholarship programs as an international candidate. From researching the right academic fit and eligibility criteria to crafting persuasive application essays and securing strong recommendations, you can now expertly navigate each component.
Remember to underline your academic excellence, research goals, and future potential to bring development impact back home. Start planning and preparing your documents early, meet every deadline, follow instructions precisely, and highlight your unique qualifications. Be open to alternative funding channels as well should a scholarship not pan out.
If you stay organized, proactive, and dedicated throughout the application process, you have an excellent chance of joining the next cohort of international students embarking on a life-changing journey of personal and professional growth at the University of Oslo.