Norway's PhD research fellows are employees with one of the highest PhD salaries in Europe.
PhD opportunities in Norway
Why do a PhD in Norway?
- Well-paid research fellowships
- No tuition at public universities
- Strong marine, energy and climate research
Universities in Norway
Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in Norway include:
- University of Oslo
- University of Bergen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
- UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.
PhD structure
The programme includes about 30 ECTS of training, a thesis and a public defence (disputas) with a trial lecture.
Fees and funding
Fees: Public universities charge no tuition for PhDs.
Main funded routes: Salaried PhD research fellow positions.
Official starting points: Jobbnorge
See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.
Applying for a PhD in Norway
Apply for advertised fellowships on Jobbnorge and university websites.
Language: English.
Your application checklist
- CV with research experience and any publications
- Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
- Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
- Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
- English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
- Interview preparation — see our interview guide
Student visas and work
Visa: Non-EU fellows apply for a skilled-worker residence permit through UDI.
Working during your PhD: You are employed.
After your PhD
Graduates can apply for a job-seeker permit after completing their degree.
Open PhD opportunities in Norway
New listings are added every week — get weekly alerts.
This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.
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