Study at USN

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

• Weather: Unpredictable. Bring layers and warm clothes, even in summer.

• Culture: Be on time. People are polite but reserved at first.

• 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.

• Food: Grocery stores close early on Saturdays and are closed Sundays.

• Water: Tap water is clean (and delicious) and safe to drink.

• Emergencies: Call 113 (ambulance), 112 (police), 110 (fire).

• 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.