Lanekassen - Lanekassen

Lånekassen support for studying abroad

You will receive a monthly student loan of approximately 391 EUR (4,493 NOK), as well as additional funding for tuition fees and travel costs. This can be used to finance a full degree programme or individual courses at a university outside the Nordic countries. Lånekassen is Norway’s state-run fund for education financing. The main funding takes the form of a loan, although up to 40% of this is converted into a grant that you will never have to repay, provided you complete your studies, do not live with your parents, and keep your income and savings below the specified limits. The study grant is subject to a ceiling that depends on the country where you are studying, and there is also a grant to cover travel expenses. If you are studying in Brazil, India, Japan, China, South Africa or South Korea, you will receive an additional settlement grant for up to ten months. The loan is interest-free whilst you are studying full-time, and repayment begins approximately nine months after your funding ends.

Who can apply

• Where you go: You are studying at a university or higher education institution outside the Nordic region, either as part of a full degree programme or by taking individual courses.
• Nationality: Norwegian citizens are automatically eligible. Non-Norwegians may only apply under stricter conditions: for example, EEA nationals with permanent residence in Norway (usually after five years), EEA/EFTA workers in Norway whose employment is related to their studies, or their close family members.
• School leaving qualification: You hold a general university entrance qualification.
• Study place: You have already been offered a place before you apply.
• Full time: You must enrol for at least 30 ECTS credits per semester.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects.
• Single courses: The modules must form part of a recognised degree programme at the same higher education institution, be at Bachelor’s level or above, and be delivered face-to-face on campus.

How to apply

Once you have secured your place at university, you can apply online to Lånekassen from mid-May at the earliest. The deadline is 15 November for the full academic year or the autumn term, and 15 March for the spring term. There is no interview, and you must reapply each year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a merit-based scholarship where a committee selects the recipients. It is a statutory entitlement: if you meet the eligibility criteria regarding nationality or residence, have secured a place at university and are studying full-time, you will receive the funding. Your main task, therefore, is to meet the eligibility criteria and submit your application by the deadline – not to outshine other applicants.