English proficiency for bachelor studies
Source: https://www.uio.no/english/studies/admission/nora/english-proficiency-bachelor.html Parent: https://www.uio.no/english/studies/admission/nora/
How to check if I meet the English language requirement
- Use the GSU list to check your country
- Choose your country from the drop-down menu
- The GSU list will show if the English requirement is covered by your secondary school or higher education
- Or see Samordna opptak (scroll down passed the information about the Norwegian requirements).
How do I document the English language requirement
You can document your English language proficiency by taking a recognised English test:
IELTS
IELTS Academic - International English Language Testing System or IELTS Online
- Minimum overall band score of 5.0.
Upload the official copy of your test result with a legible TRF number in the bottom right corner. The University of Oslo will verify your test result online. It is currently not possible to submit test results with an IELTS institutional code.
IELTS test results must not be older than three years. Please make sure that your test result is valid at the time of application.
TOEFL
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT) or TOEFL iBT Home Edition
- Minimum score: 60 points OR 3,5 (from January 21 2026).
Upload a copy of your official Test Taker Score Report. The University of Oslo will verify your test result online.
TOEFL test results must not be older than two years. Please make sure that your test result is valid at the time of application.
University of Cambridge exams
- University of Cambridge exams - First Certificate in English or Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).
You must send your results to the University of Oslo via the Cambridge English Candidate Results Website. Login using your 'ID number' and 'secret number' and click 'Send my result'. In addition, you must upload your Statement of Results to the application portal.
PTE Academic
- PTE Academic or PTE Academic Online: Pearson Test of English Academic
- Minimum overall score of 51.
Send your score report to the University of Oslo through your Pearson account. In addition, upload a PDF of your score report. Please make sure that your test result is valid at the time of application. The University of Oslo will verify your test result online.
Exemptions
- Completed and passed English course (140 hours per year / 5 hours per week) at the Norwegian upper secondary school
- Applicants who have completed one year upper secondary education in USA, UK, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand or Canada.
- Students who have completed at least one year university studies in academic subjects in UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia.
- Students who have a complete or incomplete undergraduate degree in English language and literature with courses in English language and literature that are equivalent to minimum 60 ECTS.
- Students who have completed a master's degree taught in English (language of instruction must be documented).
- Students with International Baccalaureate (IB) education with HL or SL English with a minimum grade of 3.
About the English language requirement
The English language requirement to studies at bachelor's level at Norwegian universities is set by HK-dir (Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills). The requirement is listed in the GSU list (Higher Education Entrance Qualification for Persons with Foreign Education) with more specific information in the language requirement list.
Contact
International Student Reception
Published Feb. 10, 2017 10:50 AM - Last modified Jan. 27, 2026 9:34 AM