Norway

Norway, the largest Scandinavian country, is a wintery paradise with scenic beauty that is absolutely unique. It is home to the wondrous fjords, aurora borealis, Vikings, and world-renowned author, Roald Dahl. Norway is a very progressive and developed country with the highest human development index and has a strong respect for its culture and heritage.  

Requirements

The quality of education in Norway is one of the finest in the world and the high quality of living makes it quite ideal for students from all around the world. The requirements are specified by the institute but will generally ask for high school diploma/other previous educational qualifications, English proficiency tests (IELTS or TOEFL), and Norwegian proficiency tests. 

Visa 

For courses over 3 months, students need to apply for the student visa (resident permit). The procedure will start once the acceptance letter is received, then students can apply for the visa.

Some things that will be needed are:

• Passport

• Sufficient financial funds

• Acceptance letter and paid fees

• Proof of some housing

The fees are NOK 4900 and it takes around2 months. Once they arrive, students must register at the police station within 7 days to apply for their resident permit.

Fees and living

All public universities in Norway have no tuition fee, though there is usually a semester fee around 60 euro. The universities offer top-notch education and facilities and a great environment to study in. Though most courses are in Norwegian, there are a number of English courses as well. 

Living costs are rather high in Norway because of the great standard of living and most of this is for accommodation. Renting apartments can be around 300 to 800 euros, and so if possible accommodation offered by the institute will be much more cost-effective. Other costs will be around an additional 500 euros. Students can avail of an efficient and affordable transport system for trips. 

Norway is teeming with natural beauty and also has lively cities to keep students exploring and learning. There are many outdoor activities like skiing and hiking students can try otherwise there are many beautiful museums to visit. The country is safe, modern, and friendly, making it very easy to get comfortable with life here. 

Sweden

The birthplace of the Nobel Prize, ABBA, and tennis legend, Björn Borg, Sweden is a fun-loving, vibrant country with delicious cuisine, modern culture, and aesthetic environment which are globally revered. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. It is also popular for its music and the beautiful, ‘Midsommar’ festival.

Swedish universities basically require completed high school and bachelor’s degree (for higher studies) and English proficiency tests (IELTS / TOEFL). If the course is in Swedish, students will have to give a Swedish proficiency test.

 Visa 

Students will require one of the following visa types depending on the course:

• Short stay visa: for courses that do not exceed 3 months.

• Long stay visa: for courses that last more than 6 months.

Requirements are:

• Acceptance letter for a full-time course

• Health insurance

• Passport

• Proof of sufficient financial funds

It takes about 3 months to receive the visa; hence it should be applied for as early as possible. The visa fee is 1500 SEK.

Fees and living

Higher education in Sweden is very innovative and offers great facilities in terms of research and study. The fees in most public universities range from 6 k to 12 lakh INR, depending on course. Studying in Sweden will give students a more stimulating environment to complete higher education. Many universities offer scholarships for international students. The requirements are specified by the university.

Joining student unions, for about 500 to 2000 INR, will give students access to certain activities and will be able to avail some discounts.  Living costs in Sweden are high and accommodation can cost from 6000 to 1000 INR/month.

Sweden has a vibrant nightlife, interesting outdoor activities to engage in, and beautiful places to visit. The people are friendly and almost everyone speaks English. The world-class universities, excellent public facilities, and the charming culture of Sweden will make a life for students very enjoyable. 

Finland

Finland is a Nordic country and is also known as the happiest country in the world. It is known for its steaming saunas, many forests and lakes, innovative ideas, and even games like ‘Angry Birds’. It is one of the safest and cleanest countries to live in. 

The universities of Finland offer many academic courses for students to pursue. For courses in English test scores of TOEFL or IELTS will be needed, but may also accept students who completed previous education in English. Depending on university/course students may need to give SAT, GRE, GMAT, and have required credit points.

Visa 

For courses that are at a maximum for 3 months, a student visa is required. For courses longer than 3 months, students need a student residence permit. Requirements are:

• Passport

• Acceptance letter

• Health insurance

• Sufficient funds

• Paid tuition fee

• Qualifications

It has a fee of 360 Euros and about 3 months for processing.

Fees and living

Fees vary depending on university and course. Doctorate courses are usually free but other courses that are taught in English can cost from 8000 to 15000 Euro/year. Universities also offer scholarships to students based on grades, which should be looked into while applying. Courses taught in Finnish are free, even for international students, but they will need to write a proficiency test. 

Living expenses in Finland can be between 700 to 1000 Euros/month, depending on lifestyle and city. Renting private apartments can be quite expensive whereas student halls are much more cost-effective. Public services are very good and affordable for students, such as health care and transport.

 Finland has the best educational system, which is one of the safest countries, and considered to be the best place when it comes to human welfare. Diversity and cultural richness are very profound here and so, will give students a rich and exciting educational experience.