Deciding where to study in Europe tuition free is only the beginning of a fascinating chapter in your academic story. But it’s important to get it right and choose where you want to study in Europe wisely! With numerous expenses looming over your head, the first dilemma arises: Where is it best to study tuition free?
Both Norway and Germany offer outstanding conditions when it comes to studying in Europe, tuition free for international students. With many pros and cons in store, let’s investigate which country has a better deck of opportunities for eager newcomers.
Study in Germany tuition free or study in Norway tuition free – which is it going to be?
Cost of Living in Germany vs Norway
As an international student studying abroad tuition free, your income is generally limited. The costs of housing, utilities and leisure are of utmost importance. Worry not – here’s all the info so that you come prepared!
Housing is generally cheaper in Germany compared to Norway. If you choose to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Oslo, your rent will cost as much as around 10,000 NOK (935 EUR) monthly, which is a relatively expensive feat. Collective housing is a better solution as the price ranges between 280 to 560 EUR. On the other hand, if you want to find a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin, the prices are much lower. They range from 500 EUR onwards.
By comparison, utilities are slightly costlier in Norway than in Germany. A somewhat larger apartment may have utilities around 3,200 NOK (300 EUR). In Germany, your monthly utilities for a similar rented space won’t go over 250 EUR.
Food is also cheaper in Germany, both when it comes to restaurants and groceries. And if you’re looking for a vivid nightlife on weekends (shhh, we won’t tell anyone!), it’s fairly cheap to go out in Germany because it’s dotted with bars and clubs. On the other hand, Norway offers a range of leisure experiences. Think: ski slopes, Sunday hikes on scenic trails, dog sledding. Albeit expensive, it’s rare to experience these activities elsewhere. That said, both countries have a developed public transportation system to visit all these places, with an average cost of 70 EUR per month.
WINNER: Germany
Tuition Free University in Germany vs Norway
Norway and Germany offer world-class tuition free universities for students who want to study in Europe. While the standard of education is very high in both countries, it may be easier to enroll at a Norwegian university.
Application Process
The majority of German universities acknowledge these as the necessary documents needed to apply:
- Application form (has to be thoroughly completed, they are very strict),
- Notarized copies of your high school diploma,
- A translated and notarized copy of your grades,
- A certified copy of your ID and passport,
- Proof of English language proficiency (C1 or C2 levels).
Norway, on the other hand, asks you to deliver the following:
- Application form (easier to fill in, though this depends on the particular program)
- A notarized diploma of your secondary school education,
- A certified copy of your ID and passport,
- English language proficiency proof (TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic).
Financial Capability
One of the requirements to study in Germany is to obtain and deliver proof of financial means. This requires opening the so-called Sperrkonto, which means “blocked account.” You won’t be able to access or use it before your arrival. The obligatory amount of money in your account must be 10,332 EUR per year. Students usually deposit even more to increase the probability of being accepted.
Unlike Germany, Norway demands its international students to deposit around 11,532 EUR annually (the amount is subject to change), but not into a blocked account. Therefore, you have free reign over how much money you can withdraw.
Health Insurance
While in Norway, students coming from outside the EU need to have health insurance for the initial period. After three months, you can become a member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme and become entitled to professional medical treatment cost-free.
International students must be insured while they reside in Germany, as well. As an EU/EEA resident, you’ll need to obtain an insurance card. If not, you’ll need to provide proof of health insurance for both university enrollment and visa application in order to study in Germany tuition free.
WINNER: Norway
Scholarships & Tuition Free Study In Germany vs Norway
The availability of German scholarships is one of the paramount reasons why Germany is a popular country for international students. The selection includes a colorful palette of scholarships for students worldwide. They generally award 850 EUR per month, which is enough to cover the living expenses.
While Norway does offer international scholarships, they are mostly centered around certain countries and are sometimes very specific. If you study the Norwegian language and literature, there’s a great chance you’ll be suitable for one of their scholarships.
WINNER: Germany
Climate & Weather in Norway vs Germany
As an aspiring student choosing between the two countries, your preferences for the warmer and colder climates will perhaps be the deciding tip on the scales.
A country rich in deep coastal fjords, glaciers, and mountains, Norway is most enjoyable for a foreigner stemming from a summer’s temperate climate. The temperatures range from -7 to 20 degrees Celsius, so be prepared for a biting Scandinavian winter.
Nestled between the oceanic Western and the continental Eastern European climate, Germany is marked by cold winters and warm summers, but without extremes. The moderately continental climate is best enjoyed during the spring and summer when it averagely spans from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius.
WINNER: A Tie
Job Opportunities After Graduation in Germany vs Norway
Germany has the largest (and still growing) economy in Europe, meaning that it’s an ideal place to jumpstart your career. The stable economy of the country offers positive prospects of employment for recent graduates. Always in-demand are jobs concerning IT, health care, and engineering.
Norwegian employers seek Norweigan-speaking employees, so it’s a must to attain proficiency in their language. If you decide to study in Norway, putting effort into learning Norwegian can be worthwhile. The market is highly competitive and demanding, but if you manage to overcome it, you could be employed for life.
WINNER: A Tie
How Do You Choose Where to Study Tuition Free Between Germany and Norway?
Germany has a milder climate and a favorable position on expenses. You can study in Germany tuition free for half a fraction of the cost in Norway. The number of scholarship opportunities for international students makes it a perfect candidate for studying in Europe.
On the other hand, Norway has the advantage of not asking you to open a blocked account. It also has a less complicated application process and it’s easier to obtain a visa. Future career goals might be harder to achieve in Norway, but they are rewarding.
Remarkable in their respective ways, the two countries offer versatile opportunities for tuition free study in Europe. Your affinities will ultimately decide the course. One thing’s for sure: you will experience a great adventure, both in the classroom and outside of it!
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