Norwegian Government Quota Scheme: How to Apply, Eligibility & Tips 2026
Fully Funded
Award
24 months
Duration
February
Deadline
Competitive
Competition
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is a fully funded Masters/PhD scholarship for international students. The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme provides opportunities for students from developing countries to take higher degrees at Norwegian universities. Deadline is typically February each year, with competitive competition. This complete guide covers eligibility, application steps, benefits, and expert tips to maximize your chances.
| Type | government |
| Award Amount | Fully Funded (tuition + living + travel) |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Application Deadline | February |
| Study Level | Masters, PhD |
| Competition Level | Competitive |
| IELTS Required | 6+ |
| Work Experience Required | No |
| Minimum GPA | Good academic record |
| Eligible Nationalities | All nationalities |
| Official Website | Official Site |
What Does Norwegian Government Quota Scheme Cover?
- No tuition fees at Norwegian universities
- Monthly living allowance NOK 9,500
- Travel support
- Norway is safe and high quality of life
Eligible Fields of Study
All subjects
Study Destinations
How to Apply for Norwegian Government Quota Scheme
Eligibility Checklist
Before investing time in your application, confirm you meet all requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement | |---------|-------------| | Study level | Masters, PhD | | Nationality | Open to all nationalities | | Language | Norwegian or English (IELTS 6+ minimum) | | Academic record | Minimum Good academic record | | Work experience | Not required | | Deadline month | February each year |
Application Steps
Competition Level
This scholarship is Competitive. Typical acceptance rates vary from 1-15%. A strong application requires:
Official Website
Apply directly at: https://www.norad.no/en/front/funding/norwayfellowshipprogramme
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Norwegian Government Quota Scheme - Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme cover?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is a fully funded scholarship covering: No tuition fees at Norwegian universities, Monthly living allowance NOK 9,500, Travel support, Norway is safe and high quality of life.
Who is eligible for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is open to students of all nationalities. Study level: Masters, PhD.
What is the deadline for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme application deadline is typically in February each year. Check the official website at https://www.norad.no/en/front/funding/norwayfellowshipprogramme for exact dates as deadlines can shift year to year.
Is work experience required for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
No, the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme does not require work experience. It is open to recent graduates and students without professional experience.
What GPA is needed for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The minimum academic requirement for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is: Good academic record. Given the competitive nature of this scholarship, successful applicants typically have significantly higher academic records than the minimum.
What language score is required for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme requires an IELTS score of 6 or equivalent. TOEFL may also be accepted. Check specific language requirements on the official website.
How competitive is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is competitive. Acceptance rates can be as low as 1-5%. A strong application requires excellent academics, compelling personal statements, strong references, and clear career goals aligned with the scholarship's values.
How do I apply for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Application steps: 1. Apply directly to Norwegian universities for admission and quota scheme simultaneously. 2. University nominates successful quota candidates. 3. Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education (HK-dir) manages the scheme. Visit https://www.norad.no/en/front/funding/norwayfellowshipprogramme for the official application portal.
Which countries can I study in with the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme supports study in: norway. Some scholarships are tied to specific universities within these countries.
Is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme renewable?
Scholarship renewability depends on the specific award. Most scholarship programs require recipients to maintain minimum academic performance to continue receiving funding. Some scholarships are awarded once; others are renewed annually for the full duration of study.
Can I apply for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme if I already started my program?
Most competitive scholarships require you to apply before starting your program. A few allow applications within the first year. Check the specific eligibility conditions for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme on the official website.
Is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme available for all study levels?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is available for: Masters, PhD. Applications at other levels are not eligible.
What type of scholarship is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme is a government-funded scholarship, typically with strong prestige, post-scholarship obligations, and comprehensive benefits.
Do I need a letter of acceptance before applying for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Requirements vary. Some scholarships (like Chevening) require you to apply simultaneously with university applications. Others require a confirmed offer before applying. Some (like DAAD) may offer placement at a university as part of the scholarship process.
How do I write a scholarship essay for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
An effective scholarship essay for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme should: 1. Align with the scholarship's specific values and mission, 2. Use specific examples from your experience, 3. Clearly articulate your career goals and how this scholarship helps achieve them, 4. Show leadership and community contribution, 5. Explain your research or study plan with specificity.
What reference letters are needed for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Most competitive scholarships like the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme require 2-3 strong reference letters from people who know your academic work and professional capabilities well. Academic referees (professors who supervised your work) and professional supervisors are most appropriate.
Does the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme include airfare and travel expenses?
The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme benefits include: No tuition fees at Norwegian universities, Monthly living allowance NOK 9,500, Travel support, Norway is safe and high quality of life. Airfare/travel is included as part of the scholarship package.
Can I defer the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme if I need more time?
Most scholarship programs do not allow deferrals. If you receive the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme and cannot take it up in the year offered, you will typically need to reapply in a future year. Always verify the current deferral policy directly with the scholarship body.
Is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme open to mature/older students?
Most government and international scholarships have no upper age limit for Masters/PhD applicants. Some have age restrictions (e.g., Rhodes Scholarship: 18-24). Check the specific eligibility on the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme official page.
Are family members covered under the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Some larger scholarships include a family allowance for married scholars with dependents. Standard scholarships typically cover only the scholarship recipient. Check the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme benefits list and official terms.
What happens if I fail to maintain grades during the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Most scholarships require minimum academic performance (e.g., passing all courses, maintaining certain GPA). Failing to meet this standard can result in scholarship suspension or cancellation. Contact your scholarship manager immediately if you face academic difficulties.
Is there a bond or return obligation with the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Government scholarships like the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme often include a requirement to return to your home country for a period after graduation to apply skills for national development. Verify the current bond requirements on the official website.
What is the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme interview process like?
Shortlisted candidates for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme are typically interviewed by a selection committee. The interview assesses your academic goals, leadership experience, communication skills, and fit with the scholarship's values. Prepare by reviewing your application and practicing articulate, specific answers.
Can I apply for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme multiple times if rejected?
Yes, you can usually reapply for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme in subsequent years after rejection. Use the waiting period to strengthen your application - gain more experience, improve your academic record, and refine your application materials.
Does the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme cover fieldwork or research travel?
Some scholarships include research or study travel grants. Check the specific Norwegian Government Quota Scheme benefit details on the official website at https://www.norad.no/en/front/funding/norwayfellowshipprogramme.
What subjects are eligible for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Eligible subjects for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme include: All subjects. Some scholarships have priority subject areas - check if your field is a stated priority.
How long does the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme selection process take?
Selection timelines vary. Typically after the deadline, applications are reviewed for 2-4 months, shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and final decisions are communicated 4-6 months after the deadline. Some scholarships have faster or slower timelines.
Can I combine the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme with other scholarships?
Most scholarship programs prohibit or restrict combining with other scholarship funding to prevent double-dipping. The Norwegian Government Quota Scheme may have specific rules about this. Some partial scholarships can be combined. Always disclose any other scholarship funding in your application.
Are there any restrictions on changing programs during the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
Scholarship holders typically need approval from the scholarship body before changing their study program or university. Changing to a different field or level of study may not be permitted and could result in scholarship withdrawal.
Where can I find official application information for the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme?
All official and current information about the Norwegian Government Quota Scheme application, eligibility, and benefits is at: https://www.norad.no/en/front/funding/norwayfellowshipprogramme. Always use the official source for application information to avoid scholarship scams.