Affordability

Studying in the UK tends to be more affordable for students rather than studying in certain other countries.

Degree length

Degrees offered by UK universities in general tend to be a year shorter than elsewhere, with a typical Bachelor degree lasting 3 years and a Masters degree 9-12 months. The establishment of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) by 2010 may result in standard programme duration within the European Union (EU), but countries such as the United States will retain a standard 4 year Bachelor degree and 1-2 year Masters degree structure.

Tuition fees

In many cases, tuition fees charged by UK universities are much less than those charged elsewhere, notably by US institutions. The level of fee is normally defined as to whether the student is classified as a 'Home' (UK/EU) or 'Overseas' (non-EU) student by following UKCOSA guidelines.

In general terms, Norwegians are classified as 'Overseas' students. However, if either parent is an EU national and the family has been normally resident in Norway for at least 3 years, then 'Home' fee status will apply.

Funding

There has been a recent dramatic increase in the amount of funding available to those studying in the UK. For example, UK/EU students studying a Bachelor degree can now receive a Student Loan for Fees which means they do not have to pay the tuition fee whilst they are studying. Bursaries and scholarships have increased both in number and value as UK universities make more money available to both Bachelor and Masters students.

Norwegian students can receive financial support for studying a full time Bachelor or Masters degree in the UK through Lånekassen.

Part time work

Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours during vacations and many universities have established 'Job Shop' offices to coordinate the publicity of job vacancies for students.