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Education in Norway
Children in Norway have a right to school, and adults can usually access language or integration courses. Contact the municipality early once you have an address.
Schools and language support in Norway
Norwegian classes: Refugees and family reunification get free Norwegian via the kommune Introduksjonsprogrammet. Register with the kommune — Program is up to 3 years, full-time, with living allowance. Work migrants — Voksenopplæring often free/low cost. Level A2/B1 needed for permanent residence. Your rights: Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act (Likestillings- og diskrimineringsloven). Discrimination — Likestillings- og diskrimineringsombudet — free, ldo.no. Violence — Krisesenter — 116 006. Politiet 112 in danger. Legal aid — Jussbuss (Oslo), JURK (women) — free student-run legal help.
Enrolling children
Bring passports or ID, birth certificates, previous school documents, vaccination records if available, and proof of address. If documents are missing, still contact the school or municipality — children should not wait at home.
Adult language and integration courses
Learning Norwegian makes appointments, work and school contact much easier. Ask integration offices, adult education centres, municipalities and NGOs about free or subsidised courses.
Education-related offices
Introduksjonsprogrammet (kommune): Integration + Norwegian for refugees.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child start school before all documents are ready in Norway?
Yes, schools and municipalities should help children enter education even while paperwork is being completed.
Which office should I contact first in Norway?
Start with Introduksjonsprogrammet (kommune). For broader newcomer help, also check UDI — Directorate of Immigration, Politiet — Utlendingsseksjonen, Skatteetaten.
What language will offices use in Norway?
The main administrative language is Norwegian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do my children need documents to enrol in school?
Schools must enrol every child. If documents are missing, the municipality helps to sort it out — do not delay.
Can I study for free?
Public universities are free or low-cost for EU citizens and often for other residents after a qualifying period.