Study in Germany vs Norway: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Germany and Norway— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | Germany | Norway |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 11,904 EUR | 151,690 NOK |
| Living cost (per month) | 992 EUR | 12,641 NOK |
| Visa fee | 75 EUR | 6,300 NOK |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~12 weeks |
| Main intakes | Apr, Oct | Aug, Jan |
| Required documents | 5 | 5 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: Germany vs Norway
- Germany needs less money up front — about €11,904/year versus €13,190 for Norway (≈ €1,286 less).
- Germany is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~12 for Norway).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Germany
- University admission or conditional admission letter
- Proof of financial resources (blocked account)
- Health insurance valid in Germany
- Proof of language proficiency
- APS certificate (nationality-dependent)
- Tuition / proof-of-funds transfer
- Proof of accommodation (often requested)
Unique to Norway
- Admission to an approved institution
- Funds requirement
- Housing
- Health insurance / membership
- English language proof
- Tuition / funds transfer
Get matched with a vetted study-abroad consultant for your destination. Free, no obligation.
Get matched →Sponsored matching service. We may earn a referral fee. Informational only — we don't process applications.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Germany or Norway?
By proof of funds, Germany is cheaper — €11,904/year versus €13,190 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Germany or Norway?
Germany typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~12). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Germany or Norway?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Germany needs less money up front — about €11,904/year versus €13,190 for Norway (≈ €1,286 less). Germany is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~12 for Norway). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.