Students will need to start planning their studies in Oslo well before arrival. There are a lot of details to work out, like finding accommodation and knowing where to find the best student discounts in the city. Here is everything you need to know in order to make the most of your student life in Oslo.
Student accommodation in Oslo
The Student Welfare Organisation of Oslo and Akershus (SiO) is a great place to start searching for accommodation. The organisation helps arrange housing in some of the largest student villages located throughout Oslo. You simply have to sign up online and fill out your profile.
Housing options include collectives with shared facilities, single rooms, and studio apartments. There are accommodation options available for single students, couples, and even families. Check the housing overview section of the SiO website to view more than 8,000 types of housing units in the various student villages.
Student accommodation in Oslo is very competitive; you will probably be asked to provide several alternative choices and being placed on a waiting list is commonplace. If you find this process stressful, why not take a look at other accommodation options in Oslo?
Good to know:
Furnished accommodation options are available at a higher price. There is also an IKEA bus from some villages to make furniture purchases easier.
Living costs in Oslo
It is common knowledge that living costs in Oslo are well above average, even if you arrive from another European capital city. When you plan your exchange, keep in mind that you will have to account for costs, including accommodation, food, and leisure activities. Take advantage of travel and leisure activities arranged by the university as they are often subsidised or free.
Students can also save a good amount of money by purchasing items second-hand or getting them for free (‘gis bort') on the Norwegian website finn.no. There are great deals on everything from small household appliances to mattresses and laptops. Other second-hand mobile apps to check out are Tise and LetGo.
Leisure in Oslo
Oslo has plenty of attractions to visit at any time throughout the year, as well as seasonal festivals and events. Students get the best of both worlds since they can attend all of these events while also having access to student-only attractions such as student cabins, city orientation tours, and university-organised vacations. Check your host institution's website for more information about social activities.
Student discounts in Oslo
Student discounts are available even in a country as expensive as Norway. The International Student Identity Card or ISIC gives access to benefits in Norway and worldwide. Some popular discounts with this card include lower prices for museum access, dentistry services, and car rentals. The ISIC card costs NOK 100 per year.
Norwegian companies also offer student discounts. For example, students under the age of 30 can get 40% off on a 30-day ticket for Oslo's public transportation system run by Ruter. Airlines such as SAS and Norwegian offer discounted flight tickets to anyone under 26 years of age.
Students will also find deals around the city at popular restaurants and bars, as well as selected stores. Keep an eye out for student discounts at convenience stores and your favourite hang-out spots.
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