British and international schools in Norway: Oslo, Stavanger and Bergen
International and British-curriculum schools in Norway: options in Oslo and the energy cities of Stavanger and Bergen, funding, fees and practical advice.
Norway’s international schools grew up around the energy industry, particularly in Stavanger and Bergen, as well as the diplomatic and corporate community in Oslo.
Where the schools are
- Oslo: the capital has several international schools, including IB and British-curriculum options, spread around the city and in Bærum to the west.
- Stavanger: the oil and gas capital, with a long-established British school. The COBISEC-era directory listed the British International School of Stavanger.
- Bergen and Trondheim: smaller international communities, with IB and international options.
Funding and fees
Many international schools in Norway are approved under the private schools legislation and receive state funding, which comes with rules on fees and admission. That makes fees lower than you might expect in such an expensive country, but places can be limited.
British or IB?
The IB is the most widespread international programme in Norway, from primary through to the Diploma. British-curriculum schools typically offer the English National Curriculum through IGCSE, sometimes followed by the IB Diploma rather than A-Levels. Our curriculum comparison explains the differences.
Practical points
- The school year runs from mid-August to late June.
- Norwegian public schools are free and many offer reception support for newcomers, a good option for younger children and long stays.
- Daylight and climate are part of daily life: outdoor learning is valued, whatever the weather.
See also: Sweden, Denmark and moving abroad with children.
Directory: British schools in Norway
| School | City | Ages | Curricula |
|---|---|---|---|
| British International School of Stavanger | Stavanger | 18 months–16 | IB Primary Years Programme, IB Middle Years Programme |
Frequently asked questions
Are international schools in Norway expensive?
Many international schools in Norway are approved private schools that receive state funding, which limits the fees they can charge. Fees are therefore often moderate compared with other wealthy countries, although they vary.
Is school compulsory in Norway?
Yes. Compulsory schooling in Norway lasts ten years, from age 6 to 16, followed by a right to upper-secondary education.