Master’s Application to Norway

IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO HIRE A CONSULTANT THEN THIS ARTICLE IS FOR YOU!

Here I am typing away almost 8 months of crazy life!!! This article documents almost all necessary steps, process, and tasks in applying to one or more universities abroad. I would be specifically giving you information to apply to Norwegian universities in this article. Hope you’re ready for the ride, because it’s a lot of information to understand & store. I also hope this will help you turn your dream to reality.

I would first ask you to have a clear mind & positive vibes before you plan for your study. There is no litmus test to know a person’s confidence!!! So what you want is what you must crave for. If your working in a firm now, let me be candid, it’s even tougher to go through this process alone. That said you have an advantage of work experience in your application!

I would also ask you to do all these below tasks by yourself because when you finish with this it will leave you perplexed with the work you were able to do without any consultants help. Personally, I feel consultants are leeches!!! Only difference is consultants suck on your wallet instead on your skin!!!

PASSPORT is the single most important document which you will need from start to finish, so have one before you start with the process.

Skeleton view of application process:

1)     Test’s to be taken

2)     Application supporting documents to be prepared; SOP, LOR etc.

3)     University/country/field of study selection

4)     Preparation of all application documents

5)     A long wait

6)     Receive & reply to congratulation mail’s, messages, scraps & wall post’s!!! J

7)     Application for Visa/ Residence Permit

8)     Flying away!

STEP 1: Score good (as trivial as it might sound but its true, marks does matter!)

Start preparing for any of the test which you need to take. TOEFL/ IELTS for English proficiency, for other European countries GRE might also me required. GRE- if one is good at Quant than in English then you have more chances to get a good score, Vise-versa is also true. GRE takes at-least 5 months of decent preparation time. Take it as an opportunity to excel in anyone of the topic be it English or quant, it will boost you confidence & change the way you look at exams.

TOEFL is a better exam when compared to IELTS because TOEFL has very good exam structure (You will hear many different views, everything in this article is my opinion). TOEFL is a very lengthy test so practice at-least 2 full length mock tests. To get book’s for TOEFL approach any TOEFL certified center. When you book the date of exam if you book it through them they will provide you with an authentic copy of ETS TOEFL book with a CD. Practice with the CD more than reading the book. A week’s time is enough to work the CD in & out. I don’t know the process for IELTS but I am sure IELTS is cheaper option & IELTS is also accepted from majority of countries/Universities. So choosing among these two test is your personal choice.

Take your test by November or December (2^nd week) at the latest. October would be an awesome month to take your test but in October there will be large number of students writing the test so booking dates for exams has to be done even more early. Registration process is simple, no worries.

STEP 2: The Backbone of your application.

During your preparation for your test’s I advise you to start off with your application documents specially the SOP (Statement of Purpose) & LOR (Letter of Recommendation). Be honest to your conscience & draft your own SOP & LOR’s if you need assistance with how to go about framing sentences, this link will surely help out. (http://www.i20fever.com/samples/). A very formal updated curriculum vitae is always important document to prepare.

Majority of universities treat SOP as the backbone of your application, so make sure you give it fair time to draft, edit & rewrite. Admission panels will have great expertise to differentiate which ones are copied & which ones are written by the applicant. Universities has sophisticated Anti-Plagiarism software’s & if your supporting documents like SOP & LOR are copied from the internet you would do more harm than good to your application. I reiterate, write your own SOP’s. Be confident & assertive but a little submissive at some places. SOP should give the list of subjects which you studied in bachelor’s, your future goal, your craving to study, your extra-curricula’s (To show that your versatile), work experience if any, what you will get from studying the course etc. Sign on the SOP before you enclose it with the application with the date & place.

LOR depends on the individual because if your recommenders will sign it for you then you can draft it by yourself. But some universities ask recommendation directly from the recommenders to them via online process, so be alert since tutors have to draft themselves. Ask your recommender to send it to the university via his/her mail ID. If you are drafting the letter then put yourself in recommender’s shoe & highlight only the good points about you & also write in which way you helped department/college in your bachelor’s. Ask your recommender to read it & let him correct if he wants to. If you have any work experience then you need to have 2 LOR’s from your bachelor tutors & 1 from your current employer/immediate boss. If you are passing out from college currently then all 3 LOR’s can be from the current tutor’s.

One heads-up in drafting LOR, Always try to get the biggest fish!!! That is either Head of department as one of the tutor recommenders or the top-most boss in your office; if you show work experience. Universities abroad take this designation lingo as one of the important parameter for evaluation. Higher the designation of the recommender better for the application. Universities see them as more authentic people than usual recommender’s.

LOR’s must be printed or xeroxed on the letter head & all signs should be made in originals. LOR should be signed by the recommender. Also remember that the LOR has to be inside a sealed envelope. The envelope should be crossed signed & sealed near the opening of the envelope cover using university/college seal.

Please use the above link to draft your SOP, LOR & CV. I suggest you to mix & match among the different formats. Make your application as unique as possible. If this if done right your ready with 3 most cardinal documents for the application even before giving your test!

STEP 3: The unknown treasure which might pleasure!!!

We all have future plans but always try to be flexible while plotting them. I say this only because we never know when we might feel that we have better options to explore. A simple way of exploring options is to start with a day to day research of universities in your interested country & field of study. Half of your time will pass with google searches! But end of the day this gives you an idea of different universities other than the one you planned for initially. I personally started of with an urge to go to USA but then this step helped me to know what really I wanted for myself. I have friends who applied to 6 countries & who got offers from all. I agree that more work is involved but you will be in a position to choose the best from the lot. All I mean is to keep a back-up plan & apply to sure-admit universities for your profile.

If you already zeroed inn on the course then mail the program coordinator & introduce yourself to him/her. This is very important cause when students show interest In the program coordinator has to reply to you & he also has to predict how many will apply for the coming intake. So once your being noticed by the coordinator, make sure you keep him informed all through your application process. This will make him recognize your application when he gets to evaluate it. It might sound puny but this is how the system works.

STEP 4: This is where the juggling starts!

You will have to travel a lot for some documents but be alert & confident. The list of documents goes as given below. Out of these leave out LOR, SOP & CV rest documents must have a notary seal & signatures. If the transcripts are sealed by the university then you can enclose the same with the application. Just bear in mind & re-check before you pack the application package that ALL DOCUMENTS MUST HAVE SOME SORT OF AUTHETHIC SIGN & SEAL.

Application Package Documents Type of Attestation

Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                            In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

Statement of Purpose/Motivation                          ONLY applicants Sign & Date

Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)                In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

Updated Curriculum Vitae                                       ONLY applicants Sign & Date

Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                      Notary Sign & seal

Certified Copy of GRE Score Sheet                          Notary Sign & seal

Finally, A long wait awaits you!!! Yes you will have constant dreams & nightmares both together! But in the end it will be worth it. Once you get your Offer always remember which ever country you going to apply for visa make sure you have all your required documents for Visa. In case you need to take care of some financial aspect its always good to plan for your bank account statement & have a word with the bank manager for educational loan. So that once your offer letter comes you can soon get bank statement & plan for your Visa interview dates. Accommodation in some countries are very difficult to book so be aware of accommodation process before you get your offer.

MASTER’S APPLICANTS TO NORWAY

Ok, this is where I start concentrating more on Norwegian universities. I had applied to 5 universities in total so; I can give detailed Information on each of those universities. The application process would be similar to many universities other than the 5 mentioned by me. Please check the university website for any changes or for any new course to which you can apply. Norway offers free higher education & since the international intake is not more than 10-12 students/course, getting a seat in Norwegian University is comparatively more challenging than US, Canada or any other country. So take the process of preparing documents very seriously. The best website to find your field of study is http://www.studyinnorway.no/ . In this site you will find very clear cut authentic information. The visa application to Norway is given below in detail & it’s common to all student applicants. Majority of Norwegian universities have intakes only during autumn term specially technology master’s programs. For programs in spring please go through the above site.

1) NTNU- Norwegian University of Science & Technology (http://www.ntnu.edu/)

World Ranking # 49, Europe Ranking # 4 (JAN 2010)

(http://www.webometrics.info/top100_europe.asp?country=no&submit=go)

NTNU is a very prestigious university in Norway/Europe. Hence, opportunities for both research & work post your studies are immense. Please check for the course you’re interested in & go through the requirements to apply to that particular course. There are about 30 Master’s program taught in English as per this year (2010). Almost 1200 students out of 20000 are International students. It’s the biggest student city in Norway so compared to all other university areas in Norway this would be a cheaper bargain on living expense! It also has the world’s largest student festival. The fact that one out of every six people is a student makes Trondheim a young and vibrant city. On average, 2250 professional, master´s-level or doctoral degrees are awarded each year.

To know more visit the below facebook/ orkut/ twitter pages & youtube videos. Self help is the best help! http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=2240980876 , http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Trondheim/NTNU/155985022040?ref=ts&ajaxpipe=1&__a=14 http://www.youtube.com/user/ntnuinfo

http://twitter.com/NTNU ,

http://www.orkut.co.in/Main#Community?cmm=231

Application process followed at NTNU for master’s program:

Any international master’s applicant has to go through two rounds of selection. 1st round or as the university calls Preliminary Round takes place from November 1^st to November 30^th for next autumn intake. Make sure you don’t miss this preliminary round because only students who are screened & cleared in this round are sent the final application form through e-mail.  Preliminary application form can be accessed through the master’s portal in the website. Preliminary application is a very simple form to fill, its self explanatory and you would find it easy to fill. TOEFL marks if available can be mentioned, if you’re taking up the test later in November or December, then you will be asked to give the date of the test. (TOEFL/IELTS exams results need not be known during preliminary application) But beware you will have to be very careful with the details given in the preliminary form. Please note that they do not require any documentation at this point of time. If you are qualified further, you will receive more instructions concerning necessary documentation for final application form.

Upon being selected through preliminary round, you can expect your final application form via e-mail by 3^rd week of December. In it you will find a unique applicant number this is your ID for now. All your quires to the university should have this ID mentioned. During the final application you will have to send the TOEFL score Sheet via ETS to NTNU with their ETS code & address. Usually deadline to send ETS TOEFL Score sheets are March 1^st. It’s advisable to send the ETS TOEFL online order by January end. The ETS code for NTNU will be mentioned in your final application form.

Note: Preliminary round is mandatory for both Quota & Self funding applicants. There are different forms for both Quota & self Funding applicants, so make sure you fill the right preliminary form.

There is however another way you can apply, that’s by opting for a Erasmus Mundus Course. Only Master’s program which is funded by Erasmus mundus can be applied to.

So totally there are 3 ways of applying, I have explained them in simple way

1) Quota Applicant    2) Erasmus Mundus Applicant      3) Self Funding Applicants

1)     Quota applicants are applicants from those universities with which NTNU has collaboration worldwide. It is a very competitive & less number of students get through this process. For Example India’s IIT or IISC has collaboration with NTNU so students who have passed through such institutes can apply as quota applicant. In this the student will be sanctioned the amount of 90000 NOK per year as living expenses. So Quota applicants don’t have to spend any of their money!

Check with your university if it has collaboration with NTNU. http://www.ntnu.no/studies/financingandscholarships/is_quota_scheme/admission

2)     Erasmus Mundus Applicant: Applicants to this have to have very good academic score in all of their educational years. It is the most famous funding given in Europe for higher education. Not all university offer Erasmus Mundus Course. But NTNU does offer some courses under this. Project Management is one of the popular ones. Check the Erasmus mundus website to get more information on applying.

http://ec.europa.eu/education/external-relation-programmes/doc72_en.htm

3)     Self Funding Applicants: These applicants have to show NOK 90000 as a proof that they can sustain & live in Norway for a year with their personal savings (NOK 180000 for two years as per immigrations office-UDI). This is a mandatory regulation put up by UDI- Norway Immigration Department. Comparatively, there are more self funding students than the other two types of applicants. So, chances of making to the program also increase. Make sure you start planning for that NOK 90000 once you finish applying, just to be tension free at end of May when you get your offers. NOK 90000 is calculated as per Norwegian standard of living which is rated as the No. 1 in the world by UN, the applicant may not necessarily spend 90000 NOK per year; it might be lesser depending on his/ her living standards. But as per Immigration you have to show NOK 90000 as proof.

Fill the final application form & send it through a courier network which provides you with tracking facility DHL University express is the most reliable & prompt among all. FED-ex also would be a good choice. The deadline usually is February 1^st.  Please do check for any changes of deadlines in the website.

The final application package must contain the following documents: FOR SELF FUNDING STUDENTS ONLY

Application Document Type of Attestation

1) Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

2) Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

3) Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

4) Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                            In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

5) Statement of Purpose/Motivation                         ONLY applicants Sign & Date

6) Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)               In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

7) Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

8 Updated Curriculum Vitae                                        ONLY applicants Sign & Date

9) Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

10) Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                    Notary Sign & seal

Note: Check if you have any other document relevant to your application. For example if you are a Quota or Erasumus mundus applicant you may have additional documents to enclose into the package. Also make sure you enclose proof of name change in your past if any & marriage certificate if you’re married. All this are important both for the university & to the Immigrations department of Norway (UDI)

The 7^th document ie: Documentation of Financing is the most important for Self Funding applicants. Below is the format which I used. Bank managers usually do not give this, if you know the manager personally he will oblige. If possible take a print out of this content in the bank letter-head, nothing better than that. The account need not be in your name, your parents or relatives also can help you with this certificate. All university wants is a preliminary proof that you have 90000 NOK/more in your respective countries currency. The main financial transaction would take place post your admission, which is later discussed in the VISA application details.

Documentation of Financing Letter Format

“”””                                                                                                                                               date:

Certificate

This is to certify that Mr. xxxxx (your name/parent name/guardian) , home address ——————, father/mother/guardian of Mr. (applicants name) maintaining a/c with us since — (year) and having the deposit to tune of Rs. 1106000/- (in words) equivalent to 137203 (please calculate the exact amount) Norwegian Krones @ (exchange rate) in your home currency.(for above I took dummy Rs. 8.061).

This certificate is issued at the specific request of Mr. XXXXX (your/ father/mother/guardian name).

Issued to:
Mr. XXXX

Home address. Sign & seal from the manager. “”””

Final application deadlines:

Usually the application deadline for top universities in Norway (NTNU, Oslo, Stavanger etc) is February 1^st. You should have all the above documents ready by January 2^nd week. Universities in Norway considered your postmark date & not the date it reaches them. So, say worst case scenario, if you send the package by 27^th Jan from your country & it reaches universities on 3^rd of FEB the application deadline is met & your application will be treated as usual & not as late applicant. But to be sure, never try this! Policies can be changed anyday!!! Send the package as early as possible, once you’re done. Once you send your package always remember to inform the contact person about the docket number of courier & also make sure once it reaches him/her you have a letter of confirmation that they have received your application. Waiting 4 months for result without confirmation of documents received would be nothing but fatuous! I got my result of application on 11/05/2010; Accepted.

2) UIS- University of Stavanger ( http://www.uis.no/frontpage)

World Ranking # 1536, (JAN 2010)

(http://www.webometrics.info/top100_europe.asp?country=no&submit=go)

UIS-University of Stavanger is one of the ideal universities if you are looking a future in Offshore Engineering. It is revered for its Master’s in Offshore Technology & industry rates it as the best possible course for offshore technology in the world! Beating universities like Robert Gordon UK, TU Delft Netherlands & Heriot Watt-UK for offshore Engineering. 2006 was the year when it was recognized by Norwegian government and funded from it & within 5 years university has managed to get into 1500 ranking in the world! One more advantage, Stavanger is the power capital of Europe & opportunities for job is immense here post your master’s be it in any field.

To know more please visit the below facebook/ orkut/ twitter page’s. Self help is the best help!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=2263463537&ref=search

http://www.orkut.co.in/Main#Community?rl=cpp&cmm=6070281

http://twitter.com/UniStavanger

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=br8zguR9NNQ&feature=related

Application process followed at University of Stavanger for master’s program:

-The toughest applicant screening Process in Norway

Any international master’s applicant has to go through two rounds of selection. 1st round or as the university calls Preliminary Round takes place from November 1^st to November 30^th. Make sure you don’t miss this preliminary round because only students who are screened & cleared in this round are sent the final application form through E-mail.  Preliminary application form can be accessed through the master’s portal in the website. Preliminary application is a very lengthy one so make sure your ready to fill & long form & have time at your disposal to do so. TOEFL marks if available can be mentioned, if you’re taking up the test in November or later in December then, you will be asked to give the date of the test. (TOEFL/IELTS exams results need not be known during preliminary application) But beware you will have to be very careful with the details given in the preliminary form. Please note that they do not require any documentation at this point of time. If you are qualified further, you will receive more instructions concerning necessary documentation for final application form.

Upon being selected through preliminary round, you can expect your final application form via e-mail by 3^rd week of December. In it you will find a unique applicant number this is your ID for now. All your quires from here on to the university should have this ID mentioned. During the final application you will have to send the TOEFL score Sheet via ETS to UIS with their ETS code & address. Usually deadline to send ETS TOEFL Score sheets are March 1^st. It’s advisable to send the ETS TOEFL online order by January end. The ETS code for UIS will be mentioned in your final application form.

Note: Preliminary round is mandatory for both Quota & Self funding applicants. So make sure you fill the preliminary form religiously.

So totally there are 2 ways of applying to UI Stavanger, I have explained them in simple way

1) Quota Applicant    2) Self Funding Applicants

1)     Quota applicants are applicants from those universities with which university of Stavanger has collaboration worldwide. It is a very competitive & less number of students get through this process. In this the student will be sanctioned the amount of 90000 NOK per year as living expenses. So Quota applicants don’t have to spend any of their money!

Check with your university if it has collaboration with UI Stavanger. http://www.uis.no/study_programmes/how_to_apply/degree_programmes/article1886-2736.html

2)     Self Funding Applicants: These applicants have to show NOK 90000 as a proof that they can sustain & live in Norway for a year with their personal savings (NOK 180000 for two years as per immigrations office-UDI). This is a mandatory regulation put up by UDI- Norway Immigration Department. Comparatively, there are more self funding students than the other two types of applicants. So, chances of making to the program also increase. Make sure you start planning for that NOK 90000 once you finish applying, just to be tension free at end of May when you get your offers. NOK 90000 is calculated as per Norwegian standard of living which is rated as the No. 1 in the world by UN, the applicant may not necessarily spend 90000 NOK per year; it might be lesser depending on his/ her living standards. But as per Immigration you have to show NOK 90000 as proof.

http://www.uis.no/study_programmes/degree_programmes_in_english/global_info_regarding_degree_programmes/article10719-4403.html

Fill the final application form & send it through a courier network which provides you with tracking facility DHL University express is the most reliable & prompt among all. FED-ex also would be a good choice. The deadline usually is February 1^st.  Please do check for any changes of deadlines in the website.

The final application package must contain the following documents: FOR SELF FUNDING STUDENTS ONLY

Application Document Type of Attestation

1) Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

2) Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

3) Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

4) Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                                 In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

5) Statement of Purpose/Motivation                         ONLY applicants Sign & Date

6) Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)               In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

7) Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

8 Updated Curriculum Vitae                                        ONLY applicants Sign & Date

9) Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

10) Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                    Notary Sign & seal

Note: Check if you have any other document relevant to your application. For example if you are a Quota applicant you may have additional documents to enclose into the package. Also make sure you enclose proof of name change in your past if any & marriage certificate if you’re married. All this are important both for the university & to the Immigrations department of Norway (UDI)

The 7^th document ie: Documentation of Financing is the most important for Self Funding applicants. Below is the format which I used. Bank managers usually do not give this, if you know the manager personally he will oblige. If possible take a print out of this content in the bank letter-head, nothing better than that. The account need not be in your name, your parents or relatives also can help you with this certificate. All university wants is a preliminary proof that you have 90000 NOK/more in your respective countries currency. The main financial transaction would take place post your admission, which is later discussed in the VISA application details.

Documentation of Financing Letter Format

“”””                                                                                                                                               date:
Certificate
This is to certify that Mr. xxxxx (your name/parent name/guardian) , home address ——————, father/mother/guardian of Mr (applicants name) maintaining a/c with us since — (year) and having the deposit to tune of Rs. 1106000/- (in words) equivalent to 137203 (please calculate the exact amount) Norwegian Krones @ (exchange rate) in your home currency.(for above I took dummy Rs. 8.061) ).
This certificate is issued at the specific request of Mr. XXXXX (your/ father/mother/guardian name).
Issued to:
Mr. XXXX
Home address. Sign & seal from the manager. “”””

Final application deadlines:

Usually the application deadline for top universities in Norway (NTNU, Oslo, Stavanger etc) is February 1^st. You should have all the above documents ready by January 2^nd week. Universities in Norway considered your postmark date & not the date it reaches them. So, say worst case scenario, if you send the package by 27^th Jan from your country & it reaches universities on 3^rd of FEB the application deadline is met & your application will be treated as usual & not as late applicant. But to be sure, never try this! Policies can be changed anyday!!! Send the package as early as possible, once you’re done. Once you send your package always remember to inform the contact person about the docket number of courier & also make sure once it reaches him/her you have a letter of confirmation that they have received your application. Waiting 4 months for result without confirmation of documents received would be nothing but fatuous!

Results of application to University of Stavanger are usually during first/second week of May.  I got mine on 12/05/2010; Accepted.

3)     Molde University College (http://www.himolde.no/english)

World Ranking # 2381, (JAN 2010)

(http://www.webometrics.info/top100_europe.asp?country=no&submit=go)

Molde University College is one among 7 specialized universities in Norway. Molde University Specializes in the field of Logistics. There are distinct two side of this program here, one very computational and quantitative and other qualitative. The choice of these depends what educational background you have and what you want to pursue. If you want to study further post your master’s pursing PhD chances are high here. It is a very small town compared to other university town. Since Molde University is a specialized university, the courses are highly regarded among the industry leaders.

To know more please visit the below facebook/ twitter pages. Self help is the best help!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=12715142257

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1289701401#!/himolde?ref=search

http://twitter.com/HiMolde

Application process followed at Molde University for master’s program:

The application process is simpler than that of NTNU & UIStavanger. There is only one application form to fill & the supporting documents to be sent with the application form in a package. The application form is available in the university website. Make sure the application form is for the current year of admissions. It is a simple form to fill & self explanatory. Since there is no TOEFL score report address to Molde you can send them a Notarized copy of your TOEFL score sheet. (If applicable)

So totally there are 2 ways of applying to Molde University, I have explained them in simple way

1) Quota Applicant    2) Self Funding Applicants

1)     Quota applicants are applicants from those universities with which Molde University has collaboration. It is a very competitive & less number of students get through this process. For Example India’s IIT or IISC has collaboration with Molde University so students who have passed through such institutes can apply as quota applicant. In this the student will be sanctioned the amount of 90000 NOK per year as living expenses. So Quota applicants don’t have to spend any of their money!

Check with your university if it has collaboration with Molde University.

www.himolde.no/db/38/3167.pdf

2)     Self Funding Applicants: These applicants have to show NOK 90000 as a proof that they can sustain & live in Norway for a year with their personal savings (NOK 180000 for two years as per immigrations office-UDI). This is a mandatory regulation put up by UDI- Norway Immigration Department. Comparatively, there are more self funding students than the other two type of applicants. So, chances of making to the program also increase. Make sure you start planning for that NOK 90000 once you finish applying, just to be tension free at end of May when you get your offers. NOK 90000 is calculated as per Norwegian standard of living which is rated as the No. 1 in the world by UN, the applicant may not necessarily spend 90000 NOK per year; it might be lesser depending on his/ her living standards. But as per Immigration you have to show NOK 90000 as proof.

Fill the application form & send it through a courier network which provides you with tracking facility DHL University express is the most reliable & prompt among all. FED-ex also would be a good choice. The deadline usually is March 1st.  Please do check for any changes of deadlines in the website.

The final application package must contain the following documents: FOR SELF FUNDING STUDENTS ONLY

Application Document Type of Attestation

1) Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

2) Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

3) Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

4) Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                                 In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

5) Statement of Purpose/Motivation                         ONLY applicants Sign & Date

6) Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)               In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

7) Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

8 Updated Curriculum Vitae                                        ONLY applicants Sign & Date

9) Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

10) Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                    Notary Sign & seal

11) Certified copy of GRE Score Sheet ( * ) Notary Sign & seal

( * ) to give the selection committee better idea of your analytical & technical writing skills. DO NOT SEND THIS TO NTNU or UIS since top universities do not like documents which were not asked for in the first place. Since Molde is a lesser ranked university you can take this liberty to impress them with your GRE score sheet! (If you have appeared for GRE)

Note: Check if you have any other document relevant to your application. For example if you are a quota applicant you may have additional documents to enclose into the package. Also make sure you enclose proof of name change in your past if any & marriage certificate if you’re married. All this are important both for the university & to the Immigrations department of Norway (UDI)

The 7^th document ie: Documentation of Financing is the most important for Self Funding applicants. Below is the format which I used. Managers usually do not give this, if you know the manager personally he will oblige. If possible take a print out of this content in the bank letter-head, nothing better than that. The account need not be in your name, your parents or relatives also can help you with this certificate. All university wants is a preliminary proof that you have 90000 NOK/more in your respective countries currency. The main financial transaction would take place post your admission, which is later discussed in the VISA application details.

Documentation of Financing Letter Format

“”””                                                                                                                                               date:

Certificate

This is to certify that Mr. xxxxx (your name/parent name/guardian) , home address ——————, father/mother/guardian of Mr (applicants name) maintaining a/c with us since — (year) and having the deposit to tune of Rs. 1106000/00 (in words) equivalent to 137203 (please calculate the exact amount) Norwegian Krones @ (exchange rate) in your home currency.(for above I took dummy Rs. 8.061) ).

This certificate is issued at the specific request of Mr. XXXXX (your/ father/mother/guardian name).

Issued to:
Mr. XXXX

Home address. Sign & seal from the manager. “”””

Final application deadlines:

Usually the application deadline for Molde University is 1^st March. You should have all the above documents ready by February 2^nd week. Universities in Norway considered your postmark date & not the date it reaches them. So, say worst case scenario, if you send the package by 27^th February from your country & it reaches universities on 3^rd of March the application deadline is met & your application will be treated as usual & not as late applicant. But to be sure, never try this! Policies can be changed anyday!!! Send the package as early as possible, once you’re done. Once you send your package always remember to inform the contact person about the docket number of courier & also make sure once it reaches him/her you have a letter of confirmation that they have received your application. Waiting 3 months for result without confirmation of documents received would be nothing but fatuous!

Results of application to Molde University are usually during first/second week of May.  I got mine on 10/05/2010; Accepted.

4. Aalesund University College (http://www.hials.no/eng)

World Ranking # 4576, (JAN 2010)

(http://www.webometrics.info/top100_europe.asp?country=no&submit=go)

It might be lesser know & lesser ranked university but that certainly does not take away its success in the field of ship design & product & system design. Aalesund University College is one among the 7 specialized universities in Norway. Since the location of university is near to the harbor there are lots of industrial exposures to this master’s program. A certain senior also told me that job opportunities in marine companies are plenty around Aalesund.

To know more please visit the below facebook/ twitter pages. Self help is the best help!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1289701401#!/pages/Aalesund-Norway/Hogskolen-i-AlesundAalesund-University-College/94160135786?ref=search

http://twitter.com/hials

A word of caution if your applying to this university, they operate closely with their partners (consultants). When I applied I did not know that we need to go through their partner in my home country. If your country has a partner of Aalesund University then make sure you send your application via the partner. The university is very biased to applicants applying directly to their university. They have an obligation to those applicants from their partners to be given more importance. (This was a turn off to me & one of my friend, my friend was proficient in five designing software’s, but he too was rejected as me. We both had applied directly later we came to know that 7 people from my country were selected who had applied through Aalesund Partner in here. Living expenses in Aalesund is higher than other towns, mentioned by in this article.

You can find their partners in the link below.

http://www.hials.no/eng/hials/about_us/partners2

Application process followed at Aalesund University for master’s program:

The application process is simpler than that of NTNU, UI Stavanger or Molde! There is only one application 2 page form to fill & the supporting documents to be sent with the application form in a package. The application form is available in the university website. Make sure the application form is for the current year of admissions. It is a simple form to fill & self explanatory. Since there is no TOEFL score report address to Aalesund University you can send them a Notarized copy of your TOEFL score sheet. (If applicable)

There is only one way of applying to Aalesund University.

1) Self Funding Applicants

Self Funding Applicants: These applicants have to show NOK 90000 as a proof that they can sustain & live in Norway for a year with their personal savings (NOK 180000 for two years as per immigrations office-UDI). This is a mandatory regulation put up by UDI- Norway Immigration Department. Comparatively, there are more self funding students than the other two type of applicants. So, chances of making to the program also increase. Make sure you start planning for that NOK 90000 once you finish applying, just to be tension free at end of May when you get your offers. NOK 90000 is calculated as per Norwegian standard of living which is rated as the No. 1 in the world by UN, the applicant may not necessarily spend 90000 NOK per year; it might be lesser depending on his/ her living standards. But as per Immigration you have to show NOK 90000 as proof.

Fill the application form & send it through a courier network which provides you with tracking facility DHL University express is the most reliable & prompt among all. FED-ex also would be a good choice. The deadline usually is March 1st.  Please do check for any changes of deadlines in the website.

The final application package must contain the following documents: FOR SELF FUNDING STUDENTS ONLY

Application Document Type of Attestation

1) Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

2) Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

3) Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

4) Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                                 In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

5) Statement of Purpose/Motivation                         ONLY applicants Sign & Date

6) Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)               In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

7) Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

8 Updated Curriculum Vitae                                        ONLY applicants Sign & Date

9) Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

10) Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                    Notary Sign & seal

11) Certified copy of GRE Score Sheet ( * ) Notary Sign & seal

( * ) to give the selection committee better idea of your analytical & technical writing skills. DO NOT SEND THIS TO NTNU or UIS since top universities do not like documents which were not asked for in the first place. Since Aalesund University is a lesser ranked university you can take this liberty to impress them with your GRE score sheet! (If you have appeared for GRE)

Note: Check if you have any other document relevant to your application. For example if you are a Quota applicant you may have additional documents to enclose into the package. Also make sure you enclose proof of name change in your past if any & marriage certificate if you’re married. All this are important both for the university & to the Immigrations department of Norway (UDI)

The 7^th document ie: Documentation of Financing is the most important for Self Funding applicants. Below is the format which I used. Managers usually do not give this, if you know the manager personally he will oblige. If possible take a print out of this content in the bank letter-head, nothing better than that. The account need not be in your name, your parents or relatives also can help you with this certificate. All university wants is a preliminary proof that you have 90000 NOK/more in your respective countries currency. The main financial transaction would take place post your admission, which is later discussed in the VISA application details.

Documentation of Financing Letter Format

“”””                                                                                                                                               date:
Certificate
This is to certify that Mr. xxxxx (your name/parent name/guardian) , home address ——————, father/mother/guardian of Mr (applicants name) maintaining a/c with us since — (year) and having the deposit to tune of Rs. 1106000/- (in words) equivalent to 137203 (please calculate the exact amount) Norwegian Krones @ (exchange rate) in your home currency.(for above I took dummy Rs. 8.061) ).

This certificate is issued at the specific request of Mr. XXXXX (your/ father/mother/guardian name).
Issued to:
Mr. XXXX

Home address. Sign & seal from the manager. “”””

Final application deadlines:

Usually the application deadline for Aalesund University is 1^st March. You should have all the above documents ready by February 2^nd week. Universities in Norway considered your postmark date & not the date it reaches them. So, say worst case scenario, if you send the package by 27^th February from your country & it reaches universities on 3^rd of March the application deadline is met & your application will be treated as usual & not as late applicant. But to be sure, never try this! Send the package as early as possible, once you’re done. Once you send your package always remember to inform the contact person about the docket number of courier & also make sure once it reaches him/her you have a letter of confirmation that they have received your application. Waiting 2 months for result without confirmation of documents received would be nothing but fatuous!

(IF THERE IS A PARTNER OF THIS UNIVERSITY IN YOUR COUNTRY YOU HAVE TO GO THROUGH THEM TO HAVE A BETTER CHANCE TO GET AN OFFER) Drawback is those partners ask funds as commission!

Results of application to Aalesund University are usually during first/second week of April (if you’re selected). If you’re rejected they reply to you by first week of May.  I got mine on 07/05/2010; Rejected.

5) Telemark university college (http://www.hit.no/eng/)

World Ranking # 1381, (JAN 2010)

(http://www.webometrics.info/top100_europe.asp?country=no&submit=go)

Telemark has the largest number of foreign exchange students in Norway. It has four faculties in total. Technology is not the biggest out of these four though. I did not have much information about the university since it was my last priority. Please do some self research about the university. Process Technology Course is always in demand since Norway is oil rich country.

To know more please visit the below facebook/ twitter pages. Self help is the best help!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1289701401#!/pages/Hogskolen-i-Telemark/114779855203964?ref=search

Application process followed at Telemark University for master’s program:

The application process is very strict & they demand applicants to hand over perfectly filled documents to them. There is only one application 3 page form to fill & the supporting documents to be sent with the application form in a package. The application form is available in the university website. Make sure the application form is for the current year of admissions. It is a simple form to fill & self explanatory. Since there is no TOEFL score report address to Telemark University you can send them a Notarized copy of your TOEFL score sheet (If applicable). You will get 3 priorities, & as per your preference you should fill the program interested. I had applied to a master’s program which did not coincide with my Bachelor courses hence wasting my whole application. So make sure you apply to a course which you had some exposure in your bachelor. They have guideless to application package please follow as they say.

There are 2 ways of applying to Telemark University.

1) Quota Applicant    2) Self Funding Applicants

1)     Quota applicants are applicants from those universities with which Telemark University has collaboration. It is a very competitive & less number of students get through this process. For Example India’s IIT or IISC has collaboration with Telemark University so students who have passed through such institutes can apply as quota applicant. In this the student will be sanctioned the amount of 90000 NOK per year as living expenses. So Quota applicants don’t have to spend any of their money!

Check with your university if it has collaboration with Telemark University.

2)     Self Funding Applicants: These applicants have to show NOK 90000 as a proof that they can sustain & live in Norway for a year with their personal savings (NOK 180000 for two years as per immigrations office-UDI). This is a mandatory regulation put up by UDI- Norway Immigration Department. Comparatively, there are more self funding students than the other two type of applicants. So, chances of making to the program also increase. Make sure you start planning for that NOK 90000 once you finish applying, just to be tension free at end of May when you get your offers. NOK 90000 is calculated as per Norwegian standard of living which is rated as the No. 1 in the world by UN, the applicant may not necessarily spend 90000 NOK per year; it might be lesser depending on his/ her living standards. But as per Immigration you have to show NOK 90000 as proof.

Fill the application form & send it through a courier network which provides you with tracking facility DHL University express is the most reliable & prompt among all. FED-ex also would be a good choice. The deadline usually is March 1st.  Please do check for any changes of deadlines in the website.

The final application package must contain the following documents: FOR SELF FUNDING STUDENTS ONLY

Application Document Type of Attestation

1) Certified Copy of Passport                                        Notary Sign & Seal

2) Secondary School Leaving Certificate                    In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

3) Intermediate Certificate                                           In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

4) Official Transcripts/

Degree Bachelors in Engineering                                 In an Educational Institute envelope with seal & sign

5) Statement of Purpose/Motivation                         ONLY applicants Sign & Date

6) Letter of Recommendations- (3 in total)               In an envelope with seal & sign of college/company

7) Documentation of Financing                                    Notary Sign & seal

8 Updated Curriculum Vitae                                        ONLY applicants Sign & Date

9) Proof of Employment                                                Notary Sign & Seal

10) Certified Copy of TOEFL Score Sheet                    Notary Sign & seal

Note: Check if you have any other document relevant to your application. For example if you are a Quota applicant you may have additional documents to enclose into the package. Also make sure you enclose proof of name change in your past if any & marriage certificate if you’re married. All this are important both for the university & to the Immigrations department of Norway (UDI)

The 7^th document ie: Documentation of Financing is the most important for Self Funding applicants. Below is the format which I used. Managers usually do not give this, if you know the manager personally he will oblige. If possible take a print out of this content in the bank letter-head, nothing better than that. The account need not be in your name, your parents or relatives also can help you with this certificate. All university wants is a preliminary proof that you have 90000 NOK/more in your respective countries currency. The main financial transaction would take place post your admission, which is later discussed in the VISA application details.

Documentation of Financing Letter Format

“”””                                                                                                                                               date:

Certificate

This is to certify that Mr. xxxxx (your name/parent name/guardian) , home address ——————, father/mother/guardian of Mr (applicants name) maintaining a/c with us since — (year) and having the deposit to tune of Rs. 1106000/- (in words) equivalent to 137203 (please calculate the exact amount) Norwegian Krones @ (exchange rate) in your home currency.(for above I took dummy Rs. 8.061) ).

This certificate is issued at the specific request of Mr. XXXXX (your/ father/mother/guardian name).

Issued to:
Mr. XXXX

Home address. Sign & seal from the manager. “”””

Final application deadlines:

Usually the application deadline for Aalesund University is 1^st March. You should have all the above documents ready by February 2^nd week. Universities in Norway considered your postmark date & not the date it reaches them. So, say worst case scenario, if you send the package by 27^th February from your country & it reaches universities on 3^rd of March the application deadline is met & your application will be treated as usual & not as late applicant. But to be sure, never try this! Policies can be changed anyday!!! Send the package as early as possible, once you’re done. Once you send your package always remember to inform the contact person about the docket number of courier & also make sure once it reaches him/her you have a letter of confirmation that they have received your application. Waiting 2 months for result without confirmation of documents received would be nothing but fatuous!

Results of application to Telemark University are usually during first week of April (if you’re selected). I got mine on 23/03/2010; Rejected.

STUDENT RESIDENCE PERMIT

http://www.udi.no/Norwegian-Directorate-of-Immigration/

Once you have your offer, then starts the cardinal issue of funds transfer (for self funding students). This is going to be easy if you have planned for finances during those result waiting months. First ill make this process transparent to you.

In Norway a person can’t open a bank account until he has a Unique Norwegian ID number. Now as per UDI the immigrations office a student has to show funds of NOK 90000 (which might change year to year) in a Norwegian Bank. So what universities do is they have an account in the name of student council & the funds should be transferred to this account from the student. When you transfer the funds you can transfer them in EURO’s or Krones as you wish. Be very alert to get the best deal of exchange rates & be very careful with account number/account name details. Once you transfer the money your bank in your home country will give you a receipt called the debit slip. The university will reply with the credit receipt of their account. These two receipts of transfers are what you need to enclose with the visa application.

The university has no authorization to deal with this amount transferred; as in, it cannot use it for any purpose nor will it get any interest on this amount during this period. This is a very safe & authentic process. Student has to be sure is he transfers to the right account number, that’s all!!! Once you reach Norway, you are given the visa after verification by the police & will be getting a unique ID number of Norway within 2 months of entry. Once you get this Unique Norwegian ID number you can open an account in any Norwegian bank & ask the university to transfer your amount from university account to your new bank account in Norway. If, attractive deposit Interest rates prevail in your home country!!! You can also send the money back to your home country.

THE BELOW INFORMATION IS STRICTLY COUNTRY SPECIFIC SO PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST NORWEGIAN EMBASSY TO BE CERTAIN ABOUT THE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS REQUIRED.

The Documents needed to be enclosed with the Student Resident Permit Application: (INDIA)

http://www.norwayemb.org.in/ Please, go through this site for more information.

The five forms which are need to be duly filled & signed by the student applicant.

1)   Application for residence permit or work (5 pages in total) 1 original+3 xerox of it

2)   Study plan (2 pages) 1 original+3 xerox of it

3)   Financial Plan (1 page) 1 original+3 xerox of it

4)   Applicant Information plan (2 pages) 1 original+3 xerox of it

5)   Checklist (ticked) (1 page) 1 original+3 xerox of it

All of the above must be filled & have your signature then the one with your signature as originals, take 3 xerox copies of them.

Coming to proof of funds have a color copy of DNBNOR confirmation & 3 xerox of the same. Also make sure you carry with you the confirmation of transfer from your own bank (it’s called a Debit Slip). If the original offer letter has not yet reached you take a color printout of the first page of the offer, just to make sure that the university sign & seal are in color.

Documents to be enclosed with above forms:

1)     3 copies of offer letter (all pages)

2)     3 more copies of Norwegian offer letter (this is because they will treat this as our accommodation proof)

3)     10 Passport size photo (35 *35 mm) (fits properly in the form)

4)     All education certificates with one original notary copy & other 3 copies xerox of those notary copy.

5)     3 copies TOEFL/IELTS Score Sheet (Have the original score-sheet handy)

6)     3 copies original birth certificate & 3 copies of the translated of the same

7)     3 copies of passport (all pages which have been used till now)

8)     3 copies of confirmation of payment of fees both from DNB & your own bank (6 in total)

9)     3 copies of proof of prior employment (in any)

10)  3 copies of driving license (May not be asked but keep it ready)

11)  3 copies of the marriage certificate issued by the Registrar of marriages (if applicable)

12)  3 copies of documentation proving change in name (if any)

All documents should be in A4 size only.

Have all original documents during the time of embassy interview including original passport.

Embassy will ask for 2 copies (as per checklist) but have 3 copies. If they say 2 copies are enough 3rd one will be for your reference.

Photo Requirements: VERY IMPORTANT

Photos attached to the visa application must fulfill detailed requirements.

All photos must fulfill the demands as stated under. If these demands have not been fulfilled, the applicant will have to deliver a new photo that fulfills the demands. Children have to fulfill the same demands as adults.

The Photo shall:
· be in sharp focus, clear and with good contrasts
· be printed on quality photo paper with high solution
· be in colors with a light background
· be 35-40 mm in width
· maximum 6 months old, resemble the applicant
· full-face, facing the camera directly, eyes looking straight at the camera
· show the whole head and the top of the shoulders. The face shall occupy 70-80 % of the picture.
· show open eyes that are clearly visible. Hair shall not cover the eyes.

Regarding glasses:
Glasses are allowed as long as the eyes are clearly visible.
· the glasses can not be coloured
· the rim must not cover any part of the eyes
· there can not be reflection in the glasses
Regarding head-dress:
Religious head-dresses are allowed provided that all details of the face are clearly shown.
· chin, forehead and both cheeks shall all be clearly visible
· shadows in the face due to the head-dress are not allowed

Usually Norwegian Embassy in India does not have a process of “Visa Interview” as such. But, it’s always advised to be prepared for one if they change their process. Students are asked to submit the documents with the required processing fee (subject to change every year). (NEPAL consulates do have a visa interview) So please check with either the seniors in Norway from your country or call the consulate in your area.

Norwegian consulates are very informal but that does not mean their unprofessional! So be on time if you have been given a prior appointment. I submitted mine on 27/05/2010 in Chennai consulate.

Accommodation; For Residence permit application

As per my know-how of Norwegian universities, all universities in Norway do provide accommodation it might be either through student services or by their own housing colonies. This holds true for both bachelor’s or masters studies. Since accommodation is the most expensive parameter in Norwegian household, it’s always a good idea to stick with university accommodation because you won’t find a cheaper deal than what your university housing offers around that area! But, Research students (PhD) have to search for accommodation by their own, since they are under the payroll of the university.

Rooms are booked under your name once you send the confirmation of joining the university. In some universities like NTNU for example, Student service (SiT) will ask you to transfer the safety deposit & sign the housing contract from your home country. So be prepared with at-least 5000 to 8000 NOK within second week of June & transfer them as mentioned in the housing contract. Follow the same steps as the earlier transfer of funds & get the receipts from both student service and your bank. This will be your confirmation of housing. The process might differ with different university. Another example would be of University of Stavanger in which you have to register for housing before the deadline given in their page. “Majority of universities guarantee housing for international students, just follow the process laid down by the university”

The offer letter given in Norwegian will be your accommodation surety in Norway, so this is what you will have to enclose in your RP application. You will receive this letter within your offer letter. Since offer letters are received from April to May, it’s always wise you apply early to RP. The process usually takes 2 months to finish & to get your passport stamped.

The main reason we drafted this document is to guide future applicants to Norway. We had hardly 1 or 2 seniors in these universities & we don’t want future applicants to hunt for information like we didJ. Call yourself ‘lucky’ to have this! If you have doubts during the application process, you can mail us your queries we will reply to you depending on our other commitments. Please be clear & concise in your mails. We will try to help you as much as we can.

We can’t help you with quires on job scenarios after master’s because we believe we are going there to study & if we do that properly we can get jobs anywhere we want! Once you have accepted an offer you can contact us for further information on travel plans, university atmosphere, everyday life and so. We request, please don’t direct mails to all contacts at once. If you’re really interested we can give you our phone numbers & skype ID via a reply mail.

If you find any grammatical or spelling mistakes above, Cut me some Slack 😛 its not easy to draft such an article alone 😛 All the above process is what we experienced, your process may not be the same, so make decisions wisely. You don’t have to agree with the rankings or any other aspect here it’s just our take on the application process. Everyone has their own opinion! We are just trying to guide you that’s all.

I hope all these information will help you draft a great application. Wish you make it to your dream university. During the process do help out to other applicants, who need information. The feeling of sharing is always satisfyingJ.  Wish you all the best for the process. \m/. If you want it, you get it J I would end with two of my favorite quotes.

“Sharing Is Caring”

“I Am Too Positive To Be Doubtful, Too Optimistic To Be Fearful, And Too Determined To Be Defeated”

\\\_//

Information pooled by:

Jeevith Hegde:

Msc. RAMS; Norwegian University of Science & Technology; 2010-2012

Pavan Kumar:

Msc. Offshore Technology; University of Stavanger- Specialization in Subsea Technology; 2010-2012

Indrapraveen Vardelly:

Msc. RAMS; Norwegian University of Science & Technology; 2010-2012

Thanks to our seniors at NTNU, UIS, Telemark, Molde & Aalesund for their guidance.