Gap Year Programs in Norway

The capital city, Oslo, is home to 600,000 people and is Europe’s fastest-growing city. Filled with history and art, Oslo is a beautiful place to learn about Norwegian culture. Several gap year programs in Norway are based in the capital city, making it easy for students to find unique interests and make lots of new friends. If you would enjoy living with mountains on one side and sea on the other, Oslo is the place to settle in for a gap year.

Bergen is Norway’s second largest city, surrounded by the Seven Mountains, and host to Scandinavia’s busiest cruise ship stop; sounds like an ideal location for Norway gap years! When wandering around you will come across museums, fortresses, wharfs, and cathedrals. You will never run out of things to do in Bergen, which is why it is such a prime destination for a gap year in Norway. Whether you’re into nature, art, or the busy city life, you’re sure to find your niche in Bergen.

If the hustle and bustle of city life is not really your scene, the rural areas of Norway will gladly welcome you. Thanks to the “freedom to roam” public law in Norway, nature is pretty much all yours. You’re free to pitch a tent, set up camp, and take in the beauty anywhere that is uncultivated. Wifi won’t be necessary to have a memorable gap year in Norway!

Once you have a location in mind, next comes the fun part. What will you do for a whole year?

Being an Au Pair is an experience that many travelers have found to be rewarding. In Norway, Au Pairs typically work 30-hour weeks, with childcare as the main responsibility. Residing with a host family will prove to be one of the best ways to expand your cultural knowledge. Typically, Au Pairs are paid around 600 USD (5200 NOK) per month and are able to take a decent amount of vacation days.

If nature is calling you, backpacking through the wilderness will keep you occupied during your stay. You will never get bored touring the 44 national parks that are open (and free!) year-round. The best time to set out on a hiking trip is May to September, due to the warmer weather. Cabins are set up throughout the countryside for backpackers to gather and stay, and sleeping under the stars is always an option.

If you really want to impress your friends and family, come home speaking Norwegian. Language immersion programs are a great way for gappers to feel involved in the culture. Language classes range from private to group settings depending on the program you choose. Whether you are just starting out, or want to improve your fluency, the various programs options have you covered.

Costs. It’s no secret that Norway is an expensive place to live; budgeting will be your new best friend. Prices for Norway gap years range from $5,000 to $10,000 due to the numerous options to explore, work, or study. It wouldn’t hurt to ask friends, family, or other people in your social network for some extra help when planning your gap year. You can create a fun campaign page so they can easily donate at FundMyTravel! 

Accommodations. There are endless possibilities when looking for accommodations during your gap year. Staying with a host family is the most common, and a great way to learn and adapt to the culture. Many universities offer reasonably priced housing for international travelers. Hostels and hotels are also mindful of gappers and offer lodging as well. Often when going through a specific program, you will be set up with comfortable accommodations.

Visas. Since a gap year is not your typical vacation, you will need to apply for a Norwegian Schengen Visa. The application process is quick and painless, and the visa should be ready for you to use in about two weeks. When traveling it is important to know where your home country’s embassy is located. For your convenience, check out the GoAbroad Embassy Directory.

Safety. Crime is extremely low in Norway, making it one of the safest places you could take your gap year. However, still be on the lookout for petty theft just as you would in any urban city. Be a smart traveler—keep your belongings close, and an eye on your surroundings.

A gap year abroad will help you grow as an individual and prepare you for the future. You will be taking on an amazing experience that most people couldn’t even dream of. The knowledge you will gain through living in a foreign country for a year is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

Taking a gap year will educate you, challenge you, and excite you. It very well may be the best year of your life. You may find a new hobby or passion you never knew you had. Engage with locals, admire the beautiful countryside, go visit the Colonel Penguin!

Ready to pack your bags and head to Norway for a year you will never forget? Make sure to pack warm clothes and hiking boots!

Take lots of pictures of the gorgeous country! But don’t forget to sit back and take in the beauty. To make the most of your gap year experience, keep an open mind and try to learn as much as your brain will allow. Your gap year in Norway will fly by, so enjoy every minute of it. 

Keep reading! Check out this article about When to Take a Gap Year.