Schools in Norway

Children and young people in Norway attend primary and lower secondary school as part of the compulsory education system.

Primary and lower secondary education normally covers ten years. Children usually start school in the year they turn six.

Public primary and lower secondary education is free of charge.

The municipality is responsible for primary and lower secondary education and for ensuring that children who live in the municipality receive the education they are entitled to.

If your family moves to Norway, contact the municipality or the local school to find out which school your child should attend and how to register.

Children who recently arrived in Norway may receive adapted language training. The school can assess what support the child needs to participate in education and learn Norwegian.

Schools can provide special language training for pupils who do not have sufficient Norwegian skills to follow ordinary teaching. This can include additional Norwegian language instruction and, when appropriate, bilingual subject teaching or other language support.

Parents should provide the school with relevant information about the child's previous education, language background and any special educational needs.

Norwegian schools work with parents and guardians. Parents should contact the school if they have questions about attendance, learning, language support, homework or the child's well-being.

The school year is divided into terms, and children normally attend school on weekdays according to the local school calendar.

After completing lower secondary school, young people can apply for upper secondary education or vocational training.

If your child has attended school in another country, the municipality or school can help assess the child's educational background and decide how the child should be placed in the Norwegian school system.

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