Language tests and skill levels
The language tests for both Norwegian and English skill levels (proficiency levels) follow European guidelines.
Norwegian language tests (norskprøve)
The basic language skills levels have four categories; A1, A2, B1, B2. Level C1 is an higher academic skill level.
Norwegian language tests (Norskprøve) test your reading, listening, writing and oral skills. You can take the test for skill levels A1-A2, A2-B1, B1-B2 and C1 at Skills Norway (Kompetanse Norge).
- Go to Skills Norway (Kompetanse Norge) for descriptions of the levels and information about test Norwegian level A1-B2
- Go to Skills Norway (Kompetanse Norge) for information about test in Norwegian level C1
Find your language skill level
Folkeuniversitetet has online placement tests that help you evaluate your skill level.
At Skills Norway you can see sample tests for levels A1-C1:
- See sample tests for levels A1-B2
- See sample tests for level C1 and take a 20 minute test to determine your recommended test level
Language requirement for pupils and students
Higher education
To enter a study programme taught in Norwegian, the minimum requirement is that you pass the Norwegian language test on level B2. These programmes are administered by the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service (NUCAS/NOKUT) through the application portal called Samordna opptak.
To enter a study programme taught in English, most universities and colleges will ask you to take the TOEFL or IESTL test. The requirements might vary between the different institutions, but this will be specified in their admission requirements.
- Go to Samordna opptak for more information about English proficiency tests
- Go to Study in Norway for information about study programmes taught in English
Primary and secondary school
Language requirements in the work place
There are professions where good communication skills are essential, for example in the health and education sectors. These companies will have clear language requirements and can tell you what tests or documentation they need.
Social studies test (samfunnskunnskapsprøve)
The social studies test, or Norwegian Society course, is only required as part of the application for permanent residence or citizenship. You will also have to pass language tests.
- Go to Skills Norway for information about how to take the social studies test
- Go to IMDi for information about who has the right and obligation to take the social studies test
Citizenship test (statsborgerprøve)
To apply for citizenship, you have to pass either the citizenship test or the social studies test. You also have to pass language tests.
English language tests
In jobs or study programmes where Norwegian is not a required skill, you may be asked to document your English skills instead.
There are several recognised tests to validate your English language skills. The two most common are: