Language tests and skill levels

A guide for internationals on Norwegian and English language tests, proficiency levels, and requirements for work, studies, and citizenship.

Do you need to learn Norwegian to live and work in Oslo? Language skills play an important role in many aspects of everyday life in Norway.

Whether you plan to apply for permanent residence or citizenship, enter a study program, or work in a field that requires strong communication skills in Norwegian, you may need to document your proficiency through a language test.

open textbook with Norwegian
Image: Nikolai Kobets Freund / Oslo kommune

How is language proficiency measured in Norway?

Both Norwegian and English tests follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Skill levels are divided into 6 main levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. This system describes language ability in levels from beginner (A1) to advanced (C1). C2 proficiency is rarely a requirement in Norway. Knowing which level you are expected to reach will help you prepare for the right test.

The official test for Norwegian language: norskprøve

The Norskprøve is the official test for Norwegian language skills. It follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), and you can take the test for skill levels A1-A2, A2-B1, B1-B2 and C1.

The Norskprøve test assesses your reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. The tests are organized by Skills Norway (Kompetanse Norge).

If you are unsure about your level, Kompetanse Norge offers sample tests for A1–C1.

Who needs documented Norwegian proficiency?

Higher education

To enter a study programme taught in Norwegian, the minimum requirement is that you pass the Norwegian language test on level B2.

Applications to higher education study programmes are processed 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.

Primary and secondary school

Norwegian primary and secondary schools are obligated to offer adapted language education (in Norwegian) to students who do not have sufficient proficiency in Norwegian and cannot follow the teaching in Norwegian.

Language requirements in the work place

There are professions where good communication skills are essential, for example in the health and education sectors. Companies in these sectors will have clear language requirements and can tell you what tests or documentation they need.

Language requirements for permanent residence or citizenship

Until September 2025, applicants for permanent residence and citizenship are required to complete both Norwegian language tests and a social studies test. From 1 September 2025, these rules are changing.

Social studies test (samfunnskunnskapsprøve)

The social studies test, or Norwegian Society course, has been a requirement as part of the application for permanent residence or citizenship, along with language tests.

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.

For the most up-to-date information, always check Skills Norway for test information and UDI for residence and citizenship requirements.

English language proficiency tests

In some study programmes or workplaces, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency. The two most common are:

Which test you need depends on whether you plan to study, work, or apply for residence/citizenship in Norway.