When seeking employment in Norway, accurately conveying your educational background is a crucial step in the application process. Understanding Norwegian terminology and the conventions for presenting academic qualifications can significantly strengthen your profile. This article will guide you through the process of describing your education in Norwegian, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
Before detailing how to present your qualifications, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of the Norwegian education system. This context will help you correctly translate and categorise your previous study. Start your 1-to-1 private Norwegian class today.
Primary and Secondary Education
The structure of education before higher learning is generally consistent.
Grunnskole
The Grunnskole spans nine years, typically from ages 6 to 15. It is divided into two stages: Barnetrinn (primary, years 1-4) and Ungdomstrinn (lower secondary, years 5-9). Successful completion of the Grunnskole leads to an examination in several subjects.
Videregående skole
Following Grunnskole, students can pursue Videregående skole (upper secondary school), which usually lasts for three years. This level offers both general academic programmes (leading to university entrance) and vocational programmes.
General Studies Programmes
These programmes, often referred to as studiespesialisering, prepare students for tertiary education. Upon completion, students receive a certificate that qualifies them for university admission.
Vocational Programmes
Vocational programmes are designed to provide practical skills in specific trades and professions. For example, there are programmes for carpentry, healthcare, and IT. These programmes often involve a combination of classroom learning and apprenticeships. Successful completion may lead to a diploma that allows entry into specific higher education programmes or directly into the workforce.
Higher Education
Norway has a well-established higher education sector, divided into universities and university colleges.
Universities
Universities are research-intensive institutions that offer a wide range of programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels. They are known for their academic rigour and focus on theoretical knowledge.
University Colleges (Høgskoler)
University colleges typically offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, often with a more practical or professional orientation. Many have recently been granted university status, blurring the lines between the two.
Types of Degrees in Norwegian Higher Education
Familiarising yourself with the Norwegian degree structure is essential for accurate translation.
Bachelorgrad
A Bachelor’s degree (Bachelorgrad) is a three-year undergraduate qualification, equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree.
Mastergrad
A Master’s degree (Mastergrad) is a two-year postgraduate qualification, building upon a Bachelor’s degree.
Doktorgrad (Dr.philos., PhD)
The highest academic degree is the Doctorate (Doktorgrad). While traditionally known as Dr.philos. (Doctor of Philosophy), the term PhD is increasingly used and recognised, particularly in scientific fields.
Translating and Presenting Your Academic Qualifications
When applying for jobs in Norway, you will need to translate your educational qualifications into Norwegian. Accuracy and clarity are paramount. Think of your CV as a meticulously crafted mosaic, where each piece of your educational history must fit perfectly to create a true picture.
Official Translations
For official purposes, such as university admissions or certain job applications, you may be required to provide a certified translation of your educational documents.
Translation Services
Several professional translation services can provide certified translations into Norwegian. It is advisable to use services that specialise in translating academic documents.
Self-Translation
For less formal situations, such as including your education section on a Norwegian CV, carefully considered self-translation can be acceptable, provided it is accurate.
Key Norwegian Educational Terms to Know
Here are some core terms you will encounter and need to use.
Examen/Eksamen
This term generally refers to an examination or test. In the context of education, it can refer to a final examination or a qualification obtained through examination.
Vitnemål
A vitnemål is an official certificate of education, akin to a diploma or transcript, detailing your completed studies and grades.
Studiepoeng
Studiepoeng are European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits. Norwegian degrees are measured in studiepoeng. A full academic year typically comprises 60 studiepoeng.
Karakter
This translates to “grade” or “mark.” Understanding the Norwegian grading scale is useful.
Norwegian Grading Scale
Norway has primarily moved to a letter-based grading system, similar to the American A-F system, though nuances exist.
- A: Excellent (e.g., 90-100%)
- B: Very Good (e.g., 75-89%)
- C: Good (e.g., 60-74%)
- D: Fair (e.g., 45-59%)
- E: Sufficient (e.g., 30-44%)
- F: Fail (e.g., 0-29%)
Some older systems or specific institutions might still use numerical scales or distinctions like “stryk” (fail).
Describing Your Bachelor’s Degree
When describing your Bachelor’s degree, be specific about the subject and the institution.
Bachelorgrad i [Fagområde]
The standard format is Bachelorgrad i [Field of Study]. For example, “Bachelorgrad i Økonomi og Administrasjon” (Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Administration).
Navn på institusjon
Follow this with the name of the university or university college.
År for fullføring
Include the year of completion.
Describing Your Master’s Degree
Similar to the Bachelor’s, clarity is key for your Master’s degree.
Mastergrad i [Fagområde]
Again, the format is Mastergrad i [Field of Study]. For example, “Mastergrad i Informatikk” (Master’s Degree in Computer Science).
Spesialisering (if applicable)
If your Master’s degree had a specific specialization, include it. This can be translated as Spesialisering i [Specialization].
Tittel på masteroppgave (if applicable)
You may wish to include the title of your Master’s thesis, translated into Norwegian as Tittel på masteroppgave.
Describing Your Doctoral Degree
For doctoral degrees, the terminology is quite specific.
Doktorgrad (PhD)
You can describe this as Doktorgrad (PhD).
Spesialisering innenfor [Fagområde]
Specify your specialization within your doctoral research.
Tittel på doktorgradsavhandling (if applicable)
Similar to the Master’s thesis, you can list the title of your doctoral thesis: Tittel på doktorgradsavhandling.
Vocational Training and Certificates
If you have vocational training or specific certifications, these also need clear translation.
Yrkesfaglig utdanning
This refers to vocational education.
Fagbrev
A fagbrev is a certificate of craftsmanship obtained through vocational training and apprenticeship. It is the primary qualification in many trades.
Kurs og sertifiseringer
This translates to “Courses and Certifications,” which you can use to list any relevant professional development.
- Navn på kurs/sertifisering (Name of Course/Certification)
- Utstedt av (Issued by)
- Dato for utstedelse (Date of Issue)
Presenting Your Education on Your CV (CV)
Your curriculum vitae (CV) is likely the first document a Norwegian employer will scrutinise. Presenting your education section effectively is crucial. Aim for a clear, chronological, and easily digestible format.
Standard CV Structure
Norwegian CVs often follow a reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent education.
Utdanning (Education) Section
Create a distinct section titled Utdanning.
Format for Each Entry
For each educational qualification, include:
- Tidsperiode (Period): Start and end dates or years.
- Grad/vitnemål (Degree/Certificate): The translated name of your qualification.
- Navn på institusjon (Name of Institution): The original name of the institution.
- Sted (Location): The city and country of the institution.
- Hovedfag/spesialisering (Major/Specialization): If applicable.
- Karakterer (om relevant og positivt) (Grades (if relevant and positive)): Only include grades if they are strong and add value. Providing an explanation of the grading system you are converting from might be helpful if it’s significantly different.
Example of an Education Entry on a Norwegian CV
Here’s how an entry might look:
2018 – 2021
Mastergrad i Økonomi og Administrasjon
Universitetet i Oslo, Oslo, Norge
- Spesialisering i Finans (Specialization in Finance)
- Masteroppgave: “Analysering av Norske Aksjemarkeder” (Master’s Thesis: “Analysis of Norwegian Stock Markets”)
2015 – 2018
Bachelorgrad i Sosiologi
University of Manchester, Manchester, Storbritannia
- Hovedfag: Sosialpolitikk (Major: Social Policy)
Considerations for International Qualifications
When your qualifications are from outside Norway, you may need to provide additional context.
Equivalence and Recognition
In some cases, particularly for regulated professions, you may need to have your foreign qualifications officially recognised as equivalent to Norwegian qualifications. This process is often handled by specific government bodies or professional organisations.
Brief Explanation of Foreign Systems
If your home country’s education system is significantly different, a brief, factual explanation might be beneficial, especially if translating directly might cause confusion. For instance, explaining the structure of A-levels or a specific vocational diploma.
Language Proficiency and Your Education
While not strictly part of your academic achievements, your level of Norwegian language proficiency is often a critical component of your application, particularly for jobs requiring significant interaction.
Describing Your Norwegian Language Skills
Be honest and specific about your current level.
Språkkurs (Language Courses)
List any Norwegian language courses you have attended.
- Navn på kurs (Name of Course)
- Nivå (Level – e.g., A1, B2, C1, or if it was a beginner, intermediate, advanced course)
- Institusjon (Institution)
- Periode (Period)
CEFR Levels
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is widely understood in Norway. If you have taken a CEFR-aligned test, state your level (e.g., “B2 nivå i norsk i henhold til CEFR” – B2 level Norwegian according to CEFR).
Language Certifications
If you have official language certifications, these are highly valued.
Norskprøven
Norskprøven is the official Norwegian language test administered by the Directorate of Integration and Diversity (IMDi). It assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
- Norskprøven: Nivå [Level] (e.g., Norskprøven: Nivå B2)
Bergenstesten
The Bergenstesten (also known as the Test i norsk – høyere nivå) is another recognised Norwegian language test, often used for university admissions.
How Language Skills Connect to Your Education
In your cover letter or even within your education section, you can subtly link your language learning to your career aspirations. For example, “My commitment to mastering the Norwegian language, as evidenced by my participation in advanced language courses, complements my academic background in [your field], enabling me to contribute effectively within a Norwegian professional context.”
Cultural Nuances in Describing Education
| Aspect | Description | Example in Norwegian | English Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree Level | Specify the level of education completed | Videregående skole (High School), Bachelorgrad, Mastergrad | High School, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree |
| Field of Study | Mention the subject or major studied | Økonomi, Ingeniørfag, Litteratur | Economics, Engineering, Literature |
| Institution | Name of the educational institution | Universitetet i Oslo, NTNU | University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology |
| Duration | Years attended or period of study | 2015–2018, 4 år | 2015–2018, 4 years |
| Grades or GPA | Optional: Include grades or average score | Karakter: A, Snittkarakter: 4.5 | Grade: A, Average grade: 4.5 |
| Additional Courses | Relevant certifications or courses | Kurser i prosjektledelse, Sertifisering i Excel | Courses in project management, Excel certification |
Beyond mere translation, understanding the cultural expectations in Norway regarding self-presentation is beneficial. Norwegians generally favour modesty and factual accuracy over overt boasting.
Honesty and Accuracy
Always present your qualifications truthfully. Exaggeration or falsification can have severe repercussions.
Focus on Relevance
Tailor the description of your education to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight the most relevant aspects of your studies and any specializations that align with the role’s requirements.
Diplomas and Transcripts
Be prepared to provide copies of your diplomas and transcripts if requested. These documents serve as proof of your stated qualifications.
Further Education and Lifelong Learning
Norway places a high value on continuous learning and professional development. If you have participated in additional courses, workshops, or obtained professional certifications, be sure to include them.
Kurs og Videreutdanning
This encompasses all forms of continuing education and professional development.
- Navn på kurs/program (Name of Course/Program)
- Utstedt av (Issued by)
- År (Year)
The Importance of Detail and Clarity
Imagine your CV as a blueprint for your professional life. Every detail needs to be precise for the recruiter to understand the full scope of your capabilities. If your degree is a Bachelor of Arts but your specialization was in engineering-related subjects, clarify this. A Bachelor of Arts i [Subject], med fokus på [technical aspects] might be more informative than a simple Bachelor of Arts.
Seeking Professional Help: The NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo
Navigating the complexities of both the Norwegian education system and its language can be a daunting task, especially when preparing for a competitive job market in Norway. While self-study and online resources can provide a foundation, they cannot always replicate the personalised guidance and deep cultural understanding required for truly effective communication. This is where targeted, professional instruction becomes invaluable.
The Challenge of Nuance
Understanding academic terminology is one layer; understanding how to present it in a way that resonates with Norwegian employers is another. Subtle differences in how qualifications are perceived, the emphasis placed on practical versus theoretical experience, and the expected tone of a CV can be difficult to grasp without native insight.
Why Dedicated Instruction Matters
A well-structured language course can go far beyond basic grammar and vocabulary. It can delve into the specific linguistic and cultural conventions used in professional settings in Norway. This includes:
- Industry-specific terminology: Learning the precise Norwegian terms used in your field of expertise.
- CV and application writing conventions: Understanding what employers expect to see and how they want information presented.
- Interview preparation: Practising common interview questions and responses in Norwegian.
- Cultural understanding: Gaining insight into workplace etiquette and communication styles.
The NLS Norwegian Language School: A Focused Approach
For individuals aiming to secure employment in Norway, acquiring strong Norwegian language skills is often a prerequisite. The NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo offers a solution tailored to precisely this need. Their focus on practical application and real-world communication scenarios is particularly beneficial for job seekers.
The Power of 1 to 1 Private Courses
The efficacy of the NLS Norwegian Language School’s 1 to 1 private courses cannot be overstated when preparing for the Norwegian job market. These courses are not generic language lessons; they are meticulously designed to equip you with the specific tools you need to succeed in your application process.
When you engage in a 1 to 1 private course at NLS, the curriculum becomes your personal roadmap to professional integration. Your instructor can:
- Assess your current understanding: Identify your strengths and weaknesses with regards to both language and understanding of Norwegian professional requirements.
- Customise lesson plans: Directly address your specific field of work, ensuring you learn the most relevant vocabulary and phrases.
- Focus on your CV and application: Dedicate sessions to meticulously reviewing and refining your CV and cover letter, translating your education and experience into impactful Norwegian.
- Simulate job interviews: Conduct realistic mock interviews, providing constructive feedback on your pronunciation, fluency, clarity, and the appropriateness of your responses within a Norwegian context.
- Explain cultural nuances: Offer insider perspectives on what Norwegian employers value in candidates, ensuring your presentation is not only linguistically correct but also culturally appropriate.
The intimate setting of a 1 to 1 private course at NLS in Oslo fosters an environment where every question can be answered, every doubt can be addressed, and every area of improvement can be targeted with precision. This is not about learning Norwegian in the abstract; it is about learning Norwegian for the purpose of building a career in Norway.
For those whose ambition is to land a job in Norway, the NLS Norwegian Language School’s 1 to 1 private courses in Oslo represent a significant advantage. They offer the focused, personalised instruction that is essential for transforming your educational background and professional aspirations into a compelling Norwegian application. This is where the abstract concept of describing your education translates into a concrete advantage in your job search.