This table helps you to align your expectations, do the right checks, and prepare accordingly.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for the Norway Quota Scheme Scholarships 2026

Here’s a detailed step-by-step roadmap tailored for someone in Africa or Asia applying for social sciences/humanities fields.

Step 1: Identify Eligible Universities & Programmes

• Visit study-in-Norway portals and participating institutions’ websites to find those offering social sciences or humanities programmes in English and with Quota slots.

• Cross-check that the institution participates in the Quota Scheme (look for “Quota Scholarship” or “Quota places for international students from developing countries”). Example sources mention the scheme at many Norwegian institutions.

• Short-list 2-3 universities and programmes you would be happy to attend. Ensure your prior degree aligns (e.g., social sciences, political science, international relations, gender studies, development studies etc.).

Step 2: Check Eligibility & Language Requirements

• Ensure you come from a developing country or one of the target countries listed by the scheme for that year.

• Ensure you have the required previous degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) and good transcripts.

• Check whether your programme requires IELTS/TOEFL or whether they accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate indicating your prior degree was taught in English. If your university provides such MOI proof, you may qualify for “no IELTS” (but confirm with the university).

• Confirm any additional requirements: minimum GPA, work experience, or national quota arrangements (some countries have their own nomination process).

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

Typical required documents include:

• Completed application form for quota place

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) showing academic work, extracurriculars, leadership, development focus

• Motivation letter / statement of purpose (explain why you want social sciences/humanities in Norway and how you will apply that knowledge back home)

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate

• English language certificate or MOI proof (if applicable)

• Letters of recommendation (often 2)

• Passport/ID copy

• Possibly a preliminary research proposal or essay depending on programme

Step 4: Apply for the Quota Scheme & University Admission

• You usually apply to both the university (admission) and simultaneously apply for a Quota scholarship. Some institutions handle the Quota place via their admission portal.

• Submit your admission application (for the selected programme) by the university’s deadline.

• Submit your Quota Scheme application by the scheme’s deadline (often December for the next academic year). For example: “Deadline: 1 December every year” in some source referring to Quota.

• Make sure all documents are uploaded correctly, and pay attention to any national nomination requirements (some countries select a limited number of nominees for the Quota scheme).

Step 5: Wait for Selection & Scholarship Decision

• Universities review admission applications, Quota committees review scholarship eligibility. There may be combined selection or separate.

• If shortlisted, you may be required to submit additional documentation or attend an interview.

• If approved: You receive an offer letter for admission to the programme and a scholarship letter for the Quota place (stipend + housing support etc.).

• Accept in time, follow instructions for registration and scholarship activation.

Step 6: Visa, Travel Arrangements & Housing

• Apply for your Norwegian student residence permit (if required) soon after your admission and scholarship letter.

• Arrive in Norway ahead of the programme start. Universities often assist international students with orientation.

• As a Quota scholar, your living costs and housing may be supported—check whether the university provides allocated housing for quota students or if you need to secure accommodation.

• Attend any orientation sessions and connect with your international student office.

Step 7: Study & Return Commitment (if required)

• Maintain required academic standards (credits, GPA).

• Some Quota schemes historically required you return home after your studies to convert loan into grant; ensure you understand whether this applies in your year. stipendije.info

• Use your period in Norway fully: engage in academic discourse, build networks, gain research or internship opportunities.

• Plan for how you will use your Norwegian education to benefit your home region in Africa or Asia.

Step 8: Graduation & Beyond

• Complete your programme (typically 2 years for Master’s).

• Utilize career services, university alumni networks, Norwegian contacts.

• Return home (if required) and implement your new knowledge in social sciences/humanities settings—whether policy, research, NGO, public sector or private sector.

• Showcase your scholarship and Norwegian education as a platform for future leadership.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll be poised to apply for the 2026 intake and maximise your chances.

Key Insights & Benefits

Here are standout benefits and insights for applicants from Africa & Asia:

• High academic value: Norwegian universities are highly ranked and programmes are often taught in English, giving you global credentials.

• Fully funded package: When the scheme works as intended, you get tuition coverage + stipend + often housing support—less burden on home finances.

• No IELTS option: If your prior education was in English and you can provide a MOI certificate, the language barrier may be lower. This is especially relevant for African/Asian candidates who studied in English-medium institutions.

• Return-home relevance: The scheme is designed not just for studying abroad, but for bringing knowledge back. If you study social sciences or humanities, you can aim to contribute to development, policy, governance or social research in your home country.

• Networking & global exposure: Living in Norway, connecting with students from across the world, and working in a high-quality academic environment gives excellent exposure.

• Strong application positioning: Because social sciences/humanities are often underserved by scholarship schemes (which tend to favour STEM), you may face less competition in your field.

• Safety & quality of life: Norway offers a safe, modern, and respectful environment — helpful for international students adjusting to a new culture.

Your Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter — A Simple, Strong Structure

Here’s a template you can adapt:

Paragraph 1 – Introduction & Motivation
Start with a personal anecdote or observation: e.g., “Growing up in Lagos, I saw how urban planning lacked social equity…” or “In my community in Kenya, I observed how heritage research lacked engagement with youth…” Then connect to your interest in social sciences/humanities and why you picked Norway.

Paragraph 2 – Academic Background & Relevant Experience
Summarize your Bachelor’s degree, any research work, projects, internships, volunteering. Show you already have a basis for advanced study in social sciences/humanities.

Paragraph 3 – Why This Programme & Norway
Explain why you chose this specific programme in Norway (university name, department, course modules, research centre). Highlight what unique resources Norway or the institution offers (e.g., strong governance research centre, Nordic welfare studies, human rights institute). Mention why you prefer Norway (English-taught programmes, high quality of life, opportunity to engage globally).

Paragraph 4 – Your Research / Study Plan
Describe your proposed research or focus area (policy analysis, urban sociology, social entrepreneurship, cultural studies). Outline objectives, methodology, expected outcomes. Show how this connects to your home country’s context (Africa/Asia) and how you plan to apply your knowledge back home.

Paragraph 5 – Language Readiness & MOI
If relevant, state that your previous degree was taught in English (or you studied at an English-medium institution) and hence you trust your English proficiency. Mention your willingness to complete any language requirement.

Paragraph 6 – Future Impact & Return Home
Paint a picture of how you will use this scholarship: “Upon returning to Ghana, I will work with the Ministry of Education to reform heritage curricula…” or “Back in Bangladesh I will lead research on youth participation in local governance…” Show potential leadership, social impact, service.

Paragraph 7 – Closing & Commitment
Reaffirm your dedication, thank the review committee for their time, and express your readiness to excel in the programme.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them