The Norwegian higher educational system holds a high international standard. The living standard is among the highest in the world. Norway has been named the "world's most liveable country" in the UN Human Development Index 9 times in the last 11 years (also in 2011).

Telemark University College is the 4th largest university college in Norway with around 6000 students. There are 4 campuses in Porsgrunn, Bø, Notodden and Rauland. The school has close links to industry and students may sometimes do some of their project-work for local companies.

Porsgrunn is one of the industrial centers in Norway and has a long history of industry.

Norway have a focus on Environmental Protection and Environmental Technology. Hydroelectric Power, Carbon Capture, Bioenergy and Hydrogen as energy for cars are some of the research areas in Telemark University College. In addition there is a focus on controlling industrial processes by modern computer- and automation technology.

Telemark University College has modern laboratories and research facilities.

Several of our students have found jobs in Norway or gone on to do their Ph.D in Norway.

Admission requirements:

See: http://www.hit.no/eng/HiT/Applicants/Admissions/Admission-requirements-and-procedures

Costs and financing:

There are no tuition fees for Norwegian or international students. Students pay a semester registration fee of around NOK 800-1000 per semester. The semester registration fee includes:

• Copying fee. This fee covers the copying expenses for the reading material in the curriculum that has been copied.
• Kopinor fee. This fee pays the owners of the copied material a compensation fee for copyrighted materials.
• Student Welfare Organisation fee. The student welfare organization's student health fund is partially covered by this fee.
• SAIH (Norwegian Students’ and Academics’ International Assistance Fund) fee. This fee is an international solidarity fee that helps to fund projects in developing countries. If you do not wish to pay this fee, you may ask to have your 20 kroner refunded.
• A 'laser printing fee' is also included.

Students who get sick or have large expenses for health- or dental care during their studies can apply for partial funding through SiTel.

Scholarships:

Some scholarships are available for students, but a limited number of students are offered a place in the quota scheme each year. Only students from partner universities in selected countries may apply. Students who are not offered a scholarship must apply as self-financing students.

Residence permit (visa):

Students are required by the immigration authorities to deposit NOK 92 500 (2012-figure) in a Norwegian bank account before they are granted a visa. The money will be available to the student once they have arrived in Norway and is meant to cover living expenses such as food, housing and other expenses.

In the residence permit it is stated that students may work up to 20 hours a week and unlimited during holidays.

Housing:

We will reserve housing for students who are offered a place in our programmes. Please note that students have to apply for the kind of housing they would like at www.sitel.no .