One of the biggest decisions international families face after moving to Norway isn’t where to live—it’s where their children should go to school.
Should you choose a local Norwegian public school, where your child will become part of the local community and learn Norwegian through everyday life? Or would an international school provide a smoother transition and a curriculum that better suits your family’s future plans?
After helping international families relocate to Norway for more than 30 years, we’ve learned one important lesson:
There is no universal “best” school.
If you want a quick answer:
Choose a Norwegian public school if you’re planning to stay in Norway long-term, want your child to become fluent in Norwegian, and value integration into the local community.
Choose an international school if you’re likely to relocate again, want continuity in an international curriculum, or feel your child will thrive in an English-speaking (or French or German), internationally focused environment.
Still unsure? Read on—because for many families, the answer depends less on the school system and more on the individual child.
The right choice depends on your child’s personality, learning style, age, language ability and your family’s plans for the future.
To better understand how international families make this decision, we asked parents living across Norway to share their experiences. While every family has a unique story, their responses revealed some remarkably consistent themes.
Rather than telling you which option is “better”, this guide aims to help you decide which school is likely to be the best fit for your child.
What We Learned From International Parents
When we asked parents why they had chosen either a Norwegian public school or an international school, it was not just about academic standards.
Parents talked about friendships.
They talked about language.
They talked about belonging.
They talked about confidence.
They talked about happiness.
Academic performance certainly mattered, but for most families it was only one piece of a much bigger picture.
Across all the responses, four themes emerged again and again:
- Families planning to stay in Norway long-term generally prioritised learning Norwegian, integration and neighbourhood friendships.
- Families expecting another international move often valued curriculum continuity and English-language education.
- Parents agreed that both school systems have strengths and challenges.
- Almost everyone came back to the same conclusion:
The best school is the one that best suits your child.
That idea became the foundation of this guide.
Start by Asking One Important Question
Before comparing schools, ask yourself one simple question:
What do we hope our child gains from living in Norway?
Every family answers this differently.
For some, the priority is becoming fluent in Norwegian and building lasting friendships with local children.
For others, maintaining continuity in an international curriculum is more important, particularly if another overseas move is expected in a few years.
Some parents value a slower-paced childhood with more outdoor learning and less academic pressure.
Others know that their child thrives in a structured, academically demanding environment.
Neither answer is right or wrong.
One parent who responded to our survey summed it up beautifully:
“The most important question became: What is the goal? Is it simply the best education, or is it raising a child who is happy, motivated and enjoys learning?”
It’s a powerful reminder that choosing a school isn’t only about academics—it’s about choosing an environment where your child can flourish.
Does Your Child’s Age Matter?
In many cases, yes.
Generally speaking, younger children tend to adapt more quickly to a new language and school environment. They often learn Norwegian naturally through play, friendships and everyday interaction with classmates.
Older children, particularly those entering lower secondary school (ungdomsskole) or upper secondary school (videregående), may find the transition more challenging.
For this reason, some families choose an international school to provide continuity in language and curriculum during the teenage years, while others still opt for a Norwegian public school because they intend to remain in Norway long-term and want their children to integrate fully.
There is no universal rule.
Some teenagers thrive after joining a Norwegian school.
Some younger children are happier in an international environment.
Age is simply one of several factors to consider alongside your child’s personality, educational needs and your family’s long-term plans.
Practical Considerations Before You Compare Schools
Educational philosophy is only one part of the decision.
Sometimes practical considerations influence the choice just as much.
School availability
Children attending Norwegian public schools are normally allocated a school based on their registered residential address, although there are some exceptions.
International schools, on the other hand, may have limited places and waiting lists, particularly for certain year groups.
Depending on when you’re relocating to Norway, availability may influence which options are realistically available.
Learning more about the schools
If possible, learn as much as you can about the schools you’re considering.
Some international schools offer information sessions or individual tours, while others—particularly those with long waiting lists—may have limited opportunities for visits.
Public schools may also not always be able to accommodate visits during the school year, although many are happy to answer questions or arrange a meeting if time and capacity allow.
Ask how they support newly arrived international pupils, communicate with parents, approach wellbeing and help children settle into school life.
Sometimes those conversations provide far more insight than a website ever could.
Local Norwegian Public School vs International School
| Consideration | Local Norwegian Public School | International School |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited for | Families planning to stay in Norway long-term | Families staying temporarily or relocating internationally |
| Language of instruction | Norwegian | Usually English or another international language (for example German in the German school and French in the French School) |
| Integration | Strong integration into Norwegian society | Strong international community |
| Friendships | Classmates usually live nearby | Students often travel from across the city or region |
| Academic approach | Generally more relaxed in the early years | Often more academically demanding and structured starting from the early years |
| Curriculum | Norwegian National Curriculum | IB or another international curriculum |
| Cost | Free public education | Tuition fees apply (typically from around NOK 30,000 to over NOK 280,000 per child per year) |
| Student community | Student population reflects the school catchment area and may range from predominantly Norwegian to highly multicultural. | Highly international |
| Future international moves | May require adjustment and, in some cases, catching up when transitioning to a different curriculum. | Easier continuity if relocating again |
| Learning Norwegian | Full immersion | Norwegian is usually taught, but opportunities to practise it naturally may be fewer |
| Commute | Usually close to home | Often longer |
Why Many Families Choose a Norwegian Public School
Among parents planning to remain in Norway, three reasons came up repeatedly.
Language.
Integration.
Community.
For many families, choosing a Norwegian public school wasn’t simply about education—it was about becoming part of Norwegian society.
Because public schools usually serve a local catchment area, classmates often become neighbours. Children meet after school, attend birthday parties together, join local sports/activity clubs and build friendships that extend well beyond the classroom.
Parents repeatedly described this as one of the biggest advantages of choosing a local school.
One simply wrote:
“Language, Scandinavian education and integration.”
Another said that being part of the local community mattered far more than academic rankings.
What Parents Appreciated About Norwegian Public Schools
One of the strongest themes from our survey was that parents who chose Norwegian public schools rarely spoke first about academics.
Instead, they spoke about childhood.
Many appreciated that the Norwegian education system places a strong emphasis on children’s wellbeing, independence and social development, particularly during the primary school years. Collaboration is often valued over competition, and outdoor learning is a natural part of everyday school life.
Several parents felt this allowed their children to enjoy childhood without the level of academic pressure they had experienced in their home countries.
As one parent explained, they valued raising a child who enjoyed learning rather than one who constantly felt under pressure to perform.
Learning Norwegian Through Everyday Life
For many international families, language is one of the biggest concerns.
Parents often ask:
“How will my child cope if they don’t speak Norwegian?”
Fortunately, children generally adapt far more quickly than adults expect.
Younger children, in particular, often learn Norwegian naturally through play, classroom activities and everyday interaction with classmates.
Older children may take longer, but many still become fluent over time through immersion.
Children who are new to Norway and do not yet speak Norwegian may also be entitled to special Norwegian language instruction while they develop their language skills. Depending on the municipality and the child’s individual needs, some pupils may also receive bilingual subject support during the transition.
The support available varies between municipalities and schools, so it’s always worth asking your local school how they support newly arrived international pupils.
Community and Belonging
Another recurring theme was community.
Because Norwegian public schools generally serve children living within the local catchment area, classmates often live within walking or cycling distance.
This made birthday parties, playdates, sports/activity clubs and simply walking or cycling to a friend’s house much easier.
Many parents felt this naturally helped both their children—and the whole family—feel part of the local community.
For families planning to remain in Norway, this sense of belonging was often considered one of the greatest advantages of choosing a Norwegian public school.
A Different Educational Philosophy
Many parents commented that the Norwegian approach to education felt very different from the one they grew up with.
Compared with many countries, Norwegian schools generally place greater emphasis on:
- wellbeing
- independence
- collaboration
- creativity
- outdoor learning
- social development
Assessment in the early years generally places greater emphasis on learning, development and feedback than on grades and academic competition.
Some families found this refreshing.
Others found it surprisingly slow.
Neither reaction is unusual.
Free Education
Another practical advantage is that public education is free.
While families should still budget for items such as before-and-after school care, lunches, excursions and school equipment, there are no tuition fees.
For families relocating permanently, this can represent a significant financial saving.
Things Parents Found Challenging About Norwegian Public Schools
The survey also revealed that no school system is perfect.
Some parents highlighted challenges that are worth considering.
Academic Pace
Several parents felt the academic pace was slower than they were accustomed to.
Families arriving from education systems where children begin formal academic work earlier sometimes felt their children were not sufficiently challenged during the primary years.
One parent described their academically advanced child becoming bored before eventually transferring to an international school.
At the same time, many other parents viewed the slower pace as a strength rather than a weakness.
This illustrates an important point:
Whether the pace feels “right” often depends on the individual child.
Support for Highly Academic Children
A small number of parents felt that children needing additional academic challenge found more opportunities within international schools.
Others reported excellent experiences in Norwegian public schools.
Experiences varied considerably between municipalities, schools, teachers and individual pupils.
It’s difficult to draw broad conclusions from individual experiences.
Why Families Choose International Schools
Parents who chose international schools often had different priorities.
Many knew they would only remain in Norway for a limited period.
Others expected future international assignments.
Some had employers who covered the tuition fees as part of their relocation package.
Several parents also described choosing an international school because they felt their child would thrive in a more academically structured learning environment.
Common reasons included:
- continuity between countries
- English-language education
- internationally recognised curricula
- greater academic challenge
- project-based learning
- international friendships
Again, none of these reasons are inherently better or worse.
They simply reflect different family priorities.
Not All International Schools Are the Same
One important point is often overlooked.
There is no single “international school” model. International schools in Norway differ considerably.
Some follow the International Baccalaureate (IB). Others teach British, French, German or other national curricula.
Teaching philosophy, language of instruction, class sizes, admission requirements and tuition fees can vary significantly.
Some schools primarily serve internationally mobile families, while others also attract Norwegian families seeking a different educational approach.
For this reason, it’s important to compare individual schools rather than assuming every international school offers the same experience.
What Parents Appreciated About International Schools
Parents who chose international schools frequently highlighted continuity and academic challenge.
For families relocating between countries, remaining within a familiar curriculum can make future moves significantly easier.
Many schools also place considerable emphasis on independent learning, critical thinking, research skills and project-based education.
One parent who had experienced both systems commented that the international school encouraged pupils to better understand how they learned, reflect on their own progress and take greater responsibility for their education.
For children who enjoy this style of learning, the environment can be highly motivating.
An International Community
Another commonly mentioned advantage was the international environment itself.
Children study alongside classmates from many different countries, many of whom have also experienced relocating internationally.
For newly arrived families, this shared experience can make settling into Norway feel considerably less overwhelming.
Continuity
One parent explained that they chose the French School because it allowed their child to continue learning in French while gradually adapting to life in Norway.
For globally mobile families, continuity in language and curriculum can reduce the disruption associated with moving countries.
Things Parents Found Challenging About International Schools
International schools also have disadvantages.
Tuition Fees
Unlike Norwegian public schools, international schools charge tuition fees.
These vary considerably but may range from approximately NOK 30,000 to well over NOK 280,000 per child each year, depending on the school and year level.
Some employers cover these costs as part of an international assignment.
Many families, however, pay privately.
Longer Commutes
Unlike neighbourhood public schools, international schools often draw pupils from across an entire city or region.
This means children may spend considerably longer travelling to school.
It can also make spontaneous playdates and after-school activities more difficult because classmates may live many kilometres apart.
Learning Norwegian
Many international schools teach Norwegian as part of their curriculum.
However, because much of the school day takes place in English or another language, children generally have fewer opportunities to practise Norwegian naturally during everyday classroom interactions.
For families intending to settle permanently in Norway, this is an important consideration.
Every Child Is Different
If there was one message that came through more strongly than any other in our survey, it was this:
Every child is different.
Many parents have experienced both school systems.
Some families even have one child in a Norwegian public school and another in an international school.
Others changed schools after realising their child’s needs were not being met.
One parent summed it up perfectly:
“Both schools have their strengths. The important thing is to truly listen to and observe your own child, because every child is different.”
That simple observation probably captures the entire debate better than anything else.
Some children love the relaxed, collaborative approach of Norwegian schools.
Others are energised by a more academically structured environment.
Some children adapt quickly to a new language.
Others benefit from remaining in a familiar language while settling into a new country.
There isn’t a formula that works for every family.
What About Bullying?
Whenever schools are discussed, the topic of bullying almost always comes up.
Some parents shared extremely positive experiences.
Others described situations where their child struggled.
One thing became very clear from the responses we received:
It isn’t possible to say that bullying is more common in one school system than the other.
Two children attending the same school—or even the same class—can have completely different experiences depending on friendships, teachers, personalities and individual circumstances.
Rather than assuming one school system is automatically “better”, ask how each individual school approaches inclusion, wellbeing and conflict resolution.
If your child experiences bullying or does not feel safe at school, both Norwegian public schools and international schools are legally or institutionally expected to work actively to provide a safe learning environment for pupils.
Can You Switch Schools Later?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that choosing a school is a permanent decision.
In reality, many families change schools as their circumstances evolve.
Some begin in an international school before transferring to a Norwegian public school.
Others do the opposite.
Some children thrive in one environment during primary school before moving to another for secondary education.
Family plans also change.
An assignment that was expected to last two years may become permanent.
A permanent move may unexpectedly become temporary.
Your child’s needs may also change as they grow older.
Choosing one school today does not mean your child must remain there throughout their education.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding
There isn’t one perfect answer, but asking the right questions can make the decision much easier.
Ask yourselves:
- Are we planning to stay in Norway permanently or only for a few years?
- How important is it that our child becomes fluent in Norwegian?
- Does our child enjoy academic challenge or prefer a more relaxed learning environment?
- Would continuity in an international curriculum benefit our family?
- How important are neighbourhood friendships?
- Will tuition fees fit comfortably within our budget?
- How practical is the daily commute?
- What type of learning environment brings out the best in our child?
- Is our child excited—or anxious—about starting a new school?
Sometimes these questions reveal the answer surprisingly quickly.
Which Option Might Suit Your Family?
While every family is different, parents in our survey generally shared similar priorities.
A Norwegian public school may be a good fit if you:
✓ Plan to stay in Norway long-term
✓ Want your child to become fluent in Norwegian
✓ Value integration into the local community
✓ Like the idea of neighbourhood friendships and nearby classmates
✓ Appreciate the Norwegian philosophy of childhood and learning
An international school may be a good fit if you:
✓ Expect another international move in the future
✓ Want continuity in curriculum
✓ Prefer English-language instruction
✓ Have employer-funded tuition or are comfortable paying school fees
✓ Feel your child thrives in a more academically structured environment
Our Perspective After 30 Years
Over the past three decades, we’ve helped countless international families settle in Norway.
We’ve seen children flourish in Norwegian public schools.
We’ve seen children flourish in international schools.
We’ve also seen families change their minds—and that’s perfectly normal.
The right school at age six may not be the right school at age fourteen.
Plans change.
Children change.
Families change.
That’s why we believe this decision should never be about choosing the “best” school.
It should be about choosing the environment that best supports your child.
After reading dozens of responses from international parents across Norway, one message stood out above all others.
The happiest families weren’t necessarily those who chose Norwegian public schools.
They weren’t necessarily those who chose international schools either.
They were the families who chose the environment that best matched their child’s personality, interests and needs.
Perhaps that’s the most important lesson of all.
The question isn’t:
“Which school is best?”
It is:
“Which school will allow our child to flourish?”
Because that’s the question that matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Norwegian public school better than an international school?
Neither is objectively better.
Norwegian public schools generally focus on integration, language acquisition and community, while international schools often offer greater curriculum continuity and an internationally focused learning environment.
The right choice depends on your child’s needs and your family’s plans.
Will my child learn Norwegian at an international school?
Yes.
Many international schools teach Norwegian as part of their curriculum.
However, children attending Norwegian public schools generally have more opportunities to use Norwegian naturally throughout the school day, which often leads to faster language development.
Are international schools expensive in Norway?
They can be.
Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the school and year level, ranging from approximately NOK 30,000 to well over NOK 280,000 per child each year.
Some employers include these costs as part of an international assignment package.
Can my child transfer between a Norwegian public school and an international school?
Yes.
Many families change schools as their circumstances or their child’s educational needs change.
Is it difficult for children who don’t speak Norwegian to attend a public school?
Many children adapt surprisingly quickly.
Newly arrived pupils may also be entitled to special Norwegian language instruction while developing their language skills, although the support available varies between municipalities and schools.
What if My Child Speaks Neither Norwegian nor English?
Parents are sometimes concerned about moving to Norway if their child speaks neither Norwegian nor English.
In Norwegian public schools, the primary focus is helping newly arrived pupils develop their Norwegian language skills. Depending on the municipality and the child’s needs, pupils may also receive bilingual subject support or mother-tongue assistance during the transition, where available.
Children often learn through a combination of specialised language instruction, classroom participation and interaction with classmates. Younger children, in particular, frequently acquire both Norwegian and English surprisingly quickly through everyday life.
International schools vary in the support they offer. While the main language of instruction is often English, many schools have experience welcoming pupils from a wide range of linguistic backgrounds. The level of English language support differs between schools, so it’s important to ask about this during the admissions process.