IFUS Programme overview

Introductory Programme in Norwegian Language

The language of instruction for NTNU's regular studies offering in Engineering, Architecture, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities and Medicine is Norwegian. International students who satisfy the academic and English language admission requirements, but have no previous knowledge of Norwegian language, can apply for admission to NTNU’s ten-month Introductory Programme in Norwegian Language for International Students (IFUS).

PROGRAMME CONTENT

IFUS aims at providing students with a communicative competence in Norwegian. Students will be given the language skills needed to master written and spoken Norwegian in academic as well as everyday situations. An introduction to Norwegian culture and society as well as the sociolinguistical aspects are therefore integrated in the course. In the first part of the course the lecturer will systematically present the basics of Norwegian grammar, syntax and phonetics. At a later stage emphasis will be placed on expanding students' vocabulary and knowledge of idiomatic expressions. Students will also have listening and pronunciation exercises in the language laboratory where modern audio equipment is readily available.

• IFUS gives 30 credits
• The programme starts in August and ends in mid-May the following year.
• The course has a duration of approximately 28 weeks with 12 hours of class instruction and 1 hour of conversation per week.

UPON PROGRAMME COMPLETION

Students admitted directly from abroad are guaranteed admission to further studies at NTNU. Applicants must, therefore, list a minimum of three alternative programmes of study at NTNU. The admission letter for the IFUS programme also includes which programme of study the student is guaranteed admission into once the IFUS programme has been successfully completed (a passing grade of E or better).

FINANCING

Students must pay a small semester fee of about USD 70 per semester. In addition, students must document their ability to financially support themselves while studying in Norway.

It is important to note that it is not possible to apply for financing through the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund, or other government and university grants and loans for the IFUS programme.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Application to the programme is open to anyone who fulfils the minimum entrance requirements, and can document ability to finance their study.

1. The programme is primarily aimed at students who intend to study at NTNU after the completion of the IFUS programme.
2. It is possible for applicants already residing in Norway to apply for the programme, provided the course has not been filled with applicants directly from abroad. The admission requirements are the same, but it is not necessary to document funding.
3. Students who have a prior agreement with their home institution to take this programme as part of their studies at their home institution may also apply.

It is an absolute requirement that the applicants have not attended any previous courses in Norwegian, or know any Norwegian.

DEADLINES and DATES

• 1st December - PRELIMINARY APPLICATION: The preliminary application deadline for the IFUS program is December 1st for the following academic year.
• 15th February - FINAL APPLICATION: Qualified candidates receive the final application form, which has to be returned by February 15th.
• April - ACCEPTANCE LETTERS SENT - The admissions process will normally be finalized by the end of April.

SELECTION PROCESS and PRIORITIZATION

The places in the IFUS programme are strictly reserved for candidates with good academic qualifications and ability to document sufficient funding for their studies. A maximum of 20 students may be admitted to this programme each year. Applicants residing abroad will be given priority.

● ● ● Return to overview: Norwegian Courses at NTNU