Health and education
Learn about the general practitioner scheme, hospitals, kindergartens, primary school and higher education which are part of the curriculum for the citizenship test.
The Healthcare System
The Norwegian healthcare system is publicly funded and gives all residents the right to necessary medical care. The system is organized on two levels: primary healthcare services (general practitioner, health clinic, emergency room) and specialist healthcare services (hospitals and outpatient clinics).
The General Practitioner Scheme
Everyone registered as a resident in Norway has the right to a general practitioner (GP). The GP is your regular contact for health problems and refers you to a specialist if needed.
| Service | Co-payment |
|---|---|
| GP consultation | Approximately 200-300 NOK per visit |
| Emergency room | Higher co-payment than GP |
| Hospital treatment | Up to the copayment card limit |
| Children under 16 | Free |
When you have paid co-payments above the copayment card limit (approximately 3,000 NOK per year), you receive a copayment card and do not have to pay further co-payments for the rest of the year.
Emergency Numbers
- 113 — medical emergency (ambulance)
- 110 — fire
- 112 — police
The Education System
Education in Norway is primarily free and divided into several levels.
| Level | Age | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 1-5 years | Voluntary, with maximum price |
| Primary School | 6-16 years | 10 years, mandatory |
| Upper Secondary School | 16-19 years | 3 years, right but not obligation |
| Higher Education | 19+ | University or college |
Kindergarten
Kindergarten is voluntary, but over 90% of children aged 1-5 attend kindergarten. There is a maximum price for parental payment set by the Parliament. The municipality is obliged to offer a kindergarten place to all children who are entitled to it.
Primary SchoolPrimary school is compulsory and free for all children from 6 to 16 years old. It consists of elementary school (grades 1-7) and lower secondary school (grades 8-10). The teaching follows a national curriculum set by the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training.
Upper secondary education
Everyone who has completed primary school has the right to upper secondary education. You can choose between academic preparatory and vocational programs. Vocational programs usually end with a trade certificate after two years at school and two years as an apprentice.
Higher education
Universities and colleges offer free education at public institutions. The Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen) provides student loans and grants. Norway has several universities, including UiO, NTNU, and UiB.Health and education are part of the curriculum for the social studies test . Also read about work life and welfare and family and equality . Practice with a free theory test .
Read next
More in The civics test
About the social studies test
Learn what the civic knowledge test involves, who must take it, and what is required to pass.
Democracy and rights
Learn about the Norwegian democracy, the Parliament, municipalities, and rights that are part of the curriculum for the social studies exam.
Economy and tax
Learn about tax cards, tax returns, deductions, and banking services that are part of the curriculum for the civics test.
Family and equality
Learn about marriage, cohabitation, gender equality, and children's rights, which are part of the curriculum for the social studies test.