Major Types of Mentorship and Support Programs in Norwegian Universities

Norwegian higher education institutions have developed various mentorship formats that cater to diverse student needs, aligning academic learning with real-world experiences.

Peer and Academic Mentorship

Mentorship programs generally connect students with seasoned mentors — often alumni, professionals, or faculty — who provide personalized guidance on academic planning, career development, and cultural adaptation.

Notable Examples

• Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) Mentoring Programme

  This program pairs master’s students with experienced alumni mentors for six months. Participants arrange meetings flexibly, focusing on professional growth, job search strategies, interview preparation, and balancing work-life demands. A distinctive feature is its inclusivity, with English-language seminars tailored to international students.

• Nord University Business School Mentor Programme

  At Nord University, students are matched with Norwegian business leaders to bridge academic theory with practical industry insights. This mentorship fosters networking, business collaboration, and career readiness.

• Women Stem Up at NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology)

  This mentoring initiative aims to enhance participants’ sense of belonging and retention, offering both group and individual mentoring sessions available online and in person.

Key Features of Norwegian Student Mentorship Programs

• Personalized Matching: Students are carefully paired with mentors who align with their academic interests and career aspirations.
• Flexible Structure: Mentorship interactions are largely driven by the mentee, promoting autonomy and customized support.
• Career Development Focus: Programs emphasize professional skills development, including networking and applying academic knowledge in practical settings.
• Inclusivity and Accessibility: Many programs are designed to be accessible to international students.
• Networking Opportunities: Linking students to industry professionals and alumni enhances connections and job prospects.

Support Beyond Mentorship: Comprehensive Student Services

• Orientation Programs: Tailored sessions help new students acclimate to academic systems and culture.
• Academic Skills Workshops: These workshops focus on study techniques, research skills, and time management.
• Language Support and Integration Activities: Language courses and social events help students integrate into local communities.

How International Students and Universities Can Engage with Mentorship Programs

Participation in mentorship initiatives usually involves a straightforward application or expression of interest, leading to mentor matching and ongoing support throughout the program duration.

Leveraging Mentorship and Support Programs for International Student Recruitment

• Emphasize the personalized and inclusive nature of Norway’s education system to prospective students.
• Highlight career readiness and networking benefits, attracting career-focused applicants.
• Collaborate with universities to streamline student onboarding by promoting mentorship programs.

Conclusion

Norwegian student mentorship and support programs exemplify a robust model for fostering academic success and career development, especially for international students. The personalized, flexible, and inclusive nature of these programs creates invaluable opportunities for learning, networking, and cultural integration.

Take the Next Step with Study in Norway

At Study in Norway, we are committed to advancing international education by providing expert guidance, insights into Norway’s educational landscape, and connecting international students with top institutions.