Teaching in Norway is often described as a balanced mix of professionalism and purpose. The country has invested heavily in education, giving teachers modern classrooms, updated resources, and a system that values both student growth and teacher well-being. Unlike in many places where teaching can feel overwhelming, Norway’s approach is more about guiding, mentoring, and helping students develop independence rather than just memorizing facts.
For teachers, opportunities are available in different directions like public schools that form the backbone of the system, private and international schools that bring in global standards, and vocational institutes that train students with hands-on skills. While knowing Norwegian is usually important for public school roles, international schools provide openings for teachers who are fluent in English and experienced in global curricula.
What makes Norway stand out is not just the job itself but the lifestyle that comes with it. Teachers here enjoy fair pay, respect in society, and the chance to live in one of the most beautiful and safe countries in the world. It’s a career path that combines stability with the reward of shaping young minds in a supportive environment.
Current Teaching Job Opportunities in Norway
1. Gjøvikregionen International School (GIS)
Hiring substitute and on-call teachers for different subjects.
Location: Gjøvik.
2. British International Schools of Stavanger (BISS)
Hiring a Special Education Needs (SEND) Teacher (temporary role until July 2026).
Location: Stavanger.
3. Preschool & Teaching Assistants (multiple schools)
Openings for assistants in international preschools especially in Stavanger and Oslo. Often found on Indeed and NAV (Norway’s job site).
Application Guide for Teaching Jobs in Norway
1. Prepare Your Documents: Updated CV/resume preferably in English, and Norwegian if possible. Cover letter tailored to the specific school or position. Copies of teaching certificates, degrees, and transcripts and References from previous schools or employers.
2. Check Qualification Recognition: If your degree is from outside Norway, apply for recognition through NOKUT (Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education). This is often required for public school jobs.
3. Search for Openings: Public schools, check municipal websites and the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training job listings. International schools: Visit individual school websites (e.g., OIS, Bergen International School).
4. Language Considerations: For public schools, you may need proof of Norwegian or Scandinavian language skills. For international schools, strong English is enough, though learning Norwegian is a plus.
5. Apply Online: Submit your application directly through school portals or job sites like Jobbnorge.no, Finn.no, or NAV.no (Norway’s official job portal).
6. Prepare for Interviews: Interviews are often conducted via video call if you’re outside Norway. Be ready to discuss your teaching style, classroom management, and how you adapt to diverse learners.
7. Visa and Work Permit: Non-EU/EEA teachers have to apply for a work visa after receiving a job offer while EU/EEA teachers can work without a visa but must register with local authorities.
8. Relocation Support: Some international schools offer relocation packages (help with housing, flights, or settling-in costs). Ask during the hiring process if these benefits are available.
Top Organizations and Schools Hiring Teachers in Norway
1. Oslo International School (OIS): One of the most popular international schools, offering the IB curriculum. Frequently hires teachers in English, sciences, arts, and humanities.
2. Bergen International School: Based in Bergen, following the IB program. Great option for English-speaking teachers.
3. Norwegian Public Schools (through the Ministry of Education and local municipalities): The largest employer of teachers in Norway. Requires Norwegian language proficiency.
4. Stavanger International School: Located in the oil-rich Stavanger region. Offers international teaching opportunities, especially for IB teachers.
5. Trondheim International School: A smaller IB school but often recruits teachers from abroad.
6. Kristiansand International School: Offers both local and international curriculum. Regularly hires English-speaking educators.
7. BI Norwegian Business School (Oslo): Focused on higher education in business and management. Opportunities for lecturers and professors.
8. University of Oslo: Norway’s largest and oldest university. Frequently hires lecturers, professors, and researchers.
9. Nordic International School Network: A group of private schools that sometimes hire English-speaking teachers.
10. Vocational Schools (Fagskole): Across Norway, these schools hire professionals with trade skills (engineering, healthcare, IT, hospitality) who also want to teach.
See also: Healthcare and Nursing jobs in Norway
Requirements and Qualifications
1. Teaching Degree or Certification: To work in public schools, you’ll need a recognized teaching degree (Bachelor’s in Education or equivalent). Specialized teachers e.g., science, math, or special needs often need additional training or certifications.
2. Recognition of Foreign Qualifications: If your degree is from outside Norway, you’ll need to apply for recognition through NOKUT (Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education). This process ensures your qualifications match Norwegian standards.
3. Language Skills: For public schools, a good command of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language is usually required. International schools, however, hire English-speaking teachers, so fluency in Norwegian isn’t always necessary.
4. Work Permit and Visa: Non-EU/EEA citizens must secure a work visa or residence permit to teach in Norway. EU/EEA citizens can work without a visa but must register with local authorities.
5. Experience: While not always mandatory, many schools prefer teachers with at least 2–3 years of teaching experience. For vocational schools, professional work experience in your field can sometimes outweigh formal teaching experience.
6. Background Checks: Teachers working with children must provide a clean police clearance certificate to ensure child safety.
7. Soft Skills and Teaching Approach: Beyond certificates, Norway values teachers who are student-focused, adaptable, and collaborative. A growth mindset and openness to different teaching methods are highly appreciated.
Salary Expectations
Teaching in Norway is considered a stable and well-respected career, and the pay reflects the country’s high living standards. While salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the type of school, here’s a general breakdown:
1. Public School Teachers: Entry-level teachers usually earn around 480,000 to 520,000 NOK per year about $45,000 to $49,000 USD. With experience, salaries can rise to 600,000 to 650,000 NOK (about $56,000 –$61,000 USD).
2. International School Teachers: Salaries here may be slightly higher or come with benefits like housing support, relocation allowance, or tuition discounts for children. On average, international school teachers earn 500,000 to 700,000 NOK annually.
3. Kindergarten Teachers (Barnehage): Early childhood educators typically earn between 420,000 to 480,000 NOK per year.
4. Vocational and Technical School Teachers: Depending on experience and specialization, salaries range between 500,000 to 650,000 NOK annually.
5. University Lecturers and Professors: Lecturers usually earn 550,000 to 700,000 NOK per year. Professors and senior researchers can earn 700,000 to 900,000 NOK or more.
Extra Benefits
1. Pension contributions and strong social security.
2. Work-life balance: Teachers enjoy shorter working hours compared to many countries.
3. Paid leave: Generous vacation and parental leave policies.
Overall, while Norway has high living costs, teaching salaries are designed to provide a comfortable lifestyle, especially with the added benefits of healthcare, pension, and social security.
Conclusion
Teaching in Norway offers more than just a job, it’s a chance to be part of an education system that values equality, creativity, and well-being. With opportunities in public schools, vocational institutions, universities, and international schools, there’s room for teachers from diverse backgrounds.
For foreign educators, international schools are often the most accessible path, especially for English speakers. Those who take the time to learn Norwegian can unlock even more opportunities in the public sector. Salaries are competitive, work-life balance is highly respected, and teachers enjoy strong support from the community and government.
While the application process may seem formal with degree recognition, language requirements, and visa paperwork, the rewards are worth it. Living and teaching in Norway means combining professional growth with a high quality of life, surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
For passionate teachers seeking stability, respect, and a supportive teaching environment, Norway is one of the best places to build a meaningful career.
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