Buskerud and Vestfold University College

Buskerud and Vestfold University College (Norwegian: Høgskolen i Buskerud og Vestfold, HBV) is a regional university college with campuses in Drammen, Kongsberg, Hønefoss and Horten in the counties of Buskerud and Vestfold, Norway. It was created as a merger of Buskerud University College and Vestfold University College on 1 January 2014. It is the second-largest university college in Norway, measured in students, after Oslo and Akershus University College.

The HBV campuses lie in a part of Norway where you can enjoy much of what our grand nature can offer: skiing in Kongsberg, sailing in Vestfold, trekking in Ringerike and getting a sense of urban life in Drammen. The counties of Buskerud and Vestfold are centrally located in the South-Eastern part of Norway – never more than an hour’s drive to our capital, Oslo. Our central location is a pull for international students, but that is not the only reason why you should come just here.

Founded in 1994, Buskerud and Vestfold University College (Høgskolen i Buskerud og Vestfold) was established as a regional institution serving the counties of Buskerud and Vestfold in Norway. The university college was created through the merger of several smaller colleges and institutions, aiming to strengthen higher education and research in the region. Over the years, it has grown significantly in size and scope, offering a wide range of bachelor's and master's programs across various disciplines including health sciences, engineering, business, arts, and social sciences. The institution emphasizes practical training and collaboration with local industries, fostering innovation and community development. In 2016, the university college was granted university status, becoming Buskerud and Vestfold University College, thereby expanding its research capacity and academic offerings. The university continues to play a vital role in regional development, promoting lifelong learning and international cooperation. Its campus facilities are equipped with modern technology to support both teaching and research activities. Throughout its history, the institution has prioritized quality education, inclusivity, and sustainability. As one of Norway’s regional universities, Buskerud and Vestfold University College maintains strong connections with industry partners, government agencies, and the community to ensure relevance and societal impact of its programs. The university's evolution reflects its commitment to adapt to the changing educational landscape and to meet the needs of its students and the region it serves.

Admissions requirements at Buskerud and Vestfold University College include holding a Norwegian upper secondary school diploma or an equivalent qualification recognized in Norway. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the Norwegian language through approved language tests unless they come from a country where Norwegian is an official language or have completed relevant education in Norwegian. For programs taught in English, applicants are generally required to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores that meet certain minimum levels. Some programs may have specific prerequisites or require relevant coursework at the upper secondary level. International students must also meet visa requirements, which involve demonstrating sufficient financial support and health insurance coverage as per Norwegian regulations. The application process typically involves submitting an online application form via the university's admission portal within the specified deadline, along with certified copies of diplomas and transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and other supporting documents. Certain programs may conduct interviews, entrance exams, or require additional documentation, depending on their specific admission criteria. The university evaluates applications based on academic performance, relevant qualifications, language skills, and, when applicable, supplementary assessments, to select candidates who meet the standards of each program. Admission decisions are communicated through the university's official channels. Prospective students are advised to carefully review the specific entry requirements for their chosen program on the university's website to ensure they meet all criteria before applying.

Buskerud and Vestfold University College (HBV) is an accredited higher education institution in Norway. The accreditation process in Norway involves the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (NOKUT), which ensures that universities and university colleges meet national standards for quality and academic excellence. HBV has been recognized as meeting all necessary requirements to provide valid and recognized degrees within its offered programs.

The accreditation confirms that HBV adheres to Norwegian regulations on higher education, including curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, infrastructure, student services, and research activities. This accreditation status enables students to pursue undergraduate, master's, and continuing education programs with assurance of the academic credibility and recognized qualification upon graduation. The university's programs are developed according to national and international standards, ensuring relevance and academic rigor.

As part of the accreditation maintenance process, HBV undergoes periodic reviews, including self-assessment reports, external evaluations by experts, and regular reporting to NOKUT. The process assesses the institution's compliance with quality standards in areas such as teaching quality, research output, student engagement, and institutional management. The accreditation status also facilitates international cooperation and exchanges, as degrees awarded are recognized across Europe and beyond.

The process of accreditation involves detailed documentation of educational activities, strategic plans for quality improvement, and evidence of ongoing development. HBV has successfully maintained its accreditation status, reinforcing its reputation as a reputable provider of higher education in Norway. This accreditation status is essential for students, faculty, and staff, as it guarantees that the university meets the rigorous standards necessary for academic excellence and student success.

In addition to national accreditation, HBV participates in various quality assurance initiatives and collaborates with other European universities to align its standards with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). This enables the university to partake in mobility programs such as Erasmus+ and enhances its international profile. The accreditation not only certifies the quality of current programs but also supports the university's strategic focus on continuous improvement and innovation in education and research.

Overall, Buskerud and Vestfold University College's accreditation signifies its compliance with Norway’s high standards for higher education institutions, affirming its commitment to delivering quality education, fostering research, and contributing to societal development. The institution's accreditation status is a testament to its dedication to academic integrity, excellence, and continuous enhancement of its educational offerings.

All campuses provide housing for international students. Our accommodation services are run by the Student Welfare Foundation in Buskerud and Vestfold (SiBV).

Private rooms, many of them with private bathrooms, and private or shared kitchens are available for all incoming international exchange students, international full degree students as well as local Norwegian students through SiBV. In the student houses there is provided access to Internet, cable TV and use of laundry services. Please be aware that SiBV cannot accommodate several students per one room!

Deadlines for Housing Applications (All Campuses):

Deadline to apply for the accommodation for Fall semester: 1st May

Deadline to apply for the accommodation for Spring semester: 1st November

How to apply for housing

In order apply for the housing in one of our four campuses you have to do the following:

• Submit an online housing application to SiBV. You need to register a user account the first time before you can log in to the online application. While filling the online application form you will be asked to provide your contact details and you will be able to select your preferred rooms.
• Follow-up on practical information about your housing on your login account at SiBV

Each residence unit has connection to satellite/cable TV and internet access, some with wi-fi connection. Some of the units are friendly for wheelchair users. Several residential buildings have living rooms, a laundry etc. All residences are furnished, except from bed linen and kitchen equipment. 

Please note: Prices will differ, depending on the size, the standard and the location. Normally we try to pre-book the most affordable flats for international students. If you want to upgrade your room through the SiBV online application in order to get a higher standard, the price might go up.

Depending on availability, necessary kitchen utensils to share with your flat mates might be available in the apartment, but you are advised to bring some yourself.

A pillow case and one set of linen for your bed, and a couple of bath towels can be pre-ordered from the housing services or you can bring them yourself. There's a fixed price for this set, and more information can be found at SiBV's internet pages. You are advised to bring along a few extra bath towels and an extra pair of linen.

Library services including access to extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources. Study areas and quiet zones designed for individual and group study to support academic work. Computer laboratories equipped with modern hardware and software to facilitate research and coursework. Wireless internet across campus premises, allowing students to connect their devices seamlessly. Cafeterias and student lounges providing spaces for relaxation, social interaction, and informal meetings. Health services including medical and psychological support to promote student well-being. Career services offering counseling, internships, job placement assistance, and workshops to prepare students for their professional future. Student administration offices handling registration, transcripts, and administrative inquiries. Parking facilities and bike storage areas for commuting students and staff. Sports facilities such as gyms, fitness rooms, and outdoor fields to promote physical activity and wellbeing. Student organizations and clubs for cultural, academic, and social engagement. Event halls and auditoriums hosting lectures, conferences, workshops, and cultural events. Language labs and tutoring centers supporting academic success and language development. International student support services including orientation, counseling, and help with visa processes. Accommodation services assisting students in finding on-campus or nearby housing options. IT support services for troubleshooting technical issues and software assistance. Printing, scanning, and copying services available for academic and administrative purposes. Accessibility services and facilities to support students with disabilities. Transportation services and information for navigating between campus and city locations. Environmental sustainability initiatives and resources to promote eco-friendly practices among students. Campus security services ensuring safety for students, staff, and visitors at all times. These facilities and services collectively aim to enhance student experience by providing support, convenience, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

The HBV campuses lie in a part of Norway where you can enjoy much of what our grand nature can offer: skiing in Kongsberg, sailing in Vestfold, trekking in Ringerike and getting a sense of urban life in Drammen. The counties of Buskerud and Vestfold are centrally located in the South-Eastern part of Norway – never more than an hour’s drive to our capital, Oslo. Our central location is a pull for international students, but that is not the only reason why you should come just here.

Great Learning Environment

HBV is a newly merged university college, aspiring to be among Norway’s best higher educational institutions. We are ambitious, offer a wide range of well-run engaging programmes, and work to attract skilled students to updated modules and degrees of high educational value and quality. We offer an informal and study-friendly environment, and our campuses are relatively small with an open-door policy where we dedicate time and attention to each student.

Our aim is to provide premium conditions for your professional and personal development. We have exceptional teachers and researchers who work hard to communicate with their students, creating a good learning environment for all.

Learning and research cannot be isolated from practical life. We believe in sharing knowledge with the wider community to which we belong. Thus, we have established research cooperation and teaching affiliations with the international, regional, local industries and institutions.

Within technology, business, education, social sciences and the maritime industry you will find well-developed and future-oriented sectors that has inspired and will inspire current and future students to choose us as their educational partner. Our courses are focused on practical study methods with problem-based approaches which help students to prepare for real life situations. We emphasize the need of society’s demands on high quality education and follow suit on that requirement. That’s why you should be part of it.

Tuition Free

If you worry about paying high tuition – don’t worry! As for all public Norwegian higher educational institutions, HBV offers tuition free education, safe living and study environment and a multicultural society where English is widely spoken by the majority of locals.