Norwegian University of Science and Technology
The Gloshaugen campus
There is a huge range of courses to choose from, so you’ll definitely find something that interests you. Each course is worth 7.5 ECTS, so you only need to take four courses to complete the semester, which leaves a lot of free time. However, depending on the course, there can be many assignments and projects to complete.
When choosing courses, make sure to check if the final exam is the only grade, or if there will be exercises and/or a project. Don’t forget to study regularly (especially if you choose a course with only lectures and no assignments…).
If you want to improve your English without going to an English-speaking country, this is the perfect place; Norwegians have a good level of English, and there are many exchange students. The university has several libraries but also plenty of workspaces on campus.
Life in Norway can seem (very) expensive, but mobility grants can be a big help.
Don’t forget to plan your return date early and cancel your housing contract because you need to give at least two months’ notice.
Cinnamonrolls in the college café
There are several student villages in Trondheim, most of which are operated by SIT (similar to CROUS). If you do your exchange during the second semester, you should be able to rent accommodation with them. Personally, I recommend the Moholt village; that’s where most students (especially international students) live. It’s also one of the few places where most of the apartments are furnished.
There are different types of housing available, and I suggest choosing a room in the Moholt allmenning towers. These are the newest accommodations, and the apartments are shared by 15 people. You’ll have your own room and bathroom.
As for transportation, the city has a good bus network. The buses run frequently, and there are even night buses. A line directly connects Moholt to the Gløshaugen campus (where you’ll have most of your classes) and downtown.
There are many student organizations, covering all possible subjects and a variety of sports (football, badminton, beach volleyball, dance… and even Quidditch or a Formula 1 team!). If you like winter sports or cabin trips, this is paradise. There are associations that lend equipment (for free!) or rent out cabins.
If you enjoy going out, you must visit Studentersamfundet, the largest student organization (and also the name of the building where the association is located) in Norway. They organize all kinds of events (quizzes, concerts, themed parties, etc.).
It’s quite difficult to make friends during classes (many people already know each other and have their own groups of friends). The easiest way to meet people is by joining an organization and participating in events (especially at the start of the semester).
Most discussion groups for exchange students are on WhatsApp. Sometimes you can get hundreds of notifications per day, which can be a bit annoying, but this is where you’ll find most of the information and help regarding paperwork, events, life in Trondheim, etc.