Survival tips for new students
Being a brand new student is exciting, but it can also be filled with anxiety and confusion, especially in a new country. Being on your own for the first time gives you great freedom, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility, like finding your way to buying your own food, paying your rent, time management, and more.
Well, worry no more! We have compiled this list from our former and current students of the most important things a new student needs to buy or bring so that you can REALLY survive student life.
Being a brand new student is exciting, but it can also be filled with anxiety and confusion, especially in a new country. Being on your own for the first time gives you great freedom, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility, like finding your way, buying your own food, paying your rent, managing your time, and more.
Well, worry no more! We have compiled this list from former and current students of the most important things a new student needs to buy or bring so that you can REALLY survive student life.
The following links offer simple procedures that each student must follow when on campus. In all cases, students must obey the instructions of the professor and teaching assistant when in the laboratory.
Here are some useful links to help you find your campus, housing, and internet access:
The weather in Norway can change quickly. Warm and waterproof clothing is essential, especially during winter.
- Woollen underwear
- Warm jumper or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Woollen socks, gloves, hat, and scarf
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Ice spikes for winter walking
If you cannot bring warm clothing from home, make sure you have enough money to buy suitable clothes after arrival.
Norwegian Kroner (NOK) is the only currency used in Norway.
You should bring approximately NOK 500 in cash for transport and food during your first days.
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout Norway.
Norway uses a 230 V electrical system with a 50 Hz frequency. Power outlets use European standard Type C or Type F plugs with two round pins.
Travel adaptors and converters can be purchased at airports, luggage shops, and electronics stores in Norway, but it is recommended that you bring one from home just in case.
If you have an unlocked mobile phone, you can buy a prepaid Norwegian SIM card from convenience stores and kiosks such as Narvesen, Mix, and 7-Eleven.
A monthly mobile subscription normally requires a Norwegian ID number if you plan to stay in Norway for more than six months.
Please remember to register your Norwegian phone number on Studentweb, as the university may send important information about lectures, examinations, and other updates by SMS.
Tap water in Norway is very clean, fresh, and safe to drink. In many cases, it is of higher quality than bottled water.
In larger buildings or hotels, it is recommended to let the water run for a few seconds until it becomes cold before drinking.
Fluoride is not added to Norwegian tap water. If required, fluoride tablets can be purchased from most pharmacies.
If you require urgent medical assistance, the emergency department at the University Hospital of Northern Norway is recommended.
Tromsø: Legevakten – Tel: 116 117, Sykehusveien 30. In emergencies, call 113.
Harstad: Legevakt Harstad – Tel: 116 117, St. Olavs gate 70, 9406 Harstad. In emergencies, call 113.
Alta: Legevakt i Alta – Tel: 116 117, Dr. Kvammes vei 21, 9510 Alta. In emergencies, call 113.
Narvik: Legevakt i Narvik – Tel: 116 117, Sykehusveien 1, 8516 Narvik. In emergencies, call 113.
Pharmacies are available in city centres and shopping centres throughout Norway.
During the orientation programme, Debut WEEK International, students may be invited to give a cultural presentation about their home country or region.
You are encouraged to bring traditional clothing, flags, decorations, souvenirs, music, snacks, or other cultural items that you would like to share with fellow students.
This is a great opportunity to introduce your culture and learn about others from around the world.
Apcoa Parking provides parking services at UiT campuses. Students and staff are encouraged to use the Apcoa Flow mobile app to pay for parking.
If you have questions about parking facilities at Campus Tromsø in Breivika, you can contact:
- Valid passport or national ID card
- Your Letter of Admission
- Academic documents and transcripts
- Health insurance documents
- Student housing contract
These documents are important for registration and settling in quickly after arrival.
Last changed: 10.06.2026 16.17
