The GSU list
A list has been compiled of general entrance requirements for applicants with higher education qualifications from abroad. These requirements are set out in what is referred to as the GSU list (formerly the SIS list).

Minimum requirements for obtaining recognition
Foreign qualifications are normally recognised as higher education in Norway if they are at the same level as Norwegian higher education qualifications. The GSU List has been compiled to provide an overview of the general level and scope of foreign higher education courses and programmes as compared with Norwegian higher education.

The list indicates what level of education applicants from different countries require in order to meet Norwegian general entrance requirements, including requirements concerning proof of proficiency in English. All applicants are required to be able to document sufficient Norwegian language skills in order to meet Norwegian general entrance requirements.

General entrance requirements
General entrance requirements form the general basis for admission to Norwegian universities and university colleges, cf.  2 of the Regulations relating to admission to universities and university colleges, as prescribed by the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research, 14.10.05.

Special entrance requirements
For some university and university college courses, special entrance requirements apply in addition to the general entrance requirements, usually in the shape of specific elective subjects taken at upper secondary school. These requirements, which vary depending on the institution and the particular applicant, allow the individual institution to determine the aptitude of applicants for a course of study.

The Lisbon Convention
For countries that have ratified The Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (The Lisbon Convention) the following apply:

If an applicant holds qualifications granting general admission to universities in his/her home country, this will normally be sufficient for meeting the requirements for Norwegian general entrance requirements, with the exception of any language proficiency requirements and special entrance requirements. In case of substantial differences (see Article IV.1 of the Convention), e.g. in terms of length and content, between the upper secondary education in the two countries, additional requirements may be made for meeting the general entrance requirements for studies in Norway.