Norway University Opens NOK 15,000 Scholarship Grants for Master’s Students in 2027
A growing number of universities across Europe are looking beyond traditional academic performance when awarding research funding. Instead, they are encouraging students to tackle real-world social issues through their research. The University of Agder in Norway is doing exactly that.
The university has announced applications for its Master’s Student Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering five research grants worth NOK 15,000 each to eligible master’s students. While the financial support may not be among the largest scholarships available in Norway, the programme stands out for a different reason. It welcomes students from virtually any field of study, provided their thesis includes a meaningful focus on equality, diversity, inclusion, or related social issues.
For students already studying at the University of Agder and preparing for their final research project, this could be a valuable opportunity to receive both funding and academic support while completing their degree.
A Scholarship That Goes Beyond Traditional Research Funding
Many research grants are tied to specific departments or academic disciplines. This initiative takes a broader approach.
The scholarship is managed by the university’s Centre for Gender and Equality, which encourages students to explore equality-related questions within their existing academic fields. The focus is not limited to social sciences, law, or gender studies.
A student researching healthcare access, workplace practices, education outcomes, technology development, business management, engineering solutions, or public policy may still qualify if their work meaningfully examines issues related to equality and inclusion.
This flexibility makes the programme particularly attractive to students who want their research to address practical societal challenges while remaining grounded in their chosen discipline.
What Successful Applicants Will Receive
Each selected student will receive a grant of NOK 15,000 to support their master’s thesis work.
The funding is divided into two separate payments. The first portion is released after the student officially begins their thesis project under the supervision of an approved academic advisor. The second payment follows once the thesis has been completed and submitted.
Beyond the financial award, recipients will also participate in academic writing seminars planned for 2027. These sessions are designed to help students strengthen their research, receive constructive feedback, and exchange ideas with fellow scholarship recipients and faculty members.
While the grant can help ease some research-related expenses, students should understand that it is not a full scholarship programme. It does not cover tuition fees, accommodation, travel, insurance, or general living costs.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is available exclusively to students enrolled in master’s degree programmes at the University of Agder.
Applicants must be planning to submit their master’s thesis during the 2026–2027 academic year and demonstrate how their research incorporates questions relating to equality, diversity, inclusion, or discrimination.
The university recognises a broad range of themes under this umbrella. Potential research areas may include:
- Gender equality
- Ethnic diversity
- Disability inclusion
- Religious diversity
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity and expression
- Age-related discrimination
- Pregnancy and parental leave
- Caregiving responsibilities
- Social inclusion challenges
One of the five available grants has been specifically reserved for research examining issues related to gender and sexual diversity.
Why This Scholarship May Be Easier to Access Than Many Others
One interesting aspect of this funding opportunity is that it does not require an extensive list of academic publications, international awards, or years of research experience.
Instead, the selection process focuses heavily on the quality of the proposed thesis project and the strength of its equality-related perspective.
For many master’s students, this creates a more accessible pathway to securing research funding compared with highly competitive international scholarship programmes that often favour established researchers.
That said, competition is still expected to be strong. With only five grants available, applicants will need to present a clear research plan and demonstrate why their project can contribute meaningful insights to discussions around equality and inclusion.
Preference for Research With Local Relevance
The University of Agder has indicated that projects connected to the Agder region may receive additional consideration during the selection process.
This reflects a growing trend among universities that seek to balance global research goals with local impact. Research that addresses challenges affecting communities within the region could therefore have an advantage, particularly if the findings can contribute to broader societal understanding.
Students whose projects combine local relevance with wider academic significance may be especially well positioned.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit a concise application package explaining their research plans and academic background.
The application should include:
- A brief introduction to the applicant
- Information about the master’s programme
- A description of the proposed thesis topic
- An explanation of how equality perspectives are incorporated into the research
- Proof of admission to a master’s programme at the University of Agder
In addition, students must submit a project outline of no more than three pages. This document should clearly explain:
- The research question
- Theoretical framework
- Research methodology
- Project timeline
If a thesis supervisor has not yet been formally assigned, that information may be provided later.
Important Deadline
Applications for the University of Agder Master’s Student Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year must be submitted by 1 October 2026.
Given the limited number of awards available, students are encouraged to begin preparing their research proposal well in advance of the deadline.
More Opportunities: