Survival Guide 2020

SURVIVAL GUIDE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 2020/2021

CONTENT PRE-ARRIVAL Study permit Bank transfer to BI Health- and travel insurance Housing Pre-Arrival Checklist

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ON ARRIVAL Student ID Card EU/EEA citizens: Registration scheme Students from outside EU/EEA: Police appointment National registry Work permit and tax deduction card Bank account Norwegian SIM card On Arrival Checklist

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PRACTICALITIES Getting there and around 12 Shopping 13 Post packages to Norway 14 National Holidays 14

STUDENT LIFE AT BI Academics 15 Norwegian Language Course 16 Student welfare 17 On-campus facilities 18 Get involved 20

DESTINATION NORWAY Explore Norway 22 Discover Oslo 23 Language 25 Cultural Advice 26 Climate 27

CONTACT INFORMATION Who to contact at BI In case of emergency

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WELCOME TO BI Congratulations on your decision to study at BI Norwegian Business School!

Whether you are coming to Oslo for one semester or several years, we sincerely hope you will enjoy your stay. We will be here to support you along the way, but we leave it to you to make the most of it. Besides your studies, we encourage you to be active – participate in student associations, get to know Oslo and explore the rest of Norway as well.

In this Survival Guide you will find practical information about studying at BI, as well as advice and guidelines for living in Norway.

The International Office, the Bachelor Department and the MSc Department

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PRE-ARRIVAL

STUDY PERMIT A study permit is required for all students from outside EU/EEA who intend to stay in Norway for more than three months. Different rules and procedures apply. Consult your Admission Letter/Study Contract for detailed information.

EU/EEA AND SWISS CITIZENS Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can enter Norway on the basis of their Passport or EU Identity Card. They do not need to apply for a permit in advance, but must register online when they arrive in Norway. See p. 8 for further information about the EU Registration Scheme.

BANK TRANSFER All students from outside the EU/EEA need to deposit funds with SiO (student welfare organization in Oslo) as proof of your finances. This is a requirement of the Norwegian government and a step you must take before you can start your application for a study permit. Exchange students do not need to transfer money.

The deposit transferred to SiO will be available to you upon arrival in Norway, and can be withdrawn by contacting SiO, or transferred to a Norwegian bank account. BI will send you the information needed to make the transfer along with other important pre-arrival information.

Students attending Campus Bergen need to transfer money to a BI account instead of SiO. Please contact BI for further information.

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STUDENTS FROM OUTSIDE EU/EEA Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA area should apply for a study permit before arriving in Norway. It is your responsibility to obtain the correct study permit. Case processing time is up to two months, so you are advised to apply as soon as possible after receiving your Admission Letter/Study Contract from BI. Visit udi.no/en for information about the application process for your country. Follow the link “Want to apply” on UDI’s website to find out what applies to you, and follow all the steps carefully.

PRE-ARRIVAL

HEALTH- AND TRAVEL INSURANCE you are only covered in Norway by the EHIC – not while travelling to or from Norway, or during travels abroad. We therefore advise you to have additional valid travel insurance from your home country covering the period you will be living in Norway.

The European Health Insurance Card entitles you to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare under the same conditions and at the same cost as Norwegian citizens.

All students are responsible for having valid insurance covering the whole duration of their stay, including travel to and from Norway.

Dental care and medicines or treatment of illnesses contracted before arrival in Norway are not covered.

IN NORWAY FOR LESS THAN 12 MONTHS If you are staying in Norway for less than twelve months, you must obtain health- and travel insurance from your home country for the total duration of your stay.

IN NORWAY FOR MORE THAN 12 MONTHS If you are staying in Norway for more than one year you will automatically become member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme, when you have registered your move to Norway and received a Norwegian identity number (fødselsnummer).

Please note that you are only covered in Norway – not while travelling to and from Norway, or on travels abroad. The membership entitles you to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare under the same conditions and at the same cost as Norwegian citizens. Dental care and medicines or treatment of illnesses contracted before arrival in Norway are not covered.

EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD (EHIC) Most EU/EEA citizens can apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Please note that

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PRE-ARRIVAL

HOUSING BI offers a housing guarantee for exchange students, double degree students and first year international BBA and MSc students moving to Norway for the first time.

To benefit from BI’s housing guarantee, you must submit a pre-application for housing at bi.edu/housing. Please make sure to follow the application guidelines.

Student accommodation is usually the cheapest housing option in Oslo. It is also a good way to meet other students. Units are spread out across the city – some are situated close to campus; others are closer to the city center, or offer direct access to the nature areas surrounding Oslo. Prices and facilities vary. BI cooperates with three student housing providers in Oslo:

BSN Offers housing to BI students only, and is located only a few minutes walk from campus.

SIO - THE FOUNDATION FOR STUDENT WELFARE IN OSLO Provides affordable student housing for students in Oslo, at many different locations. The standard varies according to price.

DIAKONHJEMMET Has several different units located in the area between Majorstua and Vindern in Oslo West.

BI is easily reach by metro.

Please note that BI's housing guarantee only applies to single furnished rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom.

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Find more information about housing options at bi.edu/housing. Further questions can be directed to BI’s housing office by e-mail info@bi.no. If you are attending Campus Bergen. please contact us directly about your housing arrangements.

HOW IS MY ROOM EQUIPPED? You will have to bring your own duvet, pillow, bed sheets and towels. In addition, you will have to buy pots, pans and cutlery. Sometimes there are leftover kitchen utilities etc. from previous students in your room. See p. 13 for information on where to purchase necessary items for your room.

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION Private accommodation is usually more expensive than student housing. Be aware that it can be very hard to find a place around semester start as the market is pressed in Oslo. We highly recommend that you apply for housing through BI to secure an affordable place.

You can search for private accommodation online at hybel.no or finn.no/eiendom (information in Norwegian only).

PRE-ARRIVAL

PRE-ARRIVAL CHECKLIST I HAVE…  checked that my personal information is correct in the Admission Letter (as written in my passport)  signed and returned my Study Contract (degree seeking students)  deposited money into the SiO bank account (non-EU/EEA degree seeking students) (p. 4)  applied for a study permit (if applicable) (p. 4)  submitted the Pre-Application for Housing (p. 6)  signed and returned my housing contract to BSN/SiO/ Diakonhjemmet  registered for courses (exchange students) (p. 15)  booked transport to Oslo!  valid health- and travel insurance (p. 5)  notified BI of my late arrival (if applicable)  started practicing my Norwegian (p. 25)

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STUDENT ID CARD Your personal BI student ID card is used for identification at exams and with the BI administration. You also use it to borrow books at the library on campus and for printing and copying.

only valid with the correct semester tag. Please note that the student ID card is not valid as identification outside of BI. Have your picture taken for your student ID card at the InfoHub.

ON ARRIVAL

The student ID card makes you eligible for student discounts on public transport. The card is

EU/EEA CITIZENS: REGISTRATION SCHEME Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland must register online at selfservice.udi.no when they arrive in Norway. You can submit your documents to the InfoHub at BI in the beginning of the semester, and we will take it to the immigration authorities for you.

Please submit the following documents within the given deadline: • Copy of valid passport or national ID card (both sides) • Admission Letter from BI Norwegian Business School

• Private or European Health Insurance card that is valid for your entire stay in Norway (both sides, in English language) • Printout from UDI’s self-service web page that proves you have registered • Personal declaration stating that you have sufficient funds for the period of stay in Norway (Form is available when you submit your documents) You will be notified when your Registration Certificate can be picked up from the InfoHub

STUDENTS FROM OUTSIDE EU/EEA: POLICE APPOINTMENT When you arrive in Norway, you must register with the Police in person and have your picture and fingerprints taken for your Residence Card.

You can book an appointment in the UDI portal on UDI`s homepage. If you are unable to book

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an appointment there, please call the police to make an appointment (see contact info p.9)

NATIONAL REGISTRY

Students from EU/EEA need to fill out the form “Notification of move to Norway from abroad” (available online), and bring this form with the following documents to Skatt Øst (see address below):

• Passport or European national ID card • Residence Card (non-EU/EEA) or Registration Certificate (EU/EEA) • Housing contract • BI Admission Letter You need to book an apointment in advance before going to Skatt Øst by visiting their webpage: https://www.skatteetaten.no/en/person/.

After registering at Skatt Øst, you will receive a letter by post, stating your Norwegian identity number (fødselsnummer). You need this number to open a bank account, or apply for a tax deduction card if you get a part time job.

WORK PERMIT AND TAX CARD For students from outside EU/EEA your study permit is also a part-time work permit. As a full time student you are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full time during holidays. EU/EEA students are entitled to work freely in accordance to Norwegian labour law.

You are required to have a tax deduction card when you work in Norway. It will show how much your employer should deduct from your salary. You can request a tax card from Skatt Øst (Oslo Tax Office) once you have a job offer, by bringing your work contract and your Residence card/Registration certificate to their office.

SKATT ØST – SERVICE CENTRE FOR FOREIGN WORKERS Visiting address: Schweigaards gate 17, 0191 Oslo Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 15:00

OSLO POLICE, DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION Visiting address: Schweigaards gate 15 B, 0191 Oslo Phone: +47 22 34 21 00 (09:00 – 14:00)

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ON ARRIVAL

Students from EU/EEA staying in Norway for more than 6 months must register with the National Registry (Folkeregisteret) once they have received their registration certificate from the police. Students from outside EU/EEA are registered into the National Registry as part of their study permit application and do not need to register separately, as your Norwegian ID number will be sent to you via post after arrival in Norway.

BANK ACCOUNT

ON ARRIVAL

Students taking a full degree at BI, need to open a Norwegian bank account. This is not necessary, and often not possible, for exchange students.

IN NORWAY FOR MORE THAN 6 MONTHS To open a bank account, you must wait until you have your National Identity Number (fødselsnummer). You will only obtain this number if you are staying in Norway for more than six months. Remember to bring your passport, National Identity Number, and residence permit/ Registration certificate to the bank.

IN NORWAY FOR LESS THAN 6 MONTHS Most banks require a Norwegian Identity Number to open a bank account. Since you will not receive this number if you are in Norway for less than six months, it is not very likely that any bank will open an account for you. Thus, we recommend all exchange students to bring a credit card from home. Make sure you check the conditions for using your card abroad, and especially in Norway, before you leave.

NORWEGIAN SIM CARD If you have an unlocked mobile phone, you can purchase a pre-paid card at kiosks and convenience stores like 7-eleven and Narvesen. A monthly subscription requires that you have a Norwegian ID-number (you’re staying in Norway for more than six months).

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Please remember to register your Norwegian phone number in the Student Portal, as the administration sometimes sends SMS to inform you of cancelled lecturers etc.

ON ARRIVAL

ON ARRIVAL CHECKLIST I HAVE…  had my picture taken for the student ID card (p. 8)  registered with the immigration authorities (p. 8)  attended the information meeting and orientation week  gotten a Norwegian SIM card and updated my phone number in the Student Portal (p. 10)  registered with the National Registry and obtained a Norwegian identity number (if staying for more than six months) (p. 9)  opened a bank account (if staying for more than six months) (p. 10)  logged on to the Student Portal to check my schedule and to access itslearning (p. 15)  signed up for the Norwegian Language course (if applicable) (p. 16)  purchased a monthly student travel pass for public transport (if applicable) (p. 12)

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GETTING THERE AND AROUND Oslo can be reached by car, ferry, train, bus or plane. The main international airport is Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL). All trains (including the Airport Express Train) arrive at Oslo Central Station (Oslo S), while buses arrive at Oslo Bus Terminal. Ferries from Germany, Sweden and Denmark arrive close to the city center.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

PRACTICALITIES

The extensive public transport system is managed by “Ruter”, and is the most convenient way to travel within Oslo. It includes buses, trams (trikk), metro (T-bane), trains and ferries. With a valid ticket, you can switch between the means of transport as you please within a given period of time. The whole metro network is located within zone 1. See ruter.no/en to plan your journey.

A monthly student travel pass is usually the economic option. It costs NOK 462, and lasts for 30 days from validation. It is only valid together with your valid student ID card from BI. The age limit is 30. Students below 20 can buy a monthly youth ticket for NOK 375.

Be aware of regular ticket controls on all public transport! If you are caught without a valid ticket, the fine is NOK 950–1150.

HOW TO GET TO BI BI campus is located in Nydalen, north of the city centre. It is easily reached by metro, bus and tram. The address is Nydalsveien 37, 0484 Oslo.

Metro is the easiest way to reach BI from the city centre. Lines 4 Vestli and 5 Ringen take you to Nydalen in approx. 12 minutes. Cross the street, and you will find yourself in front of the main entrance of BI. Busses number 30 and 37 also stop right outside BI, taking different traces to and from the city centre.

Tram lines 11, 12 and 13 take you to Storo, a five minute walk from BI.

BIKING

TICKETS AND RATES Buy your ticket in advance to avoid an additional fee. Tickets are available from ticket machines, kiosks and convenience stores or at Ruter’s customer service center. You can also purchase tickets with your smart phone if you download the app “RuterBillett”. A single ticket valid for one hour within zone 1, costs NOK 37. Don’t forget to validate your ticket at the beginning of your journey.

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In spring, summer and autumn bicycle is a good option to get around Oslo. For a seasonal fee of NOK 399, the blue Oslo City Bikes (bysykkel) are available to you at 300 locations in and around the city centre. You can use any bike for up to 45 minutes between 06:0024:00 every day. Pick it up at one location and return it at another as you please. To buy a used bike you can check finn.no.

SHOPPING BUSINESS HOURS

THINGS FOR YOUR ROOM

Supermarkets are normally open from 08.00 to 22.00 on weekdays and until 20.00 on Saturdays. Most shops in major shopping areas (Karl Johans gate and Bogstadveien) are open until 18.00 or 19.00, some with extended opening hours on Thursdays. Shopping malls generally have longer opening hours. Banks are normally open from 09:00-15:00 Monday-Friday.

IKEA is the largest and cheapest place to buy furniture, bedlinen, kitchenware and everything else you might need. There are two Ikea stores in the Oslo area, Furuset and Slependen. A free shuttle bus leaves every half hour from a stop nearby the Central station.

GROCERIES Among the least expensive grocery stores are Rema 1000 and Kiwi. Head for Grønland, east of the city centre, to find Turkish, Pakistani and south-east Asian grocery stores with good selections of vegetables, fruit and international food at a low price.

A state-owned monopoly chain, called Vinmonopolet, controls the sale of wine and hard liquors. Beer can be bought in food stores until 20:00 on weekdays and 18:00 on Saturdays. It is not allowed to purchase alcohol in shops on Sundays.

The age limit for buying beer and wine is 18.

For buying hard liquors the age limit is 20. If you are under 25, you are expected to show your ID without being asked when buying alcohol.  

PRACTICALITIES

Shops are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays, but some smaller grocery stores and convenience stores are open.

BEER, WINE AND SPIRITS

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POST PACKAGES TO NORWAY Packages sent to Norway must have your accurate address with your street name, house number, flat/room number and preferably a phone number where you can be reached written on it. Make sure you have your name on the mail box or you will not receive mail. If you live together with someone the address must include c/o and this person’s name as indicated on the mailbox.

PRACTICALITIES

For declaration purposes through customs, be sure to list contents as “used personal belongings” when sending clothing, textbooks etc.

We do not recommend using express mail services for this purpose, as there are rather

steep charges for clearing it through customs.

Medication, cigarettes or alcohol should under no circumstances be sent by post.

Please note that Norway is not part of the EU and goods bought online from any country and shipped to Norway can be subject to custom charges and 25% tax on top of the purchase price. Goods with a value under NOK 350 including shipping costs, and books of any value are exempt from tax and customs.

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS Norwegian national holidays may differ slightly from what you are used to. On these days most

2020/2021 Christmas Day Boxing Day New Year’s Day Palm Sunday Maundy Thursday Good Friday Easter Sunday Easter Monday Labour Day Constitution Day Ascension Day Whit Sunday Whit Monday

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25 December 26 December 1 January 28 February 1 April 2 April 4 April 5 April 1 May 17 May 13 May 23 May 31 June

commercial businesses are closed, and you can expect irregular public transport schedules.

ACADEMICS

A full semester workload at BI is 30 ECTS credits. Most master level courses account for 6 ECTS, and most bachelor level courses account for 7.5 ECTS. Faculty is encouraged to implement digitalization and innovative methods in their teaching.

Interactive classrooms on itslearning supplement the lectures and seminars.

ONLINE STUDENT PORTAL

Exchange students are required to read the course descriptions for each course, and make sure they fulfil the prerequisites before signing up for a course.

Course descriptions for all courses can be found in the Student Portal. Short versions of the course descriptions are also available on the open web, bi.edu.

COURSE REGISTRATION Exchange students can choose freely from the list of courses offered to exchange students (available online), as long as you fulfill the prerequisites. You register for courses online before the semester starts. Detailed information will be sent to you by email when the registration opens.

The Student Portal is your main source of information as a student at BI. You will receive a personal username and password. Log in to access: • your BI student e-mail • your personal course list • your schedule • exam enrolment, dates and status • your grades • important information from the administration • your interactive classrooms (itslearning)

For degree seeking students all courses are mandatory in the first year of the programme (Bachelor/Master), and students are registered for courses automatically.

Please note that all students are required to stay updated on information concerning their courses at itslearning.

You are responsible for submitting the coursework requirement within the given deadline, and in the right interactive classroom on itslearning. For information about obligatory coursework, consult the course descriptions.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS You are expected to read the course descriptions carefully, as they serve as a “contract” between the student, the lecturer and the administration at BI. For each course, it describes what the three parties can expect from each other: course outline; learning outcome; required course material; prerequisites; methods of teaching and assessment; and exam support materials.

COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS The right to take an examination depends on fulfilled coursework requirements. You will lose the right to take an exam if the required course-work has not been completed and submitted by the set deadline, or if the papers handed in are not approved.

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STUDENT LIFE AT BI

At BI, each course will normally have one or two lectures per week. A lecture is 2 or 3 x 45 minute long. Students will experience varying degrees of interaction between the Professor (who is commonly addressed by their first name) and the students during the lectures.

Classes vary in size.

EXAMINATIONS

GRADING SCALE

The exam periods are November/December (autumn semester) and May/June (spring semester). You will automatically be registered for the exams of the courses you are enrolled in. The exam schedule for the autumn semester will be available online in September, and for the spring semester in January. Your personal exam schedule will be available in the Student Portal as well.

BI uses the ECTS grading system. The grade scale is A (highest) through F(fail), with E as the lowest passing grade. Some examinations are graded with Pass/Fail. The evaluation terms used for the grading scale are as follows:

Degree-seeking students can withdraw from, or change examinations in the Student Portal.

The deadline for making changes is 1 October in the autumn semester and 1 March in the spring semester.

Exchange students should notify the International Office as early as possible to withdraw from a course or an exam.

STUDENT LIFE AT BI

Please make sure you are well informed about examination rules and regulations. Note that electronic submissions of exams are done through BI’s electronic solution, DigiEx. A BI-approved calculator is permitted as supporting material for certain exams. Only some specific types are allowed. In the Student PortalI you will find all the information you need about exams.

A Excellent B Very good C Good D Satisfactory E Sufficient F Fail

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2020 –2021 The academic year at BI is divided into two semesters.

Autumn semester: 17 August-22 December Spring semester: 4 January - 27 June

TUITION FEES Degree seeking students will receive an invoice for the autumn semester in August/September.

The invoice for the spring semester is issued in December. Exchange students do not pay tuition fees to BI.

NORWEGIAN LANGUAGE COURSE Learning the Norwegian language is the key to success in Norway. BI offers Norwegian language courses to international students each semester. The course is not part of BI’s curriculum, and does not give any credits.

Registration is done online at the beginning of the semester, and requires online payment of NOK 2000 (subject to change). Exact dates for

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registration are announced in semester start.

There are limited seats available. Teaching time is 2 hours and 45 minutes twice a week for ten weeks. The course is usually concluded with a test, and the students who pass will receive a course certificate. More information will be available in the Student Portal.

STUDENT WELFARE Being a student is not only about your studies.

As a student at BI, you have access to support and services that can help to improve your student life in Oslo.

SIO – THE FOUNDATION FOR STUDENT WELFARE IN OSLO BI students are automatically members of SiO. Their services include student health care, sports and fitness centres, and student housing.

For more information about what they can offer you, visit sio.no/en.

STUDENT COUNSELLING BI offers counselling for students. You do not need to have a severe problem to use these services. Student life is an exciting period of your life, but it can also feel challenging at times. You might need some guidance on how to become even better at being a student, or how to get more out of your social life at BI.

BI-NNER The international dinner at BI has grown into a successful tradition. Once a month we offer a free meal for up to 200 BI students, with the help of volunteers. We invite you to like the page "Studentprest BI" on Facebook to receive updates about upcoming BI-nner events.

SUNDAY IN THE CITY A cultural tour once a month to explore sights in the city. It’s free, all you need to do is sign up. Examples of places we have visited are Holmenkollen, the Opera House, The Norwegian Folk Museum and the Munch Museum.

COFFEE HOUR For ten weeks during each semester, students meet up to listen to different speakers and discuss a variety of topics. Free coffee and buns are always served.

Contact them at councelling@bi.no or stop by their office in C3.

SPECIAL NEEDS

STUDENT LIFE AT BI

Do you have a disability, illness or injury that requires special on-campus adaptations? Please contact Student Counselling as early as possible, and they will help you find the best solution to cover your needs.

UNIVERSITY CHAPLAIN The university chaplain is here for you if you need someone to talk to, regardless of your religious background. The chaplain also knows about the different faith communities in Oslo and can help you find yours while you are here.

Contact the student chaplain at studentprest@bi.no or stop by the office in C3.

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ON-CAMPUS FACILITIES The purpose-built building from 2005 provides an exciting and inspiring learning and teaching environment. At BI you will have all you need as a student in one place. The building is covered by a glass ceiling and consists of four blocks on seven levels.

IT SERVICES IT support is located next to the Student Service Centre in U1 and in the Library. They can also be contacted through the Facebook group “BI IT-Support”.

To locate your destination, the first letter (A, B, C or D) and the following number (0-7) will help you: For example, Student Counselling can be found in C3 – meaning C-block, 3rd floor.

There are 200 workstations located in hallways and PC labs across campus, in addition to 350 workstations in the library. All workstations are connected to printers. Wireless network connection is also available.

THE STUDENT SERVICE CENTRE (SSS)

THE LIBRARY

STUDENT LIFE AT BI

Located in U1 (in Oasen), the SSS can help you with: • Student ID card • Information about SiO (The Foundation for Student Welfare in Oslo) • Preliminary transcripts of grades • Submissions of term papers, projects and thesis • Password and username • General student information

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BI’s library occupies 6500 square meters on the 5th and 6th floor of the BI building. The 1400 study places include group rooms with AV equipment, as well as comfortable chairs where you can relax and admire the view over Oslo.

The Library offers: • Books, periodicals, papers and databases • 480 individual reading places • 320 open plan group workplaces for students • 46 group rooms and 8 AV rooms • 350 PC workplaces • Social zones with 250 seats • Courses and guidance Read more on bi.edu/library

BI does not offer a meal plan, but on-campus kiosks, coffee shops and a Cafeteria with fresh and healthy food all day long, will help battle your hunger and thirst.

BOOKSHOP There is a bookshop, Akademika, on Campus.

Akademika stocks all books on the compulsory literature lists in addition to fiction, stationary, gift articles and more.

KROA – STUDENT PUB Since October 2013 Kroa has been the hang out and meeting place of BI students. They arrange events, quiz, stand up etc., and it is the perfect place for a break after a long day of studies.

ROOM OF FAITH AND REFLECTION BI students have access to the Room of Faith and Reflection. This is a quiet space for reflection, meditation or prayer, located in D1.

STUDENT GYM – ATHLETICA NYDALEN

access to the fitness centers and a variety of group lessons at an affordable price. See sio.no/en/sports for more information.

SIO HEALTH NYDALEN The doctor’s office at BI campus (D2), is open Monday to Friday 08:00 – 15:45. To make an appointment, call +47 22 85 33 00. They also have services for mental health and counselling.

Please see sio.no/en/health-services for information about the full offer of the SiO Student Health services.

CAREER SERVICES BI offers comprehensive career services to BI students, whether they are in the process of applying for jobs, or just curious about how to meet the labour market at the end of their studies. Services include CV and application check, job search course, career counseling, career fairs and more. Career Services are located in C3. More information can be found in the Student Portal.

Located in D2, Athletica Nydalen is one of four student gyms in Oslo run by SiO. Unlimited

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STUDENT LIFE AT BI

FOOD AND DRINK

GET INVOLVED The best way to get to know local students, is by joining a student society. Norwegians tend to socialize through organized activities. Therefore, you may not get to know people on the bus, but you will definitely get to know someone if you join a club or association.

BISO – THE BI STUDENT UNION BISO is created for and by students, and consists of a wide range of sub groups and associations, including academic associations (one for each study programme), interest societies (sports, politics, business, finance, outdoor life, film), projects (career events, sports events, Buddy programme for new students) and much more. Many associations are open for international students. Read more online at biso.no.

BUDDY SYSTEM

STUDENT LIFE AT BI

The BI Buddy system for new students is called Fadderullan. The first week of the semester experienced students volunteer as Buddies to welcome the new students. Through concerts, parties and other social events students will get

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to know campus, Oslo and each other. New students will automatically be assigned a Buddy group at semester start.

STUDENT SPORTS BI Athletics offers a range of sports related activities for BI students. BI Athletics represents BI in various student championships and have active teams in sports like lacrosse, rowing, soccer, basketball and tennis. OSI is an overall sports association for Oslo students. Whichever sports activity you are interested in, you will find a sub-group to join.

See osi.no for further information.

INSA – INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ASSOCIATION InSA arranges various social activities for BI students. Join their excursions, movie nights, parties, sightseeing in Oslo and other events to get to know your fellow students. Read more about InSA on their Facebook page, InSA BI.

CHATEAU NEUF

GSS contributes to the social and academic life of Master of Science students at BI. GSS arranges various social events and provide opportunities to meet the Norwegian business community through business presentations etc.

The MSc study programmes each have their own programme association as well.

The large concrete buidling situated at Majorstuen is home to the Norwegian Student Society (DNS). Chateau Neuf is open Monday through Saturday, and offers food and beverages as well as concerts, plays, parties, debates, movies and much more at student friendly prices. Active members can join more than 20 associations and subgroups.

See studentersamfundet.no

BBA – BACHELOR OF BUSINESS AND ADMINISTRATION Bachelor of Business Administration students have their own student organisation called BBA. The organisation is a liason between the administration and the students of the programme.

They organise trips, parties and activities.

ESN – ERASMUS STUDENT NETWORK ESN is a non-profit international student organization. Their mission is to represent international students, and thus provide opportunities for cultural understanding and self-development under the principle of students helping students. ESN also arranges trips and events.

More info at oslo.esn.no

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STUDENT LIFE AT BI

GSS – GRADUATE STUDENTS’ SOCIETY

EXPLORE NORWAY Friendly, down-to-earth people, unique scenery, summer nights bright as day and delightful snowy winters make Norway a very special country. Use this opportunity to explore this long stretched land of the North!

Norway has about 5 300 000 inhabitants. Shipping, oil and gas, and fishing are some of the most significant industries. Employment rates remain currently high, and the prospects for economic growth are encouraging.

Norway is a very safe country to live in. Its crime rate is amongst the lowest in the world, and its environment and air are amongst the cleanest. A healthy lifestyle is widely encouraged and promoted.

The spectacular Norwegian nature offers exciting opportunities for outdoor activities all year round: hiking, mountain climbing, hunting, cycling, rafting, swimming, golf, sailing, skiing – the choice is yours! Breathtaking views of fjords and mountain landscapes are easily accessible at no cost. Each season has its own special features and charm.

Read more about Norway on

visitnorway.com

from Oslo to Bergen is particularly beautiful, and well worth your time. Relax and enjoy the view along the way, as the train takes you up and over the mountains and down through the narrow valleys.

For the cheapest tickets, plan ahead and look for “minipris” tickets at nsb.no/en. They are non-refundable, but often cheaper than discounted student tickets.

AIRPLANE Stretching 1 800 km from the South to the North, it may not come as a surprise that Norway has one of the highest number of domestic flights in the world. Between the mountains and the fjords, many towns are served with a small airport.

At the same time, the rest of Europe is never far away: if you need some new impulses during your stay, you can fly to Berlin in 1.5 hours; London in 2 hours; Rome in 4 hours… Low-fare airlines provide relatively cheap tickets.

DESTINATION NORWAY

DRIVING IN NORWAY

TRAIN Trains are a comfortable way to travel in Norway. They can take you as far north as Bodø, by the island group of Lofoten. The train ride

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EU citizens can use their original driving license while in Norway. Most non-EU citizens are allowed to use a foreign driving license for up to three months before exchanging it for a Norwegian licence. Students who bring their own car must get a driving permission from the customs. Read more at toll.no and vegvesen.no.

DISCOVER OSLO Situated between the forest and the fjord, Oslo offers a great variety of activities and scenery.

You can start the day by the sea, enjoy the city life with cafĂŠs, restaurants, galleries and shopping facilities downtown during the day, and at night sit around a bonfire with your friends in the woods. Oslo is big enough for all this to happen, but still small enough for you to do it all in a day!

The capital of Norway has about 650 000 inhabitants, some 60 000 of them students. Whatever your passion, you can find other students with the same interests. Or maybe you want to take this opportunity to engage in something completely new and different?

coming part of the city with modern architecture, thriving businesses and possibilities for both shopping and leisure. Storo Shopping Centre, only a few minutes walk from BI, has a range of shops to cover all your needs.

If you enjoy live music, Oslo is definitely the city for you. With several different concert venues located across the city, any day of the week is a good day for a musical experience in this capital of music. Ticketmaster is a good site for tickets.

Learn more about Oslo and things to do on visitoslo.com.

A forty minute stroll along the mentioned Akerselva will take you through charming neighbourhoods down to the Oslo Fjord in the city centre, even passing a couple of waterfalls on the way. Within a forty minutes walk in the opposite direction lies the beautiful Nordmarka, the forest area surrounding Oslo to the North.

NYDALEN BI campus is located in Nydalen, an old industrial area located next to the river Akerselva, North of the city centre. Today it is an up-and-

The main street, Karl Johans gate, runs eastwest from the Central Station past the Parliament and National Theatre to the Royal Palace.

The area surrounding it is home to other sights like the Akershus Fortress, the Cathedral and the National Gallery. It is also a good area for shopping.

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DESTINATION NORWAY

CITY CENTRE

NORDMARKA This is where the inhabitants of Oslo find their peace. Explore this vast forest area surrounding Oslo by foot, bike or on skis. Enjoy the view from Vettakollen or Frognerseteren, or have a picnic by Sognsvann or another one of the lakes. All easily accessible by metro. You are even allowed to put up your tent and spend the night in the forest if you want to.

PARKS AKER BRYGGE AND TJUVHOLMEN Aker Brygge and adjacent Tjuvholmen are lovely for a stroll by the sea, people watching or a swim (there is a city beach at the very end!)

The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Contemporary Art is located here, you will recognize it from the characteristic building. Go somewhere else for food and drinks though, to afford the rest of your stay. Or bring a picnic and enjoy Tjuvholmen’s the best views for free, from the pier behind the museum.

As soon as the sun appears in spring, Norwegians flock to the many parks across the city.

Nice ones include St.Hanshaugen (sometimes with concerts on the open air stage), Frognerparken (with the sculptural park Vigelandsparken), Sofienbergparken and the Botanical garden.

GRÜNERLØKKA Hip Grünerløkka has lots of restaurants, bars and cafees and attracts a lot of students. Grünerløkka is also the place to look out for small independent shops, as well as secondhand shops. Some of them are even open on Sundays, including a flea market in Birkelunden park and a handicraft/design market at Blå in Brenneriveien.

GRØNLAND

DESTINATION NORWAY

Head to Grønland (east of the city centre) to find international shops with fresh fruits and vegetables at lower prices. These shops may also have items from your home country, that may not be available in the main grocery stores.

SØRENGA Crossing a small walk bridge behind the Opera house, you will end up at Sørenga. At the very end there is an artificial city beach and several piers, perfect for swimming and hanging out on sunny days.

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ISLANDS Your student transportation ticket is also valid on public ferryboats, great for island hopping in the summer season. Jump on and off charming little islands at your own pace. Water temperatures can actually reach 22 degrees in summer, so bring your bathing suit!

LANGUAGE

FOOD AND DRINKS Bread Brød Cheese Ost Eggs Egg Full fat milk Helmelk Low fat milk Lettmelk Chicken Kylling Fish Fisk Salmon Laks Fruit Frukt Vegetable Grønnsak Coffee Kaffe Tea Te Beer Øl Wine Vin Soft drink Mineralvann (Brus) Water Vann

NUMBERS 1 En 2 To 3 Tre 4 Fire 5 Fem 6 Seks 7 Syv 8 Åtte 9 Ni 10 Ti

50 Femti 100 Hundre 1000 Tusen

Sign up for the Norwegian Language Course at the beginning of the semester to learn more! (p. 16)

USEFUL PHRASES Hello Hei Goodbye Ha det bra Yes Ja No Nei Please Vær så snill Thanks (Tusen) takk You are welcome Værsågod How are you?

Hvordan har du det?

I’m fine Bra takk My name is…

Jeg heter…

Where is…?

Hvor er…?

Sorry Unnskyld Excuse me Unnskyld meg Cheers Skål I’m a vegetarian Jeg er vegetarianer How much is it?

Hvor mye koster det?

I don’t understand Jeg forstår ikke Do you speak English? Snakker du engelsk?

Can you help me?

Kan du hjelpe meg?

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DESTINATION NORWAY

English is widely spoken in Norway and you can manage quite well in without proficiency in Norwegian. However, knowing a few words and phrases may be useful.

CULTURAL ADVICE Norwegians are considered to be easy-going and informal. The Norwegian society has a strong democratic tradition, and this is reflected as much in work life as in how people relate to each other in general.

ADDRESSING PEOPLE • First names are commonly used. Prefixes like Ms., Mr. and Mx. are generally not used, only on very formal occasions.

• You should shake hands in formal situations.

• Among students and friends hand shaking is not expected. However, when being introduced for the first time it is common to shake hands and say your name.

BEING LATE • Be on time when going to work and school.

Being late is considered impolite.

• On social occasions Norwegians are more flexible. Being 5–10 minutes late is quite common.

SOCIAL CONVENTION

DESTINATION NORWAY

• Norwegians are friendly, but you may find them reserved. However, you will often get a positive response if you initiate contact.

• Norwegians are also known for their directness. Some find this rude, but this is not intentional. Small talk is simply not their thing (unless it’s about the weather).

• The egalitarian values at the root of the welfare state also manifest themselves throughout Norwegian society in many ways – for instance in the field of gender equality. Women expect to be treated with a more gender neutral attitude than in many other parts of the world.

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COMMON COURTESY • It is always nice to hold the door for someone, regardless of gender.

• Elderly people and pregnant persons appreciate it if you let them have your seat on a crowded bus. It is also appreciated if you help people with a baby carriage onto the bus or tram.

• Be discrete when looking at people and don’t stare.

• Do not cut in line.

• Do not litter on the floor or ground. You will usually find a garbage can somewhere nearby.

• Do not chat with your friends during meetings and presentations etc, when the speaker is talking.

• Switch your mobile phone to silent mode in the library, cinemas and lecture halls.

You might find that some Norwegians may not agree with or follow these guidelines.

However, generally observing these will help you integrate into Norwegian culture.

SERVICE CHARGE Service charge and tips are included in restaurant bills and taxi fares. Tipping is not expected, but around 10% might be given if you are pleased with the service given at a restaurant. In bars and cafes people will often leave some change.

CLIMATE Oslo and Norway have four distinct seasons.

The weather is constantly changing, but normally winters (Dec – March) are cold, summers (June – August) are considered warm (according to Norwegian standards), while spring and autumn connect the two in between. Parallel to the seasons, the number of daylight hours varies from 6 hours in mid-December to 20 hours in mid-June.

Summer temperatures vary from 15 degrees Celsius on rainy days to 30 degrees Celsius on nice summer days. Expect bathing temperatures of 17-22 degrees in the fjord and lakes.

Long, light evenings and nights are best spent in a park together with friends, or at the beach.

days. By mid-November winter sets in, and snow usually arrives in time for Christmas. It is quite dark and cold in the months from November until the end of February. Temperatures can get as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter so bring warm clothes and warm boots.

January and February are usually the best months for skiing and other winter activities.

In March, the days are already noticeably longer, and you can feel the warmth of the sun on good days. The first sign of spring is Norwegians tak-ing to the streets, enjoying the sunshine. This is the time when Oslo comes alive again after its “winter sleep”. Outdoor cafés will be packed with people as soon as the temperatures rise above the freezing point.

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DESTINATION NORWAY

From September it gets gradually colder (and darker), but the autumn can be nice with sunny

WHO TO CONTACT AT BI

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

BBA and Bachelor Double Degree students: Bachelor administration E-mail: info@bi.no Phone: +47 46 10 00 19

Emergency medical assistance Emergency ward (Legevakten) Address: Storgata 40 Phone: 116 117

Master of Science and Master Double Degree students: Master administration E-mail: info@bi.no Phone: +47 46 41 00 02

Emergency numbers in Norway Ambulance: 113 Police: 112 Fire: 110

Exchange students: International Office E-mail: info@bi.no Phone: +47 46 41 02 27

www.bi.edu

The only Norwegian business school with triple international accreditation

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