Survival guide 08-09:08-09

SURVIVAL GUIDE
Academic year 2008/2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Academics ...............................................................................................4
• Semester fees
• ID card and ID number
• Communication channels
• Course registration and courses
• Examinations
• Previous examination papers
• Grading scale
• Calculator
• Norwegian language course
• Important dates
2
Campus facilities ................................................................................8
• Student Service Centre
• IT services
• Library
• Bookshop
• Student canteen and coffee bars
• Public Phone
• Bank
• Career Services
• Nydalen Athletica
• Student Health Services
• University chaplain
Student-run activities .......................................................................9
• BI Athletics
• The Student House
• InSA - International Student Association
• GSS - Graduate Students’ Society
• BBA - Bachelor of Business Administration
• Student cabins for rent
Student dormitories and student housing
.........................10
Transportation ..................................................................................11
• Public transport, how to get to BI
• Tickets and rates
• Driving in Norway
• Parking at BI
• Biking
Attractions, activities and urban areas ...............................12
• Attractions in Oslo
• Oslo Public Library
• Cinemas
• Nydalen and other urban areas
• Places for activities and recreation
• Skiing and ice skating
• Travelling in Norway
Formalities ...........................................................................................14
• Residence Permit and Registration
with the Police
• Health insurance
• Tuberculosis test
• Working in Norway
Practicalities ........................................................................................16
• Bank Account
• Mobile phone
• Business hours
• Where to shop for groceries and
things for your room
• Tipping
• Electricity
• Receiving packages
• National Holidays
Temperatures and climate
Rules and Regulations
..........................................................17
..................................................................17
Emergency ...........................................................................................18
• Emergency plan
• Emergency phones
Cultural advise
..................................................................................18
Norwegian language
......................................................................19
3
Welcome to Norway
and BI Norwegian School of Management
We would like to congratulate you on your decision to become a student at BI Norwegian
School of Management.
This survival guide will assist you in getting started at BI Norwegian School of Management.
It will provide you with practical information, both as a new student at BI and as a new
resident in Norway.
We hope this guide will help make you stay at BI a happy and successful one. Please read it
carefully and keep it for future reference during your stay.
The student administration and the International Relations Office are responsible for the
welfare of foreign students during their stay at BI. Please call, email us or stop by our offices
if you have any questions.
Contact information
Semester Fees
Degree students
Bachelor in Business Administration
Responsible:
Ms. Sjoukje Kootstra Steinhovden
Mr. Kristoffer Klev
Email: [email protected]
Tel:
(+47) 46 41 00 07
Fax:
(+47) 21 04 80 00 (Att: BBA)
Master of Science
Responsible:
Ms. Iveta Cechova
Email: [email protected]
Tel:
(+ 47) 46 41 00 82
Fax:
(+ 47) 46 41 00 59
MBA
Responsible:
Academics
Ms. Kristin Ølberg
Email: [email protected]
Tel:
(+47) 46 41 00 04
Fax::
(+47) 46 41 00 89
4
Exchange students
International Relations Office (IRO)
Responsible:
Ms. Ellen Tobiasson
Ms. Benedicte Kaltenborn
Email: [email protected]
Tel:
(+47) 46 41 02 26 / (+47) 46 41 01 81
Fax:
(+47) 46 41 02 29
Office hours: Monday – Friday from 0900 – 1500.
BBA and MSc students will receive a bank giro for payment of the
autumn semester fee in August/September. The giro for the spring
semester is issued in December. Deadline for payment for MBA
students is in October and February. This does not apply to
exchange students.
ID card and ID number
All BI students get a personal student card at the start of the
semester. Your ID number is affixed to the card. Please memorise
the number, as you will need it often in different contexts.
Contact the Student Service Centre in U1 to have your picture
taken and to have the card processed. The card is used as proof of
identity, library card, on vending machines, at the document centre
and for copying and printing. The card is replenished either by
transferring money from your bank account at a terminal near the
Student Service Centre, or by using cash at a terminal at the
International Relations Office. If you loose your card a replacement fee will be charged.
For the student card to be valid the tuition fee for the relevant
semester must have been paid (do not apply to exchange students),
documented by a receipt tag attached to the back of the card.
The tag can be obtained at the Student Service Centre.
Communication channels at BI
Below you will find an overview of the different communication
channels used at BI. For safety reasons, many require a username
and password. You have received your personal username and
password to all electronic services at BI along with your admittance
confirmation. If you should lose this information, please contact the
Student Service Centre at [email protected].
Student Information - www.bi.edu/students
On this site you can find information on logon services, student
services and relevant links to external and internal sites. You will
also find news from the student union, information about various
events held at BI and The Student House, and more.
Banner Student-Web - www.bi.no/banner
On Banner Student-Web you can update your address, telephone
number and email. You can access your personal schedule, and
Online schedule - www.bi.edu/schedule
The online schedule contains information about all activities at BI in
Nydalen. Please note that the schedule also shows courses taught in
Norwegian. Bachelor students should be aware that courses taught
in Norwegian may have the same name in English as courses taught
in English.
Courses and course registration
Exchange Students
register for and withdraw from exams. You will also find various
student services such as your examination results and preliminary
examination protocol. Remember to always keep your contact
information updated!
Blackboard - http://blackboard.bi.no
BI uses Blackboard as a publication tool for lecture notes and
information from the student administration. Blackboard also
serves as a student portal with access to electronic services and
information about IT services, library resources, student
associations etc. Most of the administrative and academic
information for students is only accessible via Blackboard.
SMS messages
SMS messages are used for giving important information on short
notice, for instance if a lecture has been cancelled. The service is
free of charge. Please register your Norwegian mobile phone
number (if you have one) on Banner Student-Web.
Email - http://webmail.student.bi.no
As a student you will be given a personal email address. Important
student information will be sent to this address and you are
obliged to check it regularly. You can forward emails to your
preferred email address by registering this on Banner Student-Web.
Online Student Handbook www.bi.edu/studenthandbook
The Student Handbook contains syllabuses, course descriptions,
literature lists, regulations, exam information and other important
student information.
Deadline for course registration is August 10 for the autumn
semester and December 10 for the spring semester. If you wish to
change courses after this date you must use the add/drop form.
Final deadline for making changes is August 24 for the autumn
semester and January 11 for the spring semester. Registration
forms are available online: www.bi.edu/exchange.
Bachelor Students
All courses are mandatory in the first and second year of the
programme and no course registration is required. In the third
year some courses are mandatory, but students may choose
between marketing or finance as their specialisation.
Master Students
Autumn 2008
• First year students are automatically registered for mandatory
courses. It is possible to register for electives by sending an
email to [email protected] until August 24.
• Second year students are automatically registered for mandatory
courses. Online registration of electives is available until August 10.
• Exchange Students: Online registration until August 10. It is
possible to change registrations by using an add/drop form until
August 24.
Spring 2009
• First year students are automatically registered for mandatory
courses. Online registration of electives until December 10.
• Second year students are automatically registered for mandatory
courses. Online registration of electives until December 10.
• Exchange Students: Online registration until December 10. It is
possible to change registrations by using an add/drop form
until January 11.
Registrations will not be accepted after the deadline. Please note
that MSc students who want to retake exams must sign up for the
course at the beginning of the semester, by August 24 in the
autumn semester and December 10 in the spring semester.
5
Examinations
Examinations are held in November/December (autumn semester)
and in May/June (spring semester). You will automatically be
enrolled for the exams that apply to your study programme, or
the courses you are taking. The examination plan for the autumn
semester is posted in the Student Handbook in September.
The plan for the spring semester is normally available in January.
You can register for retakes (bachelor only) or withdraw from
exams via Banner Student-Web. The deadline for making changes
is week 40 in the autumn semester and week 10 in the spring
semester.
Previous Examination Papers
Previous examination papers are available on
www.bi.edu/studenthandbook and http://blackboard.bi.no
Grading scale
6
The grade scale is based on the ECTS (European Credit Transfer
System) standard. Grades awarded for examinations, tests,
evaluation of papers or other forms of evaluation are either
Passed/Failed or on a scale of grades with five levels from A to E
for passed and F for failed. The poorest pass grade for an
examination is the grade E. The evaluation terms used for the
grading scale are as follows:
A
B
C
D
E
F
Excellent
Very good
Good
Satisfactory
Sufficient
Failed
Calculator
The only accepted advanced calculator used for examinations at
BI is the Texas Instruments (TI) model, BAII Plus. It can be bought
at Akademika Bookshop on campus and will
cost about NOK 400. There are a few
calculators on loan for
MSc students and Exchange students
at the Student Service Centre.
More information about exams:
www.bi.edu/exam
www.bi.edu/studenthandbook
Norwegian language course
In order to give international students an opportunity to learn
Norwegian, BI offers Norwegian language courses.
Norwegian language course offering autumn 2008
Beginners course will be offered starting Monday September 3.
The course consists of two lectures per week; Monday and
Wednesday, from 1800-2030.
The NOK 1500 course fee must be paid, in cash, in advance to the
International Relations Office. Please note that registration is
based on first come first serve basis. The course registration form
is available online: www.bi.edu/exchange.
The textbook "Norsk 1-2-3" can be bought at Akademika
bookstore for approximately NOK 335.
The course is not a part of BI’s curriculum and does not give any
credits. Students can take a test at the end of the course and
receive a certificate.
Norwegian language course offering spring 2009
Beginners course will be offered starting mid January.
An advanced course will be offered based on demand.
Important dates
Exchange Students
May 1
Application deadline for Incoming Exchange
July 10 - August 10 Electronic course registration for the
autumn semester
August 1
Deadline for submitting pick-up form with
your arrival date, time and flight number
August 13
Welcome Information Meeting at BI
August 14
Intercultural Workshop for Master Students
August 15
Intercultural Workshop for Bachelor Students
August 18
Classes start
August 10 – 24
Use Add/Drop form for changes in
course registration
Sept. 15 – Oct 5
Exam registration period /Application for
special arrangements in connection with
examinations
Mid Nov. - Dec. 22 Final Exams
December 10
Deadline for course registration spring 2009
December 22
Last day of the semester
Do not book your return ticket until your
exam dates have been announced!
January 7
Classes start
January 11
Final deadline for course registration
changes, by using add/drop form.
Feb. 16 - March 8 Exam registration period /Application for
special arrangements in connection with
examinations
May – June
Final Exams
June 12
Last day of the semester
Do not book your return ticket until your
exam dates have been announced!
BBA students
April 15
June 1
August 14
August 15
August 18
Sept. 15 - Oct. 5.
Application deadline
Housing application deadline
Welcome Information Meeting at BI
Intercultural Workshop for Bachelor students
Classes start
Exam registration period /Application for
special arrangements in connection with
examinations
Mid Nov. - Dec. 22 Final Exams
December 22
Last day of the semester
Do not make any travel arrangements before
your exam dates have been announced!
January 7
Classes start
February 1
Deadline for applying for an exchange
semester/academic year 2009/2010
(applies to second year students)
Feb. 16 – March 8 Exam registration period /Application for
special arrangements in connection with
examinations
May – June
Final Exams
June 12
Last day of the semester
Do not book your return ticket until your
exam dates have been announced!
Master students
April 15
July 10 - August 10
Aug 13 - 0800 hrs
Aug 13 - 1000 hrs
Aug 13 - 1030 hrs
August 15
August 24
Sept. 15 - Oct. 5
Mid Nov. - Dec. 22
November 10
December 10
December 22
January 7
February 1
Feb. 16 – March 8
May – June
June 12
Application deadline. Admission on a rolling
basis until semester start
Electronic course registration for the
autumn semester
Matriculation Ceremony
General Information Meeting
for Master Students
Introduction Case for Master
Information meetings for the different
Master programmes
Final deadline for course registration
for 1st year students and exchange students
Application for special arrangements in
connection with examinations
Final Exams
Electronic course registration for
the spring semester 2009 starts
Electronic course registration ends
Last day of the semester.
Do not make any travel arrangements before
your exam dates have been announced!
Classes start
Deadline for applying for an exchange
semester/academic year 2009/2010
Application for special arrangements in
connection with examinations
Final Exams
Last day of the semester
Do not book your return ticket until your
exam dates have been announced!
7
7
Campus facilities
Student Service Centre
The Student Service Centre is centrally located in U1 (ground floor
by the canteen). They will help you with the following: ID cards,
information about SiO, student housing, preliminary transcripts of
grades, various confirmations, submission of term papers, projects
and thesis, various forms, password and username and general
information.
8
Bookshop
There is an Akademika book shop in Block A, 1st floor. Here you
will find the books on your literature list, fiction, periodicals,
magazines and more.
Student canteen and coffee bars
The canteen serves everything from sandwiches and pizza to
noodles and more traditional Norwegian dinners. There are also
two coffee bars and a kiosk on campus.
IT services
Public phone
There are 200 workstations located in hallways and in special PC
labs, and 350 workstations in the library, all connected to laser
printers. Most areas have wireless network connections and you
will find it useful to bring your own laptop. You can connect your
laptop to BI`s network by wireless connection or a normal
Ethernet card.
A public phone is located next to the Student Service Centre in
BU1.
To use BI’s IT services you must be a registered user with a user
identity provided by BI. When logging onto the IT systems, you
must always use your own user identity and password. The user
identity and password are strictly confidential, and must not be
shared with others. Should you nonetheless become aware of, or
suspect that, a password has been made available to others, please
contact the IT department immediately. Use of other users’
identities and/or passwords is forbidden.
If you have any IT-related questions, feel free to contact our IT
Advisors in BU1, next to the Student Service Centre or send an
email to [email protected].
Library
BI’s library is located on the 5th and 6th floor. Here you will find
facilities for research, teaching and learning through effective
access to relevant information resources, user-adapted services and
various workplaces. The library offers information resources in
printed and electronic format:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Books, periodicals, papers and databases
Open group workplaces for 325 persons
46 group rooms and 4 AV rooms
350 PC workplaces
264 individual reading places
225 social places, 9 special workplaces
Language laboratory and places for disabled
Read more: www.bi.edu/library
Bank and ATM
Sparebank 1 is located on campus in Block D, 1st floor. ATMs can
be found outside the bank and next to Oasen Student Canteen in
AU1.
Career Services at BI
The Careers Services at BI is a liaison between the students at BI
Norwegian School of Management and the business community.
They assist students throughout the job search process and the
work permit process. Careers Services is located next to the
International Relations Office, Block B, 3rd floor.
Nydalen Athletica
You will find a large and well equipped fitness centre in Block D,
2nd floor. The price for a one-semester membership is NOK 1025.
Students who wish to use other SiO sports facilities need to pay
another NOK 225 extra. Read more: www.sio.no/english
Student Health Services
Student Health Services provide general health care, including
student social counselling, in Block D, 2nd floor. Clinical
psychology/psychiatry and basic dental care are available to BI
students at the University of Oslo, Blindern. You can use the
Student Health Services if you have paid the semester fee to SiO.
Note that the semester fee is waived for exchange students.
Students can also use the Student Health Services as their General
Physician (Fastlege) provided that they have a National
identification number.
The consultation by a general practitioner (GP) is free of charge
provided that you have your Regular GP with the Student Health
Services. Other students pay NOK 100 for a doctor's consultation.
All students have to pay fees for e.g. blood tests, vaccinations and
for health certificates that are not related to ongoing studies.
Please also bring your Vaccination Card to doctor appointments.
Read more: www.sio.no/english.
Opening hours Student Health Services at BI
Monday to Friday 0800 – 1115 and 1200 – 1545
(Until 1500 between May 15 and September 14)
Tel: 23 21 53 80 (The reception is closed 1115 - 1200,
but the waiting room is open)
Emergency Tel: 23 21 53 90, 0800 – 1600
(Tel: 22 85 31 74 from 1500-1600 in summer)
Outside office hours
The Emergency Service in Oslo (Legevakten)
Tel: 22 93 22 93
Address: Legevakten, Storgata 40
Ambulance 113
Oslo Tannlegevakt provide urgent dental care
Tel: 22 15 07 35
Read more:
www.oslotannlegevakt.no (In Norwegian only)
Medical History Form
Please fill out the Medical History Form (enclosed in the welcome
pack) and hand it in at the Student Health Centre. You may also
send it by post to the address stated on the form.
If you suffer from any diseases, including any contagious diseases,
it is useful for the doctors at the Student Health Service to have
information on what medicine you are taking and what treatment
you have had. It is extremely important that you give information
about former allergic reactions against specific medicine(s) or
other substances. We also ask you to give us information about
how we can reach your next of kin in case of serious illness. They
will not be contacted without your consent.
Student chaplain
You are welcome to visit our student chaplain if you need
someone to speak to or you find life challenging. You can contact
him independent of your own religion.
Appointments can be made by sending an email or SMS to:
Nils Jøran Riedl, email: [email protected]
SMS: 934 61 922
Student-run activities
The student union, SBIO, is there for you to make the most out of
your stay, and to enable you to meet fellow Norwegian students.
They have a range of activities from various sports to business
groups. Below is a brief description of some of the groups you
might be most likely to join. You will receive more information
about SBIO in a separate booklet.
BI Athletics
BI Athletics offers students a range of experiences in the world of
sports. They offer sport activities on a hobby-basis as well as elite
sports. BI Athletics represents BI in championships and series in
lacrosse, rowing, football and basketball. They also offer courses
in activities like dance, kiting and scuba diving.
The Student House
The Student House (Studentenes Hus) is located close to BI next to
the idyllic Akerselva river. It is primarily run by students, but is
connected to BI. The Student House is a place where students can
meet. Pub evenings are arranged on Thursdays, and parties and
festivals according to seasons. The building can house as many as
1000 people.
InSA - International Student Association
InSA’s goal is to help integrate international students into the
Norwegian student environment. InSA is responsible for the
“buddy” programme. The buddies pick up exchange students at
the Central Station and help them with practical information
concerning living in Norway. InSA also arranges visits to
museums, sightseeing, parties and international dinners.
GSS – Graduate Students’ Society
GSS is the student association for all Master of Science students at BI.
9
Bachelors of Business Administration students have their own
student organization called BBA.
Oslo, and a good way to meet other students. It is also possible to
find private accommodation, but rental prices are quite high at the
moment.
You will receive an email from the student association you
“belong” to. On many events these associations cooperate and
invite each others members.
Questions regarding housing can be directed to BI’s housing
coordinator: [email protected]. You can also find useful information
on www.bi.edu/housing.
Student cabins for rent
BSN Nydalen
BBA – Bachelor of Business Administration
The student unions at BI and the University of Oslo own many
cabins, in and outside Oslo, which students can rent.
Read more: www.studenthyttene.no (In Norwegian only).
BSN Nydalen is located a few minutes from campus. They offer a
number of different rooms and facilities like squash courts,
laundry room, roof terrace, broadband Internet and cable TV.
Read more: www.bsn.no
The Foundation for Student Life in Oslo (SiO)
SiO provides affordable housing for students in Oslo. SiO has
more than 6000 rooms and apartments at different rates around
Oslo. If you want to switch from one SiO dormitory to another
you have to contact SiO directly. Information about dormitories
and procedures for internal moving is available on
www.sio.no/english.
How are the rooms equipped?
10
You will have to bring your own duvet, pillow sheets and towels.
In addition, you will have to buy pots, pans and other
kitchenware. Sometimes there will be leftovers from previous
students.
Private accommodation
Private accommodation is usually more expensive than
dormitories. The price for renting a one-bedroom apartment in
Oslo is between NOK 7000-8000, or even more. Many students
live in a commune (usually 2-4 people) where they share kitchen,
bathroom and maybe a living room. Expect to pay NOK 4000 5000 for a room.
Student dormitories and
private housing
Advertisements for private accommodation can be found in
newspapers and on the Internet. The ‘Aften’ evening paper and the
following websites are recommended sources.
BI Norwegian School of Management assists exchange students
and new degree seeking students with residence outside of Norway
in finding accommodation. Other applicants and second and third
year students can apply directly to the different dormitories.
www.finn.no
www.hybel.no
www.utleiemegleren.no
There are several dormitories in Oslo where you can rent a room
or a small apartment. This is usually the cheapest way to live in
NOK 60 and a weekly pass is NOK 200. Prices are subject to change.
You can buy a monthly student travel pass for NOK 330. The first
time you buy the pass you must go to Trafikanten (small tower
next to the Oslo Central Station) to get a card with your personal
information and photo. Remember to bring you student ID,
passport and a passport photo. Students who have this card can
buy monthly passes at Akademika Bookshop, Narvesen kiosks etc.
The travel pass can be used on all public transportation within the
city borders of Oslo, including the ferry to the Oslo Fjord islands.
Please be aware that there are periodic controls on all public
transportation. If you are caught without a valid ticked the fine is
NOK 750/950.
Check www.trafikanten.no for schedules and further information
on public transportation.
Transportation
Public transport
Oslo can be easily reached by car, ferry, train, bus or plane. All
trains arrive at Oslo Central Station (Oslo S), while buses to and
from the airport and other cities arrive at and leave from Oslo Bus
Terminal. Public transport is the most convenient way to travel
within Oslo. There is an extensive transportation system consisting
of trains, buses, ferries, trams and subway.
How to get to BI
Subway: Line 4 Ringen, line 5 Storo and line 6 Ringen to
Husebybakken takes you to Nydalen subway station, which is
located right next to BI. It takes about 12 minutes to travel from
downtown Oslo.
Driving in Norway
EU citizens can use their original driving license while in Norway.
Non-EU citizens are allowed to use the driver’s license obtained in
their home country during the first year of their stay in Norway, as
long as the license is in English, German or French. If not, an
additional certified translation from the home country is required.
Students who bring their own car must to get a driving permission
from the customs. Read more: www.toll.no.
Parking at BI
There are 280 free parking spaces for students on campus. The
first come, first served principle applies and you enter by using
your student card. When all free parking spaces are taken you will
have to pay for parking your car. Europark operates the parking
house and you need to observe their parking regulations.
Biking
Bus: Bus number 37 stops at BI`s main entrance and bus number
30 makes a stop at the eastern entrance. Both busses run to and
from the city centre.
Trams: Tram number 11, 12 and 13 takes you to and from Storo,
a 5 minute walk from BI.
Tickets and rates
Tickets are bought from special ticket machines, in kiosks or from
the driver on busses and trams (not on trains or subway). A single
ticket, valid for one hour, is NOK 24 if you buy it from a machine
and NOK 34 if you buy it from the driver. A flexicard, 160 NOK
for eight journeys, is a cheaper alternative. A 24 hour ticket is
Bicycles can be bought in all major sportswear stores and
specialized bicycle stores. You can also check www.finn.no for
used bikes. Outside BI there are bicycle racks where you can lock
your bicycle during lectures. Make sure to always lock your bike
carefully as theft is common.
City bikes are bikes you can borrow for up to three hours by using
a special city bike card. The city bikes are stationed at more than
75 different places downtown and are available between 0600 and
2400 every day. The yearly fee is NOK 70.
Read more: www.oslobysykkel.no (select ‘Oslo bysykkel’).
11
Attractions, activities and
urban areas
Attractions in Oslo
Along with the world class art that you would expect of a
European capital city, Oslo has sights that appeal to a broad range
of interests, a vibrant city life, and fjords and lakes located in a
wooded wilderness area that can be reached by public
transportation.
Oslo offers some 50 museums and many art galleries. Amongst the
internationally known attractions are the Vigeland Sculpture Park,
the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum, Akershus Fortress,
Holmenkollen, the Folk Museum and the newly opened Opera
House. Many museums and art galleries are free of charge or they
offer discounts for students.
Useful websites
12
www.visitoslo.com
www.virtualoslo.com
www.visitnorway.com
Oslo Public Library
Oslo Public Library is Norway´s largest public library. The library
is available for everyone and has many branches located across the
city. There are several specialised departments, such as The
Multilingual Library. Their collection includes both fiction and
non-fiction in thirty-seven languages. At other branches you can
choose among a large selection of books in Nordic and other
European languages, especially English and German. The majority
of branches also offer novels, videos, DVDs and audio books
for circulation.
Read more: www.deichmanske-bibliotek.oslo.kommune.no/english
Cinemas
Oslo Municipal Cinemas operates eight movie theatres in the city
of Oslo. Foreign films are normally screened in original versions
with Norwegian subtitles. Please note that features for children
may be dubbed! Norwegian films are generally not subtitled.
Read more: www.oslokino.no.
Nydalen and Urban Areas
Oslo is divided into various urban areas. Here are some of the
more popular ones for nightlife, shopping and eating out. There
are countless restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs to choose
from and you will find restaurants that serve dishes in every price
range. There are many good alternatives for student budgets and
the many exotic restaurants are a good option in this regard.
Nydalen
BI lies in the heart of Nydalen, which was originally an industrial
area. During the last twenty years the area has developed into
becoming an area of competence. Today, Nydalen consist of
thriving businesses, numerous service offerings, a hotel and
apartment buildings.
The Akerselva river runs freely through the area and along the
river you will find nice footpaths. These will take you into the
woods surrounding Oslo if you head north or to the Oslo fjord if
you walk southwards. At Storo Shopping Mall, a 5 minute walk
from BI, you will find several shops selling clothing and shoes, a
florist, a pharmacy, accessories, hairdressers, groceries, sports
equipment, an electrical store and more.
The city centre around Karl Johans street
The area is a pedestrian precinct with many clothing stores,
restaurant, bars, hotels and cinemas. Larger shopping malls and
department stores in the area are Oslo City, Byporten,
Glassmagasinet, Steen & Strøm, Paleet and Aker Brygge.
Grünerløkka
At Grünerløkka you will find more than 60 restaurants, cafés and
bars serving all kinds of food. There are shops run by non-native
Norwegians selling fruit, vegetables and other food items.
Grünerløkka is also the place to look for small, independent shops
with clothes and handicrafts, as well as number of second hand
shops.
Majorstua
In the streets of Bogstadveien and Hegdehaugsveien you will find a
good mix of exclusive brands, mid-price clothing and value
clothes. There are also a good selection of restaurants, cafés and
bars, and once a month they have an outdoor market.
Grønland
Grønland has a wide variety of shops and restaurants run by
non-native Norwegians. They offer Oslo’s best selection of fruits
and vegetables. In addition you can get a good bargain on exotic
textiles and gold. The main streets are Grønlandsleiret and
Smalgangen. Here you will also find some popular bars and cafes.
Places for activities and recreation
Public parks
Oslo has many parks and outdoor areas open to the public. The
parks are nice places to meet for barbeque, sports activities or just
to relax. Some of the most popular parks are Frognerparken
(Vigeland Sculpture Park), St. Hanshaugen, Tøyen, Birkelunden
and Torshov. It is also very popular to walk along Akerselva river,
which flows through the city in the north-south direction.
Islands
Just outside of Oslo harbour there are 40 small islands, most of
which are open to the public for barbequeing, sunbathing and
swimming. The water temperature is normally between 18 and 22
degrees in summer. To visit the islands you need to go by ferry.
Rates are the same as for other public transportation and you can
use your monthly student pass.
Sognsvann
Sognsvann is a freshwater lake located a 5 minute walk from
Kringsjå Student House. There is a nice path around the lake where
you can take a walk or go for a run. The lake is also adjusted for
bathing with a nice beach, grassy field and a small pier.
Nordmarka
The forest region north of Oslo city is called Nordmarka and has
a size of 430 km2. There are several tour possibilities both in
summer and winter. In the summer you can find nice, blue-marked
tracks for hiking, biking routes and idyllic lakes for swimming. It
is also possible to stay for overnight or have a break at one of the
many charming cabins. Read more: www.turistforeningen.no.
Skiing and ice skating
Travelling in Norway
Norway is a beautiful country of mountains, fjords and glaciers.
City life in Oslo is different from that of a coastal village in the
west and north and if you have the opportunity, it’s nice to take a
few days for travelling while in Norway. We recommend you to
get a guidebook and to search the Internet. Travelling in Norway
can be expensive, but if you tighten your belt there are ways to
travel on a budget. Distances are great in Norway, which means
air travel should be considered. Norwegian, SAS and Widerøe fly
to 50 different destinations in Norway and if you book early
relatively cheap tickets are available.
In winter, Oslo boasts an exceptional ski experience within 30
minutes of the city centre by subway. Over 2,600 km of well
prepared and red-marked cross-country ski trails run deep into the
Oslo forest (Nordmarka). 124 km of these trails are floodlit until
23:00 hours each day, and winter cabins serve hot chocolate and
freshly baked pastries. Holmenkollen and Sognsvann are often the
starting points for cross country.
The national rail system is good, though somewhat limited. It is a
nice way to travel as most of the routes go through a changing
scenic countryside. On regional trains, a low cost ticket (Minipris)
costs NOK 199/299 for a single ticket, whatever the length of
your journey. The offer is available for a limited number of seats
on NSB Regional departures and tickets can be purchased on the
Internet. Norway also has an extensive bus network, with routes
connecting every main city as well as more remote areas.
You can try downhill skiing or snowboarding at Oslo Winter Park
Tryvann, 30 minutes by subway from the city centre. Here you
will find ski rental and lots of slopes. Check their daily online ski
report for snow conditions. Read more: www.tryvann.no
There are a number of Youth Hostels all over Norway that offer
relatively cheap accommodation, especially if you stay in dormitories.
If you like skating you can find an ice skating rink and skate
rental in the area between the National Theatre and the
Parliament during winter.
www.norwegian.no • www.sas.no • www.wideroe.no
www.nsb.no • www.nor-way.no • www.visitnorway.com
www.hihostels.no • www.lavprisekspressen.no
Useful websites
13
Formalities
Residence permit and registration
with the police
Students living in Oslo must register at the foreign police:
Oslo Police, Foreign Section
Address: Storgata 33b, 0184 Oslo
On Saturday August 23, 2008 there is an open day at the Oslo
Police for BI students, from 0830 – 1300. We request all students
to come on this day as this will save you a lot of time and effort!
The foreign police recommend all new students to register on
August 23, even if this is later than 7 days after your arrival.
Students arriving in January will have to register during ordinary
opening hours (Monday - Friday 0815-1130), within 7 days of
arrival.
Exchange students from outside Europe who have not applied
for a residence permit before coming to Norway
• Application form for residence permit
• Passport (copy of all pages, including blank pages)
• One passport photo
• Copy of Letter of Admission
• Proof of financial funding, NOK 8.290 per month
(copy of bank transcript)
• Receipt of payment NOK 1.100
Students who have received or applied for the residence permit
from their home country
• The residence permit from UDI (or a copy of the application
if you have not received it)
• Passport
• One passport photo
The above information does not apply to Nordic citizens and students
who have already registered with the Police in Norway. Students
living outside Oslo must report to the Police in the community where
they live. Renewals will not be handed out on August 23.
How to get there
14
Take any subway to Jernbanetorget and walk 5 minutes from
there. Alternatively, take bus 30 from BI and get off at Brugata.
right outside the Oslo Police, Foreign Section.
Remember to bring the following documents with you, both the
original and a copy for the police to keep:
All EU/EEA students
• Application form for residence permit
• Copy of your letter of admission issued by BI
• Copy of your passport/EU ID card
• Health Insurance papers for the whole study period
• Two passport photos
Health insurance
Students from EEA countries
Students from EU/EEA countries must have social security
coverage from their home country. The social security card covers
expenses for medical treatment in accordance with the National
Insurance Scheme. Please contact a national insurance office in
your home country for detailed information.
Non EU/EEA students
If the duration of your stay in Norway is more than 3 months
(and less than 6 months) you should fill in the Application for
insurance during stay in Norway form entitling you to health
services in accordance with the Norwegian National Insurance
Scheme. If you send the form by post you must enclose a certified
copy of your passport. Certified copies can be made at the
International Relations Office. You can also apply in person.
Students who stay in Norway for more than 12 months are
automatically part of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme.
Note that the scheme does not cover dental care and medical
treatment of illness contracted before arrival in Norway.
Students who do not fill in the Application for insurance during
stay in Norway form or students who stay in Norway less than
three months must have social security coverage from their home
country.
days after your initial examination. After your second
appointment you will receive a card verifying that you have had
your check-up.
Please note that students studying in Norway for less than 12
months are not covered by the National Insurance Scheme when
travelling outside Norway. Students staying more than 12 months
are covered when travelling in the EU, but not outside the EU.
Students going on exchange/study abroad should enquire about
their rights at the International Relations Office before leaving.
Ullevål Sykehus (Hospital)
Division of Lung Disease/Diagnosestasjon for Oslo og Akershus
House K, first floor
Address: Kirkeveien 166, Oslo
Tel: 22 11 99 30 (between 0800-1530)
Addresses of the local
Norwegian National Insurance offices
(Trygdekontor):
How to get to there
Take subway 4 or 5 to Majorstua. Go to Mc Donalds and take
bus 20 to Ullevål Sykehus (three stops). Alternatively you can take
bus 37 from BI to Tannlegehøyskolen and walk five minutes.
For residents at Kringsjå, Sogn and BSN
Nordre Aker Trygdekontor
Gullhaugveien 7, Oslo
P.B. 320, Alnabru, 0614 Oslo
Opening hours: 0800-1500
Tel: 21 06 67 00
For residents at Bjølsen
Sagene Trygdekontor
Thv. Meyersgate 9, Oslo
P.B. 305, Alnabru, 0614 Oslo
Opening hours: 0800-1500
Tel: 21 06 68 21
For residents at Bjerke
Bjerke Trygdekontor
Økern senteret, Økernveien 145
P.B. 319, Alnabru, 0614 Oslo
Opening hours: 0800-1500
Tel: 21 06 82 60
Students who live elsewhere must contact their local National
Insurance Office (Trygdekontor).
Tuberculosis test
Students who are going to remain in Norway for more than 3
months might be required to be tested for tuberculosis. You will
normally receive a letter from your local municipality with
information about when and where you should go to take the test.
If you do not receive this letter, you should contact the Division of
Lung Disease at Ullevål Hospital to make an appointment. This
applies to all students, except students from Western Europe, USA,
Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.
The examination is free of charge. You will need to return a few
15
Working in Norway
Work permit and tax card
As a student you are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week and
full time during holidays.
You are required to have a tax card when working in Norway.
The tax card shows your employer how much to deduct from your
pay check and this is done before you are paid. You can obtain a
tax card from the tax assessment office in your municipality.
Students living in Oslo must go to Skatt Øst, the Tax Assessment
Office in Oslo:
Skatt Øst
Address: Hagegata 23, Tøyen Sentrum
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 0900-1500 and
Thursdays 0900-1700
Tel: 800 80 000.
How to get there
Take subway 4, 5 or 6 from BI to Tøyen.
Read more: www.skatteetaten.no. Click International for
information in English.
Employers will transfer wages and salaries to your Norwegian
bank account. It is customary to give your bank account number
to your employer upon employment.
Practicalities
Bank Account
Students staying in Norway for more than one semester are
recommended to open a bank account. This is an inexpensive
solution compared to using your VISA or credit card.
To open an account in Norway you need a social security number
or a D-number. The bank can apply for a D-number for students
staying less than 6 months. It normally takes three to four weeks
from the time the bank sends in a requisition form until your bank
account can be activated.
The Sparebank1 bank is located on campus. They offer good
terms for BI students who opens a bank account with a VISA
card. To open a bank account, please contact Sparebank1 in Block
D, 1st floor. Remember to bring you passport.
Mobile phone
In Norway most people have a mobile phone. If you have brought
your own mobile phone to Norway, you can buy a pre-paid card
or a Norwegian subscription. Pre-paid cards are easily available in
kiosks like 7Eleven and Narvesen. To buy a pre-paid card you
need an ID card. A monthly subscription requires that you have a
Norwegian D-number.
16
Population Registry and National ID number
The application for a tax-card for foreign nationals’ acts as an
application for a personal identification number if a national ID
number has not been applied for. The ID numbers are called either
P or D-numbers according to how long the expected stay in
Norway is. D-numbers are usually issued to those who are staying
in Norway less than six months, and P-numbers to those who stay
for a longer period.
Please note that if you are staying in Norway for more than 6
months you should fill in the notification to the National Registry
of move to Norway from abroad form in order to receive the
P-number. The form should be handed in at Skatt Øst.
Useful websites
www.nyinorge.no
www.careerinnorway.no
www.bi.edu/career
Basic phones with a subscription or a pre-paid card are readily
available for a fair price. Mobile phones can be bought in stores
that sell electrical equipment or in telecommunication stores.
Remember to switch off your mobile phone during lectures, in the
library and when entering public building such as cinemas and
theatres!
Business hours
Food stores are normally open from 0800 or 0900 until 2200 on
weekdays and 2000 on Saturdays. Shops in major shopping streets
like Karl Johan and Bogstadveien, are open until around 1800 on
weekdays (some have longer opening hours on Thursdays) and
1600-1800 on Saturdays. Shopping malls are normally open until
2000 on weekdays and 1800 on Saturdays. Shops are closed on
Sundays and on public holidays, with the exception of some
smaller food stores.
Banks are normally open from 0900 to 1500 Monday-Friday.
Some have longer opening hours on Thursdays. Government
offices are normally open between 0900 and 1500-1600, but
hours may vary.
Where to shop for…
National holidays
Groceries
The least expensive stores are Prix, Rimi, Rema 1000 and Kiwi.
Here you will find a basic selection of groceries, toiletries, etc. At
the east side of town (Sagene, Torshov, Günerløkka and Grønland)
you will find Turkish, Pakistani and other Asian grocery stores
with a selection of vegetables, fruit, and international food at a
low-price.
Norwegian national holidays may differ slightly from what you
are used to. On these days most commercial businesses are closed,
no newspapers are printed and you can expect to contend with
irregular public transport schedules.
Things for your room
IKEA is the largest and cheapest place to shop for furniture, bed
linen, decoration, kitchenware, textiles and more. A free bus to
IKEA departs from the city centre every half hour from 1000-2200
on weekdays and 1000-2000 on Saturday. The bus returns to
Jernbanetorget every 40 minute past the hour. Notice that there
are two IKEAs around Oslo; Furuset and Slependen, and one bus
for each store. Ask where the current bus stop is located as the
stop keeps changing due to construction work around
Jernbanetorget.
2009
New Years Day: January 1, Palm Sunday: April 5, Maundy
Thursday: April 9, Good Friday: April 10, Easter Sunday: April 12,
Easter Monday: April 13, Labour Day: May 1, Constitution Day:
May 17, Ascension Day: May 21, Whit Sunday: May 31, Whit
Monday: June 1, Christmas Day: December 25, Boxing Day:
December 26
Tipping
You will find summer temperatures in Oslo from May to
September. The temperatures can vary from 10 degrees on a rainy
day, to 30 degrees on a nice summer day. Sea temperatures in
summer are normally between 18 and 22 degrees. From September
it gets gradually colder, but the autumn can be nice with sunny
days and clear, sharp air. By mid November we usually have
winter, and snow usually arrives in time for Christmas. It is quite
dark and cold in the months from November until the end of
February. In March you will find milder temperature and sunny
days. Spring arrives in March/April and continues until mid May.
Service charges 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. In bars and cafes people
will often leave some change.
Electricity
European continental style two-pin plugs are standard in Norway.
Voltage is 220 V AC, 50 Hz. Appliances rated US 110V need a
transformer.
Sending packages to Norway
Packages sent to Norway must have your accurate address with
your street name, house no, flat/room number and preferably a
phone number where you can be reached written on it. If you live
with someone the address must include c/o and the person’s name
as indicated on the mailbox.
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, unexpected charges for clearing
it through customs. You must under NO circumstances send
medication, cigarettes or alcohol by post.
2008
Christmas Day: December 25, Boxing Day: December 26
Temperatures and climate
Rules and Regulations
Norway is governed by Norwegian laws, which are adopted by the
Parliament. Everyone living in Norway must follow these laws.
Smoking in Norway
In Norway, law restricts smoking. The law prohibits smoking in all
public buildings like the BI Campus, cinemas, municipal offices,
railway stations etc. It is also prohibited to smoke in restaurants, bars
and cafés all over Norway. Do not expect to be reminded by signs.
Beer, wine and spirits
A state-owned monopoly chain, called Vinmonopolet, controls the
sale of wine and hard liquors. Beer can be bought in food stores.
The age limit for buying beer and wine is 18. For buying hard
liquors the minimum age requirement is 20.
17
Drugs
Please note that use of any kind of drugs/narcotics is illegal in
Norway. Drug offences may result in a jail sentence and deportation.
Emergency
Emergency plan
BI has a crisis emergency plan which covers all incoming students.
Please call the relevant person for assistance should you or one of
your fellow students experience a serious accident or get hospitalized.
BBA
Ms. Sjoukje Kootstra Steinhovden, Tel: 46 41 04 27
MSc
Director of Studies, Nina Husjord, Tlf: 46 41 00 53
International Relations Office
Director of International Relations, Helge Jensen, Tlf: 46 41 02 20
International Co-ordinator, Ellen Tobiasson, Tlf: 46 41 02 26
18
Emergency phones
FIRE
POLICE
AMBULANCE
110
112
113
News and facts about Norway
www.ssb.no/english • www.aftenposten.no/english
Cultural advice
Addressing people
• Norwegians are considered to be easy going and informal. First
names are commonly used. Prefixed such as Mr., Mrs. and Ms.
are generally only used in very formal occasions.
Being late
• Be on time when going to work and school. It is considered
impolite to be late.
• On social occasions Norwegians are more flexible. Being 10-15
minutes late is quite common.
Shaking hands
• You should shake hands in formal situations.
• Among students and friends hand shaking is not expected.
However, when being introduced for the first time to someone
your age it is common to shake hands and say your name.
Social convention
• Norwegians are friendly, but reserved. However, you will often
get a positive response if you take the initiative to start a
conversation!
• Norwegians are independent, straightforward and easy-going.
• The egalitarian values which are 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. Also, be aware that what some
might consider a light dress code is not necessarily meant to
attract attention.
Common courtesy
• It is always nice to hold the door open for someone, regardless
of whether they are men or women.
• Old people and pregnant women appreciate it if you offer them
your seat on crowded public transport. It is also appreciated if
you assist people with a baby carriage onto the bus or tram.
• Be discrete when looking at people and avoid staring.
• Don’t cut in line.
• Don’t litter on the floor or ground and dispose of litter
responsibly.
• As a guest in a Norwegian home, remember to remove your
shoes in the hallway.
• Don’t talk to your friends during meetings and presentations
etc, when the speaker is talking.
• Turn the sound of your mobile off 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
better integrate into Norwegian society
Numbers
1 - En
2 - To
3 - Tre
Norwegian language
4 - Fire
5 - Fem
Norway has three official written languages: Bokmål, Nynorsk and
Sami. Bokmål is based on written Danish, which was the official
language of Norway for several hundred years. Nynorsk was created
in the 1850s by linguist Ivar Aasen, and is a compilation and
combination of some regional dialects. Generally, if you understand
Bokmål you can understand Nynorsk fairly easily, and vice versa.
Officially Bokmål and Nynorsk have been accorded equal status,
although Bokmål is more widely used in Oslo and the larger towns.
Sami, a member of the Finno-Ugric branch of languages is a
minority language used by the indigenous Sami people.
6 - Seks
7 - Syv
8 - Åtte
9 - Ni
10 - Ti
50 - Femti
100 - Hundre
1000- Tusen
English is widely spoken and you can manage quite well in Norway
without knowing any Norwegian. However, knowing a few words
and phrases may be useful.
Food and drinks
Bread - Brød
Hello - Hei
Cheese - Ost
Goodbye - Ha det bra
Eggs - Egg
Yes: - Ja
Full fat milk - Helmelk
No - Nei
Low fat milk - Lettmelk
Please - Vær så snill
Chicken - Kylling
Thanks - (Tusen) takk
Fish - Fisk
You are welcome - Værsågod
Salmon - Laks
How are you? - Hvordan har du det?
Fruit - Frukt
I’m fine - Bra takk
Vegetable - Grønnsak
My name is - Jeg heter
Coffee - Kaffe
Where is - Hvor er
Tea - Te
Sorry - Unnskyld,
Beer - Øl
Excuse me - Unnskyld meg
Wine - Vin
Cheers - Skål
Soft drinks - Mineralvann (Brus)
I’m a vegetarian - Jeg er vegetarianer
Water - Vann
How much is it? - Hvor mye koster den?
I don’t understand - Jeg forstår ikke
Do you speak English? - Snakker du Engelsk?
If you are invited to lunch or dinner it is customary to thank the
host for the meal when you leave the table.
The phrase “Takk for maten” means “Thank you for the food”.
19