🏙️ Student Oslo: SiO accommodation, welcome week and quiet areas
🏠 SiO housing: priorities, application, queue
SiO (Studentsamskipnaden i Oslo) is the main student organisation that manages student housing, sports and services in Oslo.
● Priority: first-year students and international students have a higher chance of getting a room.
● Application: Apply via the SiO Housing website 3–6 months before the start of the semester.
● Waiting list: demand is high in the summer, so it is recommended to apply in advance.
● Options: single rooms, studios, family flats.
📌 Tip: when moving in, take photos of the condition of the room and check the contract — the deposit must always be kept in a separate account.
🎉 Welcome Week UiO
In August, the University of Oslo holds Welcome Week — a week of getting to know the campus, culture and students.
What to expect:
● Buddy groups — senior students help newcomers settle in.
● Campus tours: libraries, sports centres, student cafés.
● Social events: concerts, quizzes, city walks.
📌 Bring your student ID, schedule, and buddy group contact information. Introverts can choose quiet activities (e.g., book clubs or guided tours).
📚 Top libraries and quiet spaces
Oslo has many places to study:
● 📖 Universitetsbiblioteket (UBO) — the central library of the University of Oslo, open from early morning.
● ☕ Deichman Bjørvika — a modern city library near the opera house, popular with students.
● 🪑 OsloMet's illuminated areas — quiet rooms at the Pilestredet campus.
● 💻 Coworking spaces (Mesh, Work-Work) — for those who combine study and projects.
👉 Life hack: many libraries are open on weekends, and Deichman even has rooms for group work that can be booked online.
💼 Internships and careers
Oslo is the country's largest labour market. Opportunities for students:
● internships at international companies (Telenor, DNV, PwC, Oslo Science Park start-ups),
● government agencies and NGOs,
● student job fairs (career fairs at UiO and OsloMet).
📌 Tip: write your CV in English and Norwegian — this increases your chances of a successful response.
📝 Checklist for moving to Oslo as a student
- 🏠 Apply early for SiO student housing
- 📄 Check your rental contract and deposit
- 🎫 Get your Student ID (Studentbevis) for discounts
- 🎉 Join a buddy group for Welcome Week
- 📚 Locate the nearest library and quiet study spot
- 💼 Update your CV and check internships at Oslo Science Park
Student life in Oslo is an amazing combination of academic intensity and a rich infrastructure! SiO helps with finding a place to live, Welcome Week makes it easier to settle in, there are libraries and co-working spaces to use, and internships in the capital open up amazing career opportunities.
📌 Tip: Start planning your accommodation and Welcome Week in the spring so that you are fully prepared by August.
FAQ
It is best to apply 3–6 months before the start of the semester. Applications for August are particularly competitive.
Yes, you can apply for a change through the SiO system, but it depends on availability.
Your student ID, timetable, buddy group contacts and some cash for events.
At UiO/OsloMet career fairs, Oslo Science Park, and job sites (Finn.no, Indeed, LinkedIn).
