Samfunnskunnskapsprøven or statsborgerprøven: which test do you need in Norway?
Permanent residence: sit samfunnskunnskapsprøven (the social studies test), and you may sit it in your own language. HK-dir offers it in 24.
Citizenship: the same test only counts if you sat it in Norwegian. If you did not, you sit statsborgerprøven (the citizenship test) instead, which exists in Norwegian only.
That one rule catches most people out, because the pass that earned their residence permit does not carry over.
| Your goal | Test you need | Language | Counts for citizenship? | Counts for residence? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent residence | Social studies test | Any of 24 | Only if sat in Norwegian | Yes |
| Citizenship | Citizenship test | Norwegian only | Yes | No |
| Citizenship, having sat the social studies test in Norwegian | No further test | n/a | Yes | n/a |
If you can sit the social studies test in Norwegian, do. It covers both routes and saves you a second exam.
Who needs to take the Citizenship Test?
To obtain Norwegian citizenship, you must pass the Statsborgerprøven (Citizenship Test) unless you previously completed the Social Studies Test in Norwegian. The exam is only available in Norwegian.
- Required for citizenship applicants who did not take the Social Studies Test in Norwegian.
- Focuses on Norwegian identity, history, democratic values, and civic responsibilities.
- Not valid for permanent residence; it is purely for citizenship approval.
Citizenship applications typically require:
- A permanent residence permit.
- Norwegian language ability at B1 level (oral).
- Passing the Citizenship Test in Norwegian if needed.
- Identity documentation and a clean criminal record certificate.
- Residence: typically 6 to 8 years, depending on your residence basis, per statsborgerloven § 7.
Full details: https://www.udi.no/en/want-to-apply/citizenship
How Prøveappen helps you pass
- Practice real exam-style questions for both Samfunnskunnskapsprøven and Statsborgerprøven.
- Get instant feedback and detailed score tracking.
- Sit the social studies test in any of the 24 languages it is offered in, and get every answer explained in your language, including on the Norwegian-only citizenship test.
- Take a free practice exam and discover which topics you should review next.
- Build the confidence you need before the real UDI exam day.
Preparation time and tips
Wondering how long you need to prepare? We have detailed guides to help you plan your study time effectively:
- How long does it take to prepare for both exams? - Time planning, study strategy and what the timer actually means on the day.
Both articles explain why you typically don't need more than 30 days of practice after reading the curriculum at samfunnskunnskap.no.
FAQ
How do I apply for permanent residence in Norway?
Gather proof of residence time, income, language skills, and a passed Social Studies Test, then submit your application to UDI. Their website lists the exact documents and waiting times for your citizenship background.
What is the Social Studies Test in Norway?
It is a multiple-choice exam covering Norwegian society, rights, and everyday life topics. Passing it is required for permanent residence and, when taken in Norwegian, it also satisfies the citizenship knowledge requirement.
Who needs to take the Citizenship Test?
Anyone applying for Norwegian citizenship who did not complete the Social Studies Test in Norwegian must pass the Citizenship Test, which is only offered in Norwegian.
How are the tests different?
The Social Studies Test is available in several languages and is tied to permanent residence, while the Citizenship Test is Norwegian-only and focused on finalizing citizenship. Taking the Social Studies Test in Norwegian usually eliminates the need for the second exam.
Where can I practice for the exams?
Start with a free practice exam on Prøveappen. You will receive instant feedback, topic breakdowns, and access to more practice sets when you are ready.
Now you know which test you need. Find out if you would pass.
Your first practice exam is free: full length, real exam form, an explanation for everything you miss. No card needed.