Norskprøven (the Norwegian language test) is not samfunnskunnskapsprøven (the social studies test)
This is the most expensive mix-up in the whole process, and it happens all the time: people think they've taken the test, when they've taken the other one.
The difference
| Norskprøven | Samfunnskunnskapsprøven | |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | Norwegian language skills | Knowledge of Norwegian society |
| Parts | Reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written and oral | One multiple-choice test |
| Result | Level, A1 to B2 | Pass or fail |
| Language | Norwegian | All the languages the test is offered in |
| Duration | Several parts, different days | Maximum 60 minutes |
You usually need both
They cover two different requirements. The norskprøven documents your language skills. The samfunnskunnskapsprøven documents that you know the society. Passing one says nothing about the other.
Why the mix-up happens
Because both are held at the same test centres, both are linked to the training for adult immigrants, both are required for the same applications, and both are referred to in everyday speech as "the test".
The consequence
People sign up for the wrong test, pay the fee, take it, and only find out when UDI asks for documentation that they're missing the other one. By then they've lost weeks or months, and a fee.
Check what you actually need
Look at your application and what UDI is asking for. If it states a requirement for Norwegian language skills, that's the norskprøven or equivalent documentation. If it states a requirement for knowledge of society, that's the samfunnskunnskapsprøven or statsborgerprøven.
We can help you with the other one of the two.