How to Pass the Norwegian Citizenship Test
A complete guide to preparing for and passing the samfunnskunnskapsprøve and statsborgerprøve on your first attempt.
What is the Norwegian citizenship test?
The Norwegian citizenship test (statsborgerprøve) and the civic knowledge test (samfunnskunnskapsprøve) are exams about Norwegian society that you must pass as part of the immigration and citizenship process. The tests cover 13 topics across three modules: life skills, daily life and rights, and Norwegian society.
The samfunnskunnskapsprøve can be taken in 23 languages and is required for permanent residence. The statsborgerprøve must be taken in Norwegian and is required for citizenship. Both tests use the same curriculum and similar question formats.
Test format and scoring
The test is a computer-based multiple-choice exam. Each question has three answer options, and only one is correct. You have 60 minutes to complete the test.
- Samfunnskunnskapsprøve: 38 questions, 34 scored, pass mark 26 correct
- Statsborgerprøve: 36 questions, 32 scored, pass mark 24 correct
- 4 trial questions are included but do not count toward your score
- You cannot go back to change previous answers
- Results are available within a few weeks
Create your study plan
A structured study plan is the key to passing the test on your first attempt. We recommend starting at least 2–4 weeks before your test date, dedicating 30–60 minutes per day.
- Week 1–2: Study the 13 topics one by one, starting with the hardest ones
- Week 2–3: Practice questions by topic, reviewing explanations for wrong answers
- Week 3–4: Take full practice exams under timed conditions
- Final days: Review your most common mistakes and revisit weak topics
How to study each topic
Each of the 13 topics has key concepts, facts, and vocabulary you need to know. The most effective approach is to read the topic summary first, then test yourself with practice questions. Pay special attention to Norwegian terms (like ‘fastlege’, ‘Storting’, ‘allemannsretten’) as they often appear in test questions.
Focus on understanding principles rather than memorising individual facts. For example, understand why the tripartite model works in Norwegian working life, or why children’s rights are central to family law. The test asks questions that require understanding, not just recall.
What to expect on exam day
On the day of the test, arrive at the test centre at least 15 minutes early. You will need to bring valid photo identification (passport, national ID card, or Norwegian driver’s licence). Electronic devices, notes, and dictionaries are not allowed.
- Bring valid photo ID (passport or national ID card)
- Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time
- No phones, notes, or dictionaries are allowed in the test room
- Read each question carefully before selecting your answer
- Use the full 60 minutes — do not rush
- Stay calm and trust your preparation
Common mistakes to avoid
Based on analysis of practice test results, these are the most common areas where candidates struggle:
- Confusing the Storting (parliament) with the government (regjering)
- Mixing up the dates: 17 May 1814 (Constitution), 1905 (independence from Sweden)
- Forgetting the difference between samboer (cohabitant) and marriage rights
- Not knowing the correct pass marks (26/34 for samfunnskunnskap, 24/32 for statsborger)
- Confusing NAV, UDI, and Skatteetaten and their respective roles
- Misunderstanding allemannsretten — it applies to uncultivated land, not private gardens
After the test
Test results are typically available within 2–4 weeks. If you pass, you will receive a certificate that can be used for your residence or citizenship application. If you do not pass, you can retake the test as many times as needed — there is no limit on attempts.
After passing the samfunnskunnskapsprøve, the next step toward citizenship is passing the statsborgerprøve (in Norwegian) and meeting the language requirement at minimum B1 level in Norwegian.
Browse all 13 topics
Study each topic with key facts and sample questions.
About the test
Test format, scoring, registration, and what to bring.
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Over 1,000 practice questions with explanations in 10 languages. Free to start.