Published: March 9, 2026
Lillehammer, Norway
A state-funded national film school in the heart of Norway with a strong reputation and extremely limited annual intake.
Quick facts
3-year Bachelor of Fine Arts degree
2-year Master of Fine Arts degree
Programs: Directing (narrative), screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound design
Language of instruction: Norwegian
Tuition: Free for Norwegian and EU/EEA citizens; approximately €16,000 per year for non-EU/EEA students
Very small annual intake (exact numbers not publicly specified, but extremely competitive)
Part of Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences
In-person attendance required (team-based learning)
Exchange/visiting students: Limited information; Norwegian language required
What this school is known for
The Norwegian Film School is known for producing working directors and cinematographers in the Norwegian film industry. Almost 9 out of 10 graduates are employed in the film industry. Norway has a strong film culture with significant state funding through the Norwegian Film Institute. The school is based in Lillehammer, a beautiful mountain town known for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics.
Programs offered
Bachelor’s degree in Directing (Narrative Films) — 3 years.
Bachelor’s degree in Screenwriting — 3 years.
Bachelor’s degree in Cinematography — 3 years.
Bachelor’s degree in Editing — 3 years.
Bachelor’s degree in Sound Design — 3 years.
Master’s degrees in the same disciplines — 2 years each.
Fellowship programme in artistic research.
Teaching approach
The Norwegian Film School emphasizes team-based learning and requires in-person attendance. Students work collaboratively on actual film projects throughout the program. Teaching combines technical skill development with artistic vision. Most classes are conducted in Norwegian.
Equipment and facilities
The school has access to professional film production equipment, sound recording and mixing facilities, and cinematography labs. Lillehammer provides a beautiful but smaller alternative to major European film hubs. The school is part of Inland Norway University, which offers additional resources and facilities.
Industry connections
Katarina Launing (director; graduated 2001; works in TV and film).
Sara Johnsen (director; among first class of 36 students; Vinterkyss/Kissed by Winter).
Ove Raymond Gyldenås (director; Tommy’s Inferno).
Erik Richter Strand (director; Sons).
Hisham Zaman (director/screenwriter; won 40+ international awards with Bawke).
Admissions
Admission is extremely competitive with a very small annual intake. Applicants are evaluated based on artistic talent and technical ability. You must demonstrate Norwegian language proficiency or be willing to study Norwegian intensively. In-person attendance is required. Contact the school directly for current admission requirements and deadlines.
Cost
Tuition is free for Norwegian citizens and EU/EEA residents. Non-EU/EEA international students pay approximately €16,000 per year. Living costs in Lillehammer are reasonable compared to other European cities.
For visiting and exchange students
Exchange or visiting student information is not widely publicized. International students should note that Norwegian language proficiency is required. Contact the school directly to inquire about opportunities for international participation.
Who this school is best for
This school is best for Norwegian speakers serious about film who can handle extreme competition. Free tuition for EU students makes it attractive. It’s an excellent choice if you want to be part of Norway’s strong film culture. International non-Norwegian speakers face significant language barriers and should only apply if fluent in Norwegian.
Official website
https://www.inn.no/english/about-inn/faculty-of-film-tv-games/the-norwegian-film-school
