Housing

You will live in student accommodation at the Østfold University of Applied Sciences housing at Fredrikstad (this housing unit is called "Bjølstad"), which is run by The Foundation for Student Life (SiØ). Throughout your stay in student accommodation, you can expect to have your own private bedroom and bathroom, and share kitchen facilities, living room space, and more with other students on the CGEE program, in addition to Norwegian and International students. You will have access to a washer/dryer or launderette. All University accommodations have Internet access.

Please do not apply for housing via SiØ until instructed to do so by Augsburg CGEE staff. You can learn more about your campus housing via SiØ's website on Bjølstad here. 

Food

When living in student accommodation you will cook your own meals. CGEE provides you with a food stipend that Bettine will disburse in manageable amounts (approximately 850 NOK per week, but this may fluctuate or change). The stipend is meant to cover the cost of groceries, not dining out at restaurants and cafes. Norway is generally more expensive than the United States. Food prices will depend on where you do your shopping. Larger shops and supermarkets are usually cheaper. You may use your own funds to dine out as you are able. 

You will receive a CASH card that can be used at any Obs stores in Norway (kind of like a Super Target). This card will not allow you to purchase lunches at the ØUAS’s cafeteria.

Kitchen equipment

Kitchen equipment will be provided while living in student accommodation.

Cooking and recipes

You may not think about how much you like that delicious cookie recipe until you spend a few months across the ocean from it. Cooking with others may be a new experience, but it can be a very positive one that connects you more deeply with fellow program participants and other students at ØUAS. Bring some favorite recipes and maybe key ingredients to share with people. Be prepared to adjust recipes to measure ingredients in liters or by weight.

On Campus Dining Options

There is not a standard "Dining Hall" like how you may be used to at a U.S. campus. There is a "grab and go" type of market on campus, however, for quick bites such as sandwiches and fruit for days that you will be on campus. If you would like to purchase those items, you will need to have money with you, as there is no option for a meal plan. 

Bedding

All rooms are furnished with a bed, desk, chair and closet. The kitchens in all shared units are fully equipped. SiØ also offers bed sets containing a duvet, pillow, and bed linen that you can buy and keep. SIØ will place one of these sets in all the international exchange students’ rooms upon arrival. Students will receive an email from SiØ with information about the bedding set before arrival, including information about how to return the set should you not wish to purchase it.

Towels

We recommend that you purchase towels when you get to Norway, especially if you are running low on space.

Laundry

Laundry facilities are available for student use. Laundry costs roughly $2.30/washing load and $1.00/dryer load.

Medical Care

During the initial orientation in Norway, you will be directed as to how to access medical services should these be required.