Where to stay
Definitely, accommodation is one of the major expenses you will incur on a trip to Norway.
There are, however, budget alternatives, principally guesthouses (pensjonater), rooms in private houses and registered hostels.
If you want to rent an apartment, keep in mind you will be required to put down a large security deposit, which can be between three to six months' rent. Rental accommodation is more expensive in the major cities - especially in Oslo and Stavanger - but gets cheaper the further into the suburbs you travel.
Houses and apartments for rent can be furnished, unfurnished, or semi-furnished. Be aware of what's included or not included. Paying for hot water, electricity and an Internet connection on top of rent can increase your expenditure significantly.
A shared house or kollektiv is the most common option among students an young people in Norwegian cities, while a leilighet (apartment or flat) is more common for young professionals and foreigners.
To find rental accommodation, the most popular online marketplaces are Finn.no and Hybel.no.
If you're are moving to Norway as a university student, taking a student housing option if one is available is highly recommended. If none are available, ask the international office of the university for a list of local landlords and/or housing options.