Statsborgerprøven vs samfunnskunnskapsprøven
Norway has two knowledge tests that are easy to confuse: statsborgerprøven (the citizenship test) and samfunnskunnskapsprøven (the social studies test). They cover similar civic topics but differ in length, pass mark, language options — and, most importantly, in which applications they are valid for.
- Official test format
- Every answer links to its source
- Free, no signup
Quick answer
For Norwegian citizenship, applicants aged 18–67 must pass either the citizenship test or the social studies test taken in Norwegian, alongside an oral Norwegian requirement (B1 for most applicants). Neither is a language test — that is norskprøven.
For permanent residence, the social studies test is the relevant one, and it may be taken in a language you understand — including English.
The numbers, side by side
Statsborgerprøven has 36 questions, of which 32 are scored, and you need 24 correct answers to pass. It is offered only in Norwegian (Bokmål or Nynorsk) at roughly A2 language level.
Samfunnskunnskapsprøven has 38 questions, of which 34 are scored, and you need 26 correct answers. It is offered in 23 languages, but only a Norwegian-language pass counts toward citizenship. Both tests are digital, multiple choice with three options per question, and last a maximum of 60 minutes.
| Statsborgerprøven | Samfunnskunnskapsprøven | |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 36 (32 scored) | 38 (34 scored) |
| Pass mark | 24 correct | 26 correct |
| Time | Maximum 60 minutes | Maximum 60 minutes |
| Languages | Norwegian only (Bokmål or Nynorsk) | 23 languages — see the full list |
| Counts for citizenship | Yes | Only if taken in Norwegian |
| Counts for permanent residence | No | Yes, in any test language |
Which test should you take?
If you are working toward permanent residence and do not plan to apply for citizenship, the social studies test in a language you are comfortable in is the practical choice.
If citizenship is the goal, you have two routes: pass statsborgerprøven, or pass samfunnskunnskapsprøven in Norwegian. Since both are in Norwegian at that point, many people choose based on timing — the social studies test is often taken earlier as part of the introduction programme, while the citizenship test can be booked whenever you are ready.
The mistake to avoid
The most common mistake: passing the social studies test in English (or another language) for permanent residence, then discovering that citizenship requires a Norwegian-language pass. UDI is explicit that a test taken in another language must be retaken in Norwegian.
If you expect to apply for citizenship later, prepare in Norwegian from the start. The topics overlap almost completely, so Norwegian-language practice pays off for both tests.
Common questions
Do I need to pass both tests for citizenship?
No. UDI requires one of the two: the citizenship test, or the social studies test taken in Norwegian. Passing either satisfies the knowledge requirement, alongside the separate oral Norwegian requirement.
Which test is easier?
The pass rates vary, but structurally they are similar: both give you 60 minutes and require roughly three quarters of the scored questions correct. For most people the deciding factor is language — the social studies test can be taken in a language you already master.
Do the two tests cover the same topics?
Largely yes. Both draw on the curriculum in social studies for adult immigrants: democracy, history, rights and duties, education, working life, health, and everyday life in Norway.
One practice tool for both tests.
Pick your goal — citizenship or permanent residence — and practise with realistic mock tests, instant feedback, and official-source explanations.
Full official format — no signup needed. Sign up free afterwards to save your result.
- Official test format
A timed test with randomised questions and a pass mark, like the real one.
- Every answer links to its source
Open the official UDI, HKdir or samfunnskunnskap.no page behind any answer.
- Free, no signup
Take the full mock test in your browser. Save your result afterwards if you want to.