Compensation measures
If you have a qualification as a teacher or head of kindergarten or educational supervisor in kindergarten in an EEA country, you normally have the right to practice the profession in Norway. If you do not meet all the requirements, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your competence through a compensation measure.
Recently edited : 21. February 2025If you receive a decision about compensation measures (utligningstiltak), we have found significant differences between the professional qualifications required in Norway and the professional qualifications you have from abroad. You will then have the option to complete an aptitude test or an adaptation period. The decision letter describes the significant differences and the subject areas you will be tested in.
The EU Professional Qualifications Directive (2005/36/EC) is the basis for individuals with education from EEA countries having these rights.
Adaptation Period
During an adaptation period, you will work under the guidance of a qualified teacher or preschool teacher, and the work will be assessed by the school or kindergarten.
In a decision regarding compensation measures, it is stated which subject area(s) will be tested during the adaptation period. The duration of the adaptation period is also specified in the decision.
There is no cost to complete an adaptation period, and you can receive a salary for the work performed during the period. You must find a school willing to guide you and assess your competence.
The school or kindergarten receives compensation for conducting an adaptation period with them.
Aptitude Test
To complete an aptitude test, you must answer a written assignment and complete and pass an oral test. The decision will specify the subject area you will be tested in. The aptitude test includes tasks and topics relevant to this.
Written Test: You must first submit a written assignment of between 1500 and 2000 words. You have a deadline of two weeks to submit this assignment. We will invite you to a digital meeting when you receive the assignment so that you can get more information and to answer questions you might have.
Oral Test: Two weeks after you have submitted the written assignment, you will have an oral test. Two external experts will ask questions about the submitted assignment and the subject area you will be tested in. The oral test lasts between 60-90 minutes and is conducted digitally on Teams.
Two external experts will assess whether the aptitude test is passed or not passed.