Practical Information About the Norwegian Test A1-B2: Complete Guide 2025

What is the Norwegian Test A1-B2?

The Norwegian Test A1-B2 is Norway's official standardized language test that measures your Norwegian skills at levels A1 to B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This comprehensive test is developed by the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) and serves as the authoritative documentation of Norwegian language competence in Norway.

The Norwegian Test A1-B2 is mandatory for permanent residence and citizenship, and strongly recommended for higher education and the job market in Norway.

The Norwegian test is used for:

• Citizenship: Documentation of Norwegian skills at B1 level
• Permanent residence: Proof of A2 level in oral Norwegian
• Higher education: Admission to universities and colleges
• Job market: Qualification documentation for jobs
• Professional certification: Authorization in health and social professions
• Personal development: Documentation of language progression

Structure and Format of the Norwegian Test

The Four Sub-tests in Detail

1. Reading Test - Text Comprehension

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: Digital test on computer

Content:

• 3-4 authentic Norwegian texts of varying length
• 30-35 multiple choice questions testing different reading skill levels
• Text types: news articles, information texts, debate articles, instructions
• Graded difficulty from A1 to B2

Skills tested:

• Scanning for specific information
• Skimming for main ideas
• Detailed understanding of text content
• Interpretation of implicit meaning
• Understanding author's attitude and intention

2. Listening Test - Audio Comprehension

Duration: 40-45 minutes

Format: Digital audio playback with headphones

Content:

• 4-5 audio clips with authentic Norwegian speech
• 25-30 questions related to the audio clips
• Audio types: dialogues, interviews, presentations, announcements
• Represents various Norwegian dialects and speaking situations

Skills tested:

• Understanding main messages
• Identification of specific details
• Recognition of speakers' attitudes
• Understanding implicit meanings
• Handling various Norwegian dialects

3. Writing Test - Written Production

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: Handwriting on paper or digital writing

Content:

• 2 writing tasks adapted to chosen level
• Word requirements vary: A1-A2 (80-120 words), A2-B1 (120-150 words), B1-B2 (150-200 words)
• Task types: personal letters, formal inquiries, reports, argumentative texts

Assessment criteria:

• Content and structure: Relevant content and logical organization
• Communicative purpose: Fulfillment of task requirements
• Language accuracy: Grammar, vocabulary, and spelling
• Language variation: Use of varied and level-appropriate language

4. Oral Test - Oral Communication

Duration: 10-15 minutes (plus 10 minutes preparation)

Format: Individual conversation with examiner

Content:

• Preparation: 10 minutes to plan presentation
• Presentation: 3-5 minute monologue on given topic
• Conversation: 7-10 minute dialogue with examiner

Assessment criteria:

• Communicative competence: Ability to convey messages
• Linguistic resources: Vocabulary and grammatical structures
• Pronunciation and fluency: Comprehensibility and natural speech
• Interaction: Participation in conversation and response to questions

Choosing the Right Level for the Norwegian Test

Level Descriptions According to CEFR

A1 Level (Beginner)

You can:

• Understand and use familiar everyday expressions
• Introduce yourself and others
• Ask and answer questions about personal details
• Communicate in simple ways when counterpart speaks slowly

A2 Level (Elementary)

You can:

• Understand sentences and expressions related to important areas
• Communicate in simple, routine-based situations
• Describe your background, immediate surroundings, and needs
• Perform simple tasks requiring information exchange

B1 Level (Independent User)

You can:

• Understand main points in standard language about familiar topics
• Handle most situations while traveling in the language area
• Produce simple connected texts about familiar topics
• Describe experiences, dreams, hopes, and ambitions

B2 Level (Upper Intermediate)

You can:

• Understand main content in complex texts
• Communicate fluently and spontaneously with Norwegian speakers
• Produce clear, detailed texts on many topics
• Express viewpoints and argue for standpoints

Registration for the Norwegian Test - Step by Step

Registration Process

Step 1: Registration at prove.hkdir.no

• Create user account with personal number or D-number
• Fill out personal information accurately
• Upload necessary documentation
• Confirm email address and phone number

Step 2: Choose Test Date and Location

• View available dates in your region
• Choose most practical test location
• Check capacity and register early
• Note important deadlines for changes

Step 3: Choose Sub-tests and Level

• Decide which sub-tests you want to take
• Choose level for writing test (cannot be changed)
• Choose level for oral test (can be upgraded during test)
• Reading and listening tests cover all levels automatically

Step 4: Payment and Confirmation

• Complete payment online
• Receive confirmation by email
• Print registration confirmation
• Add test date to calendar

Costs and Funding Opportunities

Test Fees 2025

Standard prices (varies between municipalities):

• All four sub-tests: NOK 1,800-2,500
• Reading test only: NOK 400-600
• Listening test only: NOK 400-600
• Writing test only: NOK 500-700
• Oral test only: NOK 600-800
• Late registration: +NOK 200-500 extra

Free Test Opportunities

You have the right to free Norwegian test if you:

• Are covered by the introduction scheme
• Have right and obligation to Norwegian language training
• Take the test for the first time as part of regular education
• Are a refugee or family reunified with a refugee

Test Implementation and Results

Test Day Procedures

Typical test day schedule:

• 08:30-09:00: Check-in and registration
• 09:00-10:30: Reading test (90 minutes)
• 10:30-10:45: Break
• 10:45-11:30: Listening test (45 minutes)
• 11:30-12:30: Lunch
• 12:30-14:00: Writing test (90 minutes)
• 14:00-17:00: Oral test (individual schedule)

Results and Certificates

Timeline for results:

• Reading and listening tests: 2-3 weeks after test date
• Writing test: 4-6 weeks after test date
• Oral test: 4-6 weeks after test date
• Complete certificate: When all sub-results are available

Grading scale for Norwegian test:

• A1: Beginner level - basic skills
• A2: Elementary level - extended elementary use
• B1: Intermediate level - independent language user
• B2: Upper intermediate - advanced language user
• Below A1: Not passed - below minimum level

Special Arrangements and Accommodations

Accommodations for Disabilities

Application for accommodations:

• Must be submitted at least 4 weeks before test date
• Requires documentation from doctor or specialist
• Processed individually based on needs
• No extra cost for approved accommodations

Possible accommodations:

• Extra time: Extended time frame for tests
• Break opportunities: More frequent breaks during test
• Technical aids: Magnification, audio assistance
• Alternative implementation: Separate room, individual follow-up
• Communication help: Sign language interpreter or other assistants

After the Norwegian Test - Moving Forward

Use of Certificate

Official purposes:

• UDI applications: Citizenship and residence permits
• Educational institutions: Documentation for admission
• Employers: Proof of language competence
• Authorization schemes: Health and social professions

Certificate validity:

• No formal expiration date for certificate
• Some institutions may require recent results (2-5 years)
• Language skills may deteriorate without use
• Consider new test after long stays outside Norway

Summary: Your Path to Success on the Norwegian Test

The Norwegian Test A1-B2 is more than just a language test - it's your official gateway to Norwegian society. With proper preparation, realistic expectations, and thorough understanding of the process, you will be well-equipped to succeed.

Keys to success:

• Early planning: Start preparations well before desired test date
• Realistic level choice: Choose level that matches your actual skills
• Systematic preparation: Train all four language skills regularly
• Practical orientation: Ensure all practical details are in place
• Positive attitude: See the test as an opportunity to show your skills

The Norwegian test is not just a goal in itself, but a step on the path to full integration into Norwegian society. With proper preparation and attitude, you will not only pass the test but also develop language skills that will serve you for the rest of your life in Norway.

Contact local Norwegian language training programs, use available resources actively, and remember that each test attempt is a learning experience. Good luck with your Norwegian test!