The oral Norwegian test could get a new assessment system. The government proposes a national examiner corps and assessment by two examiners in the 2027 budget. As of 18 October 2026, this is a proposal, not a new rule for your next test.

What does the government want to change?

The government wants to improve quality and safeguards when the oral Norwegian test is assessed. The 2027 budget proposal⁠ allocates an additional NOK 2.5 million to the measure.

An examiner corps is an organised group of specialists who assess tests. Two-assessor marking means that two assessors take part in marking. The budget describes the direction, but does not provide full practical guidance for candidates.

This may matter if you need documented Norwegian skills. The result can be used when applying for residence, citizenship, employment or education. SamfunnPrep has an overview of the Norwegian test and permanent residence requirements.

How is the oral Norwegian test assessed today?

Today, one assessor decides the oral test result. An interlocutor asks questions and also participates in assessment. The Directorate for Higher Education and Skills, HK-dir, explains this in its information about the oral test⁠.

It is therefore inaccurate to say that you currently meet only one specialist. The assessor and interlocutor have different roles. Both are trained in assessment, but the assessor sets the result.

HK-dir also says you can ask your test centre for a copy of your assessment form after receiving your result. It shows assessments of areas including fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar.

Does this change the required Norwegian level?

A proposed assessment system is not itself a new language requirement. Assessment concerns how skills are evaluated. The language requirement concerns the level a particular scheme requires.

Keep these three questions separate:

  • What level do you need for your application?
  • Which test should you register for?
  • Which assessment rules apply on test day?

The announcement gives no reason to postpone a test you need. Check information from HK-dir and your test centre when registering.

What should candidates follow in winter 2026?

Follow the budget process and any practical announcements from HK-dir. The detailed organisation must be clear before you can know how a new system affects your test.

When comparing reports, check the date and status. A budget proposal, an approved allocation and a notice to test candidates are different steps. Use SamfunnPrep's explanation of language requirements for background, and always check the actual application requirement with the responsible authority.