Samfunns­kunnskaps­prøven: everything you need to know

01What is Samfunnskunnskapsprøven?

The Samfunnskunnskapsprøven is a digital test that measures what you know about Norwegian society. You take it at an approved test centre, and it is organised by HK-dir (the Directorate for Higher Education and Skills).

It covers topics such as history, geography, politics and democracy, working life, health, school and education, and family. The goal is to show that you understand how society works and what your rights and obligations are.

02Test format: 38 tasks in 60 minutes

The test has 38 tasks. 34 of them count towards your result, while 4 are trial tasks that do not affect it – you are not told which ones. Most tasks are multiple choice with three options, where only one is correct.

You have 60 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 26 of the 34 counting tasks correctly. You can return to earlier tasks while taking the test.

• 38 tasks in total (34 counting + 4 trial)
• Pass mark: at least 26 correct answers
• Time: 60 minutes
• Digital test at an approved test centre

03Which languages can you take the test in?

You can take the test in Norwegian (Bokmål or Nynorsk) or in one of around 23 other languages. You choose the language at the test centre when you start.

This lets you show what you know about society without your Norwegian level getting in the way. Check which languages are available when you register.

04Who has to take the test?

Many immigrants must document knowledge of Norwegian society when applying for a permanent residence permit or Norwegian citizenship. For many, passing the Samfunnskunnskapsprøven meets that requirement.

Whether you personally must take it depends on your situation, age and basis for residence. Always check the official requirements from UDI and HK-dir before you plan.

05How to register

You register online at prove.hkdir.no. If you have the right and obligation to civics training, you may be entitled to one free test in your home municipality.

1. 1

   Log in at prove.hkdir.no

   Use BankID or MinID to log in to the official registration site.

2. 2

   Choose “Samfunnskunnskapsprøven”

   Select the right test and the language you want to take it in.

3. 3

   Find a test centre and date

   Pick an approved test centre near you and a date that suits you.

4. 4

   Pay and show up

   Pay the fee (unless you are entitled to a free test) and bring valid ID on the day.

06How much does the test cost?

The price is set by the municipality and varies. In Oslo, for example, the test costs around NOK 1,100. If you have the right and obligation to training, you are entitled to one free test in your own municipality.

Check the price with your test centre before you register, so you know what applies where you live.

07How to prepare

The best preparation combines understanding the curriculum with realistic practice. With SamfunnPrep you practise 700+ realistic questions, take a full timed exam simulation and see clearly which topics need more work.

Practise a little every day in the weeks before the test, and take a simulation before the day to see whether you are ready. Start for free and find out where you stand.