Students at graduation
International students

Employability for International Graduates: Your Career Journey Starts at BI

At BI Norwegian Business School, education is just the beginning. We prepare international students for real careers—boosting employability through global experience, industry connections and strong support into the Norwegian job market.

From Classroom to Career 

At BI, academic learning is deeply connected to real business practice. Every programme is carefully designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace—ensuring that students graduate not only with theoretical insight but with relevant, hands-on experience. And it works—80% of international master’s graduates are employed within six months.

What makes a BI education career-focused?
Problem solving and networking in the classroom

In class, you will, among other things, work on solving real world challenges that business and society faces. In addition, companies and organizations are invited into the classrooms to give presentations and lectures, and BI organizes countless events with the aim of connecting students and the business community.

During your studies, you will form valuable networks you can rely on as you build your career, and first and foremost, your fellow students will be important contacts to add to your future network. Proper use of networking can increase your chances of success.

Internships That Launch Careers

Almost half (40%) of international graduates had internships during their studies, and 32% of them landed a job at the same company after graduation. Internships help students:

  • Apply theories in real business settings
  • Gain insight into Norwegian workplace culture
  • Build confidence and professional networks

Global Learning Environment

With students from over 80 countries, BI offers a truly international classroom. 88% of international graduates working in Norway and 81% of those working abroad are part of multicultural teams. Group work, discussions and projects are shaped by diverse perspectives, preparing graduates to work across borders and cultures.

Stacy Pitman
The internship in the third semester was really, really good for me. As I don't speak Norwegian, I was not sure if I was really employable here, so my internship was kind of a trial run in the workforce, and it worked out super well. It got me a full time job here at the Norwegian Refugee Council.
Stacy Pitman

Global Learning and Development Coordinator, Norwegian Refugee Council

Life After BI: How International Graduates Succeed

How do international BI graduates actually perform after graduation? Our own employment survey shows a clear pattern: most students quickly transition into relevant, rewarding roles—many before they even graduate. Here's a closer look at the outcomes:

Strong Employment Outcomes

  • 71% received a job offer before finishing their studies. This reflects both the high quality of the programmes and the relevance of internships, networking, and company collaborations.
  • 72% of international graduates work in Norway, with high placement for both MSc (79%) and Bachelor (80%).

Relevant and Meaningful Jobs

  • 77.4% are satisfied with their current job.
  • 90.7% are positive about their future career prospects.

These are strong indicators of both short-term and long-term career satisfaction.

Celina Talavera
Three months before I finished my master's degree, I got my first job through BI’s own career portal. My friends and I were worried about not speaking Norwegian fluently, but we all got jobs before summer was over.
Celina Talavera

Controller, Golar LNG

Why Choose Norway?

Norway is known for its high quality of life, but it's also a great place to start a career. With a strong economy, a modern business culture, and demand for qualified professionals, international students can find real opportunities here. Combined with values like inclusion, trust and balance, Norway offers a solid and supportive environment for both work and life.

Here’s why choosing Norway to launch your career is a good idea: 

  • A resilient labour market: Nearly 90% of individuals aged 25–34 with higher education in Norway are employed (OECD, 2024). This reflects a strong demand for skilled professionals and excellent opportunities for graduates.
  • Work–life balance as a cultural norm: Oslo ranked 1st in the global Work–Life Balance Index (Kisi, 2022). Employers in Norway recognise the importance of rest, flexibility, and family time—which translates into a healthy and sustainable working environment.
  • A digital and innovative economy: Norway ranks among the world’s most advanced digital economies, with strong demand for graduates who can use data and digital tools to solve problems and drive change.
  • A values-based business culture: Flat hierarchies, trust, and collaboration define how people work together in Norway. You’re expected to contribute early and take responsibility—something international graduates often thrive in.
  • Supportive immigration policies: After graduation, international students can apply for a one-year job seeker visa. Once employed, they may apply for a skilled worker permit—opening doors to long-term opportunities.
Giulia Falasca
The job market in Norway is really good. Straight from the master’s study, you have a good opportunity to find a proper position with responsibility.
Giulia Falasca

Junior Product Owner, Yara International