As the new academic year approaches, over 15,000 students in Norway are anxiously waiting for student housing, with the situation particularly dire in Oslo and Lillestrøm, where 6,860 students are in line for accommodation.

Despite a record number of 17,389 students securing housing contracts from May to August, many still face uncertainty.

The rising rental prices in the private market are pushing students to consider expensive options, with some willing to pay up to 30,000 NOK for a shared apartment.

The government has acknowledged the crisis, with Utdanningsminister Oddmund Hoel stating that over 4,400 new student units are currently under construction.

However, critics argue that the government has not met its promises to build 3,000 new student homes annually, leaving many students stressed and uncertain about their living situations before classes begin.