The History of the Oslo International Summer School
The International Summer School (ISS) was established in 1947 at the University of Oslo in the spirit of international cooperation following the Second World War and as an expression of gratitude for the support Norwegian students received during the war years. Since then, ISS has welcomed students from around the world for learning and cultural exchange.
The first summer session for English-speaking foreign students at the University of Oslo was organized and held in 1947. It was offered for American students as an expression of gratitude for educational opportunities provided for Norwegian students in the United States during and right after World War II.
Name Change
During the 1950s, the number of students attending from outside the United States increased steadily. Reflecting this development, the school's name was changed in 1958 from "Summer School for American Students" to the "International Summer School".
Since 1947, more than 35 000 students from more than 150 countries have attended ISS. In recent years the student body each summer has comprised approximately 500 students from roughly 80 countries.
ISS Today and Its Purpose
Throughout its entire history, ISS has played an important role in the University of Oslo's international engagement.
The ISS is an academic center for learning in an international context, and a forum for fostering intercultural understanding. It seeks to develop and disseminate knowledge while promoting dialogue and understanding across cultures. This dual purpose is reflected in the ISS motto:
"A Summer of Academic Achievement and International Good Will".
Courses Throughout Year
Today, ISS offers Norwegian courses throughout the year. Approximately 300 students attend these Norwegian language courses each spring and autumn semester, in addition to the students enrolled in the summer session's Norwegian courses (NORAIN).
Since 2012, ISS has offered "Norwegian for Academics" (NORA), which has become one of its most popular programs. In addition, ISS provides "Norwegian for Researchers" (NORIR levels 1-3), a series of courses developed for UiO employees and professionals working in the Oslo area. Since 2022, ISS has also offered free Norwegian language courses for refugees, and the final course in this program will be held autumn 2026.
ISS has periodically organized week-long seminars for Norwegian teachers from around the world. The most recent seminar was held in the summer of 2024.
Celebrating 75 Years
International Summer School is proudly celebrated the 75th Years and 75 Sessions in 2021! See pictures, news articles, and student stories throughout the decades on our archive pages.
Due to the global pandemic, celebrating required more creativity and connecting virtually. The Norwegian Life & Society Web-series was inspired by a course held during the afternoons for many of the in-person summers. We engaged around topics that examined attitudes, activities and history specific to Norway and you can find the webinar recordings on our 75th celebration page.
About the University of Oslo
The ISS is proud to be part of the University of Oslo, which is the oldest university in Norway. It was founded in 1811 and is a leading European university, with more than 25 000 students. The Blindern campus is located in pleasant surroundings, 10 minutes away from the city center by subway-to-surface rails and only minutes away from the lakes and wooded hills of Nordmarka.
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