Norway proposes significant grant cuts for folk high schools

The Norwegian government has proposed a reduction in the grant portion for folk high school students in its 2027 state budget. The proposal seeks to decrease the grant share from 40 percent to 15 percent, with the remaining amount provided as loans that must be repaid.

Anne Tingelstad Wøien, leader of the Norwegian Folk High School Council, criticized the move as a ‘great breach of trust,’ noting that a similar proposal was rejected last year following significant public opposition. The Council expressed concerns that the cuts could impact the democratic development of students and noted that Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has previously emphasized the importance of the social capital these schools provide.

In addition to the grant reductions, the government's proposal includes changes to the subsidy model, which critics argue may favor larger institutions.