More information about – Test in Norwegian – higher level

The Norwegian Language Test – Higher Level is a proficiency test in Norwegian as a second language, measuring language skills at levels B2 and C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It is available in both written and oral versions, and can be taken in Bokmål or Nynorsk.

The Norwegian Language Test – Higher Level, often called the Bergen Test, is a Norwegian language test that documents language skills at level B2 or C1, based on the assessment criteria of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The test consists of a written digital test and an oral part.

The parts can be completed separately.

About the written test

The written test is administered digitally and consists of two subtests. Both subtests must be completed in order for the answer to be assessed. Each part lasts 2.5 hours, and the total duration is approximately 5 hours including breaks.

Get to know the test format. Take the demo test here.

Username: guest

Password: Demotest25

Part 1:

Reading comprehension
Listening comprehension
Exercise

There is a 20–30 minute break before the next part. The length of the break is determined by the test leader.

Part 2:

Grammar, words and expressions
Written production

Test leaders and guards are present and help with practical questions and login before and during the test.

Equipment for the written test

You must bring the following equipment with you on the test day:

Laptop (Chromebooks and tablets are not allowed)
Headphones or earbuds (must work well for listening)
Norwegian keyboard layout activated on the PC
Charger and power adapter

If you need to borrow equipment, you must notify us no later than two weeks before the test day.

You must also:

Have downloaded and tested the necessary software in advance
Have completed a technical demo test to check sound and function
Do not update your PC after the software has been installed

About the oral test

Sample tasks for the oral test can be found here.

Conducting the test

The oral test lasts approximately 15–20 minutes and is conducted physically at the test site. Two professionals are present: one examiner who leads the conversation, and one examiner who assesses the performance.

The test consists of three parts that together assess your oral skills:

Part 1 – Oral production: Description

Part 2 – Oral production: Expressing and justifying one’s own opinion

Part 3 – Oral interaction: Conversation/ discussion

The candidate may also be given an additional task: Question on a graph/illustration

Result

The result is given as Failed (=below B2 level), Passed (B2 level) or Passed with distinction (C1 level). NB: It is not possible to appeal the result of the oral test.

What is measured?

The test measures comprehension, oral production, ability to interact/discuss, use of language functions, linguistic skills, grammar and vocabulary, and fluency.

Comprehension: understanding spoken language in a communication situation (instructions, questions, explanations, points of view)

Interaction/discussion: communicating with a conversation partner, maintaining the conversation and giving relevant responses to what the conversation partner says.

Use of language functions: describing and explaining, expressing one's own views or attitudes, justifying one's own opinions, discussing an issue.

Linguistic skills: mastering individual sounds in the language, stress placement in words and sentences, intonation that characterizes Norwegian speech

Grammar and vocabulary: using different grammatical structures, using a broad and nuanced vocabulary and different idiomatic expressions.

Fluency: expressing oneself spontaneously and effortlessly

Arrangements and practical information

You can apply for accommodation if you have special needs. Documentation must be submitted by the specified deadline. Results from the test will be published digitally, and you will receive an electronic test certificate.

Candidate number and identification

All candidates will be assigned a candidate number before the test is taken.

For both the written and oral tests, you must provide identification:

before the test starts
when submitting the answer key

Approved forms of identification:

Passport
National ID card
Bank card with photo
Driver's license
Asylum seeker's certificate
Other Norwegian identification with photo, signature and national ID number (11 digits)

History and development of the test

The test was originally developed by the Norwegian Language Test, a collaboration between the University of Bergen and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. It has long been an important tool for immigrants who need to document higher-level Norwegian language skills for work or study in Norway.

In 2022, the Bergen Language Test was temporarily discontinued.

Acquisition and relaunch

In 2024, the bankruptcy estate of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology was acquired by the language school and edtech company Lingu AS, which then continued its operations in a new company: Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

In this context, the Bergen Language Test was relaunched, with several people from the original academic community returning to work. The test is now offered again with the same format and content as before, and the quality and professional standards have been maintained.

Test in Norwegian – higher level (Bergenstesten)
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology is relaunching the Norwegian Language Test – Higher Level! Now you can once again document your Norwegian skills at B2/C1 level, both spoken and written.

Test in Norwegian – higher level (Bergenstesten)

Test in Norwegian – higher level (Bergenstesten)