Princess Ingrid Alexandra Trades Palace for University of Sydney
A future Queen is making waves—not with a crown, but with a university degree—as Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway prepares to begin her studies at the prestigious University of Sydney.
Royal Enrolment Confirmed for Semester 2, 2025
The 21-year-old royal, second in line to the Norwegian throne, is set to start her Bachelor of Arts degree in August 2025 as part of the university’s Semester 2 intake. She has chosen to reside at St Andrew’s College, a prestigious and historic student residence located in Sydney’s inner west, which has hosted well-known alumni such as former Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, Olympian Rohan Browning, and Bondi Vet Dr Chris Brown.
Modern Monarch Embracing Academia
The decision marks a notable shift from royal engagements to rigorous academics, reflecting a modern monarch-in-waiting’s pursuit of a global perspective. According to the Norwegian Royal Palace, “She has chosen a three-year degree with a focus on international relations and political economy. Her Royal Highness looks forward to dedicating herself to her studies in the years to come.”
Welcome Message from St Andrew’s College
The announcement came shortly after students at St Andrew’s College received an internal email from the Principal, Dr Daniel Tyler, confirming that the Princess would be joining them on campus. “Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway is moving to Sydney to study an Arts degree at the University of Sydney,” the message read.
“I am pleased to let you know she will be joining ‘Drews and living on site. I know she is looking forward to integrating into College and university life.”
Royal Life Meets Student Living
The university lifestyle at St Andrew’s offers more than just academics. With semester fees surpassing $20,000, residents enjoy a range of premium amenities including a gym, bar, yoga studio, and food hall—elements that promise a well-rounded experience for the royal scholar. Dr Tyler also reminded students about the importance of privacy, stating: “There may be media interest and enquiries. Please join us in respecting her privacy.”
Norway’s Royal Line Continues Global Trend
Princess Ingrid Alexandra, daughter of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is also the granddaughter of King Harald V, who has reigned over Norway since 1991. Her decision to pursue higher education in Australia is seen as a blend of tradition and transformation, aligning with an increasing number of royals opting for international education to broaden their worldview.
Sydney’s Royal Connections Run Deep
Australia has hosted other royals in recent years. Count Nikolai of Monpezat, a Danish royal, studied for a semester at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in 2023 during his master’s program from Copenhagen Business School. He has since settled in Sydney with his girlfriend, model Benedikte Thoustrup, and is now working full time—highlighting the city’s growing appeal for young, global aristocrats.
Sydney is no stranger to royal connections. Queen Mary of Denmark was residing in the Harbour City when she met Crown Prince Frederik during the 2000 Olympic Games at the Slip Inn. The two maintained a long-distance relationship before she moved to Denmark in 2001 and eventually married into royalty in 2004. She officially became Queen in 2024 following Queen Margrethe II’s abdication.
Elite Company in Australia’s Cultural Capital
While Princess Ingrid Alexandra’s focus will be on international relations and political economy, there is speculation she might cross paths with other members of elite global circles during her time in Sydney. The city already serves as a base for Chloe Green (daughter of British billionaire Sir Philip Green), Christian Wilkins (son of TV presenter Richard Wilkins), and Francesca Packer Barham (granddaughter of media mogul Kerry Packer). Occasional visitors like Brooklyn Beckham and Sunday Rose Kidman Urban also hint at Sydney’s exclusive social tapestry.
A Royal Reimagined
The Princess’s journey underscores a rising trend among younger royals to step beyond ceremonial responsibilities and immerse themselves in academia, global networking, and independent life choices. Her choice to live on-campus and immerse in the student experience reinforces this evolving royal identity, showing that even future monarchs are embracing a world of learning and cultural exchange.
Ready for the Next Chapter
As the eyes of both Australia and Norway turn to Sydney this August, one thing is certain—Princess Ingrid Alexandra is ready to swap royal protocol for lectures, essays, and student life.