A New Chapter for Norway’s Future Queen
Princess Ingrid Alexandra, the 21-year-old heir to the Norwegian throne, is currently navigating a new chapter in her life as she begins her studies at the University of Sydney. Moving to Australia in late July, she officially started her three-year bachelor’s degree in social science, specialising in international relations and political economy. This marks a significant shift for the young royal, who has now joined thousands of students on campus for the new semester.
Her academic journey is set to be an exciting and formative experience, offering her a unique opportunity to gain real-world insights into global politics and society. In addition to her studies, she is living in student housing at St Andrew’s College, one of the university’s most prestigious residential colleges. The royal household recently shared photos of her exploring the campus, highlighting her enthusiasm for this new adventure.
Ingrid Alexandra is not the first member of her family to study abroad. Her mother, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, spent a year at Wangaratta High School in Victoria during her teenage years. This connection to Australia adds another layer to the princess’s experience, as she continues to build her own story in a foreign land.
A Royal Legacy
Born in Oslo on January 21, 2004, Princess Ingrid Alexandra is set to become Norway’s first queen regnant in over 600 years. The last was Queen Margrethe I, who ruled Norway, Denmark, and Sweden from 1387 to 1412 under the Kalmar Union. Her grandfather, King Harald V, is Europe’s oldest-reigning monarch at 88 years old.
As the eldest child of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Ingrid Alexandra has a younger brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, who is 19. Her mother also has a son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, who is currently facing charges related to assault.
Military Service and Personal Growth
Before starting her studies, Ingrid Alexandra completed her military service in early April after spending 15 months as an engineer soldier and rifleman with the Engineer Battalion in Brigade North. Initially planned for 12 months, she extended her training by an additional three months.
The royal house shared video footage of her riding a tank with her father and participating in a graduation ceremony. Speaking to Norwegian media, she reflected on the experience, saying, “I think the most important thing I have learned is that you can do much more than you think, and you are much stronger together.”
Royal Duties and Public Appearances
Ingrid Alexandra’s move to Sydney will take her away from official duties for three years, though there is a possibility she may return home during semester breaks. Despite being second-in-line to the throne, she has only recently begun appearing at public events.
In April, she joined her parents and the King and Queen for a state banquet in Oslo hosted for Iceland’s visiting presidential couple. It was her first time taking part in such a formal occasion, marking a significant milestone in her royal career. She also attended National Day celebrations in May, making an appearance on the palace balcony in traditional costume.
A Focus on Education
The royal palace stated that while Ingrid Alexandra will have more official engagements in the future, her primary focus will be on her education. At 18, she was given an office inside the Royal Palace, where members of the royal family conduct their work.
Her coming-of-age celebration in 2022 included a reception hosted by the Norwegian Government and a gala banquet inside the palace. A photo from the event showed four of Europe’s future monarchs, including Princess Ingrid, highlighting her growing role on the international stage.
Environmental Advocacy and Interests
Ingrid Alexandra has shown a strong interest in environmental protection and international affairs, which aligns with her chosen field of study. She has been involved in various initiatives since childhood, including a solo engagement in 2015 when she christened a vessel for the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue.
She is also passionate about sports, having been named junior surfing champion in a country-wide competition in 2020. In addition to surfing, she is an avid skier and practices kickboxing.
A Family History of International Experiences
Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s time in Australia as an exchange student in 1992 is just one example of the royal family’s global connections. Her journey from a single mother with a controversial past to a respected member of the royal household highlights the challenges and triumphs faced by the family.
The Royal House of Norway
The House of Glücksburg has ruled Norway since 1905, with King Harald V currently serving as monarch. Despite his age and recent health concerns, including a hospitalisation in Malaysia and a pacemaker implant, he has refused to abdicate, stating that his oath to the throne lasts for life.
As Princess Ingrid Alexandra embarks on her academic journey in Australia, she carries the weight of her family’s legacy while forging her own path. Her experiences will shape not only her personal growth but also her future role as Norway’s next monarch.