Iceland’s most prestigious school is the University of Iceland, located in Reykjavik. Reykjavik University, the University of Akureyri, located in the north-east, and Bifröst University in the west are also excellent schools. Other great schools include the Agricultural University of Iceland, which specializes in agriculture in the far north, and the Iceland School of Energy, which specializes in renewables.
Iceland is part of the Bologna Process. This means that its higher education is divided into three tiers:
- First Tier - this is the undergraduate level. Bachelor’s degrees take three or four years to complete. Some subjects, like medicine or engineering, take the full four years.
- Second Tier - this is the postgraduate level. Master’s degrees take one to two years to complete. Some part-time courses can take three years to complete.
- Third Tier - this is the doctoral level. Most PhDs take three to five years to complete. It depends on what you’re studying and whether or not you teach whilst researching.
Iceland is also part of Erasmus. Through this scheme, you can take part of your qualification, or even an internship, abroad. This means that you can study abroad whilst studying abroad!
Iceland's student community is small but vibrant, attracting people from all over the world. Most Icelanders are also extremely fluent in English, adding to the international feel of student life there. The student scene is fairly integrated, meaning that you'll eat, drink and enjoy yourself with the locals, adding to your Icelandic experience.
Overview
Iceland is a place that captures our imaginations, from its glaciers to its black sand beaches. This section gives you an overview of what life and study is like in Iceland.
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Iceland to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship.
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Iceland.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Iceland can vary a lot. It can vary from free to a low fee. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.
Language & Culture
Iceland is a country rich in cultural significance, from its language to its past. You can find out more about that, as well as to stay safe and manage the harsh winters, in this section.
Application Process
Learn more about how to apply to Icelandic schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Iceland? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Iceland today!
