Complete guide to studying in Iceland
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Iceland
Five top reasons to study in Iceland
- Unique natural environment – Study among glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs and northern lights.
- Affordable education – Public universities charge no tuition fees for EU/EEA students and relatively low fees for others.
- Internationally recognised degrees – Iceland follows the Bologna Process, with ECTS credits transferable across Europe.
- Research strengths – Universities excel in renewable energy, environmental science, geology and Arctic studies.
- Safe and welcoming society – Consistently ranked the most peaceful country in the world, with a friendly, close-knit community.
A quick introduction to Iceland
Located in the North Atlantic between Europe and North America, Iceland is a Nordic island nation known for its dramatic natural landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls.
Despite its small population of around 380,000 people, Iceland offers a modern, welcoming and highly developed society.
Iceland is an excellent choice for international students who wish to combine high-quality education with a unique cultural and natural environment. The country is renowned for its progressive values, strong emphasis on sustainability and a close-knit community feel, making it a safe and fascinating place to live and study.
Reykjavík, the capital and largest city, is the cultural, political and academic hub of the country. It is home to the University of Iceland and several specialised institutions and provides students with a lively yet manageable city experience.
Iceland’s higher education system follows the Bologna Process and is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). This ensures that students studying in Iceland earn ECTS credits that are recognised across Europe, and that degrees are internationally respected.
Universities in Iceland are internationally recognised for their research strengths in fields such as renewable energy, environmental science, geology and Arctic studies.
Teaching is often conducted in small groups, fostering close interaction between students and faculty.
International students make up a growing proportion of the student population, attracted by Iceland’s high academic standards, tuition fees that are low by international comparison and the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most remarkable natural environments while studying.
Iceland’s higher education system
Iceland is a European nation that adheres to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and the Bologna Process, ensuring your studies in Iceland are recognised and transferable to other universities throughout Europe.
The higher education institutions of Iceland are classed into the following categories:
Universities (Háskóli)
Traditional universities in Iceland offer a wide range of academic programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, with a strong emphasis on research and independent study.
Most universities in Iceland are public and funded by the government, making tuition fees relatively low compared to many other study destinations.
Notable examples include the University of Iceland in Reykjavík, the country’s largest and oldest institution and the University of Akureyri, which provides programmes in health sciences, education and social sciences.
Private Universities
Although most higher education in Iceland is public, there are a number of respected private institutions. These universities generally charge higher tuition fees, but they often offer specialised programmes and may provide scholarships for international students.
Examples include Reykjavík University, known for its strong focus on business, law, engineering and computer science and Bifröst University, which specialises in business, economics and social sciences.
Specialised Institutions
Iceland also has smaller, specialised institutions that focus on particular fields of study, such as the arts, agriculture or renewable energy. These institutions provide high-quality, niche education and are often closely linked to Iceland’s unique environment and cultural heritage.
Examples include the Iceland University of the Arts in Reykjavík, offering programmes in design, fine arts and performing arts and Hólar University College, which specialises in aquaculture, equine studies and rural tourism.
University rankings
Iceland is a small nation with a limited number of universities, but its institutions are recognised for their quality teaching, innovative research and areas of international expertise.
While Icelandic universities do not appear as frequently in global ranking tables as those from larger countries, they are steadily building their international profile.
For international students, university rankings can be a useful tool when deciding where to study, as they provide a way to compare institutions on metrics that matter to you. A degree from a well-ranked university can also strengthen your CV and improve future career opportunities.
Our table below highlights the Icelandic universities that feature in global ranking tables and demonstrates their growing recognition in the international higher education landscape.
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| University of Iceland | 501-600 | =528 | =582 |
| Reykjavík University | 801-1000 |
Climate
The weather in Iceland is probably best described as unpredictable. You might experience sunshine, wind, rain and even snow all in the same day, so if you are arriving from a warm or steady climate, it may take a little time to adjust.
Much like in the UK or the Netherlands, locals enjoy joking and complaining about the weather, but they rarely let it get in the way of daily life. A common Icelandic saying is, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes,” reflecting how quickly conditions can change.
As long as you have a good waterproof jacket and layers to keep you warm, you are prepared for almost anything in Iceland. Umbrellas are not much use in the strong winds, so you will soon see why locals rely on proper outerwear instead.
Iceland has a subarctic maritime climate, which means that winters are generally milder than you might expect given the country’s northern location, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Average winter temperatures in Reykjavik are around 0°C (32°F), while summers are cool and pleasant, with average highs of 10-15°C (50-59°F).
Your location in Iceland will make a difference to your experience. Coastal areas, including Reykjavik, are usually milder but wetter, while inland and northern regions can be colder and see more snow in winter. In the far north and east, you may also experience the midnight sun in summer and the polar night in winter, where the sun does not rise above the horizon for more than 24 hours, when daylight is very limited.
Lifestyle and Welfare
Healthcare
Iceland has a high-quality healthcare system, regularly ranked among the best in the world. Citizens enjoy long life expectancies and excellent access to care.
If you are an international student staying in Iceland for more than six months, you will automatically be covered by the Icelandic public health insurance system once you register as a legal resident. This entitles you to the same services as locals, including access to general practitioners (GPs), hospital treatment, maternity care and subsidised prescriptions.
For students staying less than six months, you will need to arrange private health insurance before arriving in Iceland.
EU/EEA students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) during their stay, while students from outside Europe should purchase coverage to ensure they are fully protected.
Dental care is only partly subsidised, so if this is important to you, consider additional insurance.
Safety
Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates and a welcoming, tolerant society.
The Global Peace Index regularly ranks Iceland in first place globally, making it a very secure destination for international students.
Icelanders are generally friendly and open to newcomers and English is widely spoken, which helps international students settle in quickly and feel at ease.
Leisure
For your leisure time, Iceland offers a unique combination of cultural life and outdoor adventure.
Reykjavik, the capital, has a lively student scene with concerts, festivals, art galleries and cafés.
Meanwhile, the Icelandic landscape invites exploration: you can hike glaciers, soak in geothermal hot springs, or see the northern lights in winter.
Outdoor activities are a central part of Icelandic life and joining hiking or sports clubs is a great way to stay active and make friends. Swimming is also a national pastime and almost every town has a geothermal swimming pool that is both affordable and social.
Food
Traditional Icelandic food often reflects the country’s fishing and farming heritage.
Fish and lamb are staples, but international cuisine is also widely available, especially in Reykjavik. Eating out can be expensive, so many students cook at home and share meals with friends.
Some Icelandic specialities worth trying include:
- Skyr – a thick, yoghurt-like dairy product, rich in protein
- Kjötsúpa – a traditional lamb and vegetable soup
- Plokkfiskur – a comforting fish and potato stew
- Pylsur – Icelandic hot dogs, popular with locals and visitors alike
- Rúgbrauð – a dense, dark rye bread, often steamed in geothermal heat
Coffee culture is strong in Iceland too, and you will find plenty of cosy cafés perfect for studying or socialising.
Transport
Public transport in Iceland is more limited than in many European countries, as there are no trains and only a bus network connecting Reykjavik with other towns. Within Reykjavik, buses are reliable and students can get discounted fares.
Cycling is possible in some areas during summer, but the weather and terrain can make it challenging for everyday transport. Many students in Reykjavik find that walking and using buses are enough for getting around.
For exploring the wider country, renting a car with friends is a popular option, especially for trips to see waterfalls, glaciers or volcanic landscapes. Domestic flights connect Reykjavik to the north and east of the country, making long-distance travel quicker.
Language
The official language of Iceland is Icelandic, which is spoken by the majority of the population. It is a North Germanic language, closely related to Old Norse and has changed very little over the centuries.
Alongside Icelandic, many locals speak English fluently, and it is widely used in everyday life, business and higher education. Other common second languages in Iceland include Danish and German.
Most university courses in Iceland are taught in Icelandic, especially at the undergraduate level.
However, there is an increasing number of programmes available in English, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels. This makes it possible for international students to study in Iceland without being fluent in the local language.
Regardless of the language of tuition, learning some Icelandic will be very helpful during your stay.
Being able to ask for directions, order food or join in casual conversations will help you settle in and connect with local students. Many universities offer Icelandic language courses for international students, often at little or no extra cost.
University cities
Iceland may be a small country, but it offers international students the chance to live and study in unique and vibrant cities surrounded by dramatic landscapes. From modern cultural hubs to historic northern towns, you will experience both Icelandic traditions and a warm student community.
Here is a selection of some of the cities that international students really enjoy studying in:
Reykjavik
The capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik is home to around 140,000 people – about a third of the country’s population. It is the cultural and economic heart of Iceland, offering museums, music festivals, galleries, cafés and a lively nightlife.
Reykjavik is also Iceland’s main student city, hosting the University of Iceland, Reykjavik University and the Iceland University of the Arts. With many international students, the city has a cosmopolitan feel and English is widely spoken. Housing can be expensive and competitive, so it is wise to apply early for student accommodation.
Akureyri
Often called the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest urban area with around 20,000 residents. The town sits at the end of a fjord, surrounded by mountains, and is known for its charming streets, winter sports opportunities and botanical gardens.
Akureyri is home to the University of Akureyri, which has a strong reputation for nursing, education and natural sciences. The smaller size of the city makes it friendly and welcoming and students often find it easier to integrate into the community than in the capital.
Ísafjörður
Located in the remote Westfjords, Ísafjörður is a picturesque fishing town with colourful houses and dramatic scenery.
While small, it hosts programmes from the University Centre of the Westfjords, particularly focused on marine innovation, environmental studies and coastal management.
Studying in Ísafjörður offers international students a very close-knit community and unparalleled access to Iceland’s natural beauty, from fjords and mountains to the northern lights. It is ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle and outdoor adventure.
Egilsstaðir
Situated in East Iceland, Egilsstaðir is a growing town that acts as the regional hub for culture, education and services.
It hosts branches of the University of Akureyri and is known for its peaceful setting, surrounded by forests, rivers and geothermal baths.
For international students, Egilsstaðir offers a slower pace of life compared to Reykjavik, but with plenty of opportunities to experience Icelandic traditions, local festivals and the natural wonders of the east.
Student visas
International students who want to study in Iceland for more than three months will usually need to obtain a student residence permit before arriving in the country.
If you are a student moving to Iceland from an EU/EEA country, you do not need a visa to study, however, you must register with the local authorities and obtain a residence certificate once you arrive.
If you are a student coming from outside the EU/EEA, you will need to apply for a student residence permit through the Directorate of Immigration before travelling to Iceland.
This permit requires proof of admission to a recognised Icelandic university, evidence of sufficient financial resources and confirmation of housing arrangements.
Once you arrive in Iceland, you must also register with the Registers Iceland office to finalise your residence.
Costs of studying
Course fees
One of the reasons Iceland appeals to international students is that there are no tuition fees at public universities for EU/EEA students. Instead, students pay a modest annual registration fee, which is usually around ISK 75,000 (about €500).
For students from outside the EU/EEA, tuition fees are charged at most public universities, though the costs are still relatively affordable compared to some other study destinations.
Fees vary by programme and institution, but you can expect to pay between €3,000 and €6,000 per year for bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Private institutions may charge higher amounts.
It is worth noting that tuition fees at the major public universities, such as the University of Iceland and the University of Akureyri, are generally similar to each other and are not significantly higher than smaller institutions.
Living costs
The main expense for international students in Iceland is the cost of living. Iceland is known for being an expensive country to live in, and you should plan your budget carefully before arrival.
Accommodation in Reykjavik is the most costly, with monthly rent for a room in a shared apartment typically between ISK 90,000 – 130,000 (€600- €900).
Student housing is more affordable, usually costing ISK 60,000 – 80,000 (€400 – €550) per month, but spaces are limited and competitive.
When budgeting for food, transport and leisure, you should expect to need at least ISK 180,000 – 200,000 (€1,200 – €1,350) per month to cover your expenses.
Reykjavik is the most expensive location, while towns such as Akureyri are somewhat cheaper.
Cooking at home and using student discounts can make a noticeable difference to your monthly budget.
Scholarships
Although tuition fees are relatively low, there are scholarship opportunities available to help international students.
The Icelandic government offers scholarships for students from selected countries to study Icelandic language and culture. In addition, some universities, such as Reykjavik University, provide scholarships for academic excellence or specific programmes.
International students are also encouraged to explore funding from Erasmus+ and other mobility programmes, as well as scholarships provided by organisations in their home country that support overseas study.
How to apply to university
To apply to university in Iceland, most institutions manage their applications directly, and you will need to follow the admissions process outlined by your chosen university. Each university has its own online application system and specific requirements, so it is important to check carefully on their official websites.
The University of Iceland and Reykjavik University are the two largest institutions, and both provide clear guidelines for international applicants, including required documents, language proficiency and deadlines.
The Icelandic academic year is divided into two semesters: the autumn semester (August – December) and the spring semester (January – May). Many international programmes, particularly at master’s level, only have admissions for the autumn semester.
Application deadlines vary depending on your nationality. Non-EU/EEA students usually need to apply much earlier (often by January or February for the following autumn intake), while EU/EEA students often have slightly later deadlines in the spring.
To ensure your application is processed on time, it is recommended to start preparing your documents well in advance and aim to submit your application at least one month before the official deadline.
Job prospects for international graduates
Your future job prospects in Iceland as a graduate will depend on your field of study and the local demand for skills, but the country has particular needs in areas such as renewable energy, fisheries, healthcare and technology.
International students are allowed to work part-time while studying, usually up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This provides the opportunity to gain work experience and supplement living costs.
After graduation, non-EU/EEA students may apply for a residence permit to stay in Iceland for up to six months while they search for employment related to their degree.
If you secure a job, you can then apply for a work permit, often in collaboration with your employer. EU/EEA graduates do not face restrictions and may stay and work freely.
With several years of continuous employment, it is possible to apply for permanent residence in Iceland. Learning Icelandic, while not always required, will significantly improve your job prospects and integration into the workplace.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Iceland?
Not entirely. EU/EEA students do not pay tuition fees at public universities, only a small registration fee of around €500 per year. Non-EU/EEA students usually pay tuition, which ranges between €3,000 – €6,000 per year.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA students with a residence permit can usually work up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time in holidays. EU/EEA students can work without restrictions.
Can I stay in Iceland after graduation?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA graduates can apply for a six-month residence permit to search for a job. If you secure employment, you can then apply for a work permit. EU/EEA graduates can stay and work freely.
What language are courses taught in?
Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Icelandic, but there are many master’s and PhD options taught in English. Learning some Icelandic is strongly recommended for daily life and job prospects.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes. Students staying in Iceland for more than six months are automatically enrolled in the national health insurance system. EU/EEA students can use their EHIC card until then. Non-EU/EEA students staying less than six months must arrange private health insurance.