How to Study Abroad in Iceland

From outdoorsy adventures to sustainability fieldwork, Iceland takes experiential education to a whole new level. The relationship between Icelanders and the country’s Arctic ecosystems fascinates and attracts people from all over the world.

This article will walk you through how to study abroad in Iceland step by step! You’ll find plenty of reasons to call this your dream study abroad destination: Did you know that 90% of homes in Iceland use geothermal energy as their source of heating? Plus, as Iceland ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, you can count on gaining intercultural communication skills while you’re there.

With such a diverse range of awe-inspiring landscapes, once you land in Iceland, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a new dimension. Imagine fluorescent lights draping the night sky, geysers soaring to new heights, volcanoes dotting the landscape, and glaciers swallowing the horizons.

This Nordic nation offers mysterious and otherworldly experiences. Ready to make the land of ice and fire your academic backdrop?

Why study abroad in Iceland?

Whether you’re studying filmmaking, business, marketing, or engineering, Iceland serves up the perfect setting for learning opportunities. Plus, its culture encourages creative thinking and supports both the arts and sciences.

If you’re studying environmental science, natural resources, or environmental engineering, you’re in luck, as Iceland harnesses almost 100% of its electricity from renewable sources. Many programs will take you to volcanoes, hot springs, and power stations to study energy in action!

You’ll also love this—the four public universities in Iceland don’t charge tuition fees for international students, only an annual registration fee of around $600. Plus, the three private universities are still highly affordable ($2,000 to $4,000 a year) compared to universities in the United States.

Iceland offers seven nationally accredited universities, with three in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and four in more rural areas:

• University of Iceland (public) in Reykjavik
• Reykjavik University (private)
• Iceland University of the Arts (private) in Reykjavik
• University of Akureyri (public), located in Akureyri, a semi-urban town
• Agricultural University of Iceland (public), located in a small coastal town, Borgarnes
• Hólar University College (public), located in Hólar, a tiny town
• Bifröst University (private), located in the small town of Bifröst

You’ll even pick up some Icelandic along the way—one of the closest languages to the one that Vikings spoke thousands of years ago!

How to study abroad in Iceland

With views like this, it’s no wonder you’re asking how to study abroad in Iceland.

Ready to get started on your journey to studying abroad in Iceland? Æðislegt (excellent!). Here’s how:

1. Name your goals.

First, consider what you’d like to gain from your study abroad experience in Iceland. Listing your goals will help you guide other decisions you’ll need to make such as timing, accommodation, university, and study abroad program. But, remember to keep an open mind and be flexible!

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are you looking to earn credits in general or ones specifically for your major?
• Would you like to intern abroad while studying to gain some work experience?
• Are you looking to live in the city or the countryside?

If you’re looking to pick up Icelandic, consider living with a host family while studying abroad to immerse yourself in the language. Better yet, if you opt for a homestay, you may even get to sample home-cooked Icelandic meals (ask about their rye bread baked in thermal springs)!

2. Compare program options.

If you’re wondering, how can I study abroad in Iceland?, here are the main three avenues you can take:

• Apply with a third-party program provider: By going through a third-party program provider, you’ll typically have pre-departure support with paperwork and cultural resource materials as well as on-site support with orientation and finding accommodation. Plus, you’ll be a part of an alumni network.
• You may notice that many programs are available in the summer, which will allow you to experience oodles of daylight hours (15-22 hours a day), but you’ll find programs in the fall and spring too.
• Many third-party programs include one-of-a-kind excursions such as exploring caves, touring the Golden Circle, snorkeling glaciers, taking a dip in natural hot springs, and much more.
• Apply to a study abroad Iceland program through your own university: Check with your university’s study abroad office and your academic advisor to see what’s available. Your university may offer its own programs or partner with universities in Iceland for study abroad exchange programs.
• Apply directly to a university in Iceland: Prospective students usually opt to do this if they’re planning on earning their degree in Iceland. However, finding courses in English and navigating the admission process may be tricky.

While Icelandic is often the default language for university classes, more and more courses are becoming available partially or fully in English. Courses may also have individualized English support for international students. With an exchange program or third-party program, you can breathe a sigh of relief, as they’ll point you in the direction of courses available in English.

3. Talk to your academic advisor.

Don’t be afraid to tell your advisor what you want so you can look together for your dream program.

As you’re comparing program options, check in with your academic advisor about your plans to study abroad in Iceland. Advisors often hear about study abroad opportunities through their vast network of contacts, and your advisor may know of other programs available through other departments at your university or third-party programs.

Check to make sure that your credits from studying abroad in Iceland will count toward your degree credits at your home university. Your advisor can help you navigate the documentation and approval process.

READ: 10 Important Questions to Ask Your Study Abroad Advisor

4. Submit an application!

Once you’ve chosen your program, it’s time to get things rolling! Application requirements will vary, but be prepared to submit an application form, resume or curriculum vitae (CV), transcripts, recommendation letters, your passport, an essay, health records, transcripts, and lastly, pay an application fee. Also, note the application deadline because it’s usually months in advance.

If you’re studying in Iceland for fewer than 90 days, you won’t need to get a visa. For programs that are more than 90 days, you’ll need to get an Icelandic student visa, which involves submitting your passport, passport-sized photos, a fee, an application form, proof of admission to your program, a clean criminal background report, proof of financial means, and proof of health insurance.

Not to worry, though. Most program coordinators will help answer any related questions you have when you ask, “how can I study abroad in Iceland?” and can help you with the student visa and resident permit process.

5. Apply for scholarships or financial aid (if needed).

While Iceland has fairly affordable tuition costs, it has a pretty pricey cost of living overall (it’s about 15% more expensive than the United States). Keep in mind that in most cases, you’ll be responsible for the cost of flights, accommodation, program fees, food, and excursions.

Thankfully, scholarships and financial aid opportunities abound for international students seeking to study in Iceland. Check with your own university and the Icelandic university to see if they have funding available for study abroad students. Additionally, the U.S. government and Iceland’s government may offer funding.

You may also find funding opportunities available through GoAbroad’s Scholarship Directory. Last but not least, employing FundMyTravel can help grow your piggy bank.

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 study abroad programs in Iceland—it’s free!

Bon voyage! You’re off to study abroad in Iceland

The ultimate study abroad destination is waiting for you.

Now you know how to study abroad in Iceland in five steps! You may face some adventurous challenges along the way, but always remember Iceland’s motto: Þetta reddast (everything will be okay!). From bathing in the Blue Lagoon to sifting black sand through your fingers, you'll learn valuable lessons about sustainability from engaging with this Nordic island’s unique environmental features. Best of all, you’ll create unforgettable memories from your study abroad experiences in Iceland!