This article contains all the details you need to know on how to study abroad in Iceland, including the programs, costs, and requirements.
Iceland is a small country, so Reykjavik, the capital, serves as the hub for almost all activities. If they want to visit one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, international students might consider studying in Iceland.
Iceland may not have many colleges, but those that do exist rank among the best in the world, particularly in the sciences.
In the country, there are seven universities. Government agencies or nonprofit organizations that receive funding from the government run the majority of higher education institutions.
In Iceland, there are more than 20,000 students enrolled in higher education, with 5% of them coming from abroad.
Iceland is one of the most tranquil places to live despite its small size.
It goes without saying that international students who choose to study in Iceland will find the country to be quite fascinating. See some amazing arguments for picking Iceland below.
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Why Study Abroad in Iceland?
1. Astonishingly wide
Iceland is the best place to go if you want to actually broaden your horizons because it has one of the most liberal populations in the world.
Thanks to its widespread commitment to gender equality, sexual and religious tolerance, and progressive laws.
You should go to Iceland to study abroad for this reason.
In the Social Progress Index 2015, Iceland actually came in fourth place, behind Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Support for one of the world’s most serene and environmentally sustainable regions, as well as for individual freedom, choice, tolerance, and access to higher education, allowed it to win this title.
2. Its History Is Dynamic and Profound
Although “Vikings” and “boring” are mutually exclusive, Iceland’s history is significantly more nuanced than that of its medieval marauders.
The Vikings themselves were much more than just medieval marauders, it should be noted (on that subject).
Whether you’re an expert in political science or military history, a fan of Old Norse sagas and contemporary Nordic crime fiction, or a student of economics, Iceland’s fascinating history has something to offer everyone.
You should go to Iceland to study abroad for this reason.
On the other hand, if you have paranormal beliefs, you’ll be in good company in Iceland, where a lot of the locals think that there are hidden elves and other enigmatic beings.
Because proud Icelanders honor their heritage with a plethora of regional and national festivals, you’ll have plenty of chances to participate in the fun while learning more about Iceland’s fascinating past.
Due to the country’s blend of Nordic, European, and North American traditions, the majority of Icelanders are fluent in at least two languages, including English and Icelandic. Reykjavik is a popular choice for international students because more than 5% of the city’s students come from abroad.
Reykjavik University offers a variety of programs taught entirely in English in the heart of the city.
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3. Its Dynamic Terrain Is Unmatched
Iceland is a really special place to visit at any time of year because of its Mid-Atlantic Ridge location.
Iceland offers a wide range of landscapes, including verdant open meadows, scalding hot springs (Reykjavk’s name translates to “smoky bay” in Icelandic), geothermal lakes, enormous glaciers, ominous volcanoes, and crystal-clear fjords.
Should we even bring up the magnificent northern lights?
Given its breadth and depth, it is not surprising that Iceland, which is recognized as a global leader in conservation and sustainability management, goes to such great lengths to preserve its breathtaking scenery.
Iceland is home to the biggest national park in Europe, and astonishingly, all of the nation’s electricity is produced using renewable energy. For this reason, you should
It makes sense that students can study Sustainable Energy programs there and gain first-hand knowledge of the development of renewable energy, making Iceland a popular choice for sustainability-related programs.
If you want to combine ecology, sociology, economics, and business studies, you could also try the Master in Coastal and Marine Management program at the University Centre of the Westfords.
But don’t be put off by the prospect of snow; Iceland is renowned for its never-ending summer.
Universities like Bifrost University even offer summer courses. They also offer a variety of activities that you can participate in all year long to enjoy the scenery.
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4. Ample Culture and Art
Iceland’s literary legacy has already been mentioned, but it still exists.
The country, which is the birthplace of Björk, Monsters and Men, and Sigur Rós, also has a thriving and distinctive arts community.
Events held annually, such as DesignMarch, the Reykjavik International Film Festival, and the Reykjavik Arts Festival, attract tourists from near and far while giving artists inspiring spaces to exhibit their work.
You should go to Iceland to study abroad for this reason.
The ideal setting for study is provided by the renowned Iceland Academy of the Arts, which provides a wide range of degree programs in design and architecture, visual arts, music, theater and dance, and art education.
5. Personal Development
One significant advantage of studying in Iceland is the ability to picture oneself in a foreign country.
You will have to put in a lot of work to be intentional with your time management, stay open to new experiences, and push your comfort zone while studying abroad in Iceland.
Goal-setting and self-analysis are also necessary for the experience to be as fruitful as possible in addition to studying abroad in Iceland.
You should go to Iceland to study abroad for this reason.
6. Aesthetically bizarre scenes
The volcanic activity, geothermal pools, and hot springs offer fantastic recreational opportunities.
Along with fjords, enormous glaciers, black sand beaches, and puffins, there are many waterfalls, including those worth seeking out.
Remember that you’ll be studying just south of the Arctic Circle, so bring warm clothes and waterproof gear. You should go to Iceland to study abroad for this reason.
Iceland’s Mid-Atlantic Ridge location makes it a truly exceptional travel destination all year long.
Given the depth and breadth of its remarkable scenery, it is not surprising that this nation goes to such great lengths to preserve it and is regarded as a global leader in sustainability management and conservation.
Where can you study abroad in Iceland in 2024?
1. University of Iceland
- International Student Admissions Page
- International Student Scholarships Page
- 997 international students are enrolled.
- The percentage of foreign students is 12%.
The University of Iceland, founded in 1911, is Iceland’s oldest and biggest higher education institution. The University of Iceland is the best college in Iceland for foreign students, so students can be confident that they will only receive the best education while enjoying the beautiful city of Reykjavik. One of the best locations in Iceland to study abroad is here.
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2. Reykjavik University
- International Student Admissions Page
- International Student Scholarships Page
- There are 225 international students.
- 9% of students are international.
Reykjavik University, the largest private institution in the country, was established in 1998.
It concentrates on four fields: law, business, science and engineering, and computer science.
One of Iceland’s top universities for international students provides students with a strong academic foundation and cutting-edge experience in their chosen fields thanks to its strong commitment to research and education as well as its close relationships with the business community.
One of the best locations in Iceland to study abroad is here.
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3. University of Akureyri
- International Student Admissions Page
- International Student Scholarships Page
Our list of the top universities in Iceland for international students is completed by the University of Akureyri, which is situated in the country’s northeastern region.
International students can participate in a wide range of activities both inside and outside the classroom in this university town.
The University of Akureyri provides students with a well-maintained environment in which they can achieve their academic goals in a highly advantageous setting that includes coffee shops, performances, theaters, and the visual arts.
One of the best locations in Iceland to study abroad is here.
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How satisfied are international students studying in Iceland?
International students are happy to study in Iceland. International students at the University of Iceland gave it an astounding 9.5 out of 10 in a 2016 StudyPortals Association survey.
The survey collects information that is necessary to comprehend how foreign students generally perceive their host nations.
The conducive learning environments, the top-notch instruction, and Iceland’s breathtaking cities and landscapes are huge draws for international students.
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Iceland Student Visas
You do not need a visa to study in Iceland if you are from one of the EU/EEA countries.
You must register with the local authorities if your course of study lasts longer than three months. If you are from another country, you must apply for a residence permit, which also serves as a student visa.
If you are pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, your permit is only valid for six months at a time; therefore, you must renew it.
The duration of a doctoral student’s permit is one year at a time. Your permit must be renewed no later than four weeks after it expires.
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What is the cost of studying abroad in Iceland? in 2024?
The Icelandic Króna is the official currency of Iceland (ISK).
Your tuition expenses will differ depending on whether you attend a public or private university.
If you choose to attend a public university, you will not be required to pay tuition regardless of where in the world you are from.
There is an annual registration fee of about 75,000 ISK. If you are not an EEA student, you must also pay an application fee, which is approximately ISK 8,000.
If you choose to attend a private university, you will have to pay tuition.
Depending on the institution of your choice, the course, and your nationality, this tuition fee ranges from ISK 540,000 to ISK 2,000,000 per year.
Scholarships and grants are available to international students, but they can be competitive and are frequently merit-based. To find out more about financial aid, get in touch with your preferred institution.
The cost of living in Iceland is comparable to other western countries. Some universities advise you to budget about ISK 120,000 per month.
Your food, travel, study materials, and other living costs will be covered by these costs. If you decide to live in one of the bigger cities, your living costs will probably be higher.
Another cost that international students must consider is health insurance.
If you are from an EU/EEA country and have an EHIC card, you can receive the same healthcare as Icelandic citizens at the same price.
Make sure you have current, valid health insurance that covers your entire trip to Iceland if you are a visitor from another country.
Make sure your current health insurance will cover you while you are traveling to Iceland, or buy a plan that is recognized there.
If you require assistance purchasing health insurance, contact your institution.
See also: How to Find, Apply & Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad
What are the most popular programs in Iceland for International Students?
If prospective students want to pursue higher education, they can choose among Iceland’s seven universities.
The majority of programs are taught in Icelandic, despite the fact that many courses are offered in English.
One of Iceland’s most popular courses among international students is the Master’s Degree in Coastal and Marine Management.
The North Atlantic Ocean completely encircles Iceland, making it the ideal location for such a program.
Another well-liked program is the Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Engineering.
Iceland is a pioneer in the use of sustainable energy, with 90% of its homes being heated by geothermal water and 100% of its electricity coming from renewable sources.
In addition to these two programs, universities in Iceland provide excellent bachelor’s degrees in a range of fields, including the arts, business, law, and sciences.
These will ensure that international students in Iceland never run out of options for pursuing their academic goals.
List of study abroad scholarships available;
In light of this, we have compiled a list of worldwide scholarships for study abroad here. Despite the fact that they are divided into the following categories:
- Government Scholarships with Full Funding
- University Scholarships with Full Funding
- Study Abroad in General Scholarships & Grants
- Program-Specific International Study Scholarships
- study abroad for only graduates Scholarships
- Member-Based International Study Scholarships
- Travel Awards for International Education Scholarships for Travel
Conclusion
A small country called Iceland is well known for its scientific genius. There are only seven universities in Iceland, so there are fewer than 5000 foreign students there.
However, foreign students in Iceland find the country to be fascinating.
The higher education institutions in Iceland offer robust research-based programs.
The natural sciences are one of the university’s academic strengths. A wide range of courses, including those in the arts, business management, and sciences, are offered by its universities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reykjavik, which is frequently ranked among the safest and cleanest cities in the world, is the ideal location for a relaxing and enjoyable study abroad experience. The University of Iceland, which offers a wide variety of courses taught in English to international students, is well-known in the city.
The University of Iceland currently charges ISK60,000 (roughly $470) per year, but this varies between universities. Tuition and registration fees are charged by private universities, and they differ depending on the program and organization. For students from outside the EU, tuition costs are typically higher.
At Iceland’s public universities, international students (from both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA countries) are not required to pay tuition, but there is an annual admin fee of ISK 75,000 (roughly £454) that must be paid. There is also an application fee if you are applying from a non-EEA nation.
International students studying in Iceland are given work permits. A student may work up to 15 hours per week, but they cannot use their study permit to work in Iceland without first obtaining a special work permit.
Iceland’s educational system is regarded as excellent when compared to other nations; according to the Program for International Student Assessment, it is ranked as the 16th best. In order to enroll in college-level courses in Iceland, students must have visas.
References
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