BS/MS Admissions in Iceland
When can I start my studies in Iceland?
✓ February 1 deadline for September start
✓ Limited winter intake options
What do I need to get admited?
✓ Bachelor’s: High school + IELTS 6.5
✓ Competitive programs require interviews
Is IELTS mandatory for admission?
Not always! Exemptions if you:
✓ Studied in English (submit MOI letter)
✓ Are from an English-speaking country
How much does tuition cost?
🇮🇸 Iceland Study Costs (2025)
✓ Public Unis: EU/EEA pay €400-800/year | Non-EU €1.5K-3K/year (PhD free + funded for all)
✓ Private Unis: €7K-15K/year | Add health insurance (€120+/month) & housing (€600-1.2K/month)
✓ Pro Tip: Non-EU students need €1.2K/month proof + €80 residence permit fee!
What financial support is available?
🇮🇸 Iceland Scholarships & Grants (2025)
✓ University Awards: Tuition waivers & research grants (e.g., Reykjavík Uni’s Arctic Energy Grant + UI’s PhD salaries).
✓ Government Funds: Icelandic Ministry scholarships + Erasmus+/Nordplus for EU exchanges.
✓ Extra Support: Family/housing allowances (under 25) + Fulbright for US students.
Is health insurance required?
🇮🇸 Iceland Health Insurance (2025)
✓ Non-EU: Private insurance (€13.5K+ coverage) required for visa – switch to public insurance after 6 months.
✓ EU/EEA: EHIC covers basics – top up with private insurance for dental/repatriation.
✓ All Students: Add travel insurance for luggage/liability – some uni plans include extras!
What is the Key Advise?
🇮🇸 Iceland Student Essentials (2025)
✓ Housing Crisis: Secure dorms/shared flats *6+ months early* – use Leiga.is or uni portals (Reykjavík fills fast!).
✓ Survival Icelandic: Learn key phrases (free uni courses!) – unlocks healthcare/jobs despite English fluency.
✓ Adventure Hack: Buy a student bus pass – access hot springs, hikes, and Arctic wonders on weekends!
What is the cost of living?
🇮🇸 Iceland Student Budget (2025)
✓ Essentials: Rent (€400–800) + groceries (€270–400) + transport (€65–90). Dorms save €€€!
✓ Extras: Utilities (€75–95) + fun (€70–135) – cook at home & use student discounts!
✓ Pro Tip: Budget €1,200+/month total – Reykjavík is pricey but salaries offset costs!
What are the work opportunities and allowed working hours?
🇮🇸 Iceland Student Work Rules (2025)
✓ EU/EEA: No permit needed – unlimited hours (register with Registers Iceland).
✓ Non-EU: 15h/week during term, full-time in holidays – must apply for work permit.
✓ Top Jobs: Tourism/hospitality (summer), uni roles, remote gigs – tax ID required!
What are the minimum visa requirements?
🇮🇸 Iceland Student Visa Checklist (2025)
✓ Essentials: Admission letter, passport, proof of funds (€1,434/month), health insurance (€13.5K coverage).
✓ Must-Haves: Rental contract, criminal/medical certificates, visa fee (€45). Non-EU: work permit separate!
✓ Pro Tip: Start early – documents need translations/apostilles! Need a step-by-step guide? Ask.