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University of Iceland Scholarship 2026 | Icelandic Government Scholarship

The University of Iceland Scholarship 2026, also known as the Icelandic Government Scholarship, offers an exceptional opportunity for international students who wish to pursue the BA program in Icelandic as a Second Language at the University of Iceland in Reykjavík. This scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education and administered by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies.

Unlike general scholarships that support multiple disciplines, this award is specifically tailored to promote Icelandic language and culture. Each year, around 12 scholarships are awarded to students from eligible countries, covering tuition, monthly stipends, and access to accommodation. The program not only focuses on academic training but also encourages cultural immersion, allowing recipients to experience Iceland’s history, literature, and traditions firsthand.

For students with an interest in Nordic studies, linguistics, literature, and cultural heritage, this scholarship provides a life-changing opportunity to study in a supportive and academically enriching environment.

Scholarship Summary

Host Country: Iceland
Host Institution: University of Iceland, Reykjavík
Administered By: Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies
Funded By: Ministry of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education
Study Level: Undergraduate (BA Program in Icelandic as a Second Language)
Number of Scholarships: Around 12 annually
Duration: September 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027 (renewable up to 3 years)
Deadline: December 1, 2025

Benefits of the University of Iceland Scholarship 2026

One of the main attractions of this scholarship is its comprehensive financial and academic support, which helps international students focus on their studies while experiencing Icelandic culture.

Financial Coverage

Full Registration Fees
- The scholarship covers the entire registration fee at the University of Iceland, eliminating the burden of tuition costs.
Monthly Stipend
- Recipients receive a monthly stipend from September to April, designed to cover living expenses such as food, study materials, and transportation.
Accommodation Option
- Students are offered the chance to live at Gamli Garður, the historic student dormitory, which fosters a strong international student community.
Access to Resources
- Awardees gain full access to the University of Iceland libraries, research facilities, and academic services, as well as the resources of the Árni Magnússon Institute.
Renewability
- The scholarship can be renewed for up to three academic years if the student demonstrates consistent academic performance and reapplies successfully.

Eligibility Criteria

The University of Iceland Scholarship is competitive and follows strict eligibility requirements to ensure it benefits students genuinely interested in Icelandic language and culture.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must have completed at least one year of university-level studies in the humanities or related fields.
Previous exposure to linguistics, cultural studies, or Nordic studies is advantageous but not mandatory.

Language Requirements

Basic Icelandic Knowledge: Applicants must demonstrate elementary Icelandic language skills equivalent to Icelandic Online 1 and 2 (free online courses offered by the University of Iceland).
English Proficiency: Since English is often used as a secondary medium of instruction, applicants must submit an English proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).

Other Requirements

Age Preference: Priority is given to candidates under 35 years old.
Eligible Nationalities: Applicants must be citizens of countries participating in the exchange agreement with Iceland (see list below).
Health & Character: Students must demonstrate good academic standing, strong motivation, and commitment to cultural engagement.

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the following partner countries:

Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands
Finland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania
Norway, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The United Kingdom
United States (only via the Fulbright Program)

Fields of Study

The scholarship specifically supports students admitted to the BA program in Icelandic as a Second Language. This program combines practical language training with theoretical insights into Icelandic culture and history.

Available Subjects Include:

Modern Icelandic: Speaking, reading, and writing skills for academic and everyday use.
Icelandic Morphology and Syntax: Understanding the grammar and structural aspects of the language.
Phonetics: Pronunciation and linguistic sound patterns of Icelandic.
Medieval Literature: Exploration of the Icelandic sagas, eddas, and medieval texts.
Modern Icelandic Literature: Study of contemporary Icelandic novels, poetry, and drama.
Icelandic History: From early settlement through modern political, social, and cultural developments.
Translation Studies: Practical training in translating between Icelandic and other languages.

This combination allows students not only to master the language but also to gain cultural literacy that is essential for research, teaching, and cross-cultural communication.

Duration of the Program

BA in Icelandic as a Second Language:
- 1 year preparatory Icelandic language training
- 2–3 years of the degree program
Total Duration: Up to 3 academic years (depending on academic performance and renewal approval).

Application Timeline

Application Opens: September 2025
Deadline: December 1, 2025 (all applications must be postmarked by this date; email applications not accepted)
Selection Results: January 2026
University of Iceland Admission Deadline: February 15, 2026
Language Exam: June 2026 (to confirm proficiency before final admission)
Program Start: September 1, 2026

Required Documents

Applicants must submit a complete set of documents for their application to be considered.

Academic Documents

Certified copies of university transcripts and diplomas
Evidence of completed humanities coursework
Proof of basic Icelandic language knowledge (Icelandic Online 1 & 2)
English proficiency test results (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)

Personal Documents

Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Copy of a valid passport
Two academic recommendation letters highlighting academic ability and character
Personal essay or motivation statement describing reasons for studying Icelandic

Additional Requirements

U.S. applicants must apply via the Fulbright Program
Non-U.S. applicants send their materials by post to the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies

Application Procedure

The application process differs slightly depending on the applicant’s nationality.

For Non-U.S. Applicants

Download the Application Form from the Árni Magnússon Institute’s website.
Prepare Documents: Collect all certified transcripts, recommendation letters, CV, proof of Icelandic and English proficiency.
Send by Post: Submit the completed application to:Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies
Edda, Arngrímsgata 5
107 Reykjavík, Iceland

For U.S. Applicants

Apply through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE).
Fulbright handles the nomination and funding for U.S. students.

Selection Process

The evaluation committee reviews applications based on:

Academic Excellence: Past performance in humanities or related studies.
Motivation: A well-written essay demonstrating clear academic goals and cultural interest.
Language Skills: Basic Icelandic knowledge and strong English proficiency.
Recommendation Letters: Support from academic mentors highlighting potential.
Cultural Engagement: Willingness to immerse in Icelandic traditions and contribute to cultural exchange.

Results are typically announced in January 2026, giving selected students ample time to prepare for university admission.

Life at the University of Iceland

Studying at the University of Iceland offers not just academic growth but also cultural enrichment.

Location: Reykjavík, the capital city, offers a mix of modern urban life and stunning natural landscapes.
Community: The university has over 14,000 students, including a growing population of international learners.
Support Services: International student offices assist with housing, orientation, and visa-related processes.
Cultural Immersion: Recipients take part in excursions, cultural workshops, and language practice groups, making it easier to adapt and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does the University of Iceland offer scholarships for international students?

Yes. The Icelandic Government provides around 12 scholarships each year through the Árni Magnússon Institute.

2. Can foreigners study in Iceland for free?

At public universities in Iceland, there are no tuition fees—only registration fees. Scholarships further reduce financial costs.

3. Is it difficult to get into the University of Iceland?

Most faculties have open admissions, except programs like medicine. For the scholarship, however, competition is strong.

4. Can I study in Iceland only with English?

Yes. Many Icelanders speak English fluently, and several academic resources are available in English. However, scholarship recipients are expected to learn Icelandic.

5. Can I work while studying in Iceland?

Yes. With a student work permit, international students can work up to 22.5 hours per week during semesters.

6. What are the living costs in Iceland?

Students should expect additional expenses of about ISK 75,000 annually (approx. €500) for registration fees, alongside living costs.

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Icelandic government scholarship 2026 Study in Iceland free

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University of Iceland Scholarship 2026 | Icelandic Government Scholarship