Iceland is a country that has captured the imagination of people around the world with its stunning natural landscapes, unique culture, and vibrant arts scene. But did you know that Iceland is also an excellent destination for international students looking to study abroad? With its high-quality education system, welcoming community, and unparalleled natural beauty, Iceland offers a truly one-of-a-kind study abroad experience. Are you aware of the perks and do you want to study in Iceland?
One of the most compelling reasons to study in Iceland is the country’s commitment to education. Iceland has a highly developed education system that strongly emphasizes academic excellence and innovation. Students can choose from a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, computer science, environmental studies, and more. The universities in Iceland also offer a range of specialized programs, including courses in geology, renewable energy, and marine science, making Iceland an excellent choice for students interested in fields related to the environment and natural resources.
The decision to study in Iceland offers international students a unique and rewarding experience. With its excellent education system, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Iceland is the perfect destination for students looking to broaden their horizons and make the most of their study abroad experience.
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Why study in Iceland?
Students are highly concerned when they are choosing their study-abroad destinations. They consider several points before finalizing the destination. Studying in Iceland offers many benefits and unique opportunities for international students. Here are some of the potential benefits of why studying in Iceland may be an excellent choice for you:
- High-quality education system: Iceland has a well-developed education system that strongly emphasizes academic excellence and innovation. The universities in Iceland offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, and many programs are taught in English.
- Unique programs: Iceland is known for its unique programs in fields such as geology, renewable energy, marine science, and more. These programs are designed to take advantage of Iceland’s natural resources and can provide students with a unique perspective and specialized skills.
- Small class sizes: The universities in Iceland have small class sizes, which allows for more personalized attention from professors and a more interactive learning experience.
- Vibrant culture and art scene: Iceland has a vibrant arts scene, with music, film, and theater festivals taking place throughout the year. The country also has a rich cultural heritage that can provide students with a unique perspective and enrich their study abroad experience.
- International community: While Iceland is a small country, it has a diverse and vibrant international community. Studying in Iceland provides an opportunity to meet people from all over the world and build connections that can last a lifetime.
How to study in Iceland after the 12th?
Now that you have seen the perks of studying in Iceland, in this section we shall be looking at the ways through which one Indian student can choose to study in Iceland after the 12th class:
Selecting a course and college combination
Initiate your dreams of studying in Iceland by researching. Research the universities in Iceland and the programs they offer. Look for a program that aligns with your interests and career goals. Also, consider the location of the university, the language of instruction, and the cost of tuition and living expenses.
Verify the admission requirements
Each university in Iceland has its own admission requirements, so make sure to carefully review the requirements for the program you are interested in. Typically, universities require transcripts from your high school or secondary education, English language proficiency test scores, and letters of recommendation.
Fill out your application form
Once you have identified the program and university you want to apply to, start preparing your application materials. This may include gathering transcripts and other documents, taking language proficiency tests, and writing a personal statement.
Apply to the university
Apply to the university through their online application system or by mail. Make sure to submit all required materials before the application deadline.
Apply for a student visa
International students who are not from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland will need a student visa to study in Iceland. Check the requirements for obtaining a student visa and start the application process as early as possible.
Plan your living expenses
Living expenses in Iceland can be high, so it is important to plan your budget accordingly. Research housing options, transportation costs, and other living expenses to get an idea of how much money you will need.
Fly to Iceland
Once you have been accepted to a university and obtained your student visa, make travel arrangements to arrive in Iceland before the start of the semester. Settle into your accommodation, attend orientation events, and start your academic journey in Iceland.
To study in Iceland after the 12th grade, you need to choose a program and university, check the admission requirements, prepare your application, apply to the university, apply for a student visa, plan for living expenses, and arrive in Iceland before the start of the semester.
Study in Iceland for Indian Students: Eligibility Criteria
Indian students who want to study in Iceland must have their checklist of eligibility criteria ticked. In this section, we will look at some of the general eligibility criteria for Indian students.
Academic requirements
Indian students must have completed their 12th-grade education or equivalent, with good grades. They must also meet the specific academic requirements for the program they are applying to, as set by the university.
Language proficiency
The language of instruction at most universities in Iceland is Icelandic, but many programs are also offered in English. International students, including Indian students, must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction, either through standardized language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS or through an interview with the university.
Student visa requirements
Indian students who are not citizens of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland must obtain a student visa to study in Iceland. To obtain a student visa, students must provide proof of acceptance at a recognized educational institution, proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses and a valid passport.
Health insurance
International students, including Indian students, are required to have health insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay in Iceland. Students can either obtain health insurance from their home country or purchase insurance in Iceland.
Financial requirements
Studying in Iceland can be expensive, and Indian students must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs. Students can provide bank statements or a sponsor’s financial support to demonstrate their ability to cover these expenses.
Indian students who wish to study in Iceland must meet academic requirements, language proficiency requirements, student visa requirements, health insurance requirements, and financial requirements. It is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria set by the university and the Icelandic government before applying to study in Iceland.
Top Colleges for Studying in Iceland
The most important thing that students look for is the list of the top colleges while choosing their study-abroad destination. Students want plenty of options to choose from. Here, we will have a look at the several top colleges to study in Iceland with their average tuition fees and popular courses offered.
College | Average Annual Fees | Popular Courses Offered |
University of Iceland | INR 9 Lakhs – 12 Lakhs | Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Law, Medicine, Social Sciences |
Reykjavik University | INR 12 Lakhs – 15 Lakhs | Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Law, Psychology, Sustainable Energy |
Iceland University of the Arts | INR 10 Lakhs – INR 12 Lakhs | Fine Arts, Design, Music, Theatre, and Dance. |
Bifrost University | INR 8 Lakhs – 10 Lakhs | Business Administration, Law, Political Science, Sustainability Studies |
University of Akureyri | INR 7 Lakhs – 9 Lakhs | Business Administration, Education, Social Sciences, Health Sciences |
Holar University College | INR 6 Lakhs – INR 8 Lakhs | Aquaculture and Fish Biology, Equine Science, Rural Tourism |
Keilir – Atlantic Centre of Excellence | INR 10 Lakhs – INR 12 Lakhs | Aviation Studies, Business Administration, Computer Science, Game Development |
Agricultural University of Iceland | INR 7 Lakhs – 9 Lakhs | Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Food Science |
It’s important to note that these tuition fees are only an estimate and may vary depending on the program and level of study. Moreover, students may also need to budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and living expenses.
Study in Iceland Scholarships for Indian Students
The tuition fee of these top universities in Iceland has slightly higher fees which can be a barrier for certain students. But, don’t worry! We are here for you with a list of scholarships available to study in Iceland for Indian students. There are several scholarships available for Indian students who wish to study in Iceland. Some of the popular scholarship options are:
1. Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture Scholarship
2. Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship
3. DAAD Scholarship
4. Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship
Let’s discuss this in detail:
Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture Scholarship
The Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture Scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for international students aspiring to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate studies at renowned Icelandic institutions. This scholarship encompasses tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, rendering it a comprehensive support package. Students from India are eligible to apply and benefit from this remarkable opportunity.
Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship
The Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship is tailored for ambitious Indian students desiring to undertake research endeavors across a diverse range of fields at esteemed institutions in the United States. This prestigious scholarship provides coverage for tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, ensuring that scholars can focus on their academic pursuits without financial concerns.
DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD Scholarship, administered by the German Academic Exchange Service, extends invaluable financial assistance to Indian students aspiring to pursue their studies in Germany. This scholarship is available for students currently enrolled in higher education institutions in India, enabling them to explore educational opportunities in Germany with peace of mind.
Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship
The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship offers a golden opportunity for students seeking to pursue graduate studies worldwide. Whether at renowned institutions or lesser-known establishments, this scholarship encompasses tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, providing a solid foundation for students to excel academically without financial burdens.
Conclusion
Lastly, studying in Iceland can be a transformative experience for international students, including those from India. With its unique blend of natural beauty, innovative culture, and high-quality education system, Iceland has much to offer students seeking an adventure in higher education. By taking advantage of the various study programs, scholarships, and eligibility criteria outlined above, Indian students can access a diverse range of study options in Iceland.
Whether pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate studies, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an environment that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and cross-cultural understanding. Overall, studying in Iceland is a worthwhile investment that can lead to many exciting and rewarding opportunities for students in the future.
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Explore other countries!
- Study in Switzerland
- Study in Poland
- Study in Sweden
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- Study in Netherlands
- Study in France
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- Study in Ireland
- Study in New Zealand
- Education in Germany
FAQs
Most universities and colleges in Iceland teach in Icelandic or English. If English is not your first language, you may need to provide proof of English proficiency by taking a language test such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Living expenses in Iceland are generally high, especially in the capital city of Reykjavik. On average, international students should expect to spend between 150,000 to 200,000 ISK per month on accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time in Iceland while studying, but they may need to obtain a work permit. The maximum number of hours allowed per week is 20, and the hourly wage is generally higher than in many other European countries.
Yes, there are several scholarships available for Indian students to study in Iceland, such as the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science and Culture Scholarship, and the Erasmus+ Scholarship.
Popular fields of study for international students in Iceland include renewable energy, environmental science, geology, marine science, and tourism.x
International students from non-EU/EEA countries will need to apply for a student visa to study in Iceland. The process includes providing proof of acceptance into an Icelandic institution, sufficient financial means to support oneself, and a valid passport. The application process may vary depending on the country of origin, so it’s important to check with the Icelandic embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Sushant, an accomplished content writer at iDreamCareer, has dedicated his life to the pursuit of writing since childhood. Having earned his education at the prestigious University of Delhi, he possesses a profound understanding of both arts and science in the field of education. Leveraging his professional experience, Sushant brings a fresh perspective to analyzing emerging trends in the realms of writing and education. His youthful mindset, coupled with a positive outlook, is geared towards enlightening students through the impactful delivery of wisdom and knowledge.