The University of Iceland offers Icelandic Government Scholarships for international students who want to study Icelandic as a second language in Reykjavík. The scholarship supports foreign students who wish to develop strong proficiency in Icelandic while studying at university level in Iceland. It is a competitive award, so understanding exactly what it covers, who is eligible, and how the application process works is essential before you begin.
Overview of the Scholarship
The Icelandic Government Scholarships for Studies in Icelandic as a Second Language are administered in cooperation with the University of Iceland and the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. The award is aimed at students who intend to pursue academic study of Icelandic language and culture at university level.
- Scholarship name: Icelandic Government Scholarships for Studies in Icelandic as a Second Language.
- Host country: Iceland.
- Host institution: University of Iceland, Reykjavík.
- Field of study: Icelandic as a second language.
- Level of study: University-level language and academic study in the Icelandic language program.
- Funding body: The Government of Iceland.
- Target group: International students from outside Iceland.
- Study mode: On-campus study in Iceland.
- Application route: Through the University of Iceland admissions and scholarship process.
- Language of instruction: Icelandic, with preparatory language support.
About the Icelandic Government Scholarships
The scholarship is a government-funded initiative that promotes the study of the Icelandic language among international students. It is linked to the Icelandic as a Second Language program at the University of Iceland, which combines intensive language training with academic content. The program is intended for students who want to reach a level of Icelandic that allows them to study and work in Icelandic-speaking environments.
The scholarship reflects Iceland’s interest in strengthening cultural and academic exchange with other countries. Recipients join a diverse international student community in Reykjavík and study alongside Icelandic and other international students. The program is closely connected to Icelandic culture, literature, and society, giving students a broad academic experience beyond language learning alone.
Because the scholarship is competitive, selection is based on academic background, motivation, and the relevance of Icelandic language study to the applicant’s goals. The award is intended to cover part of the cost of living and study in Iceland, and recipients are expected to focus on their language studies during the scholarship period.
Scholarship Benefits
- A monthly stipend that contributes to living costs in Iceland.
- Support toward tuition or registration costs for the Icelandic as a Second Language program, depending on the terms of the award.
- Access to the University of Iceland’s language teaching resources and academic facilities.
- Enrollment in an intensive Icelandic language program designed for international students.
- Opportunities to practice Icelandic with native speakers in everyday settings in Reykjavík.
- Cultural and academic activities that connect language learning with Icelandic society and history.
- Access to student services, including library resources and student support at the University of Iceland.
- Recognition as a scholarship recipient, which can strengthen future academic and professional applications.
- Membership in an international student community that supports language practice and cultural exchange.
- A pathway toward further university study in Icelandic or careers that require Icelandic language skills.
Duration of the Scholarship
- The scholarship is generally awarded for one academic year of study in the Icelandic as a Second Language program.
- Some awards may be renewable for a second year, subject to academic progress and the terms set by the funding body.
- Renewal depends on satisfactory performance in language courses and compliance with scholarship conditions.
- The scholarship period aligns with the University of Iceland academic year, which is divided into autumn and spring semesters.
- Students should plan their finances for the full duration of their program, since the stipend is intended as support rather than full coverage of all costs.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet both the general eligibility rules of the scholarship and the admission requirements of the University of Iceland’s Icelandic as a Second Language program. The requirements focus on academic readiness, motivation for language study, and the ability to live and study in Iceland for the duration of the award.
- Applicants must be international students who are not Icelandic citizens or permanent residents of Iceland.
- Applicants must have completed secondary education or hold an equivalent qualification that allows university admission.
- Applicants must demonstrate sufficient academic preparation for university-level study.
- Applicants must show a genuine interest in learning Icelandic and studying Icelandic language and culture.
- Applicants must meet the University of Iceland’s general admission requirements for the program.
- Applicants must provide proof of English or Icelandic language proficiency, as required by the program.
- Applicants must submit a complete application with all required documents before the relevant deadline.
- Applicants must be able to support themselves financially in Iceland alongside the scholarship.
- Applicants must be able to reside in Iceland for the duration of the scholarship period.
- Applicants must comply with the scholarship terms and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
Admission Requirements by Study Level
The documents you submit depend on the level at which you enter the program. The lists below outline what each level typically requires; always confirm the current requirements with the University of Iceland before applying.
Bachelor’s Level Admission
- Completion of secondary education with a diploma that qualifies for university entrance.
- Transcripts showing grades in relevant subjects, including languages and humanities where available.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Icelandic according to University of Iceland rules.
- A personal statement explaining interest in Icelandic language and culture.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or academic supervisors.
- Evidence of motivation and readiness for intensive language study.
Master’s Level Admission
- A completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- Academic transcripts showing the applicant’s field of study and grades.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Icelandic as required by the program.
- A statement of purpose linking Icelandic language study to the applicant’s academic or professional goals.
- Letters of recommendation from academic referees.
- Relevant academic or professional experience in languages, humanities, or related fields.
Doctoral Level Admission
- A completed master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
- Academic transcripts and documentation of previous research or advanced study.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Icelandic according to program rules.
- A research or study plan that explains how Icelandic language proficiency supports the applicant’s project.
- Letters of recommendation from academic supervisors familiar with the applicant’s work.
- Evidence of independent academic work and the ability to complete advanced study in Iceland.
How to Apply
The application process combines admission to the University of Iceland program with a separate scholarship application. Work through the steps in order so that your documents are ready before each deadline.
Step 1: Review the Program and Scholarship Information
- Read the official University of Iceland and Icelandic government scholarship information carefully.
- Confirm that the Icelandic as a Second Language program matches your academic goals.
- Check the eligibility criteria for both the scholarship and the university program.
Step 2: Prepare Your Academic Documents
- Collect your secondary school or university transcripts and diplomas.
- Obtain certified translations if your documents are not in English or Icelandic.
- Request letters of recommendation from teachers or academic supervisors.
Step 3: Write Your Motivation Statement
- Explain why you want to study Icelandic as a second language.
- Describe how the scholarship fits your academic and career plans.
- Show your interest in Icelandic culture and society.
Step 4: Submit the University Application
- Apply to the Icelandic as a Second Language program through the University of Iceland application system.
- Upload all required documents and pay any application fees.
- Keep confirmation of your submitted application.
Step 5: Apply for the Scholarship
- Complete the scholarship application form according to the official instructions.
- Attach your admission application details and supporting documents.
- Submit the scholarship application by the stated deadline.
Step 6: Track Your Application and Prepare for Arrival
- Monitor your email for updates from the University of Iceland and the scholarship office.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional documents.
- Once selected, arrange travel, housing, and residence permit steps for studying in Iceland.
Required Documents
- Completed scholarship application form.
- Completed University of Iceland admission application.
- Secondary school or university diplomas and transcripts.
- Certified translations of documents not in English or Icelandic.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Icelandic.
- Personal statement or motivation letter.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Valid passport copy.
- Recent passport-style photograph.
- Any additional documents requested by the university or scholarship office.
Application Tips
- Start your application early, since document translation and recommendation letters take time.
- Read the official scholarship and university instructions carefully before applying.
- Make sure your motivation statement clearly explains why Icelandic language study matters to you.
- Choose referees who know your academic work and can write specific, supportive letters.
- Check that all documents are complete and correctly translated before submission.
- Prepare a realistic budget for living in Iceland beyond the scholarship stipend.
- Practice basic Icelandic before arrival to make daily life and classes easier.
- Keep copies of every document you submit for your own records.
- Follow up politely if you do not receive confirmation of your application.
- Plan housing and residence permit steps early once you are selected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Icelandic Government Scholarships for Studies in Icelandic as a Second Language?
International students who are not Icelandic citizens or permanent residents of Iceland and who meet the University of Iceland admission requirements can apply.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship generally provides a monthly stipend toward living costs and may support tuition or registration costs, depending on the terms of the award.
How long is the scholarship awarded for?
The scholarship is usually awarded for one academic year, with possible renewal for a second year subject to academic progress and scholarship rules.
Do I need to speak Icelandic to apply?
You do not need to be fluent in Icelandic, but you must meet the language proficiency requirements of the program and show strong motivation to learn Icelandic.
Can I apply for the scholarship without applying to the University of Iceland?
No, the scholarship is linked to admission to the Icelandic as a Second Language program, so you must apply to the university program as part of the process.
Is the scholarship enough to cover all living costs in Iceland?
The stipend is intended as support rather than full coverage, so recipients should plan additional funds for housing, food, and other expenses.
The Icelandic Government Scholarships for Studies in Icelandic as a Second Language offer a valuable opportunity for international students to learn Icelandic at university level while experiencing life in Iceland. By preparing documents early, writing a clear motivation statement, and following official instructions carefully, applicants can improve their chances of securing this competitive award.