Thinking about studying abroad but worried about the high costs? Here’s some good news: Iceland offers free tuition at its public universities, making it one of the best destinations for international students in 2026.
With beautiful landscapes, a welcoming community, and top-quality education, Iceland is becoming a hidden gem for study abroad opportunities.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about studying in Iceland for free, the top universities in Iceland, available scholarships, admission requirements, and how to apply for your Iceland student visa.
Why Study in Iceland?
Iceland is a Nordic island nation with a population of just under 380,000 people. Despite its small size, the country is renowned for:
-
Free tuition at public universities
-
High visa approval chances (since fewer students apply compared to other European countries)
-
Opportunities to move with your family
-
Acceptance of HND holders for applications
-
A safe and eco-friendly environment powered by geothermal energy
The capital, Reykjavík, is home to most of the country’s universities and cultural attractions. From volcanic landscapes to Viking history, Iceland combines quality education with breathtaking experiences.
👉 Learn more about life in Iceland on the official Visit Iceland site
Admission Requirements
To apply for Icelandic universities, international students generally need:
-
Completed online application form
-
Academic CV
-
Motivation letter (especially for master’s/PhD)
-
Transcripts from previous studies
-
Two letters of recommendation
-
Proof of English proficiency: IELTS (6.5), TOEFL (75), or PTE Academic
-
Valid passport
-
Proof of application fee payment
For bachelor’s admission, students may need:
-
At least one year of prior university study in their home country, or
-
Completion of A-levels or preparatory programs
Tuition Fees and Costs
One of the biggest benefits of studying in Iceland is that tuition is free at public universities. However, students must pay:
-
Application fee: Around $60
-
Annual registration/student fee: Around $500–$550
Living costs in Iceland are relatively high. Expect to budget around $1,500 per month for accommodation, food, and other expenses.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Universities in Africa They Don’t Want You To Know
LIST OF SCHOOLS IN ICELAND WITH FREE TUITION
There are only seven accredited universities in Iceland, but they are globally recognized for research and teaching excellence.
-
University of Iceland – Largest public university with programs in law, health sciences, and humanities (official site
-
University of Akureyri – Popular for social sciences, environmental studies, and Arctic research. Apply here
-
Hólar University – Specializes in aquaculture, equine studies, and rural tourism. Visit Here
Application Deadlines
-
University of Iceland – Opens in fall, closes in February.
-
Akureyri University – Applications usually open in March
Since each university has different timelines, start preparing at least 6–9 months in advance.
Visa & Residence Permit for Students
Once admitted, students must apply for a D-category student visa and a residence permit.
Documents required include:
-
University admission/invitation letter
-
Valid passport & photocopy
-
Proof of funds ($1,500 per month, ideally doubled to show financial stability)
-
Medical insurance (minimum coverage: $14,000)
-
Criminal record certificate
-
Proof of housing reservation
-
Recent passport photo
Scholarships in Iceland
Even though tuition is free, students can still benefit from scholarships to help cover living costs:
-
University of Iceland Scholarships – Covers fields like law, theology, and health sciences.
-
Reykjavík University Scholarships – For master’s students in energy and sustainable development.
Visit: Study In Iceland
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an affordable, safe, and high-quality education destination, Iceland should be at the top of your list in 2026.
With free tuition, world-class universities, and a supportive student community, Iceland offers a golden opportunity for international students.
Start preparing your application, gather your documents, and explore available scholarships. And most importantly—apply early to secure your spot!