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Iceland
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Study in Iceland
There are numerous underutilized study abroad programs in Europe.However, several nations provide inexpensive, in-depth study programs to international students. Iceland, which is located south of the Arctic Circle, is one such nation in Europe. Iceland’s geographical characteristics have earned it the moniker “land of fire and ice.”It is mostly a volcanic area, and enormous glaciers round the entire nation.The area experiences a moderate climate. The average temperature in the nation is close to 0°C (32°F).
Europe has numerous less well-known locations for study abroad programs. However, these nations provide affordable, in-depth study programs for students from abroad. Iceland is one such nation in Europe, and it is situated below the Arctic Circle. In reference to its geographical attributes, Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice.” This area is primarily volcanic, and enormous glaciers completely encircle the entire nation. There is a pleasant climate there. The country experiences temperatures around 0C (32F) on average. In the winter, there is scarcely any daylight.
Iceland Universities for International Students 2023
In Iceland, there are seven universities. Most of these institutions of higher learning are state-regulated public universities. However, some private universities also carry out governmental regulations.Almost 18,000 students, including 5% foreigners, attend various universities in Iceland. International rankings place Reykjavik at 350 and the University of Iceland at 251.
Tuition Fees in Iceland for Students 2023
Public universities have no tuition costs. Icelandic private universities do, however, levy tuition fees, which vary from institution to institution.Private and public students both are required to pay a yearly registration or administration fee.The official website of the institute has all the information.
Intakes
Iceland is a popular destination for international students pursuing their bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees.Iceland is a popular destination for students participating in exchange programs.From September through May, the academic year lasts. Thus, the academic year is split into the spring and the fall semesters.In general, the summer semester begins in January and finishes in May, while the fall semester begins in September and concludes in December.
Latest Scholarships by Iceland for Students 2023
Scholarships are also available from Iceland to qualified students. The individual institutions are really the ones who offer the scholarships. However, each year a number of scholarships are given to international students by the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture. These scholarships are available at the University of Iceland in Reykjavk for the study of Icelandic language, literature, and history.
Study Programs in Iceland for International Students
Exams that are written, oral, or practical are used to evaluate students. Assignments and assessments from each semester are completed throughout the whole study program. According to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), study credits are computed.While a semester of full-time study results in 30 credits, a year of full-time study requires 60 credits.
Bachelor degrees (B.A., B.S., and B.Ed.) are among the degree options offered in Iceland.
A three to four year program leading to a bachelor’s degree requires 180 to 240 credits. With the exception of nurses (B.S.) and teachers (B.Ed. ), bachelor degrees do not result in professional study certification. In order to earn a candidatetus degree (kandidatsgráa), students must complete a four- to six-year curriculum.
A two-year program for master’s degrees (M.A., M.S. – meistaragrá) consists of postgraduate coursework. To pass the course, you must complete a substantial thesis or research project. Students who successfully finish a doctoral program and successfully defend a doctoral thesis are given doctorate degrees (PhD- doktorsgráa). Depending on the institution and program, different qualifications must be met for admission. Applicants must submit their applications directly to the university.
Residence Permit
In order to reside in Iceland during their study abroad program, international students must get residence permits. Students who are older than 18 and want to pursue higher education are given this permit. The length of the residence permits is either one semester or six months. However, doctoral students’ residence permits are valid for a full year. For a safe study abroad experience in Iceland, the students must renew their residence permits on schedule.
Accommodation
For housing, international students enrolled in Icelandic universities submit an application to the Icelandic Student Services (Félagsstofnun students). The Service manages student flats or apartments and assigns suitable housing to the students. The student apartments are designed for both single people and families. Students who, for whatever reason, were unable to use this on-campus housing option can pursue accommodations on the rental market.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is required for all students. Before arriving in Iceland, non-EU nationals should be covered by health insurance. Students from outside the EU are permitted to obtain health insurance through Iceland or from their native country. medical insurance companies
Work after Study
Students may work during their study program, but only within certain hours. A non-EU international student’s full-time employment percentile shouldn’t be more than 40 percent. However, there are exceptions for students enrolled in vocational training or during school breaks. To be eligible for the work permit, overseas students must have a current student residence permit.
Iceland has a higher cost of living than other European nations. The price is 40% more than in Germany. To live ordinarily in Iceland, one has to make between 350 and 400 Euros per month, excluding food. Iceland’s main airport, Keflavik, is 45 minutes away from Reykjavik, the country’s capital. Buses to the town center are easily accessible forms of transportation. Delicious foods like skyr and pylsur are highly well-liked.click here
Student’s Life
Universities in Iceland hold “International Days” to recognize foreign students. International students showcase their home cultures through such occasions. For other students, the International Student Network plans events and activities. The higher education institutions also host concerts, workshops, and other events. Sports are just one of the various recreational pursuits. A gym, a canteen, and other entertainment areas are available on campus.
Iceland Health Care Insurance for Students
The land of Fire and Ice is Iceland. It is a highly developed and stable nation. Its educational standards are high. Iceland is a popular study destination for foreign students. The most crucial prerequisite for applying for an Icelandic student visa is that you have health insurance. Students in Iceland have access to both public and private health insurance. You can choose whichever you like.
The practice of studying abroad has recently become more common than it was previously. There are a number of factors, though, including the fact that certain nations provide cheap study programs in cutting-edge areas, job prospects, research facilities, affluent lifestyles, etc. One of these less well-known study abroad locations where the majority of applicants are foreign students is Iceland. Your education counselor has recommended Iceland as your study abroad location for the reasons listed below.
Why International Students Study in Iceland
The Scenic Landscape
Unique sand beaches with shining ashy sand, high rising cliffs, luscious white glaciers, untamed gorges, gushing waterfalls, burning volcanoes, geothermal experiences, and fjords are all found within the country’s 103,000 square kilometers. It is a popular tourist location that is mentioned in reputable sources including Lonely Planet, the Discovery portal, and National Geographic’s Traveler magazine. In reality, due to the rumbling volcanoes and icy icicles, it is referred to as “the land of fire and ice.” Iceland’s climate is generally mild, despite the name of the nation; yet, one may appreciate the changes in daylight hours. While there is continuous daylight throughout the midst of the summer, there is no daylight at all during the middle of the winter.
Iceland Higher Education Growth
The second most important reason to travel to Iceland is to enroll in degree programs there. For overseas students, attending school in Iceland is nothing new. In actuality, about 5% of students in Iceland are from international zones. However, there are not a lot of institutions of higher learning. This little nation is home to a few universities, all of which welcome admission from overseas students for a variety of fields of study. As a result, the Icelandic educational system is better able to broaden its intellectual horizons in terms of both curriculum and premises. In total, Iceland has seven universities, three of which are private and four of which are public.
English Taught Courses
Fortunately, many courses are being given in English in Iceland’s higher education institutions to accommodate a flood of foreign students visiting the country to study there. Students coming from developing nations like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, where English is the sole foreign language taught and understood as a medium of instruction, will particularly benefit from these English-taught courses.The educational system in Iceland is highly regarded among other well-known European nations. Iceland is ranked as the 16th best country for housing international students responsibly, according to a reliable yet recent poll associated with the Program for International Student Assessment ranking.
Liberal Lifestyle
Iceland’s freedom is one of the benefits of choosing it as a study abroad location. Iceland’s populace is largely liberal and supports individual integrity, sexual and religious tolerance, and gender equality. In reality, Iceland ranked fourth in the 2015 Social Progress Index. Switzerland, Norway, and Sweden round out the top three. Both locals and visitors to Iceland have their personal rights, preferences, and freedom supported and protected by the government. Moreover, both national and international students have equal access to higher education.
Tuition Free Studies and Scholarship Offers 2023
The fact that public universities in Iceland offer study programs without tuition is a key factor in choosing Iceland as a study abroad location. An international student can affordably survive in Europe thanks to this study abroad program. For international students, there are numerous scholarships and financial aid options. Additionally, students are permitted to work a part-time job while they are in school.
Range of Available Courses
At every level, courses in both science and the arts are offered in Iceland. The schools of science and engineering have a strong academic foundation and offer practical instruction. Students at these institutions have access to research possibilities as well. In reality, a lot of overseas students choose to study renewable energy, biomedical engineering, construction materials studies, and project management. The highly regarded Iceland Academy of the Arts provides a variety of functional degree programs in the visual arts, music, design and architecture, theatre and dance, and related fields. Iceland is a famous destination for filmmaking training. In fact, the nation is where the well-known Icelandic Film School is located. Watch the popular Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie to see how Iceland’s film inspired creativity.Iceland medical schools also offer comprehensive courses not only in medicine but also in relevant courses like physiotherapy or sports medicine.
Continental lifestyle Experience
Although the country is somewhat expensive, one may still get by on a tight budget. There are plenty of opportunities for graduates who want to live permanently in Iceland after graduation, and the necessities like food, transportation, and healthcare are all reasonably priced. While finishing their studies, one can take advantage of the European way of life in this gorgeous location.
One of the top places in Europe for international students to study abroad is Iceland. In addition, obtaining a student visa for Iceland is simpler than for other nations. In actuality, Iceland doesn’t open a separate embassy in Pakistan. However, students can get in touch with the Danish Embassy if they want to apply for a student visa for Iceland.Prospective students should get in touch with the institution through its official website if they want to get admitted to an Iceland higher education program. To reduce the likelihood of rejection, it is preferable to apply to multiple universities.For the handling and processing of their applications, non-EEA/EFTA citizens applying to study at Icelandic universities must pay an ISK 8,000 processing fee. The cost is included in the online application process and is payable by credit card only.The higher education system in Iceland chiefly offers three types of academic program
- Undergraduate Study program
- Graduate Study Program
- Doctoral Program
There are, however, many diploma courses and certificate study programs that can be searched at the official websites of relevant institution.
Intakes in Undergraduate programs of Iceland Universities 2023
The academic year for Bachelor’s program normally begins in July and is divided into two semesters (terms):
- Autumn semester from August to December
- Spring semester from January to May.
Admission Requirements for Bachelor’s Program in Iceland Universities 2023 for Students
The prerequisites for admission to an undergraduate program varies slightly from those in other nations.Students need to have completed at least 14 years of school to be admitted to an undergraduate program. After completing 12 years of study, students must submit their Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC), Intermediate Certificate, Faculty of Arts or Science (FA/FSc), or Certificate of Intermediate in Commerce.Since 2005, the Icelandic Ministry of Education has required an additional year of study after the intermediate level for non-European students who wish to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program at an Icelandic university.Students must also present a proof of educational equivalency. The university to which a student is applying should be contacted in order to obtain FA/FSC/ICS degree equivalency.Observe that kids who have finished their first year of school equal to 60 credits from a recognized university or college have already met the general admission requirements for undergraduate study, regardless of whether they have obtained an Icelandic matriculation examination or an equivalent qualification from a foreign school.
Documents required for Undergraduate Admission in Iceland for Students 2023
• Scanned Passport and/or birth certificate scanned copy• Scanned copy of high school or Bachelor’s certificate or diploma• Three Letters of recommendation• All transcripts of previous courses• CV• Language proficiency test scores• Evidence of enough funding or scholarship document• writing samples or in required courses the Portfolio. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) must certify all academic transcripts and other needed academic documents. The authenticated document will be sent by HEC in a sealed envelope directly to the applicable University. The appropriate official seals and signs the back flap of the envelope.A separate entry exam is necessary for admission to certain professional fields, such as the medical sciences, engineering, and law. Information about such admissions can be found in the course catalogs on the university website.The application period for graduate and undergraduate programs at Icelandic universities usually closes in February. For the upcoming academic year, this deadline is applicable.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Proof of English language ability is required of international students whose native tongue is not English. It is required that these students turn in their TOEFL, IELTS (Academic), or Cambridge English (CAE or CPE) test results.Additionally, before September of the year the student plans to begin their study program, the English test results must be no older than two years.Keep in mind that English is only offered in a small number of undergraduate programs in Icelandic universities. To be admitted, you must have a TOEFL or IELTS score of 79 or higher.
Student Permit
The Directorate of Immigration must receive a student permit application from non-EEA/EFTA nationals like Pakistanis prior to their arrival. The Directorate of Immigration’s website has information on the application process.As soon as they receive their admission letter from the Icelandic higher education institution, students must apply for a residency permit.Once the university has finished the admissions procedure, the prospective student must submit an application for an Iceland Student visa.In order to pass a course, higher education institutions in Iceland demand a minimum grade of 5 in each topic, or an average of 5 across all courses.
Master’s Intake in Iceland Universities 2023 for International Students
In Iceland, applications are sent directly to the institution in order to be considered for admission to a Master’s degree. For international students, application deadlines for bachelor’s programs conclude in February each year. After completing two years of postgraduate study satisfactorily, master’s degrees (M.A., M.S. – meistaragrá) are awarded. A thesis or research project is a prerequisite for earning a Master’s degree.Students in Masters programs that emphasize research must reach an agreement with a supervisor. The student submits a collaborative application with the supervisor for a particular research project in order to pursue the Master’s thesis. A review committee subsequently accepts the project, allowing the international student to enroll in the research-based Master’s degree.
Required Documents
For a master’s program admission, the minimum requirement is a 4-year Bachelor’s degree, it could be a Bachelor’s degree of 126 credit hours or a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Master’s degree.
- Scanned Passport and/or birth certificate scan
- Scanned copy of high school or Bachelor’s certificate or diploma
- Three Letters of recommendation
- All transcripts of previous courses
- CV
- Language proficiency test scores
- Evidence of enough funding or scholarship document
It is mandatory that all academic transcripts and other required academic documents must be attested by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). HEC will send the attested document directly to the applied University in a sealed envelope. The envelope is signed and stamped on the back flap by the concerned official.The English language proficiency test requirements are the same as of a bachelor’s programStudents need a residence permit immediately after receiving their acceptance letter from the Universities of Iceland.
PhD Intakes in Iceland Universities 2023 for Students
Iceland accepts enrollment in its PhD program from foreign students. Currently, 39 different nations’ citizens make up 30% of the PhD students at the University of Iceland. You must get in touch with the desired university’s department for overseas students if you want to pursue a PhD there.At the conclusion of a Master’s program, students must complete 180–240 credits (ECTS) for a PhD program. For a PhD program, the full-time study term is typically 3–4 years. The average length of time to complete a PhD degree is 5–6 years.The additional documentation requirements, in addition to the Master’s degree, are nearly identical to those for admission with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. You can speak with a reputable study abroad advisor to learn everything there is to know about PhD programs in Iceland.A student who wants to enroll in a PhD program must present a written program plan on behalf of the applied University. The plan should state the financing and progress of the doctoral program with provisions of publication rights, academic facilities and other requirements (ECTS), published writings, teaching jobs, finance issues and the completion of the planned program. A doctoral student shall submit an annual program progress report confirmed by the supervisor to the university.
Iceland is surrounded by unrivaled natural beauty. There are both volcanoes and glaciers in this country in North Europe. Iceland has a small population, but it offers an astonishingly modern lifestyle with every convenience.The nation did in fact go through a serious financial crisis in 2008, but it quickly came out of it. Since 2010, Iceland has developed into a popular travel and study abroad destination. Students from both within and outside of Europe fly here to finish their degree programs across a variety of subjects. Since signing the Schengen pact, the nation has experienced tremendous growth in popularity, and many individuals are choosing to relocate there.
Why International Students Choose Iceland
The Icelandic Universities’ tuition-free study programs are the main factor luring a wave of international students to this study abroad location to finish their degree. This deal enables overseas students to finish their education within their means in a well-known European nation.However, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding this tuition-free study program in Iceland because, typically, students believed that all study expenditures, including travel and lodging, were covered by the program. This assumption is wholly incorrect because, in addition to the tuition cost, a student must also pay for a variety of other expenses while earning his degree in Iceland.These costs are actually split into two main groups.
- The living expenses
- The study expenses
Let’s find out how much a study program costs to complete a degree program in Iceland.
Study Cost in Iceland
Application Fees for Students
A non-EU student from Pakistan must fill out an online application in the relevant topic and at the desired university in order to apply to a study program at an Icelandic institution.Icelandic universities typically charge an application fee to complete your application. For instance, there is a cost of 8,000 ISK for the administration and processing of applications from students applying to the University of Iceland. As part of the online application procedure, the cost is collected. Only credit cards (most often VISA or MasterCard) may be used by students to pay this fee. You should keep in mind that this handling and processing fee is not transferable.
Visa Fees
An overseas student needs an Iceland student visa in order to study there. Every foreign nation has a defined visa charge that visitors must pay. The prospective student must spend 60 Euros at the Danish consulate in Pakistan in order to obtain an Iceland student visa. Since Iceland does not have a separate embassy in Pakistan, Denmark’s embassy handles all aspects of issuing visas for Iceland..
Language Learning Costs
It is necessary to have certain language skills in order to enroll in a study program at Iceland University. Since the majority of graduate programs at Icelandic higher education institutions are offered in Icelandic, the applicant must submit a copy of their language competency certificate. The learner must enroll in a language course in order to acquire the language. In addition to the course fee, a foreign student will need to take a language competency test that will result in a certificate as verification of their language skills. The cost of the Icelandic language test is roughly 30,000 Rupees, and it must be paid before the test. Additionally, students typically enroll in programs that teach English. In a similar vein, admittance to these English-taught programs requires results from English proficiency exams. This comprises IELTS, TOEFL etc .The language preparation course for IELTS or TOEFL costs around 25 thousand rupees while the test itself cost around 30 thousand rupees
The Tuition Fees
The type of university you choose to attend, the subject you are enrolling in, and your status as an EU citizen or non-EU citizen will all affect how much it will cost you to study in Iceland. Private institutions in Iceland impose substantial tuition fees, despite the fact that state universities there are tuition-free. However, the numbers are significantly smaller when compared to other European institutions.Popular private institutions with annual tuition prices ranging from ISK 550,000 to ISK 2,000,000 include Bifröst University, Iceland Academy of the Arts, and Reykjavik University.
Registration Fees
Even though state colleges do not charge tuition, both domestic and foreign students must pay a yearly registration fee of ISK 75,000.
Latest Scholarships and Financial Grants 2023
In addition to choices with no tuition fees, students can benefit from a range of grants and scholarships available to international students. Although the only universities providing financial aid and scholarships to international students are Reykjavik University and the University of Iceland. International students who are interested in studying Icelandic as a second language can also apply for scholarships from the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture. Additionally, research students can take advantage of these opportunities by applying to the Icelandic Research Fund (IRF) and the Icelandic Student Innovation Fund (ISIF) after their research projects have been authorized following the submission of a proposal. However, only students from the EU are eligible for Erasmus Masters financing.Thus a lot of more hidden expenses are there for foreign students which they have to bear during their studies but fortunately, these students can work part-time few hours during their studies and can afford these costs comfortably.
Study In Iceland Questions
What is the General undergrad/postgrad admission requirements for study abroad in Iceland?
| Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
| FA/Fsc or A levels certificate | FA/Fsc or A levels certificate |
| English language proficiency. | Undergraduate degree for admission in graduation and Graduate degree in an appropriate subject for post graduate admission |
| Photocopy of your passport or id card | English language proficiency |
| Proof that you can pay all of your expenses while studying | Statement of purpose |
| — | references |
| — | Photocopy of your passport or id card Proof that you can pay all of your expenses while studying |
What are the general visa requirements for Iceland study visa?
Iceland student visa application form.
1 photograph.
Valid passport.
Photocopy of CNIC.
Travel health insurance.
Admission confirmation letter.
Detailed statement of purpose.
Accommodation confirmation in Iceland.
Birth certificate.
Family certificate.
English language proficiency certificate.
NOC
Complete educational record.
Visa application fee receipt.
Resident permit application fee receipt.
What are the scholarships available in Iceland for international students?
Scholarships are given out on a yearly basis by the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture. Nearly 15 scholarships will be available to students in 2023.
What is major medium of instruction for courses in Iceland?
In Iceland as an international student IELTS or TOFFEL is mandatory if your first language is not English.
How costly is study in Iceland?
Fees of higher education lies between 4500 to 8000 pounds.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, for international student IELTS or TOFFEL is mandatory if your first language is not English.
What are typical accommodation options while studying in Iceland?
Following are the types of accommodation options available in Iceland:
Campus Dormitories
Student flats.
Homestays
Private Housing
One-Room Apartment
Can a student work during study abroad in Iceland?
Yes, a student may work while pursuing his or her education. However, there are certain restrictions; an overseas student is only permitted to work 20 hours each week.
What are career prospects after study completion in Iceland?
After completion of your degree a wide range of career prospects arise in the professional fields such as:
International companies all over the world accept an Iceland University graduate
Engineering
IT related jobs
Investment Banking
Research and Professorships
Can an International student get a permanent PR in Iceland after completion of higher studies?
Yes, overseas students can apply for permanent residency after completing their higher education. You must submit an application to the Icelandic Embassy for that.
