University of Iceland – Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026

Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026

The Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 invites international students to pursue the BA Programme in Icelandic as a Second Language at the University of Iceland, Reykjavík. Funded by the Ministry of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education and administered by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, this fully funded award supports around 12 students annually.

The program combines practical Icelandic language training with a deep exploration of Iceland’s history, literature, and culture, offering students a unique academic and cultural experience.

Degree Level

• Bachelor’s Degree (BA Programme) in Icelandic as a Second Language

Available Subjects

The program covers both practical and theoretical aspects, including:

• Modern Icelandic (speaking, reading, and writing)

• Morphology, syntax, and phonetics

• Medieval and modern Icelandic literature

• Icelandic history (from settlement to present)

• Translation studies

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the Icelandic Government Scholarship will receive:

• Full tuition and registration fees at the University of Iceland

• Monthly stipend to cover room and board (September–April)

• Accommodation option at the Gamli Garður student dormitory

• Access to academic resources at the University of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute

• Support for up to three academic years, subject to reapplication

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the following 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 (via Fulbright Program only).

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Education: Completed at least one year of university studies in the field of humanities

• Language Skills: Basic Icelandic proficiency (equivalent to Icelandic Online 1 and 2 courses)

• English Proficiency: Certification required, as English is a secondary medium of instruction

• Age Preference: Applicants under 35 years are prioritized

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Certified university transcripts and diplomas

• Two academic recommendation letters

• English proficiency certificate

• Copy of passport

Application Timeline (2026 Intake)

• Deadline: December 1, 2025 (postmark date – email submissions not accepted)

• Results Announcement: January 2026

• University Admission Deadline: February 15, 2026

• Online Icelandic Proficiency Exam: June 2026

Application Process

1. Download Application Form: Available on the Árni Magnússon Institute’s website.

2. Prepare Documents: CV, transcripts, diplomas, recommendations, passport copy, English certificate.

3. Submit Application:

   • Non-U.S. applicants: Send by post to Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, Edda, Arngrímsgata 5, 107 Reykjavík, Iceland.

   • U.S. applicants: Apply via Fulbright U.S. Student Programs through the Institute of International Education (IIE).

4. Evaluation: Applications reviewed by a selection committee. Decisions released in January 2026.

Learn Icelandic Online

Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete Icelandic Online 1 and 2 (free self-study courses) before applying. These courses enhance eligibility and help prepare for the admission exam.

Final Thoughts

The Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 is a rare opportunity for international students to study Icelandic language and culture in one of the most unique academic environments in Europe. With full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, and cultural immersion, this program is ideal for students in the humanities seeking to specialize in Nordic studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026?
Students from select countries listed in the eligibility section can apply, with U.S. applicants required to go through the Fulbright Program.

2. What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is December 1, 2025.

3. What level of study does the scholarship support?
It supports a Bachelor’s degree (BA Programme) in Icelandic as a Second Language.

4. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, and offers accommodation options.

5. Do I need prior knowledge of Icelandic?
Yes. Applicants must complete Icelandic Online 1 and 2 or have equivalent knowledge.

6. What documents are required for application?
You must submit a CV, transcripts, diplomas, recommendation letters, passport copy, and proof of English proficiency.

7. Can I apply via email?
No. Applications must be submitted by post (except for U.S. applicants applying through Fulbright).

8. Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit, but applicants under 35 receive preference.

9. How long does the scholarship last?
The scholarship supports studies for up to three academic years, with reapplication required each year.

10. When will results be announced?
Scholarship results will be announced in January 2026.