Icelandic Government Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 Opportunity at the University of Iceland in Reykjavík.
Icelandic Government Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 Opportunity at the University of Iceland in Reykjavík.
The Icelandic Government is now accepting applications for the highly respected Icelandic Government Scholarships 2026 at the University of Iceland in Reykjavík.
These scholarships are designed to support talented international students who wish to pursue the BA programme in Icelandic as a Second Language for the academic year 2026–2027.
Administered by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, the program annually offers around 12 fully funded opportunities, giving students the chance to immerse themselves in Icelandic language, culture, and history while studying in one of the world’s most unique academic and cultural environments.
The Icelandic Government Scholarships aim to promote the Icelandic language and strengthen cultural ties between Iceland and other nations by attracting dedicated students from across the globe.
Successful recipients will study at the University of Iceland, Reykjavík, specifically within the School of Humanities, focusing on the BA in Icelandic as a Second Language.
The scholarships run from September 1, 2026, to May 31, 2027, covering a full academic year.
Beyond financial support, recipients benefit from cultural exposure to Icelandic society, as well as the opportunity to live and study in Reykjavík, one of the world’s safest and most innovative cities.
The scholarship is strictly offered for studies in:
- BA in Icelandic as a Second Language (School of Humanities, University of Iceland)
- It does not apply to other undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs.
To qualify for the Icelandic Government Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must have completed at least one year of university studies in the humanities at the time of application.
- Should have a basic knowledge of Icelandic, equivalent to having completed the online courses Icelandic Online 1 & 2.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in English, which serves as a secondary instructional language in the program.
- Preference is given to applicants under 35 years of age, though older applicants with strong academic merit may still be considered.
- Special consideration is given to students who show strong motivation to learn Icelandic and who demonstrate potential to promote cultural understanding between Iceland and their home countries.
Selection Criteria
Applications are carefully reviewed by a dedicated selection committee. Decisions are based on:
- Academic merit and performance in prior studies.
- Preparedness in the Icelandic language (assessed via transcripts or proof of completed courses).
- Supporting documents, including recommendations and motivation for the study.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to sit for online admission exams in June 2026 to further evaluate their Icelandic knowledge. Final decisions will be announced in January 2026.
Successful applicants must also formally apply for admission to the University of Iceland by February 15, 2026, after receiving scholarship confirmation.
Eligible Countries
The Icelandic Government Scholarships are open to nationals of the following countries:
- Austria,
- Bulgaria,
- Canada,
- China,
- Croatia,
- Czech Republic,
- Denmark,
- Estonia,
- Faroe Islands,
- Finland,
- France,
- Germany,
- Netherlands,
- Hungary,
- Italy, Japan,
- Latvia,
- Lithuania,
- Norway,
- Poland,
- Russia,
- Slovakia,
- Spain,
- Sweden,
- Switzerland,
- the United Kingdom,
- and the United States.
Applicants from the United States must apply through the U.S. Fulbright Program, which partners with the Icelandic Government in administering these awards.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following supporting documents along with their completed application form:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of transcripts and diplomas with grades
- Two recommendation letters from academic supervisors
- Proof of English language proficiency
- A copy of a valid passport
All documents must be submitted in English, Icelandic, or another Scandinavian language.
Recipients of the scholarship enjoy significant financial and academic benefits, including:
- Full coverage of registration fees at the University of Iceland.
- A monthly stipend (September–April) to cover room and board for one person.
- Access to affordable housing, with the option to rent rooms in the Gamli Garður student dormitory, located in the heart of Reykjavík.
Beyond financial aid, the scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity to:
- Gain full immersion in the Icelandic language and culture.
- Build international academic networks.
- Experience life in one of the most environmentally conscious and socially progressive countries in the world.
How to Apply
To apply for the Icelandic Government Scholarships 2026, applicants must:
- Download the official application form from the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies website.
- Prepare all supporting documents in the required languages.
Submit the completed application by post only to:
- Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies
- Edda, Arngrímsgata 5
- 107 Reykjavík, Iceland (Email applications will not be accepted).
The deadline for applications is December 1, 2025. Applications must be postmarked by this date to be considered.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
The Icelandic Government Scholarships at the University of Iceland represent a rare opportunity for international students to fully immerse themselves in the language and culture of Iceland while receiving strong academic support.
With generous funding, a vibrant international learning environment, and the chance to live in one of the most unique landscapes in the world, this scholarship is an excellent pathway for students eager to deepen their knowledge of Icelandic while advancing their academic careers.
