With a population of around 330,000 people, Iceland is one of Europe’s most sparsely populated countries. However, this Nordic nation punches above its weight in terms of quality higher education, unique cultural opportunities and a jaw-dropping landscape. A Masters in Iceland allows you to experience all of this first-hand.
Why study a Masters in Iceland?
Iceland is a truly extraordinary place to study a Masters. Its situation between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates has given Iceland a geological identity that can be found in few other countries. Volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal springs make Iceland a hotbed for scientific research into these phenomena, as well as sources of renewable energy.
Iceland is also unique for the fact that its public universities technically charge no tuition fees (there is an annual registration fee of €595, however), making higher education an accessible option despite the notoriously high cost of living in the country. Indeed, around 1,200 international students currently live in Iceland, accounting for about 5% of its total student population.
Appearing near the top of many quality of life indexes, Iceland is frequently named as one of the world’s most equal, literate and stable nations. It’s no surprise, therefore, that it’s becoming an increasingly popular postgraduate destination for adventurous Masters students.
How popular is Masters study abroad in Iceland?
Over 1,200 students currently study abroad in Iceland.
How long is a Masters degree in Iceland?
Masters programmes in Iceland are usually between 30 and 120 ECTS credits, taking six months to two years to complete.
How much does it cost to study a Masters in Iceland?
There are no tuition fees at public universities in Iceland, although they do charge an annual registration fee of ISK 75,000 (€595). Tuition fees at private institutions can be considerably higher, ranging from ISK 540,000 to ISK 2,000,000 (€4,288 to €15,880).
Are Icelandic Masters degrees taught in English?
Icelandic remains the primary language of instruction, but many universities in Iceland do offer courses in English. English is widely spoken to a high standard as a second language throughout the country, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating.
Will I need a visa to study a Masters in Iceland?
EU/EEA nationals won’t need a visa to study in Iceland, but do need to register their legal residence at a local authority once they’ve arrived in the country.
If you’re not an EU/EEA national, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit before your arrival in Iceland.
Learn more about studying a Masters in Iceland
If you’d like to know more about Masters programmes in Iceland, take a look at our guide to
postgraduate study in Iceland. This page features important information on tuition fees, visa applications and the Icelandic higher education system.
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