University of Iceland Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded) Deadline: 1 December, 2025
University of Iceland Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded) Deadline: 1 December, 2025
Every year, approximately 12 scholarships are granted for the study period from September 1 to May 31. The programme combines practical Icelandic language training with in-depth study of Iceland’s history, literature, and culture, offering a rich academic and cultural experience for students of humanities.
Degree Level
Bachelor’s Degree (BA Programme) in Icelandic as a Second Language
Available Subjects
The BA in Icelandic as a Second Language covers a blend of practical and theoretical areas:
- Modern Icelandic: speaking, reading, and writing
- Morphology, syntax, and phonetics
- Medieval and modern Icelandic literature
- Icelandic history (from settlement to present)
- Translation studies
Benefits
The Icelandic Government Scholarship provides:
- Full registration fees at the University of Iceland
- Monthly stipend to cover room and board (paid September–April)
- Accommodation option at Gamli Garður student dormitory
- Access to academic resources at the University of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute
- Maximum support for up to three academic years (with 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
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Completed at least one year of university studies in the field of humanities.
- Language Skills: Basic knowledge of Icelandic equivalent to Icelandic Online 1 and 2 (free online self-study courses).
- English Proficiency: Certification required since English serves as a secondary medium of instruction.
- Age Preference: Preference given to applicants under 35 years old.
- Documents:
- CV
- Certified university transcripts and diplomas
- Two academic recommendation letters
- English proficiency certificate
- Copy of passport
Application Procedure
Application Timeline for 2026
- Application Deadline: All applications must be postmarked no later than December 1, 2025 (email applications not accepted).
- Decision Announcement: Results will be announced in January 2026.
- University Admission: Successful applicants must separately apply for admission to the University of Iceland by February 15, 2026.
- Online Language Exam: Admission exams assessing Icelandic proficiency will be held in June 2026.
Application Process
- Download Application Form: Available on the Árni Magnússon Institute’s website.
- Prepare Documents: CV, transcripts, diplomas, recommendations, passport copy, proof of English proficiency.
- Submission:
- 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).
- Evaluation: A committee reviews applications; decisions released in January 2026.
Learn Icelandic Online
Applicants are encouraged to strengthen their Icelandic skills before applying by taking the free Icelandic Online 1 and 2 courses. These self-study resources prepare students for the required admission exams and enhance eligibility for the BA programme.
Final Thoughts
The Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 is a unique fully funded opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in Icelandic language, history, and culture. With tuition coverage, a living stipend, and a chance to study in one of the most culturally rich environments in Europe, this scholarship is ideal for humanities students aspiring to specialize in Nordic and linguistic studies.
