University of Iceland Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

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. Administered by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, this prestigious award is funded by the Ministry of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education.

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.

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)

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

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

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)

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:

1. CV
2. Certified university transcripts and diplomas
3. Two academic recommendation letters
4. English proficiency certificate
5. Copy of passport

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:

1. Non-U.S. applicants: Send by post to Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, Edda, Arngrímsgata 5, 107 Reykjavík, Iceland.
2. 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.