What is it Like to Study in Iceland?

In most countries, you wouldn’t see glaciers and volcanoes at the same time. But Iceland is no ordinary place. Home to many diverse landscapes, it is known as the Land of Fire and Ice for a reason.

Studying abroad in Iceland means treating yourself to awesome landscapes just about everywhere you look.

Sure, the Northern Lights and Icelandic landscapes are amazing. But what is it like to study in Iceland? With a great quality of life, high-quality and accessible education, and a cool culture (and climate), Iceland makes studying abroad an unforgettable experience.

Iceland is an island country located in the North Atlantic Ocean, between America and Europe. It has a rich history and culture, ranging from its Viking roots to epic folktales. Many international students choose to study in this modern Scandinavian nation. The biggest university, The University of Iceland, welcomes more than 1,000 students each year for up to two semesters, and it’s easy to see why so many students choose to study in Iceland.

What is it like to study abroad in Iceland?

Before you decide on your study abroad destination, it’s a good idea to learn more about the country and to see if the lifestyle would suit you. If being in a safe country with diverse landscapes is your top priority and you’re fine with the cold climate, look no further than Iceland.

1. Iceland is a small and safe country

According to World Population Review, Iceland was the safest country in the world in 2022. This year marks Iceland’s 14th time in a row receiving this title. The safety of Iceland is no coincidence—the country has a tight-knit community, a good quality of life, and equal rights for all its inhabitants.

2. It has a high quality of life and a good education system

In terms of healthcare, life satisfaction, and jobs, Iceland is once again one of the world leaders. The country has a high quality of life as well as plenty of opportunities for affordable healthcare and free education.

3. Many people speak English

Iceland’s official language is Icelandic, but English is widely taught as a second language. You can find English study programs in most of the eight higher education institutions in Iceland. Thanks to this, the country attracts many international students every year.

According to the country’s official tourism website, although Icelandic is the national language, English is spoken widely. It shouldn’t be too difficult to get by in Iceland with only English. That said, it’s always a good idea to learn the local language while you’re abroad, even if it’s only the basics.

4. It’s a beautiful country with gorgeous landscapes and cities

You can’t beat these views.

Northern Lights, stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and huge glaciers. In Iceland, you will get to see landscapes that you didn’t know could exist in real life. Especially if you’re an outdoorsy person, you will love studying abroad in Iceland as you’ll never run out of beautiful places to see.

Although the landscapes are unmatched, Iceland’s cities are also full of culture. Reykjavik, for example, has a great art scene, and you can discover many spots in the city on foot.

Since Iceland is quite small, doing day trips and seeing many different cities and villages is possible. Take note, adventure-seekers: Most of the popular hikes in Iceland are actually within driving distance of Reykjavik.

5. Icelandic culture is amazing

If you want to meet locals in Iceland, there’s one thing you need to do: Head to the swimming pool. Yes, you read that right. Swimming pools are more than just exercise spots for Icelandic people—they’re also meeting points.

Going to the swimming pool is possible almost everywhere in the country. Even small towns in Iceland have swimming pools, most of them outdoors. The cold weather is not enough to stop the Icelandic population from going to the pool. Heated geothermally, most pools also have a hot tub so that people can fully enjoy the experience.

When talking about Icelandic culture, we must also mention elves. Did you know that 54% of Icelandic people believe in elves and that there is an Elf School in Iceland? Not only do you get to study abroad in Iceland, but you also get to study elves.

While you’re there, you can also buy their study book, which has 40 different fairy tales. Don’t forget to study for your actual classes as well as your elf studies, though!

6. It’s super cold

Bundle up…it’ll be worth it!

In winter, temperatures in Iceland can drop as low as 13 to −22 °F. Packing good winter clothes is essential if you want to study abroad in Iceland, especially in the winter.

7. It’s an expensive country

Recent data shows that food in Iceland is 40% more expensive than in other European countries. Indeed, Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. If you want to study abroad in Iceland, you might want to start saving. Looking up some scholarships or applying for part-time jobs would also help.

8. No matter the price, it has a vibrant student life

It’s possible to travel any country on a budget, including Iceland. If you prepare well, the price shouldn’t prevent you from studying in Iceland. The country has a vibrant student life, both for local and international students.

You will also get a high-quality education in Iceland. Icelandic universities often organize activities such as science trips (known as vísindaferð in Icelandic) where students visit different companies to learn more about their work.

9. Studying abroad in Iceland can be a great experience!

Swimming pools, Northern Lights, and amazing landscapes… Once you find the perfect program, you’ll be ready to study abroad in Iceland.

3 cool study abroad programs in Iceland

1. Academic Programs International: Experience Reykjavik, Iceland with API

• Why? From history to culture, this program covers all things Iceland. You will study in English with Icelandic students and fellow international students, and take classes from Reykjavik University. What better way to experience the country’s capital?
• Where? Reykjavik
• Read API reviews

2. The GREEN Program: Iceland: Renewable Energy Innovation & Sustainability

• Why? Gain actionable training and learn about sustainable development in energy innovation in a beautiful Icelandic location. Open to undergraduates, researchers, young professionals, and more, this 10-day adventure takes experiential learning to the next level by exposing you to the best industry practices and experts in the field.
• Where? Reykjavik
• Read The GREEN Program reviews

3. SIT Study Abroad: Iceland and Greenland: Climate Change and the Arctic

• Why? If you want to see both Iceland and Greenland, this program is for you. You will get to visit lesser-known places and improve your knowledge of climate change, renewable energy, and carbon management.
• Where? Rural Iceland and Aasiaat in Greenland
• Read SIT Study Abroad reviews

Can’t pick? Sign up for MyGoAbroad and compare these programs side-by-side for FREE

Studying abroad in Iceland will be unforgettable!

You’ll make memories of a lifetime when you study abroad in Iceland.

What is it like to study in Iceland? Let’s sum it up in one word: Unforgettable! And that barely scratches the surface.

Pack your raincoat, warm clothes, and camera—studying abroad in Iceland will be a great experience. Living and studying in a Nordic paradise will be something you’ll remember for a lifetime.