GoAbroad

Study Abroad Programs in Iceland

If you’re considering study abroad in Iceland, there’s one downside you should consider: as your Instagram feed fills up with shots of green-streaked night skies, explosive geysers, and fluorescent-blue hot springs, you may be accused of posting fake photos. Iceland is so otherworldly it’s hard to believe it is real until you see it for yourself. Studying abroad on this tiny island in the Atlantic is sure to be an unforgettable experience, whether you’re touring renewable energy plants, puzzling out declensions in Icelandic, or tasting Kæstur hákarl (dried fermented shark). Grab your camera and come study in Iceland!
Read More
Seamester

Featured Provider of the Month

5 Study Abroad Programs in Iceland

SIT Study Abroad

8.75

4

SIT Study Abroad: Iceland: Climate Change and the Arctic

Study the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems and societies while exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Visit renewable energy centers, glaciers, volcanoes, fjords, geothermal fields, and rugged coastlines to understand climate change causes and effects. Travel to the remote Westfjords to observe the impact of global warming on glaciers and ice sheets. Learn about climate models, carbon management, and renewable technologies, and live with an Icelandic family in Ísafjörður while conducting fieldwork and outdoor study. MONEY MATTERS SIT has given an average of over $1.3 million in scholarships and grants to SIT Study Abroad students in recent years and is committed to ensuring you have the information necessary to apply for such funding. Our program costs include academics, excursions, accommodations, airport transfers, meals, and health insurance. Be sure to discuss how study abroad costs are handled at your school with your study abroad advisor and read the website for more specific information.

See All 3 Programs

Academic Programs International

9

1

API: Experience Reykjavik, Iceland (Scholarships Available)

API offers students a unique and exciting opportunity to study abroad in Iceland and experience the Icelandic culture and way of life in Reykjavík! API students will take classes at Reykjavík University, along with Icelandic and other international students, and choose from several English-taught courses in subjects, including business, computer science (including game design), engineering, and sustainability. Forged by the fires of still active volcanoes, Iceland utilizes its abundant, renewable resources and derives nearly all of its power from geothermal energy. As such, it is a world leader in sustainable energy planning. The country is much more than its natural beauty. Despite its small population and size, Iceland is one of the most technologically developed and socially progressive countries in the world. Come and explore this great northern wonder with API!

Global Learning Opportunities

0

0

Summer Iceland - Experience Reykjavík in 9 Days

The Summer Iceland program is packed with incredible opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students looking to expand their international business education outside of the traditional classroom. While traveling abroad, they learn about Icelandic culture, history, customs, politics, and business practices. Most importantly, they observe how these practices are different from the United States. Global Learning Opportunities (GLO) programs provide a variety of unique opportunities: Network with business executives by visiting global companies to learn about how business is conducted and the challenges that come with running a multinational organization. Earn university credit while applying the knowledge learned in the classroom to real-life business settings. Gain a competitive advantage for your career by experiencing international policies, political climates, and international business environments while building confidence, cultural understanding, and an ability to adapt to a variety of situations. Experience some of the world's most well-known attractions and destinations.

A Guide to Studying Abroad in Iceland

Locations

Just south of the Arctic Circle, the Nordic island of Iceland is home to vast expanses, glaciers — and puffins. Its small size lends itself well to exploration, and you’ll likely be able to visit several locations during your stay. If you’re not already an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll certainly be converted by the time you depart!

The world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik is the country’s cultural and economic hub, as well as one of the world’s cleanest, safest, and most sustainable cities. About one third of Iceland’s 330,000 inhabitants call the city home, and many students choose to study abroad in Iceland here at Reykjavik University or the University of Iceland. Icelanders are quite welcoming to foreigners, and you likely won’t have trouble finding local friends for a quick soak in a hidden thermal pool or a visit to Laugavegur for a late night out.

Further afield is the town of Akureyri, located in the northeastern region. With a population of about 18,000, it’s Iceland’s second-largest urban area and is an important port and fishing center. The city is surrounded by mountains, helping to insulate it from cold winds and making it one of the warmer places to study in Iceland. Despite its size, the town has a vibrant cultural scene, and students can participate in folk dancing or check out the annual medieval festival.

On the Westfjords peninsula, Ísafjörður provides international students an opportunity to study coastal and marine management issues at the town’s distance learning center. The area is quickly becoming a popular destination for outdoor activities, and tourists enjoy hiking, skiing, surfing, and kayaking nearby. The adventurous can even explore the abandoned village of Hesteyri, which has sat empty since 1952 and is only accessible via ferry in the summer months.

When you study abroad in Iceland, don’t be too worried about the climate — it isn’t quite as cold as you’d think, but it’s unlikely you’ll be spending weekends sunbathing either. The southern coast, which includes Reykjavik, is warmer, wetter, and windier than other regions, and temperatures are generally mild. It’s a good idea to invest in a sturdy rain jacket before arriving to study abroad, as rain is common and unpredictable. Also important to keep in mind is Iceland’s northern location, which equals long, dark winters and nearly 24-hour daylight during the summer months. But don’t worry; there’s still much light to be gained from attending top schools for international students in Iceland.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

Go to Iceland!

June 14, 2025by: Anna Hicks - United StatesProgram: SIT Study Abroad: Iceland: Climate Change and the Arctic
8

I had an amazing experience during my study abroad in Iceland. I felt very supported by program staff, learned so so much, and felt so lucky to be able to learn and live in Iceland. The program enables its students to take charge of their own learning and build crucial life skills along with increasing our knowledge of and passion for the study of climate change. You see the whole breathtaking country of Iceland in your four months there. It was an incredible semester.

Deals Banner Image
Apply for Scholarships & Deals on GoAbroad

to get exclusive discounts on meaningful travel programs!

Apply Now

Recent Study Abroad Articles

black rocks surrounded by water with mountains
How to
what is it like to study abroad in iceland
Travel Inspiration
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Travel Inspiration
should i study abroad in italy or spain
Travel Inspiration
why study abroad in europe
Travel Inspiration
pros and cons of study abroad in europe
Europe
David, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, created by the Italian artist Michelangelo. Photo by WSA
Europe