The Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, offering international students the chance to study at the University of Iceland in Reykjavík. This fully funded program is managed by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education in Iceland.
Each year, around 12 scholarships are awarded for the academic period from September 1 to May 31. Recipients enroll in the BA Programme in Icelandic as a Second Language, a unique opportunity that combines intensive language training with studies in Iceland’s history, literature, and culture.
Degree Level
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Bachelor’s Degree (BA in Icelandic as a Second Language)
Subjects Covered
The program integrates both theoretical and practical studies, including:
- Modern Icelandic: reading, writing, and speaking
- Morphology, syntax, and phonetics
- Medieval and modern Icelandic literature
- Icelandic history (from settlement to present)
- Translation studies
Scholarship Benefits
The Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 provides full financial support, including:
- Full tuition coverage at the University of Iceland
- Monthly stipend for living expenses (September–April)
- Accommodation option at Gamli Garður student dormitory
- Access to academic facilities at the University of Iceland and the Árni Magnússon Institute
- Renewable support for up to three academic years (subject to reapplication)
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must be citizens of 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, and the United States (via Fulbright Program).
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet these requirements:
- Education: Completed at least one year of university-level studies in humanities.
- Language Skills: Basic Icelandic knowledge (Icelandic Online 1 and 2).
- English Proficiency: Proof required since English is used as a secondary teaching medium.
- Age Preference: Applicants under 35 will be given priority.
- Documents Required:
- CV
- Certified transcripts and diplomas
- Two academic recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency
- Copy of passport
Apply Also
- USA Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026
- Slovakia International Visegrad Fund (IVF) Scholarships & Grants 2025–2026
Application Process & Timeline
- Deadline: Applications must be postmarked by December 1, 2025 (email applications are not accepted).
- Results: Selection results announced in January 2026.
- University Admission: Successful applicants must also apply directly to the University of Iceland by February 15, 2026.
- Language Exam: Online proficiency exams in Icelandic will be conducted in June 2026.
Step-by-Step Application
- Download the Application Form from the Árni Magnússon Institute website.
- Prepare all documents (CV, transcripts, diplomas, recommendations, passport, and English proficiency proof).
- Submit your application:
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- Non-U.S. applicants: Send by post to the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, Edda, Arngrímsgata 5, 107 Reykjavík, Iceland.
- U.S. applicants: Apply via Fulbright U.S. Student Programs (Institute of International Education).
4. Evaluation: Applications are reviewed by a selection committee, with results released in January 2026.
Learn Icelandic Online Before Applying
Students are strongly encouraged to complete the free Icelandic Online 1 and 2 courses. These resources not only strengthen language proficiency but also prepare applicants for the required admission exams.
Final Thoughts
The University of Iceland Icelandic Government Scholarship 2026 is a rare fully funded opportunity for international students passionate about language, literature, and cultural studies. With tuition fees covered, a monthly living stipend, and the chance to immerse yourself in Iceland’s rich academic and cultural environment, this scholarship is an excellent pathway for students in the humanities—especially those interested in Nordic and linguistic studies.
