Iceland
1 Fulbright/Icelandic Ministry of Culture Award
Accepted Degree Levels
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Grant PeriodAugust StartGrant Length9 Months |
Award Type
Award Profile
The program is administered by the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. The grant is available only to those commencing studies. Those who have already started the university program are not eligible.
The scholarships are intended for students of modern Icelandic. Students must have prior knowledge of Icelandic according to the requirements for BA study in Icelandic as a second language (Icelandic knowledge on the level with the courses Icelandic Online 1 and 2).
Icelandic as a second language is comprised of both theoretical and practical fields of study. On the one hand it is a language course, where students are trained in speaking, reading and writing modern Icelandic. On the other hand it delves into the more academic aspects of the Icelandic language, literature and history of Iceland. Subjects covered include morphology, syntax and phonetics of modern Icelandic. The students read both old and modern literature and learn about the history of Iceland from settlement to modern times. Additionally, students are introduced to translations. 
As a rule, students are expected to follow the program in line with their previous knowledge of Icelandic, whether they intend to complete the BA-degree or not.
Students that begin their studies in autumn are required to pass exams (30 ECTS) at the end of the term to be able to continue their studies for the spring term of the program. The scholarship holders have to pass examinations in the end of the fall term to be eligible for the scholarship in the spring.
The application procedure is similar to other Fulbright grants. Applicants do not apply directly to the Árni Magnússon Institute for the grant, but through the Fulbright Commission. Please note that the timeline for U.S. students for the Fulbright grant is different from the timeline for students from other countries. For additional information see: https://www.arnastofnun.is/en/about-scholarship.
Please note, however, that in additon to applying for the grant, applicants must apply for admission to the University of Iceland. This is a separate application that must be submitted by 1 February to the university. Applicants must apply to the program on time, even though they might not yet know whether they have been selected for the grant.
The online admission exam for the BA-programme will be held the second week of June.
Students with considerable prior knowledge of Icelandic may move directly into the second year by passing examinations held in August.
Since the Fulbright Program in Iceland is relatively small, the Commission is able to maintain close ties with grantees during their stay and provide a sense of community among Fulbright grantees. There are monthly grantee activities sponsored by the Commission, in addition to access to Fulbright alumni events and other social activities.
Grant Length
Grant Period
Grant term mid-August through mid-May.
Grant Length: 9 months. Grants will begin from mid-August-1 September. It is possible to shorten the grant length slightly, but generally not below 8 months.
It is important that grant recipients arrive on time to Iceland. The autumn term begins in the latter part of August. An introductory session with new students will be held before the beginning of the academic year where the organisation and requirements for the study programme will be presented.
Orientation
A mandatory virtual pre-departure orientation will be held in March or early April. Grantees must make the necessary arrangements to attend.
The Fulbright Commission hosts an in-country orientation at the end of August/beginning of September. The in-country orientation is also mandatory.
Candidate Profile
This cost-shared grant is for a student who has completed a Bachelor’s degree in the U.S. and is interested in studying modern Icelandic as a second language at the University of Iceland. Students must have prior knowledge of Icelandic (see further info on the university website listed below). The grant is available only to those commencing studies. Those who have already started the program are not eligible.
Students committed to completing the degree program in Icelandic will be given priority. Preference will be given to a candidate under 35 years of age. For additional information see About the Scholarship on Árnastofnun's website.
Students who wish to continue the program after their first year of studies can apply directly to Árnastofnun for a grant. However, all Fulbright benefits cease at the end of the Fulbright grant period.
What is life like for Fulbrighters in the host country?
Iceland is a small Nordic country, an island republic in the North Atlantic, between the U.S. and the European mainland. Iceland is technologically advanced; English is widely spoken and Americans find Icelandic society and culture relatively easy to navigate.
Icelandic universities offer a variety of master's programs that are conducted in English. There are also opportunities to conduct exciting research in English, although some research may require knowledge of the Icelandic language. Fulbright students who do their Fulbright in Iceland are generally pleased with their stay in Iceland and find it very useful for their academic journey, whether they are planning to study here, do independent research before going to graduate school, or do post-master's or PhD research.
Iceland has spectacular nature and offers an opportunity for unique outdoor experiences, including geothermally heated swimming pools, open year-round. There is also a vibrant cultural scene, for example great music and art. For those who plan to stay in Reykjavik, the city is small enough to be easy to navigate, but large enough to have a bit of everything. For those choosing a rural experience, small towns are welcoming and have a vibrant cultural life.
Since the Fulbright Program in Iceland is relatively small, the Commission is able to maintain close ties with grantees during their stay and provide a sense of community among Fulbright scholars and fellows. There are monthly grantee activities sponsored by the Commission, in addition to access to Fulbright alumni events and other social activities. Grantees are always welcome to stop by or contact the Commission.
Icelandic weather conditions can be harsh in winter, with strong winds in addition to cold temperatures and snow. Due to its geographical location in the high north, many find it difficult to adjust to the short days in December and January, where there are only around four hours of daylight. However, as spring approaches, the days get progressively longer and by May you can expect almost 24-hour daylight.
Icelanders may seem unapproachable, compared to Americans who are generally more open. The best way to integrate with the locals is through activities and hobbies. Once you get to know Icelanders, they are very welcoming. Icelanders are generally friendly to Americans due to our close relationship since the Second World War.
Want to get a better feeling for being a Fulbrighter in Iceland? Take a look at Fulbright Iceland's grantee series, where alumni talk about their experience of being on a Fulbright grant in Iceland:
Eligibility
Dual American/Icelandic citizens are not eligible.
If the applicant has lived in Iceland for up to one year, it does not automatically disqualify the applicant. However, applicants who have not lived in Iceland previously are generally preferred.
Degree Level of Applicant
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Special Application Instructions
In the Fulbright online application, in the Award Selection, please select Fulbright/Icelandic Ministry of Culture Award from the drop-down menu.
Foreign Language Proficiency
Additional Information: Students must have prior knowledge of Icelandic according to the requirements for BA study in Icelandic as a second language (Icelandic knowledge on the level with the courses Icelandic Online 1 and 2).
Please see the program website for details.
Fulbright Proposal Types
No
No
Affiliation
Please note that applicants must apply for admission to the University of Iceland.
This is a separate application that must be submitted by 1 February to the university.
Affiliation Fees/Tuition
Tuition/annual registration fee is covered in the grant benefits.
The application fee for the University of Iceland is not covered.
It is the grantee's responsibility to inquire about tuition and fees and to make necessary arrangements.
Fulbright Iceland grants are for one academic year only. All Fulbright benefits cease at the end of the Fulbright grant period. However, the student can apply for a continued grant directly with Árnastofnun.
Award Benefits
- A stipend broadly based on the cost of living in the host country. These funds may be used by the grantee to support housing, meals, and incidental costs during the grant period.
- International travel benefits
- Accident & sickness health benefits
- 24/7 mental health support line for urgent and non-urgent situations
- 12 months of non-competitive eligibility (NCE) hiring status within the federal government
Stipend Amount
This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.
This is a cost-share grant. The main stipend is provided by the Árni Magnússon Institute, covering minimal subsistance requirements as set out by the Directorate of Immigration. The Fulbright Commission provides a top-up to ensure that the grant meets the standard amount of a Fulbright Iceland student grant.
2,000 USD per month for a maximum of 9 months
All allowances are denominated in U.S. dollars but paid in ISK, according to the current exchange rate.
One-Time Allowances
This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.
1,000 USD travel grant, payable with the first grant payment.
300 USD baggage stipend, payable at the end of the grant period.
All allowances are denominated in U.S. dollars but paid in ISK, according to the current exchange rate.
Additional Grant Benefits
Grantees will be invited to monthly enrichment activities organized by the Commission.
After six months on a residence permit, all grantees are automatically enrolled in the national health system, giving them the same access to health services as permanent residents.
Estimated Cost of Living
Consider using cost of living comparison websites to gain a better understanding of the potential costs in your host country.
It is important to keep in mind that Iceland is expensive. The minimum support criteria for an individual living in Iceland is ISK 228.689 per month (approximately USD 1660). However, this amount might not necessarily reflect actual living costs, which can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, spending habits and location. Housing outside of the capital area is generally more affordable. Fast food is considerably more expensive than in the U.S. Food is generally expensive in Iceland, so cooking at home and taking advantage of universities' cafeterias is recommended for those on a budget. Please note that those not enrolled in a university program might not be eligible for the various student discounts offered in public transportation, museums, activities, shops, etc.
Rough estimates of living costs for a single person:
- Housing, including utilities: typically ISK 100,000/month and up
- Food and daily expenses: ISK 56,000/month and up
- Books and other study materials: ISK 40,000/semester and up (depending on your project)
- Local public transportation: ISK 6,000/month and up
- Leisure activities: ISK 22,000/month and up
Dependents
Housing Arrangements
Students are eligible for dormitory housing at the University of Iceland and the Commission strongly encourages grantees to avail themselves of this. Otherwise they are responsible for their own housing. The University of Iceland has an office that provides assistance with off-campus housing and has sites where available housing is posted. Additionally, the Commission will provide information on websites where housing is advertised and will pass on any adverts send to the Commission.
Fulbright Program Management Contact
Fulbright Commission/U.S. Embassy Website
Special Funding for Disabled Grantees:
Funding is available for US Fulbright students to Iceland with a disability, be it a structural or functional impairment or activity/participation limitation, that entails additional costs that are not covered specifically through the Fulbright Program. Funding may be available for a wide range of disabilities, including, for example, hearing, vision, or movement impairment. The funding could, for example, be used to assist with specialized housing needs, in-country transport, or specialized assistance. The extra funding amount will depend on need and will be decided by the Commission after consultation with the student. Funding is provided through the Bruce A. Fowler Mobility Fund.
Fulbright Commission/U.S. Embassy Contact
Additional Online Resources
University of Iceland, Icelandic language studies: https://english.hi.is/node/52390/#baprogramme
Fulbright Commission Iceland website: https://fulbright.is/
Facebook, Fulbright Commission Iceland: https://www.facebook.com/fulbrighticeland/
LinkedIn, Fulbright Commission Iceland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fulbright-commission-iceland/
Instagram, Fulbright Commission Iceland: https://www.instagram.com/fulbright_iceland/
U.S. Student Grantee Feedback- 2021-2022: https://fulbright.is/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/FY2022-Annual-Report-WEB.pdf#page=12