Educational System in Iceland

Education in Iceland is known for its high standards and progressive approach. The Icelandic educational system is divided into four main stages: playschool, compulsory, upper secondary, and higher education. The country offers a variety of options for expats, including public, private, and international schools. This guide will provide an overview of the educational system in Iceland, focusing on the main stages, enrollment process, language requirements, availability of bilingual schools, common types of private schools, homeschooling, and online schooling options.

What are the main stages of education in Iceland?

The Icelandic educational system is divided into four main stages. The first stage is the playschool, or leikskóli, for children aged 1-6. The second stage is compulsory education, or grunnskóli, for children aged 6-16. The third stage is upper secondary education, or framhaldsskóli, for students aged 16-20. The final stage is higher education, or háskóli, which includes universities and colleges.

Playschool (Leikskóli)

Playschool, or leikskóli, is the first stage of education in Iceland. It is for children aged 1-6 and focuses on play-based learning. The aim is to promote the overall development of children, including their physical, mental, and social skills. Although attendance is not compulsory, most children in Iceland attend playschool.

Compulsory Education (Grunnskóli)

Compulsory education, or grunnskóli, is for children aged 6-16. It is divided into two stages: the junior stage for ages 6-12 and the senior stage for ages 12-16. The curriculum includes Icelandic, mathematics, English, arts, physical education, and social studies. All children residing in Iceland are required to attend compulsory education.

Upper Secondary Education (Framhaldsskóli)

Upper secondary education, or framhaldsskóli, is for students aged 16-20. It is not compulsory but is a prerequisite for higher education. Students can choose between academic, vocational, and technical programs. The curriculum is more specialized and prepares students for university or the labor market.

Higher Education (Háskóli)

Higher education, or háskóli, includes universities and colleges. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in various fields. Admission is based on the student's performance in upper secondary education. Some institutions also require an entrance examination.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Newcomers can enroll their children in school by contacting the local municipality or the school directly. They will need to provide proof of residence, the child's birth certificate, and immunization records. If the child has attended school in another country, they should also provide school reports or certificates.

My children are still learning Icelandic, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning Icelandic can enroll in a public school. Most schools offer Icelandic as a second language program to help non-native speakers. However, the main language of instruction is Icelandic, so it might be challenging for children with limited proficiency.

Are there public bilingual schools?

There are a few public bilingual schools in Iceland, mainly in the capital, Reykjavik. These schools offer instruction in both Icelandic and English. Admission is based on the same criteria as other public schools, but proficiency in both languages is usually required.

What types of private schools are common in Iceland?

Private schools in Iceland are not as common as public schools, but they offer more options for expats. The most common types are international schools, which offer an international curriculum and instruction in English. There are also a few private schools that offer bilingual education or special educational programs.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Most expats in Iceland send their children to public schools because they are free and offer high-quality education. However, some prefer private or international schools because of the language of instruction and the international curriculum.

How expensive are Private schools in Iceland?

Private schools in Iceland can be quite expensive, with tuition fees ranging from ISK 300,000 to ISK 1,000,000 per year. However, some schools offer scholarships or financial aid to help with the costs.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Iceland?

Homeschooling is allowed in Iceland, but it is not very common. Parents who wish to homeschool their children must follow the national curriculum and are subject to regular assessments by the local educational authorities.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Iceland?

Online schooling is an option in Iceland, especially for upper secondary and higher education. However, for compulsory education, it is usually combined with traditional schooling. Parents should check with the local educational authorities for more information.