Háskólanna

Háskólanna is the genitive plural form of háskólinn, the Icelandic word for university. The term is used in Icelandic to refer to the universities of Iceland collectively or to higher-education institutions in general.

The Icelandic higher education system comprises universities and other degree-granting institutions that offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Most institutions receive public funding or are privately sponsored, and they engage in research across science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and the arts. Instruction is primarily in Icelandic, with growing offerings in English for international students and programs aimed at international collaboration. Higher education in Iceland is overseen by government bodies that set standards, ensure quality, and coordinate funding.

Admissions are competitive and may be supported by government student aid. The háskólanna sector emphasizes research, innovation, and regional development, and it participates in Nordic and international research networks.

Notable Icelandic universities include the University of Iceland (Háskóli Íslands) in Reykjavík and Reykjavik University; other institutions contributing to the system include the University of Akureyri and the Iceland University of the Arts. The landscape continues to evolve with international collaborations and policy developments aimed at strengthening education and research across the country.