námsstig

Námsstig is an Icelandic term used to describe the level of formal education attained or the credential awarded upon completing a study program. It functions as a classification in Icelandic educational administration and policy to indicate the degree of qualification a person has earned. The concept covers a range of credentials, including certificates, diplomas, and degrees at various levels, from secondary school certificates to higher education degrees such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as professional qualifications obtained through specialized programs.

In practice, a námsstig appears on diplomas, transcripts, and other official documents to signal the level of study completed. This helps institutions, employers, and other countries understand the holder’s qualification. Various actors—schools, universities, and government bodies—use the term when describing study programmes and in the design of curricula and assessment, ensuring consistency across the education system.

Within Iceland and within European contexts, námsstig is tied to a national qualifications framework that maps educational credentials to defined levels, reinforcing recognition and portability of qualifications across borders. The term is thus both a descriptive label for the credential and a tool for quality assurance and comparability.