Business, Computer Science, and Engineering in Iceland
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About this Program
Embark on an unforgettable journey by studying STEM and Business at the University of Reykjavík through API. Benefit from the University's state-of-the-art facilities, and distinguished faculty. You can enroll in courses (in English!) alongside Icelandic and other international students in a variety of subject areas. Beyond the classroom, students can explore Iceland's natural wonders, including geysers, glaciers, and the breathtaking Northern Lights, creating unforgettable memories.
Program Highlights
- Language(s) of Instruction:
- English
- Courses with Locals
- Local University Program
- No Language Pre-Requisites
- Apartment
- Winter Quarter Housing applications open in November
- Spring Quarter Housing applications open in February
- Fall Quarter Housing applications open in May
Level of Immersion
Features
Housing Abroad
Moving can be both costly and stressful, but careful planning can help minimize both. Start by creating a housing plan for before and after your study abroad experience to avoid the pressure of continuing to pay for rent at home. Program fees typically cover housing abroad, so if you expect to incur additional domestic rent expenses, be sure to include these in your budget. If possible, consider staying with family or friends temporarily before you depart or when you return to save on costs.
Housing Residence Life
Education Abroad typically recommends considering Seattle University on-campus housing for when students return from their programs, as Housing Residence Life staff are able to support students in securing housing, while adhering to student preference as best as they can.
Housing Application
Check the Housing Portal for more specific dates
Disciplines
Courseload
Students who participate in an SU-Sponsored, SU-Exchange, or Non-SU program must be fully enrolled at their host university/program provider. Full-time enrollment on a semester-length program is typically 15 US semester credits (not quarter credits) or 30 ECTS credits.
Note: Not all programs/host universities provide syllabi prior to the start of classes. Some may have samples of past syllabi but cannot guarantee that a specific course will be offered during the student's time abroad.
- Credit Range: 24-30
- Credit System: ECTS Credits
- Typical Course load: 4-5
- Credit Per Course: 6
Credit Conversion
- Transcript Issued By: Reykjavik University
- Credit Conversion Rate: 1 ECTS Credit = 0.80 SU Quarter Credits. Note: if credit conversion does not equate a whole or half quarter credit, credits will be rounded down to the nearest whole or half quarter credit per course
- Quarter Range: 18-22.5
Academic Policy & Minimum Grade Requirement:
- Student will receive transfer credit for their study abroad program and academic grades will not be reflected on their Seattle University transcript and will not be reflected in the Seattle University GPA nor honors calculations.
- For all undergraduate programs, courses accepted in transfer are graded at least a C- when letter grades are issued and at least a 1.5 on the decimal grading system. Courses graded D+ or lower (1.5) will not be allowed either for transfer credit or to fulfill degree requirements.
- Students in the College of Nursing, the College of Science and Engineering, and communication and psychology majors in the College of Arts and Sciences will be required to repeat courses graded lower than C (2.0) if the course is a major requirement or if it is a prerequisite to a major requirement.
- Students in the Albers School of Business and Economics must complete required business courses (including mathematics, economics & accounting) with a grade of C (2.0) or better.
Transfer Credits
Letter grades received on this program will not transfer to SU nor factor into Seattle University GPA. If students receive the minimum grade required, credits will transfer toward their Seattle University degree as approved through the required pre-departure Course Approval process. Minimum grade details will be specified during Course Approval for each course taken abroad.
Placeholder Course
The Education Abroad Office will enroll students in a 12-credit placeholder course per term that you are abroad so that students maintain full-time student status and are billed properly. This placeholder course will be replaced by the courses taken abroad upon successful completion and receipt of official transcript.
Program Fees
Program fees are subject to change and based on previous year's tuition, if future tuition rates are not available yet. The purpose of the budget worksheets is to provide an estimate of how much studying abroad is going to cost. Actual spending may vary.
- Fall Semester: $8,000
- Spring Semester: $8,000
Requesting a Financial Aid Estimate
Student Financial Aid allows students to request a financial aid estimate when planning an education abroad experience. Students can bring the completed worksheet of your preferred program to a meeting with a Student Financial Aid Counselor.
Budget Worksheets
Participation Costs
Payment
For SU-Sponsored programs, pay your Seattle University bill through your MySeattleU Student Account for the term(s) you are abroad. The Program Fee is labeled as "MSA Fee" on your bill. Payment deadlines align with Seattle University’s quarterly deadlines and you can sign-up for a payment plan as usual.
Seattle University handles payments to API on your behalf for the program cost. Additional expenses not included in Seattle University’s Program Fee, like special course fees, housing upgrades, and optional excursions, may be billed to you directly by API. Consult the Budget Worksheet for a breakdown of estimate additional expenses.Insurance
Scholarships
There are many study abroad scholarships for all program types. The application process may be easier than you think, but planning ahead is key. Deadlines are often 6-8 months in advance of departure. Check out the Scholarship section of Seattle University Education Abroad website for more information on scholarships and how to apply.
Student Journey
| Approximate Timeline | Phase | More details |
|---|---|---|
| Sept-Jan | Exploration | Students will work with Education Abroad and various supporters (family, academic advisor, etc.) to find a program that best fits student's academic, personal, and professional goals. |
| Feb 1 | Apply | Students will have the opportunity to apply to SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs during next academic year in the Fall around November. The hard deadline is February 1st. |
| Late Feb/Early Mar | Nominations | Education Abroad Office will nominate selected students for SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs. |
| Mar-May (Fall) Sept-Dec (Winter) Jan-March (Spring) | Preparation | Students will complete secondary applications for program providers/host university in preparation of going abroad. Additional preparatory steps include pre-departure orientation, courses approvals, Health Check, Visa application, planning housing arrangements (abroad & Seattle), immunizations, etc. |
Application Steps
- Complete Module I of Global Engagement with Education Abroad Canvas course, including Education Abroad 101 and attending a Planning Meeting with your Education Advisor.
- Complete the SU-Sponsored/SU-Exchange Program Application in Module II of the Canvas course by February 1 for selected program.
If you haven’t joined the Education Abroad Canvas Course yet, Join Now!
Climate
- Spring (March to May): Cool and windy, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Days grow longer, but snow and rain are common.
- Summer (June to August): Mild, with temperatures between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Iceland experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight during the summer solstice.
- Autumn (September to November): Cool and wet, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Shorter days and increasing rain.
- Winter (December to February): Cold and dark, with temperatures between -5°C and 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Snow and strong winds are frequent, and daylight lasts just a few hours per day.
Travel Resources
- Air: The main international airport is Keflavík International Airport, located near Reykjavik. Visit Inspired by Iceland for more details.
- Train: There are no train services in Iceland, but buses connect major cities and tourist spots.
- Public Transport: Reykjavik offers public buses (Strætó), and car rentals are popular for exploring the countryside.
Cultural Resources
- Historical Sites: Notable attractions include the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss), and the Northern Lights.
- Language: The official language is Icelandic, but English is widely spoken.
- Festivals: Major events include the Reykjavik Arts Festival, Iceland Airwaves (music festival), and the Winter Lights Festival.
Food & Diet
- Cuisine: Traditional dishes include skyr (a type of yogurt), lamb, seafood, and Icelandic hot dogs. Iceland is also known for its fresh, local produce and dairy products.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in Reykjavik. However, traditional Icelandic cuisine is often meat-based.
Embassy/Consulate
- U.S. Embassy in Reykjavik: Engjateigur 7, 105 Reykjavik (Phone: +354 595 2200)
Identity-Specific Considerations
- Accessibility: Iceland is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities, particularly in Reykjavik. However, some rural areas and natural attractions may pose challenges.
- LGBTQ+: Iceland is progressive and LGBTQ+ friendly. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and Reykjavik hosts an annual Pride festival.
- Religion: Iceland is predominantly Lutheran, with religious freedom protected and a growing number of people identifying as non-religious or following alternative spiritual practices.
- Race & Ethnicity: Iceland has a relatively homogenous population, but growing immigration has introduced greater diversity, and racial minorities may occasionally face social challenges.
- Gender: Iceland is a global leader in gender equality, with strong legal protections and progressive societal attitudes, though continued efforts address remaining disparities.
Visa Requirements
What is a Visa?
A visa is a permission granted by a country that allows foreign nationals to enter and reside there temporarily. Applicants typically need to provide documentation such as an acceptance letter from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Student visas come with specific regulations regarding work rights, travel restrictions, and duration of stay, varying by country.
Below is a brief overview of the current visa requirements for your program. Note that countries may amend visa requirements at any time, so it will be important to follow all instructions given by API.
U.S. passport holders are required to obtain a student residence permit for Iceland (Non-U.S. citizens should consult their respective consulates). The cost of this visa is 16,000 ISK (approximately $150, including bank fees for international wire transfers) and will require an FBI background check. Further details can be found at https://island.is/en/get-a-long-term-visa and https://apiabroad.com/student-visas/student-visa-iceland/. API will offer additional information and guidance before departure and on-site; however, the decision to grant admission into the country is not in API’s nor Seattle University's control. Keep in mind that entry requirements are specific to the length of your stay, citizenship, and the type of activities you will be engaged in. It is your responsibility to determine specific entry requirements and stipulations prior to the start of your program.