Education

Secondary School

Secondary school (also known as high school) is the third level of the education system in Iceland. It is not compulsory to attend secondary school. There are over 30 secondary schools and colleges spread throughout Iceland, offering a variety of study programmes. Everyone who has completed primary school, received an equivalent general education, or reached the age of 16 can begin their studies in a secondary school.

You can read about secondary schools in Iceland on island.is website.

Secondary schools

The courses offered by secondary schools vary considerably. There are over 30 secondary schools and colleges spread throughout Iceland, offering a variety of study programmes.

Different terms are used over secondary schools, including junior colleges, technical schools, undergraduate colleges, and vocational schools. Student counsellors and other staff at primary and secondary schools can provide helpful information.

List of secondary schools

Registration

Students who are completing the tenth grade at primary school, along with their guardians, will receive a letter from the Ministry of Education in the spring containing information concerning registration in a secondary school day school programme.

Other applicants for an education in a secondary school day school programme can find information concerning the studies and registration here.

Many secondary schools offer courses in evening programs which are intended primarily for adult students. The schools advertise application deadlines in the fall and at the beginning of the new year. Many secondary schools also offer distance learning. Further information can be found from the individual websites of secondary schools that offer such studies.

Study support

Children and young adults who experience educational difficulties caused by a disability, social, mental, or emotional issues are entitled to additional study support.

Here you can find more information about education for people with disabilities.

Useful links

Everyone who has completed primary school, received an equivalent general education, or reached the age of 16 can begin their studies in a secondary school.