Information regarding applications

Applying to UNAK?

Applications to the University of Akureyri are submitted online through the UNAK application portal. All applicants must first create an account.

Create an account

1. Go to the UNAK application portal.
2. Create an account using one of the following methods:

How to apply? Step by step

The start page contains useful information about the application process.

1. To apply for a programme, select “New Application – Study Programmes”
   
   
2. You can search for programmes by: programme name, study level or academic field
   - Note: It is not possible to search by field of specialisation.
   
   
3. Programmes open for application are marked with a green “Apply” button.
   - If there is no green button, applications are not currently open.
   - To view further details, click “More Info”.
   
   
4. When you click “Apply”, the application form will open in a new tab:
   - Read all instructions carefully
   - Complete all fields
   - Pay particular attention to required fields marked with an asterisk (*)
   
   
5. Remember to include all required supporting documents with your application.
   - If there is no option to upload required documents, you can email them to nemskra@unak.is
   
   
6. At the bottom of the form, choose one of the following:
   - Save application  to complete it later
   - Submit application  to send it for processing
   - Cancel  to withdraw your application (unsaved information will be lost)

Tracking your application

You can monitor your application under “Application Overview”.

This section shows:
- application status
- submitted documents
- messages from the Student Registry

• If additional information is required: a message will appear in the portal and you will also receive an email notification

You can cancel your application at the bottom of the “Application Overview” page. Cancelled applications will not be processed.

After your application has been reviewed

If your application is accepted:

• an acceptance letter will appear in “Application Overview”
• you can pay the registration fee in the same place
• Important: If the registration fee is not paid within the stated deadline, your place will be considered declined.

If your application is rejected:

• a rejection letter will be available in “Application Overview”

Is your application valid?

Your application is not valid if you have not submitted all the necessary accompanying documents:

• CV (curriculum vitae)
• Statement of your objectives and expectations regarding the studies
• Transcript of records
• Copy of passport
• Two letters of reference

What is a certified transcript?

A certified transcript is a hard copy document issued by the educational institution on its official paper, signed and certified by the institution with the institution’s stamp in colour, or otherwise certified by an accredited, official authority.

What is the application deadline?

Application deadlines for degree-seeking students:

• 1 March NON-EU/EEA residents applying for Polar Law
• 1 April NON-EU/EEA residents (other programmes)
• 5 June EU/EEA residents

What are the admission requirements for HA?

Please familiarise yourself with information on the language of instruction.

Icelandic matriculation examination (stúdentspróf: school leaving examination after three years of secondary school) or equivalent or at least 60 ECTS from a recognized University.

Students who apply for admission to graduate programmes must have completed a BA or BSc degree or comparable three-year university studies with a first-class grade (7.25).

The admission requirements differ between Schools.

What is the language of instruction?

The principal language of instruction is Icelandic. Students need to demonstrate knowledge of the language of instruction. Both Schools offer some courses in English and some Faculties allow international students to take their examinations in English during the first semester of study. This is, however, always subject to the approval of each School and individual instructors.

See more information here

Do I have to pay an application fee?

Citizens of countries outside EEA/EFTA (exempting the Faroe Islands and Greenland) are required to pay a fee of 50 EUR for the handling and processing of their applications. The fee is charged as part of the online application process. The handling and processing fee is not refundable.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes. Students at UNAK pay an annual registration fee - but not school fees. 

New students pay the registration fee in Ugla´s application portal. Ugla is the name of the student system at UNAK. Students pay the registration fee through Ugla following their annual registration.

Click here for further information regarding registration fee. 

Are there any scholarships available?

No, there are no scholarships available and no tution waiver available.

Do I have to take classes in person at the University of Akureyri?

Yes, except for undergraduate studies in Business. Námslota (meaning study sessions) take place in Akureyri. Námslota is held regularly throughout the school year, but their number and length vary between Study Programmes. Námslota is held one, two or three times per semester and can last two to five days at a time. Students are required to attend the sessions and be active during them.