Study Medicine in Iceland

Why Study Medicine in Iceland?

Overview: Medical Education in Iceland

Iceland is one of the world's most extraordinary countries and, perhaps surprisingly, a genuinely viable destination for UK medical students. The University of Iceland's Faculty of Medicine in Reykjavik offers a 6-year programme that maintains the high Nordic academic standards that characterise Scandinavian medical education.

Iceland's healthcare system is exceptional — despite being one of the world's smallest countries (population ~380,000), Iceland consistently achieves some of the world's best health outcomes. Medical students train in a small but highly efficient healthcare system where the connections between community, primary care, and hospital medicine are unusually transparent and accessible.

For UK students, Iceland is a genuinely unique option. The country is extraordinarily safe (consistently ranked the world's most peaceful country), strikingly beautiful, and very English-friendly — almost all Icelanders speak excellent English. The University of Iceland does teach medicine in Icelandic, so language preparation is required, but the country's small, welcoming academic community means integration is easier than in larger countries.

Living costs in Reykjavik are high — comparable to Oslo and London — but tuition is relatively affordable at £7,000–£12,000/year. Medicine Clearing can advise on whether Iceland's unique strengths match your goals and help with the admissions process.

Entry Requirements for UK Students

Tuition Fees & Living Costs

Reykjavik is one of Europe's most expensive cities — similar to Oslo. Food is particularly expensive as much is imported. Geothermal energy makes utilities much cheaper than UK.

Medical Universities in Iceland

1 university in our network — all vetted for GMC eligibility.

University of Iceland

Reykjavik · 6 years

£600/year (registration fee)

No UCAT

GMC Recognition & NHS Return Pathway

Pass PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 for GMC registration, then apply for NHS posts. Experience in Iceland's uniquely efficient and high-outcome small healthcare system is a distinctive strength.

Student Accommodation in Iceland

Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

Iceland is a member of the EEA and Schengen Area but not the EU. Post-Brexit UK citizens need an Icelandic residence permit for stays over 90 days. Apply via Registers Iceland (Þjóðskrá). Processing takes 2–4 weeks.

Did You Know? — Iceland

• 1

  Iceland is consistently ranked the world's most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index

• 2

  Iceland has no army — the only NATO member with no military force

• 3

  Iceland has the world's oldest parliament — the Althing, established in 930 AD

• 4

  Icelandic medical students train in a system where the entire country has fewer people than a single large UK hospital catchment area

• 5

  Iceland runs almost entirely on renewable energy — geothermal and hydroelectric power — one of the world's greenest countries

Monthly Living Costs Breakdown — Iceland

Reykjavik is one of Europe's most expensive cities — similar to Oslo. Food is particularly expensive as much is imported. Geothermal energy makes utilities much cheaper than UK.

Frequently Asked Questions — Study Medicine in Iceland

20 questions answered by our senior admissions team.