Snapshot
Dates
| Term | Application Deadline | Program Start | Program End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 15 March | 12 August, 2026 | 18 December, 2026 |
| Academic Year 2026/27 | 15 March | 12 August, 2026 | 21 May, 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | 1 September | January 8, 2027 | May 23, 2027 |
View the RU academic calendar.
Do not make travel arrangements until you have been officially accepted to the program by API/RU, and they have shared arrival/orientation dates and accomodation move-in dates.
*Note: RU requires that students have completed two full years of university before being admitted. Students may apply to this program during freshman or sophomore year, but should have completed sophomore year in good standing to participate in the program during junior or senior year.
About Program
Study in Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík University (RU)
Forged by the fires of still active volcanoes, Iceland takes advantage of its abundant, renewable resources, and derives nearly all of its power from geothermal energy. As such, it is a world leader in sustainable energy planning. Northern Lights, lagoons, glaciers, waterfalls and other natural wonders abound in Iceland! However, the country is much more than its natural beauty; despite its small population and size, Iceland is one of the most technologically developed and socially progressive countries in the world. Iceland is globally ranked as one of the happiest countries, with quality of life and life expectancy among the highest in the world.
Reykjavík is the the world's northernmost capital city. It's a clean, safe, and global center for environmental innovation. It boasts fantastic museums where you can dive into Iceland’s unique Viking history. Reykjavík is a very walkable city filled with resturants and known for its vibrant nightlife and popular music festivals.
Reykjavik University is a small university with about 3,500 students. You can enroll in courses (in English!) alongside Icelandic and other international students in a variety of subject areas, including international business, computer science (including game design), and engineering. Classes are small and interactive and the atmosphere is informal. RU emphasizes hands-on learning that prepares students for the challenges they will meet after graduation. This means working with other students completing actual, real-world assignments and projects.
>> View complete affiliate program information
Academics
You can enroll in courses (in English) alongside Icelandic and other international students in a variety of subject areas including International Business, Computer Science (including Game Design), and Engineering.
Fall semester students will take 4 courses over a 12-week period, followed by a 2-week exam period and a final optional 3-week, 3-credit intensive project-based course. Spring semester students in both the School of Computer Science and Engineering will follow this same pattern. The School of Business does not offer 3-week intensive courses in the spring semester.
Courses are geared toward upperclassmen, so it is recommended that you have a background in the subjects you plan on studying. Some graduate-level courses are available to students who meet the prerequisites.
- Learn about subject offerings in Reykjavík
- Search for RU courses already reviewed at UMD (Note: you are required to have foreign courses evaluated prior to departure.)
- This program counts for the UMD Liberal Education Global Perspectives Requirement.
NOTE: Study abroad courses must be reviewed prior to program participation so that you know how they will contribute to your degree progress.
Cost Information
- Compare this program cost to UMD's cost of attendance for an academic year
- View a list of all UMD Study Abroad program costs.
If you do not see a cost estimate for the semester/term you intend to go abroad, the cost has not yet been determined. Please note cost estimates and fees may change depending on international economic factors. UMD Study Abroad delays the posting of final fees until enrollments, inflation, and exchange rates are determined in order to provide students with the most accurate pricing. We strive to post final fees by October 1 for Spring programs, March 1 for May/Summer programs, and May 1 for Fall and Academic year programs.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Scholarships
- UMD Scholarships
- API Scholarships
- Note: Credits taken on study abroad programs cannot be used toward the Bulldog Bundle.
Financial Aid
Consult with One Stop to see how financial aid can apply to study abroad.
- Receive guidance about all things money-related
- Ask for estimates and budget samples
- Learn when and how financial aid is disbursed
- Ask about other scholarship opportunities & loan info
Plan your budget
Download this Study Abroad Budget Planning Form to estimate costs. Create duplicates to compare this program with others.
Travel Documents
- You are required to have a passport to participate in this program. If you do not have a passport or your passport will expire within 6 months after you will return from abroad, apply for a passport as soon as possible. It can take 2+ months to receive your passport after applying. You can apply for a new passport on-campus at the UMD Passport Acceptance Facility.
- Look for visa requirements on API's web page
- Roundtrip airfare should only be purchased after official acceptance from the foreign university
Apply
Before you click on the "Start my application" button below, make sure you know how to identify the correct program by searching for the:
- Program Name: UMD - API Study in Study in Reykjavík, Iceland: Reykjavík University;
and the - Term (e.g. Spring Semester 2026 or Academic Year 2026–2027)
A $50 non-refundable application fee will be billed to your One Stop account upon submission of an application.
After you apply
- After approximately 20 minutes, you will see checklist items for you to complete.
- It is recommended that you complete the checklist items within a month of applying, as applicable. Pre-departure Orientation details will be sent closer to the event date (usually April for fall/summer applicants and November for spring/winter break applicants).
- Your UMD Program Contact will review your application materials.
- You must complete the Confirmation of Participation form to confirm your participation.
- Once we receive your confirmation, your UMD account will be billed a confirmation deposit.
If you decide you cannot participate, you must log in to the online application system and submit the "Cancellation Request form."
Program health and safety information
is available at GO SAFE.
