Directorate of Education and School Services

Upper secondary schools

“The upper secondary school prepares pupils for employment and further studies.“ From Article 2 of the Secondary Schools Act.

The third level of schooling

Upper secondary schools belong to the third level of schooling.

Education at this level is not compulsory, but by law there is an education obligation until the age of 18.

Students who have completed compulsory school, obtained equivalent basic education, or reached the age of 16 can begin studies at an upper secondary school.

List of upper secondary schools by region.

Starting upper secondary education

The organisation of classes and curriculum at the secondary-school level aims at meeting different needs by offering a variety of courses.

It is important that prospective students and their guardians familiarise themselves with the study options available. Student counsellors and staff in compulsory and upper secondary schools can provide guidance.

Upper secondary schools may set specific admission requirements for certain study programs, based on prior preparation and academic achievement, to ensure that students are placed in programs suited to their background.

Application for upper secondary school

Admission to upper secondary schools

In the spring, students completing 10th grade and their guardians receive a letter from The Directorate of Education and School Services in their digital mailbox on island.is with information about admissions.

Other applicants can find information on:

Applicants can follow the application process on their login on island.is.

Confirmation of school placement

The upper secondary school that accepts an application sends:

a confirmation of school placement
a payment slip for the registration fee with a due date

If the fee is not paid on time, the placement is considered declined and the applicant forfeits their place for that term.

The school principal is responsible for admissions.

Study options

Upper secondary education varies in length depending on whether students pursue:

academic studies
vocational studies
trade or apprenticeship programs

Many schools also offer:

distance learning
blended learning
evening classes

Schools advertise admission arrangements for these programs themselves.

Support

Student counsellors, teachers and other school staff provide guidance on:

study choices
career paths
personal matters related to schooling

Secondary school students in the rural areas who need to attend a school outside of their own local community will be offered either grants from the local community or what is called an equalisation grant.

Students at secondary-school level who pursue authorised vocational education or other approved work-related studies can apply for a student loan through the Icelandic student loan fund.

The families or the guardians of secondary students of small means can apply for a grant from the Icelandic Church Aid Fund for the Future (Framtíðarsjóður Hjálparstarfs Kirkjunnar) for expenses. Further information can be obtained from Icelandic Church Aid (Hjálparstarf Kirkjunnar).

Education for students with additional needs

Upper secondary education is organised to meet diverse needs through varied study pathways.

Special programs (e.g. vocational or adapted study programs) are available for students who have received specialised support in compulsory school and have recognised assessments.

These programs aim to provide: