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Fully Funded Scholarships for Physics in Iceland for PhD and Masters

Here are ten amazing opportunities that could fund your Master’s or PhD in physics. Each one is different—some are for EU students, others for Americans, and some for any international applicant.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

Studying in Iceland as part of an Erasmus Master’s program can get you full funding.

  • Covers: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and insurance.
  • Ideal for: Students joining Erasmus partner universities (e.g., Astromundus).
  • Apply: erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

2. University of Iceland Doctoral Grants

If you’re accepted into a PhD program here, you can apply for this generous grant.

  • Covers: Around 2.5 million ISK/year (~€17,000), plus travel.
  • Apply: english.hi.is

3. RANNÍS – Icelandic Research Fund

They support PhD and Master’s students working on serious scientific projects.

  • Covers: Salary, research costs, travel.
  • Apply: en.rannis.is

4. Fulbright Iceland (U.S. Students Only)

If you’re from the U.S. and want to study physics in Iceland, this is a big one.

  • Covers: Tuition, travel, and living stipend.
  • Apply: fulbright.is

5. Leifur Eiríksson Foundation

A fund created for academic exchange between Iceland and the U.S.

6. Reykjavik University Graduate Scholarships

Especially good for students focused on applied physics or engineering.

  • Covers: Tuition waiver and monthly stipend.
  • Apply: en.ru.is

7. Nokia Foundation Grants

For those doing collaborative research involving Nordic countries.

8. Eimskip University Fund

Supports advanced study at the University of Iceland.

  • Covers: Stipends up to 2.5 million ISK/year.
  • Apply: english.hi.is

9. Nordplus/NordForsk Mobility Grants

If you’re from a Nordic or Baltic country, this one is worth a look.

10. Icelandic Government Scholarships (Árni Magnússon Institute)

Usually focused on language, but STEM students occasionally qualify.


How to Apply Without Losing Your Mind

Applications can feel overwhelming, but let’s break it down:

1. Pick Your Program

Look through the websites of the University of Iceland or Reykjavik University. Find programs that match your goals.

2. Read the Fine Print

Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are only for specific nationalities or degree levels.

3. Prep Your Paperwork

What you’ll likely need:

  • University transcripts
  • Letter of motivation or Statement of Purpose
  • Two or more academic references
  • Research proposal (for PhD)
  • Your updated CV

4. Don’t Miss Deadlines

Set calendar reminders. Most applications are due between December and March.

5. Reach Out

Email potential supervisors if you’re applying for a PhD. It shows initiative and builds a connection.


Real Students. Real Stories.

  • “I emailed a professor about my interest in geothermal energy, and we clicked instantly. That email helped me get into the program.” — Lena, U.S.
  • “I had doubts, but once I got the Erasmus scholarship, I knew I made the right choice.” — Emil, Germany
  • “You don’t need perfect grades. You need a solid story and a research plan that makes sense.” — Naveed, Pakistan

Your Icelandic Physics Dream Starts Here

This isn’t just a list of scholarships. It’s a reminder that your dream is possible. Iceland might seem far away, but the doors are open. With the right information, determination, and a little help from funding, you can be studying physics under the aurora borealis.

So here’s your next step: choose a program, review your options, and start that application. Whether you end up hiking through lava fields on weekends or working with some of Europe’s best physicists—you’ll be doing it without the weight of student debt.

Take the leap. Iceland is waiting.

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