The University Preparation Programs offer intensive preparation for university studies, providing a pathway for students to meet entrance requirements and strengthen their academic foundation. The University Gateway Program, specifically designed for students whose native language is not Icelandic, supports those who either do not meet university entrance criteria or wish to enhance their readiness for higher education. Upon completing the University Gateway Program, students are eligible to begin undergraduate studies in any faculty at Bifröst University.
The program comprises 90 credits at the upper-secondary school level, equivalent to two years of full-time study. However, students can spread the program over a longer period, making it possible to balance studies with work commitments. Courses are taught in both English and Icelandic. For courses taught in Icelandic, special support is available for students whose native language is not Icelandic. Of these 90 credits, students complete 40 credits in Icelandic as a second language, aimed at developing proficiency from A2.1 to B1.2 levels.
The University Gateway program is delivered online via distance learning, with optional on-campus sessions held four times during the academic year. Students also attend new student days at the start of the program. Each semester is divided into two six-week sessions, during which each five-credit course is completed, followed by a one-week assessment period. Additionally, a two-week pre-session on information technology is offered at the beginning of the fall semester.
Details about study sessions and campus visits are outlined in the academic year's program. The University Gateway adopts a flipped classroom model, where students receive lectures in electronic format to review at their own pace. During discussion and project sessions, students engage with teachers and peers, applying what they’ve learned. Active participation in these sessions is an essential part of the learning process.
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Admission requirements
The University Gateway program is designed for adult learners. To be eligible, applicants must have an Icelandic identification number (kennitala) and meet at least one of the following academic criteria:
- Completion of a learning program at ISQF level 2 / EQF level 3.
- Completion of the equivalent of 100 credit units at the Icelandic secondary school level.
- Proficiency in Icelandic at level A1.2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Foreign educational documents are assessed by Enic-Naric Iceland to determine whether admission requirements are fulfilled.
Student loan
Students in the University Gateway program may qualify for a student loan from the Icelandic Student Loan Fund. Eligibility details can be found on their website.
Residency and Immigration
According to the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration, studies in the University Gateway program do not qualify for a student residence permit.
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Registration fee
The registration fee for the schoolyear 2025-2026 is 75.000 ISK.
Many unions offer financial support for education. Please contact your union for information.
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Opportunities for further studies
Students who successfully complete the University Gateway program and achieve Icelandic language proficiency at level B1.2 fulfill the admission requirements for undergraduate studies in all departments at Bifröst University.
For those planning to apply to other universities, it is important to check their specific admission requirements before beginning the University Gateway program, as these may differ.
Students seeking additional preparation in Icelandic are encouraged to enroll in a B2-level course offered by Bifröst University Continuing Education (Endurmenntun).
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Application deadline
Applications are not being accepted for the spring semester of 2025. The application deadline for studies in the fall semester of 2025 is June 5.
Applications for the fall semester will open on March 1, 2025.