B.Arch in Architecture
B.Arch-learning í architecture prepares nemendum to that take episode í molding community with aesthetics, equality, sustainablei and criticize thought that guiding principle.
Information is provided in Icelandic for study programs that have Icelandic as the primary language of construction.
About the program
B.Arch-studying architecture is a 180-unit learning path for those who want to participate in the shaping of a society guided by aesthetics, equality, sustainability and critical thinking Students develop their own artistic sensitivity, personal approach and technical competence, whether in speech, writing or space They learn to take an active part in shaping what is already there, whether in a city or in nature, and work with others is an important part of it, as architecture is inherently group work They learn to be active and critical members of society who realize the moral and environmental consequences of their actions and get tools in hand to change for the better with architecture.
Study structure
The program is three years divided into two fifteen-week semesters to 180 ECTS. The program consists of workshops (114 ECTS), academic courses (56 ECTS) and technical courses (10 ECTS).
- The first academic year focuses on experiments with space and form The basic concepts and working methods of architecture are introduced with an emphasis on hand drawing and modeling.
- Another academic year focuses on the city Students learn to analyze neighborhoods and design a building in the urban landscape while also adopting basic computer programs.
- The third academic year focuses on rural areas and interaction with nature and encourages the transformation of existing buildings Students write a final thesis in the fall semester, while the spring semester is devoted to a final project.
After completing his studies
After completing three years of study, students graduate with B.Arch-degree in architecture that allows them to apply for a postgraduate course in the profession and then acquire full professional qualifications as architects. B.Arch-student architecture uses diverse projects and jobs related to the environment, society and other creative industries.
Application and admission process
- An electronic application is filled out in the application portal.
- Note: all star-marked fields must be filled in and the requested documents attached, the application fee must be paid and the application confirmed.
- A certified copy of the diploma (photograph does not apply) with a stamp from the relevant school and a scanned study history summary and attached to an electronic application.
- If supporting documents are not in order, the applicant will receive a mail and the possibility to correct the application.
- The applicant receives confirmation that the electronic application is valid.
- If the number of applicants who meet the admission requirements for study programs is below the minimum criteria will not be included in the course for the coming school year. Are applicants informed of this as soon as possible and the registration fee refunded, if it has been paid.
Open for applications
January 14, 2026
Application deadline
13 April 2026
Applications answered
May /June 2026
Price list
Special Instructions for the Department of Architecture
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1st Folder/Portfolio
DutyApplicants shall collect samples off let's work his together in folder/portfolio another whether á material or electronic form.
The works should reflect the student's personal vision, shed light on his main topics of interest, and from them it should be possible to read what skills the applicant has for original creation and presentation of his ideas.
It is not necessary that all the works be completed or implemented to the fullest extent, on the contrary, it is important that there is also any kind of sketches, drawings, photographs or text. All works in the folder/portfolio are to be the author's work of the applicant, if a work has been done in group work or collaboration, it is necessary to state that.
The applicant himself has to assess what fits within the folder/portfolio, but it is important that it reflects his ability, skills and view of the profession through creative work. Content outside the folder such as links or references to other documents is seen as additional material and not guaranteed to be viewed.
Substantive submission deadline or electronic folder is 13 April 2026. In the case of a physical folder, it must be returned or sent by mail to the LHÍ office:
Iceland Academy of the Arts, Faculty of Architecture
Stakkahlíð 1
105 Reykjavík
If a folder is sent by mail, a postmark must be dated at the latest 13 April 2026. The folder should be sent by traceable mail and the envelope marked with Application architecture.
We ask you to read carefully the instructions below regarding folder labeling:
Please note that it is necessary to notify in a starred field in the application portal that the physical folder/portfolio will be returned.
If you are applying for more study programs or departments, you must submit an application and a folder/portfolio for each study path/department.
Folder tagging:-
If your folder is physical, you need to include a sheet with it that clearly states your full name and social security number.
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If your folder is electronic, you need to save the file with your full name and social security number.
If folder/portfolio is posted
If the folder/portfolio is sent by mail, a postmark must be dated at the latest 13 April 2026.
The folder/portfolio must be sent by traceable mail and the envelope marked with both the sender and the application number.Address of the Faculty of Architecture
Iceland Academy of the Arts, Faculty of Architecture
Stakkahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík -
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2. Cover letter
DutyApplicants explain the reason for the application in the relevant study path.
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3. Admission process
An admissions committee is appointed for each study path.The committee is made up of two to three experts in the relevant field, who choose from among the candidates.The admission process is as follows:- Applications evaluated by the admissions committee. Applicants who pass the assessment of the admissions committee make it to a sample group and are invited to an interview.
- Interview. The applicant's interest in prospective studies, his attitude and attitude towards the profession is explored
NOTE:- The admissions committee is authorized to request a special project from the applicant if deemed necessary.
- All applicants will be sent an electronic response to applications in May/June.
- Applicants offered school accommodation must pay a registration fee to confirm the school accommodation. See information about registration fee.
- Starting in autumn 2026, tuition fees will be imposed on applicants from countries outside the EEA, the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Switzerland. More information about school fees.
- The results of the admissions committees are final and it is not obligatory to give a more detailed explanation of the refusal to stay at school.
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4. Admission requirements
DutyGeneral admission requirements are matriculation, final exam from secondary school at the third qualification level,
equivalent exam from a foreign secondary school or a minimum of 60 ECTS credits from
accredited college Applications must be accompanied by certified copies of diplomas and certified copies
from the study history summary.Admission to the school may be granted to applicants with knowledge and experience
which is considered adequate preparation for bachelor's degree studies at the school See more „exemptions for admission“Admission committees evaluate applications based on submitted data as well as interviews and/or entrance exams
the fields that apply. The dean appoints an admissions committee for each study path in consultation with
professional managers and admissions committees work according to the procedures presented to applicants. -
5. Exemptions due to admission
Admission to the school may be granted to applicants with knowledge and experience
which is considered adequate preparation for bachelor's studies at the school.Applicants who do not meet the general admission requirements can apply for an exemption if they have
completed, for example, numerous credits at secondary school level, completed other final exams such as on 4.
qualification level or have other preparation that can prepare the person for studies on
university level in the relevant study path. Applications for exemption from general
admission requirements are assessed by professionals within the relevant department The result of the assessment of
exemption applications are final. When evaluating applications, synergistic factors are considered
regarding grades in studies at secondary school level, education in arts, further education,
work experience and participation in social work Each case is examined separately and can interact
these factors affected the outcome Applicants are encouraged to account for all of it
which they believe may be subject to their application for exemption from general admission requirements
progress.Admission committees evaluate applications based on submitted data as well as interviews and/or entrance exams
the fields that apply. The dean appoints an admissions committee for each study path in consultation with
professional managers and admissions committees work according to the procedures presented to applicants.