First things to do
Living and studying away from home can be a challenging experience, particularly in the beginning of the stay. There are several formalities you need to take care of during your first days. The information provided in the Orientation Programme will hopefully assist you to adjust to the new circumstances in Iceland.
Also, RU International Office runs a Buddy Programme, to ensure you a smooth integration into the Icelandic way of student life.
Orientation Programme
Introduction Day
International students begin their studies at RU with an Introduction Day which is usually held three days before the school starts. There the international students get the chance to meet each other as well as the staff of RU International Office. Furthermore, it gives the staff of RU International Office a chance to go over all loose ends and introduce you to the University.
At the Introduction Day, you will:
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Receive information about how to apply for an icelandic ID number
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Get access to the RU computer facilities and an e-mail address.
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Get information on the services that the school provides
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Get practical information and survival hints
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Be able to speak to the international representatives from the student association
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Be familiarised with the University´s intranet
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Get help on selecting your final list of courses (if needed)
It is quite important to attend the Orientation day as it makes it easier for you to settle in at a new place.
Student ID and Access Card
Students need to get a student ID and access card. The access card gives students access to the school premises 24 hours a day. The card has a cost of 2.000 ISK.
Icelandic ID Number - Kennitala
It is essential for all students to receive an Icelandic identification number upon arrival. The ID number is necessary if you want to register as a student, have a scholarship paid, open a bank account, get a tax card, etc.
After the Orientation Day, you need to go to the Iceland's National Registry (Þjóðskrá) Borgartúni 24, 150 Reykjavik. Bring the ID Application Form, your passport and a Certificate of Study that proves you are going to study at RU and you will be given an ID number a couple of days after.
Once a week for the first month of each semester, international students are offered further introduction to:
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Icelandic Culture and Society
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Icelandic Business Enviroment and Politics
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Practical Information about Academic Standards at Reykjavík University
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Icelandic – Introduction and Survival phrases
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Guided tour around RU locations
Introduction to Iceland for international students and visiting teachers in Iceland
The Office of International Education of Iceland organizes a program called “Introduction to Iceland”, which aim is to introduce Icelandic society, culture, history and nature to international students and visiting teachers. The program consists of several events each term, museum visits and guided excursions.
Useful Information