Types of institutions

A large majority of upper secondary schools in Iceland are combined schools, i.e. they offer both general and vocational education. Institutions offering both general and vocational education sometimes have teaching facilities in separate buildings. There are also a few industrial vocational schools, which offer theoretical and practical branches of study in the certified and some non-certified trades. These schools also offer post-secondary non-tertiary programmes to educate master craftsmen.  

Public or private enterprises and organisations approved by the relevant authorities may take on apprentices. Thus, in Iceland both schools, enterprises and organisations may be VET providers.

Vocational and technical upper secondary schools vary in size; the largest schools have around 2,000 pupils in day schools and the smallest less than 100. 

Geographical accessibility

Same as for general upper secondary education. See chapter 6.2.

Admission requirements and choice of school

Same as for general upper secondary education. See chapter 6.2.

Organisation of the school day and week

Same as for general upper secondary education. See chapter 6.2.

Pupils in vocational upper secondary programmes follow the same regulations as pupils in general programmes. Apprentices follow the working day and week of the training enterprise, regulated by Iceland’s general framework legislation on working conditions.