Social life is an important aspect of university studies, and students are encouraged to become familiar with the social activities available to students at the University of Iceland. Through student associations, other university organisations, student politics, and organised events, students can find good company and form connections with their fellow students while at university.
Student Organisations
Student associations organise various interesting events throughout the academic year, such as freshman evenings, science trips, ski trips, and annual parties, to name a few.
Student associations are run by students, either for specific study programmes, faculties, or academic levels. A list of student associations can be found on the Student Council's website.
Can I establish a new student organization?
Instructions for establishing a new student association can be found on the SHÍ website.
Orientation week
Student Council
The Student Council is the advocate of all University of Iceland students. Elections for the Student Council are held annually, and all registered students at the university have the right to vote and run for a seat in the council.
In addition to handling matters concerning student interests, the council also organises major events such as Octoberfest and end-of-exams celebrations. All information about the Student Council’s activities and news can be found on the website student.is.
The Culture and Social Events Committee is responsible for the most fun projects of the University of Iceland each year. They are active on social media, where you can follow various fun events organized by the committee on Facebook and Instagram.
The Student Council is located on the 3rd floor of the University Centre, above the University Bookstore.
Octoberfest music festival
SHÍ's Octoberfest is a music festival where university students of all ages come together for the largest university event in the country. More information about the festival can be found on the Facebook page for SHÍ Octoberfest.
Student Movements
Two student associations are operating at the University of Iceland, Röskva and Vaka. The student associations present lists for election to the Student Council every year. Those who are interested in student politics can learn about the policies of the movements on their websites. The student movements also organise interesting and fun events for their members and other students.
The Student Paper
Other Associations
Many other interest groups are active at the University of Iceland, along with the Student Theatre and the University Choir. More information about other active associations within the university can be found on the SHÍ website.
Meeting-place for students
The Student Cellar is likely the place where most students come together, but besides that many student associations arrange various events for their students.
The Student Cellar is not just a restaurant on campus but also a lively gathering place for students. On the Student Cellar’s website, you can view the menu along with the opening hours.