Leikskóli in Reykjanesbær: how to apply and what to expect

Reykjanesbær is unusually transparent about why its age target is what it is — the municipality publishes its own capacity math.

The facts

Youngest age: Effective target 18 months, per the municipality's own February 2026 capacity review; waitlist registration allowed from 12 months
How to register: Online at reykjanesbaer.is; ongoing communication through the Vala app once enrolled
When lists open: Allocations in March; settling-in typically begins in August
Typical wait: Not published as an average — but the municipality has published capacity figures showing places are tight below 18 months
Monthly cost: 36,616–40,068 kr. attendance (8–8.5 hours/day) plus 12,165 kr. meals
Free hours: None — instead, hourly-rate subsidies for single parents and parents in full-time study
Official page: www.reykjanesbaer.is/is/thjonusta/menntun-og-fraedsla/leikskolar
Last checked: 17 September 2026

How to register

Apply online

Submit your application at reykjanesbaer.is — you can apply from your child's date of birth.

Register on the waitlist from 12 months

Children are ranked by birth date, though the municipality's effective target for an actual offer is 18 months given its current capacity.

Wait for the March allocation round

Offers are sent by email; confirm promptly or the place may be treated as declined.

Apply for an hourly subsidy if you qualify

Single parents and parents in full-time study can apply for a subsidy on the hourly rate, renewed every August.

How this compares to other municipalities

Reykjanesbær is the only municipality here that publishes its own capacity math: by its own account, admitting children before 18 months would push demand close to its full capacity of 1,190 places.

Garðabær →Reykjavík →

Official sources

Vagga is a planning tool, not a government authority. Always confirm details on the official Icelandic sources below.

Reykjanesbær — Leikskólaropen_in_newApplications, fees, and the municipality's own capacity analysis

Frequently asked questions

What age can my child start preschool in Reykjanesbær?expand_more

The municipality's effective target, per its own February 2026 capacity review, is 18 months — though you can register on the waitlist from 12 months.

How do I apply?expand_more

Online at reykjanesbaer.is, with ongoing communication through the Vala app once your child is enrolled.

How much does it cost?expand_more

36,616–40,068 kr./month attendance for an 8–8.5 hour day, plus 12,165 kr./month for meals.

Are any hours free?expand_more

No — instead, Reykjanesbær offers hourly-rate subsidies for single parents and parents in full-time study.

Plan the whole gap, not just the waitlist

See how your municipality's rules line up with your parental leave and your child's age, in one place.

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