Studies at the Reykjavik School of Visual Arts are conducted in Icelandic. The exceptions being in foreign language courses and when teachers or lecturers are not fluent in Icelandic.

It is the duty of the school to provide students with a rich Icelandic vocabulary in their field of study. Furthermore, it is important for Icelandic society as a whole that the terminology of diverse vocations is specifically maintained.

Teaching at the school is predominantly practical and teaching methods are individualized. In practical courses teachers can employ various methods to meet the needs of foreign students studying at the school. In academic courses reading material is recommended and written assignments are accepted in English or another foreign language.