Studying in Denmark

Denmark is located in northern Europe. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and provides a safe and friendly environment for students to study in.

Universities in Denmark have a reputation for academic excellence in a number of areas, however, their reputation in areas such as life sciences, IT, engineering and social sciences are considered second-to-none.

Denmark is regularly voted as the ‘happiest place in the world’ to live. Danes are also cycle lovers so students should reap in the benefits of pedalling around the bicycle-friendly streets in the capital, Copenhagen - saving you money on travel.

With a small population of only 5.5 million, Denmark ranks as one of the world’s most advanced countries, giving thanks to its high-quality education and research, with the country’s universities working closely with businesses to offer an up-to-date learning environment where students can learn from industry experts and take part in internships in globally recognised organisations.

In addition, two Danish universities ranked in the Top 100 of the World University Rankings in 2013-2014; the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University. While tuition fees are free for EU students, the cost of living can be expensive, and accommodation is in high demand.

Danish universities offer over 500 English-taught degree courses in a wide range of subject areas. Higher education in Denmark is divided as:

• University level institutions of art, design and architecture – provide research-based bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree courses including fine and performing arts.
• Universities are offering bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programmes across a variety of academic subject areas.
• University colleges – these offer vocational, professional bachelor degree courses in engineering, nursing, teaching and business
• Academies of professional higher education which offer professional bachelor programmes alongside Academy Profession (AP) degree courses. These last between two and two-and-half-years and combine practical and theoretical study.

What do I need to get into a Danish university?

Individual institutions will ask prospective students to meet different criteria. Each Denmark niversity manages its own admissions and application process; therefore entry requirements may vary between courses. However, the minimum admission requirement for English-taught degree courses is equivalent proof of proficiency in English and the same for Danish programmes.

Potential students can check if their qualifications are accepted by Danish institutions online. Make sure you check out what English qualifications are equivalent to in Denmark prior to application.

How much will it cost me to study in Denmark?

Nationals of the European Union (EU) are able to live and study in Denmark with the same conditions as natives. Prospective students won’t have to pay higher course fees and are eligible for grants.

The country offers free education for students from the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA) and for any student who wishes to participate in an exchange programme. International students outside these criteria will have to pay tuition fees which can range from 490 – 13,000 euros depending on the university in Denmark and degree course.

Will I get funding to study in Denmark?

Grants and scholarships are available to support students with their living costs. Students can look here on the Danish Educational Support Agency – State Educational Grant and Loan Scheme website for more details. International students can also receive government scholarships, for more information see the Study in Denmark site.

Will I need a student visa to study in Denmark?

EU nationals are able to live and study in any other country which is also a member state of the European Union or a part of the EEA. Prospective students will be able to study abroad if they can provide; evidence of being able to support themselves away from the state (work or savings), prove enrolment with an approved university or education institution and have sufficient health insurance cover (which includes the EHIC card as well as private or extra travel insurance coverage).

EU citizens studying in Denmark for longer than three months may be required to obtain a registration certificate. To register, students will need a passport, two passport-style photographs and the letter of admission from the university. These permits are simply used to provide proof and evidence of your rights as an EU citizen.

Non-EU nationals will require a visa as well as a residence permit. For more information on visas, students can read up here on the Statsforvaltningerne site and on the Study on the Denmark Residence Permits section, as well as checking if you need a visa here with the The Danish Immigration Service.

Cost of Living

Potential students wanting to study abroad in Denmark should research how much it will cost them for day-to-day expenses. We have compiled a list that shows everyday items and their average cost to give students a head start below.

*All costs are accurate at the time of publication.