Study in Denmark: The Ultimate Guide for International Students

Denmark—land of Viking heritage, fairytales, and world-leading higher education—invites international students to immerse themselves in a vibrant Nordic culture, cutting-edge research facilities, and a truly unique student life. Whether you’re planning a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD, this guide covers everything you need to know about study in Denmark, from tuition fees and cost of living to visa requirements, scholarships, and beyond.

Why Study in Denmark?

World-Class Education
Danish universities rank among Europe’s best, thanks to:

Strong emphasis on research and innovation

Project-based learning and problem-solving

English-taught programs at bachelor’s and master’s levels

Safe & Sustainable Society

Consistently ranked one of the world’s safest countries

Green campuses, clean energy, and a high standard of living

The concept of “hygge” (coziness) fosters community and wellbeing

High Graduate Employability

Denmark boasts one of the lowest graduate unemployment rates in Europe

Strong ties between universities and industry

Opportunities for internships and research collaborations

Work While You Study

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time in holidays

Valuable work experience and extra income to offset living costs

Tuition Fees in Denmark

Free Education for EU/EEA Students

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens, as well as certain residence permit holders, enjoy tuition-free education at Danish public universities.

Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA Students

Pro Tip: Application fees of DKK 750 (€100) per institution typically apply for non-EU/EEA students, often covering multiple programs.

Cost of Living in Denmark

Denmark’s cost of living is higher than many European countries, but careful budgeting makes it manageable.

Estimated Monthly Budget

• Accommodation:
  • Student halls: €400 – €700
  • Shared apartments: €500 – €900
  • Private rentals (Copenhagen): €800 – €1,500
• Food & Groceries:
  • Discount supermarkets (Netto, Fakta): €200 – €300
  • Dining out sparingly keeps costs down
• Transport:
  • Monthly public transit pass: €50 – €80
  • Cycling culture: one-time bike purchase ~€150

Visa Applicants: You may need to show €750 – €900 per month in blocked account funds when applying for a Denmark student visa.

Student Life & Culture

Campus Environment

• Collaborative classrooms, small group projects, and flat hierarchies
• Access to state-of-the-art labs and libraries
• English-speaking teaching staff and international student services

Social Integration

“Hygge” events: cozy gatherings, fika-style cafés, and communal dinners

Student organizations: sports clubs, cultural societies, and academic associations

National festivals: Roskilde Festival, Copenhagen Jazz Festival, and more

Language

English proficiency is sufficient for most programs

Danish language courses free or subsidized; boosts employability and daily life

Scholarships & Funding

Denmark offers various scholarships for non-EU/EEA students to help cover tuition fees and living costs:

Danish Government Scholarships

Funded by the Ministry of Higher Education & Science

Often target priority countries or specific fields

University-Specific Grants

Aarhus University, University of Copenhagen, etc., offer limited merit-based scholarships

Nordplus & Erasmus+

EU programs supporting exchanges and short-term studies in Denmark

Private Foundations

Egmont Foundation, Novo Nordisk Foundation: select funding for research students

Pro Tip: Apply early—deadlines are often October–December for autumn intake.

Denmark Student Visa & Residence Permit

EU/EEA Students

• No visa needed; register for a CPR number to access health care, banking, and services

Non-EU/EEA Students

Step 1: Obtain Admission

• Receive admission letter from a Designated Educational Institution (DLI)

Step 2: Blocked Account

• Deposit ~€11,000 (equivalent to one year’s funds) in a blocked bank account to prove financial means

Step 3: Apply for Residence Permit

• Online application via New to Denmark portal
• Required documents:
  • Passport copy
  • Admission letter
  • Proof of funds (blocked account)
  • Health insurance (until CPR registration)
• Processing time: 1–3 months
• Fee: ~DKK 2,500 (€335)

Step 4: Arrival & Registration

• Collect Residence Card at local Citizen Service Center
• Register for CPR, open a bank account, and enroll in health care

Career Prospects & Post-Study Options

1. Work During Studies
   • Part-time (20 hrs/week) during term
   • Full-time in holidays
   • No work permit required for non-EU/EEA students
2. Graduation
   • Standard Bachelor’s/Master’s: 3–5 years
   • PhD programs typically include funding and stipends
3. Post-Study Stay
   • Apply for Job Seeker visa: 6 months to find skilled employment
   • Skilled Worker permit after securing a job offer
   • Path to permanent residency after 8 years (2 years for EU)**

Conclusion

Studying in Denmark offers a rare combination of world-class education, cultural richness, and high quality of life. While tuition fees and living costs may seem significant, the availability of scholarships, part-time work, and a supportive student environment make Denmark an affordable and desirable destination for thousands of international students each year. Start your Denmark study journey today and unlock a future filled with academic excellence, personal growth, and lifelong memories!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I study in Denmark for free?

Yes, if you are from the EU/EEA or hold qualifying residence permits.

How much does it cost to live in Denmark as a student?

Approximately €900 – €1,980 per month, depending on city and lifestyle.

Are there English-taught programs?

Yes, most universities offer English Master’s and many Bachelor’s programs.

Can I work while studying?

Yes, 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays without a separate work permit.

What visa do I need?

Residence permit for studies via the New to Denmark portal; no visa for EU/EEA students—just CPR registration.