As of 2026, Denmark hosts over 35,000 international students, with annual tuition fees ranging from EUR 6,000-16,000 and SU grants available for EU students working 10-12 hours per week.
Denmark hosted approximately 38,000 international students in the 2024–25 academic year, drawn by free tuition for EU/EEA students, world-class universities, and one of the most innovative education systems in Europe. For non-EU students, tuition ranges from DKK 45,000 to DKK 120,000 per year (EUR 6,000–16,000). Denmark’s unique SU grant system pays EU students approximately EUR 860 per month to study, and nearly all master’s programmes are taught in English.
This guide covers actual tuition figures, the SU student grant system, verified scholarship opportunities, residence permit requirements, part-time work rules (20 hours/week), and Denmark’s post-study work pathway — the establishment card that gives graduates time to find qualifying employment.
Denmark’s education system consistently ranks among the top 10 globally (Times Higher Education). The country is a world leader in green energy, design, life sciences, and maritime technology. Danish universities pioneer problem-based learning (PBL), particularly at Aalborg University where the model was developed. For EU students, the combination of free tuition, the SU grant system, and high student wages creates an almost unbeatable financial proposition. Non-EU students face moderate tuition fees but can access merit-based scholarships and benefit from Denmark’s strong post-study employment pathways in STEM and technology sectors.
At a Glance
Tuition Costs
Denmark introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students in 2006. EU/EEA and Swiss citizens continue to study for free at all Danish public universities. Non-EU/EEA students pay fees set by individual universities, varying by field and programme level. Engineering and science programmes are generally more expensive than humanities. All fees listed below are indicative — check individual university websites for current academic year pricing.
EU/EEA vs Non-EU Students
| Student Category | Undergrad (€/yr) | Master's (€/yr) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU/EEA citizens | 0 (free) | 0 (free) | Includes Swiss nationals; must maintain enrolment |
| Non-EU (humanities/social sciences) | 6,000 – 10,000 | 6,000 – 10,000 | DKK 45,000–75,000; CBS, KU, AU |
| Non-EU (engineering/science) | 10,000 – 16,000 | 10,000 – 16,000 | DKK 75,000–120,000; DTU, AU, SDU |
| Non-EU (business programmes) | 8,000 – 14,000 | 10,000 – 16,000 | CBS MBA and specialised programmes highest |
Tuition by Field of Study (Non-EU Students)
| Field | Undergrad (€/yr) | Master's (€/yr) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering & Technology | 11,000 – 16,000 | 11,000 – 16,000 |
| Natural Sciences | 10,000 – 15,000 | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Business & Economics | 8,000 – 14,000 | 10,000 – 16,000 |
| IT & Computer Science | 10,000 – 15,000 | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Humanities & Social Sciences | 6,000 – 10,000 | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Health & Medicine | 12,000 – 16,000 | 12,000 – 16,000 |
Tuition by Top Universities (Non-EU, Annual Fees)
| University | DKK/yr | €/yr | QS 2026 | Strongest Fields |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Copenhagen (KU) | 55,000 – 120,000 | 7,400 – 16,000 | 82 | Medicine, biology, law, humanities |
| Technical University of Denmark (DTU) | 75,000 – 110,000 | 10,000 – 14,800 | 121 | Engineering, energy, sustainability |
| Aarhus University (AU) | 52,000 – 105,000 | 7,000 – 14,000 | 132 | Environmental science, psychology, molecular biology |
| Copenhagen Business School (CBS) | 70,000 – 110,000 | 9,400 – 14,800 | Top 5 (FT) | Business, economics, management |
| Univ. of Southern Denmark (SDU) | 48,000 – 95,000 | 6,400 – 12,700 | 301–350 | Robotics, health, cross-border studies |
| Aalborg University (AAU) | 45,000 – 90,000 | 6,000 – 12,100 | 301–350 | PBL model, engineering, IT, energy |
| IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) | 60,000 – 95,000 | 8,000 – 12,700 | Specialist | Computer science, digital design, data science |
| Roskilde University (RUC) | 45,000 – 75,000 | 6,000 – 10,000 | 401–450 | Interdisciplinary studies, social sciences |
Living Costs
Denmark’s living costs are among the highest in Europe, but several factors offset this for students. The SU grant for EU students covers a large portion of monthly expenses. High student wages (DKK 130–180/hour) mean part-time work goes further than in most countries. Denmark’s cycling culture eliminates transport costs for many students — Copenhagen has more bicycles than people. University canteens offer meals from DKK 30–50, and discount supermarkets like Netto, Fakta, and Rema 1000 keep grocery bills manageable.
Cost Comparison Across Danish Cities
| Expense Category | Copenhagen | Aarhus | Odense | Aalborg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student housing (monthly) | €550 – 800 | €450 – 650 | €400 – 550 | €380 – 520 |
| Groceries | €300 – 400 | €280 – 380 | €260 – 360 | €250 – 350 |
| Transport (student pass) | €40 | €35 | €30 | €30 |
| Eating out (avg meal) | €10 – 20 | €13 – 17 | €12 – 16 | €11 – 15 |
| Monthly total | €1,100 – 1,400 | €950 – 1,200 | €900 – 1,100 | €850 – 1,050 |
EU student with SU (any city): €0 tuition + €860/month SU grant effectively covers most living costs. Net out-of-pocket: €0–€5,000/year with part-time work income covering the gap.
Non-EU budget option (Aalborg, Odense): €16,000 – €24,000/year — Lower tuition programmes plus affordable cities outside Copenhagen.
Non-EU premium (Copenhagen, engineering): €25,000 – €35,000/year — DTU/KU engineering programmes plus Copenhagen living costs.
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Get Student Report — €29Residence Permit Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Type | Residence Permit for Studies (ST1) — non-EU only |
| EU/EEA Citizens | No permit needed; register at International House / Statsforvaltningen after 3 months |
| Acceptance Letter | From a Danish higher education institution |
| Proof of Funds | DKK 6,397/month (approximately €860/month); bank statements |
| Tuition Payment | First semester/year tuition must be paid before permit is issued |
| Health Insurance | Danish public healthcare (yellow card) once registered; private insurance for first months |
| Processing Time | 1–2 months (apply through SIRI) |
| Application Fee | DKK 2,025 (approximately €270) |
| Biometrics | Required at Danish embassy or upon arrival |
| Renewal | Must renew annually; proof of academic progress and continued enrolment required |
| Family Members | Spouse/partner can apply for accompanying permit; must show sufficient funds for entire family |
Denmark’s residence permit process is managed by SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration) and is generally faster than Sweden or Germany, with typical processing times of 1–2 months. Apply online through nyidanmark.dk immediately after receiving your admission letter and paying the tuition deposit. Your permit is tied to your specific educational institution — if you change universities, you must apply for a new permit. The permit includes the right to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during June–August.
CPR Number: Once you arrive, register for a CPR number (personal identification number) at your local International House or Borgerservice. This gives you access to public healthcare (yellow health card), a NemID/MitID (digital ID), and the ability to open a Danish bank account. Processing takes 1–2 weeks.
Housing before arrival: Finding housing in Copenhagen is extremely competitive. Apply for university-managed housing (kollegium) as early as possible. The Housing Foundation (Kollegiekontoret) manages subsidised student rooms. Costs range from DKK 3,000–5,000/month (EUR 400–670). Outside Copenhagen, housing is easier to find.
SU eligibility (EU students): To qualify for SU, EU students must work at least 10–12 hours per week in Denmark. Register with SKAT (tax authority) and apply for SU through the minSU portal. The grant is DKK 6,397/month and is not repayable. This is one of the most generous student support systems globally.
MitID (digital identity): After receiving your CPR number, set up MitID — Denmark’s digital identity system used for banking, government services, and SU applications. Without MitID, you cannot access most Danish online services. The setup process typically requires visiting a citizen service centre (Borgerservice) in person with your passport and CPR confirmation.
Rejsekort (travel card): Obtain a Rejsekort (travel card) for public transport as soon as possible after arrival. The personal Rejsekort requires a CPR number and provides the cheapest fares. An anonymous Rejsekort can be purchased immediately at train stations without CPR.
Scholarships for International Students
Full or partial tuition waiver + DKK 6,397/month grant
Available to highly qualified non-EU students from select countries. Cover full or partial tuition waiver plus a monthly grant equal to SU rates. Allocated to individual universities, which select recipients. Number of awards varies by institution. Apply through the university you are admitted to — no central application. Deadline: typically March–April for September intake. Highly competitive.
Full or partial tuition waiver + DKK 7,500/month
Technical University of Denmark offers scholarships to top non-EU master’s applicants. Full scholarships cover tuition and provide a generous monthly stipend of DKK 7,500 (EUR 1,000). Partial scholarships waive 50–100% of tuition. Assessed automatically during admission based on academic excellence. No separate application. DTU is Denmark’s top engineering university (QS 121).
Full or partial tuition waiver
Copenhagen Business School offers tuition waivers to outstanding non-EU applicants for master’s programmes. Merit-based — assessed on academic record and motivation. Full waivers cover DKK 70,000–110,000/year tuition. Some scholarships include a monthly stipend. Applied through CBS admission portal. CBS is one of Europe’s largest and most reputable business schools.
DKK 6,397/month (€860) — not a loan
Denmark’s state education grant available to EU/EEA students who work 10–12 hours per week in Denmark. Pays DKK 6,397/month (approximately EUR 860) in non-repayable grants. Combined with free tuition, this makes Denmark essentially free for EU students. Apply through minSU portal after obtaining CPR number and employment. One of the world’s most generous student support systems.
Full or partial tuition waiver
Aarhus University offers tuition waivers to qualified non-EU students. Full and partial awards available across most master’s programmes. Based on academic merit. Some programmes also offer monthly stipends. Assessed during admission — indicate scholarship interest on your application. AU is Denmark’s second-largest university with strong research output (QS 132).
Mobility grants: €300 – 500/month
Nordplus offers mobility grants for students from Nordic and Baltic countries studying in Denmark. Erasmus+ provides EU student exchange funding. Erasmus Mundus joint master’s programmes include full scholarships for both EU and non-EU students. Apply through your home university (exchange) or directly (Erasmus Mundus). Supplements tuition and living costs during exchange periods.
Apply early: Scholarship deadlines at Danish universities typically fall in January, well before the March application deadline. Prepare your scholarship documents in November–December. Missing the scholarship deadline does not affect your admission application, but you will miss the funding opportunity.
Combine sources: Some students combine a partial university tuition waiver (50%) with external funding from their home country or employers to cover remaining costs. Check whether your government offers bilateral scholarships for study in Denmark.
EU students — SU is your scholarship: For EU/EEA students, the SU grant (DKK 6,397/month = EUR 860) combined with free tuition is effectively a full scholarship. With part-time work income on top, EU students in Denmark often have a higher effective income than students in most other countries.
Work While Studying
International students in Denmark can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during June, July, and August. Denmark has no statutory minimum wage, but wages are governed by collective agreements and are among the highest in Europe — student jobs typically pay DKK 130–180/hour (EUR 17–24). Common student jobs include hospitality, retail, tutoring, research assistant positions, and student assistant (studentermedarbejder) roles at companies. EU students who work at least 10–12 hours per week qualify for the SU grant (DKK 6,397/month), making Denmark one of the few countries where you can earn money while studying for free.
The most sought-after student jobs are “studentermedarbejder” (student assistant) positions at Danish companies, paying DKK 150–220/hour (EUR 20–30) and providing direct industry experience. These roles are common in IT, consulting, engineering, and marketing. Danish companies actively recruit student assistants through university career portals, LinkedIn, and Jobindex.dk. Non-EU students should ensure their working hours stay within the 20-hour weekly limit — exceeding this can jeopardise your residence permit. Tax is approximately 37% on income above the personal allowance (DKK 49,700/year in 2026), so factor this into your earnings expectations.
Timing: You can apply for SU from the month you start working 10–12 hours/week. The grant begins the following month. Apply through minSU.dk as soon as you have your CPR number and a Danish employment contract.
Maintain eligibility: You must continue working 10–12 hours/week throughout your studies to keep receiving SU. If your employment drops below this threshold, SU payments will be suspended. Keep payslips and employment contracts as documentation.
SU-lån (optional loan): In addition to the SU grant, you can take an SU-lån (student loan) of up to DKK 3,485/month at low interest rates. Unlike the grant, this must be repaid after graduation. Most financial advisors recommend avoiding the loan unless absolutely necessary.
Post-Study Work Rights
Studentermedarbejder roles: Working as a student assistant at a Danish company during your studies is the single best way to secure post-graduation employment. Many employers convert student assistants into full-time hires. CBS, DTU, and ITU have the strongest employer connections for these roles.
Thesis with industry: Danish universities encourage industry-linked thesis projects. Writing your thesis with companies like Novo Nordisk, Vestas, Maersk, or Danske Bank provides 6 months of embedded experience and frequently leads to job offers.
Career fairs: Attend university career events including DTU Career Fair, CBS Career Fair, and Job & Karriere Aarhus. These events connect students directly with Danish employers actively seeking international talent, particularly in STEM and business roles.
Pay Limit Scheme: The current salary threshold is DKK 375,000/year (approximately EUR 50,000). Most graduates in engineering, IT, and business meet this threshold with their starting salary. Humanities graduates may need to target the Positive List route instead.
Top Universities for International Students
| University | QS 2026 Rank | Location | Strengths | Int'l Student % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Copenhagen (KU) | 82 | Copenhagen | Medicine, biology, humanities, research | 15% |
| Technical University of Denmark (DTU) | 121 | Lyngby (Copenhagen) | Engineering, technology, sustainability, energy | 30% |
| Aarhus University (AU) | 132 | Aarhus | Environmental science, psychology, molecular biology | 12% |
| Copenhagen Business School (CBS) | Top 5 Europe (FT) | Copenhagen | Business, economics, management, finance | 25% |
| University of Southern Denmark (SDU) | 301–350 | Odense | Robotics, health, engineering, cross-border | 13% |
| Aalborg University (AAU) | 301–350 | Aalborg | Problem-based learning, engineering, IT, energy | 10% |
| IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) | Specialist | Copenhagen | Computer science, digital design, data science | 28% |
| Roskilde University (RUC) | 401–450 | Roskilde | Interdisciplinary studies, social sciences, humanities | 8% |
Denmark has only eight universities, all publicly funded and of consistently high quality. This concentration means resources are not diluted across hundreds of institutions as in larger countries. Danish universities are known for student-centred learning, flat hierarchies, and strong industry partnerships. Aalborg University’s problem-based learning (PBL) model — where students work in teams on real-world projects rather than attending traditional lectures — has been adopted by universities worldwide. CBS is one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious business schools, while DTU ranks among the world’s top technical universities for engineering and sustainability research.
For engineering and technology: DTU (Lyngby/Copenhagen) is Denmark’s leading technical university and the natural choice for engineering, energy, and sustainability programmes. AAU (Aalborg) is an excellent, more affordable alternative with a unique PBL teaching model.
For business and economics: CBS (Copenhagen) is the clear leader — ranked in the top 5 European business schools by the Financial Times. Aarhus BSS (Aarhus University’s business school) is a strong second choice with lower living costs.
For research and sciences: University of Copenhagen (KU) is Denmark’s highest-ranked university and strongest in medicine, biology, and fundamental research. Its Niels Bohr Institute is world-renowned for physics.
For IT and digital: ITU Copenhagen is a specialist institution focused entirely on computer science, data science, and digital design. Its small size means excellent student-to-faculty ratios and strong industry connections with Copenhagen’s tech scene.
Flat hierarchy: Danish education is exceptionally egalitarian. Students address professors by first name, office hours are genuinely open, and questioning authority is encouraged. This reflects Denmark’s broader “Janteloven” (Law of Jante) culture of equality.
Problem-based learning (PBL): Pioneered at Aalborg University and now adopted across Danish universities, PBL involves students working in groups on real-world problems. This builds teamwork, critical thinking, and practical skills valued by employers.
Group work emphasis: Danish education places heavy emphasis on collaborative work. Expect significant group projects in most programmes. Contributions are typically assessed both individually and collectively.
Academic integrity: Plagiarism is taken extremely seriously. Danish universities use automated detection software, and confirmed cases result in expulsion or suspension. Familiarise yourself with proper referencing standards early in your programme.
Application Timeline & Deadlines
Danish university applications are managed through individual university portals or the centralised optagelse.dk system. Non-EU students typically apply directly to the university, while EU/Danish applicants use optagelse.dk for bachelor’s programmes. Planning your timeline carefully is critical — scholarship deadlines often fall before admission deadlines.
| Month | September Intake (Primary) | February Intake (Limited) |
|---|---|---|
| November – December | Research programmes; prepare documents | — |
| January 15 | Scholarship application deadline (many universities) | — |
| March 1 | Application deadline (non-EU master’s at most universities) | — |
| March 15 | Optagelse.dk deadline (bachelor’s, Danish/EU applicants) | — |
| April – May | Admission decisions; scholarship results announced | — |
| May – June | Accept offer; pay tuition deposit; apply for residence permit | — |
| June – August | Wait for permit (1–2 months); arrange housing | — |
| Late August / September | Semester starts; introduction weeks | — |
| October 1 | — | Application deadline (February intake, limited programmes) |
| November – December | — | February intake admission decisions |
| February | — | Spring semester begins |
Non-EU applicants: Apply for your SIRI residence permit as soon as you receive your admission letter and pay the tuition deposit. Processing takes 1–2 months, faster than Sweden or Germany. Casefile number and application receipt are issued immediately upon online submission.
Required documents: Certified transcripts, degree certificates, English proficiency test scores, motivation letter (for selective programmes), and passport copy. Some programmes require a portfolio (design/architecture) or GMAT score (CBS MBA). Documents in languages other than English or Danish need certified translation.
Student Housing Guide
Finding housing in Copenhagen is the biggest practical challenge for international students in Denmark. The Kollegiekontoret manages subsidised student rooms (kollegier) across Copenhagen, but waiting lists are long. The Housing Foundation offers temporary accommodation for incoming international students. University-managed housing is often reserved for the first semester only — students must find private housing after that. Outside Copenhagen, housing is significantly easier and cheaper to find. Aarhus has a well-organised student housing system, and Odense and Aalborg have ample availability.
| Housing Type | Copenhagen | Aarhus | Odense | Aalborg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kollegium room | DKK 3,500 – 5,000 | DKK 3,000 – 4,500 | DKK 2,800 – 4,000 | DKK 2,500 – 3,800 |
| Shared flat (private) | DKK 5,000 – 7,000 | DKK 4,000 – 5,500 | DKK 3,500 – 5,000 | DKK 3,200 – 4,500 |
| Studio (private) | DKK 7,000 – 9,000 | DKK 5,500 – 7,500 | DKK 4,500 – 6,500 | DKK 4,000 – 6,000 |
| Typical wait time | 3 – 12 months | 1 – 4 months | Immediate – 2 months | Immediate – 1 month |
| Key portal | Kollegiekontoret, Boligportal | Kollegiekontoret, BoligAarhus | SDU Housing, Boligportal | AAU Housing, Boligportal |
Graduate Employment & Salary Outcomes
Denmark has one of Europe’s strongest labour markets for STEM graduates. The country’s “flexicurity” model combines easy hiring and firing with generous unemployment benefits, creating a dynamic job market. Green energy, pharmaceuticals, maritime, IT, and design are Denmark’s key growth sectors. The establishment card gives graduates up to 3 years to find qualifying employment.
| Field of Study | Avg Starting Salary (DKK/mo) | Avg Starting Salary (€/mo) | Employment Rate (6 months) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science / IT | 40,000 – 46,000 | 5,360 – 6,160 | 94% |
| Engineering (general) | 38,000 – 44,000 | 5,090 – 5,900 | 91% |
| Business / Finance | 35,000 – 42,000 | 4,690 – 5,630 | 87% |
| Natural Sciences | 33,000 – 38,000 | 4,420 – 5,090 | 79% |
| Health / Pharmaceutical | 37,000 – 48,000 | 4,960 – 6,430 | 93% |
| Humanities / Social Sciences | 30,000 – 35,000 | 4,020 – 4,690 | 65% |
| Design / Architecture | 32,000 – 37,000 | 4,290 – 4,960 | 72% |
Green energy & engineering: Vestas (wind turbines), Ørsted (offshore wind), Danfoss (energy efficiency), Grundfos (water technology), and Siemens Gamesa all recruit extensively from DTU, AAU, and SDU. Denmark aims to be carbon-neutral by 2050 and these sectors are growing rapidly.
Pharma & life sciences: Novo Nordisk (world’s largest insulin manufacturer), Lundbeck, LEO Pharma, and the Medicon Valley biotech cluster provide excellent career opportunities for health science and chemistry graduates.
Tech & digital: Unity Technologies (Copenhagen), Trustpilot, Zendesk, and a growing startup ecosystem centred around Copenhagen offer opportunities for CS and IT graduates. CBS alumni dominate Danish fintech and management consulting.
Language Requirements
English proficiency is required for all English-taught programmes. Danish language skills are not required for English-taught courses but significantly improve employment prospects and daily life after graduation.
| Test | Minimum Score (Standard) | Selective Programmes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 (no band below 5.5) | 7.0 (CBS, KU medicine) | Most commonly accepted; valid 2 years |
| TOEFL iBT | 83 (varies by university) | 100 (selective programmes) | DTU requires 88; CBS requires 91 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 176 overall | 185+ | Widely accepted across all Danish universities |
| PTE Academic | 62 | 68+ | Accepted at DTU, KU, AU; check other universities |
| Danish (Studieprøven i dansk) | Pass (level B2+) | — | Required for Danish-taught programmes only |
| Exemptions | Previous degree from English-medium institution; Nordic education with English component; citizenship of English-speaking country | ||
Free Danish courses: International students and workers in Denmark are entitled to up to 3.5 years of free Danish language education (danskuddannelse), divided into 5 modules from beginner to advanced. Classes are offered through municipal language centres (sprogcentre) with flexible scheduling including evening classes.
Why learn Danish? While 90%+ of Danes speak excellent English, the job market is different. Many companies conduct internal meetings in Danish, and public-sector roles almost always require it. Reaching B1 level during your studies is achievable and will meaningfully improve your employment prospects. University language courses, Danish language cafés, and apps like Babbel supplement formal instruction.
Student Life & Culture
Danish student life revolves around “fredagsbarer” (Friday bars) — university-organised social events where departments host cheap drinks and socialising every Friday afternoon. This tradition is central to building friendships and professional networks. Denmark’s concept of “hygge” (cosiness, togetherness) permeates social life — expect candlelit dinners, board game nights, and cosy get-togethers rather than loud nightlife. Danish society is flat and egalitarian: professors and students are on first-name terms, work-life balance is deeply valued, and hierarchies in both education and employment are minimal.
Cycling is the dominant mode of transport, especially in Copenhagen where over 60% of residents commute by bike. International students are strongly encouraged to buy a bicycle immediately upon arrival — secondhand bikes cost DKK 500–2,000. Copenhagen’s bike infrastructure is world-class, with dedicated lanes, traffic signals, and even bike superhighways connecting suburbs. Denmark has 5 weeks of mandatory holiday per year, and public holidays cluster around Christmas and Easter, creating extended breaks ideal for travel across Scandinavia.
Denmark is one of the world’s most inclusive and tolerant societies. LGBTQ+ rights are fully protected, gender equality is deeply embedded in both law and culture, and Denmark was the first country in the world to legally recognise same-sex partnerships (1989). International students generally report feeling safe and welcomed. Building close friendships with Danes can take time — Danes tend to be reserved initially but become warm and loyal friends once relationships develop. Joining student organisations, sports clubs, and fredagsbarer is the fastest way to build a social network.
Healthcare & Insurance
Denmark has a universal tax-funded healthcare system. Once you register for a CPR number (which all students studying 3+ months receive), you are assigned a GP (praktiserende læge) and receive a yellow health card (sundhedskort). All GP visits, hospital stays, and specialist referrals are free. Unlike Sweden, there are no co-payments for doctor visits. However, dental care is not covered for adults — budget DKK 1,000–3,000 per year for check-ups and basic treatment, or consider supplementary insurance through “danmark” (a health insurance association).
Non-EU students are required to have private health insurance until they receive their CPR number and yellow card, which typically takes 1–2 weeks after registration. All Danish universities offer student counselling services, stress management support, and mental health resources. The emergency number is 112, and the non-emergency health helpline is 1813 (Copenhagen region) for after-hours medical advice.
Transport & Getting Around
Denmark’s public transport system is efficient and well-connected, though not cheap. The Rejsekort (travel card) is the most cost-effective way to use buses, trains, and the Copenhagen Metro. Students under 26 can purchase an Ungdomskort (youth travel card) for DKK 642/month, providing unlimited travel across specified zones. Copenhagen’s Metro runs 24 hours on weekends and is fully automated. However, cycling is king — Copenhagen has over 400 km of dedicated bike lanes, and most students cycle year-round (yes, even in Danish winters). Buy a secondhand bike from DBA.dk or local bike shops for DKK 500–2,000.
For inter-city travel, DSB (Danish State Railways) connects all major cities. Copenhagen to Aarhus takes approximately 3 hours by train, and Copenhagen to Odense takes 1.5 hours. Student discount cards reduce rail fares by up to 50%. The Øresund Bridge connects Copenhagen to Malmö, Sweden (35 minutes by train), giving students easy access to another country. Budget airlines connect Copenhagen’s Kastrup airport to destinations across Europe, and FlixBus provides affordable intercity and international connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study in Denmark as an international student?
EU/EEA students pay no tuition at Danish public universities. Non-EU students pay DKK 45,000–120,000 per year (EUR 6,000–16,000) depending on the programme. Engineering and science programmes are at the higher end. Living costs range from EUR 900/month in Aalborg to EUR 1,400/month in Copenhagen. EU students working 10–12 hours/week qualify for the SU grant (EUR 860/month), effectively making the total cost near zero.
Do I need a student visa to study in Denmark?
EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa — just register at the local International House after 3 months. Non-EU students need a residence permit for studies (ST1), applied for through SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration). You need an acceptance letter, proof of funds (DKK 6,397/month), tuition payment for the first period, and health insurance. Processing takes 1–2 months.
Can I work while studying in Denmark?
Yes. Students can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time in June–August. EU students working 10–12 hours/week qualify for the SU grant of DKK 6,397/month (EUR 860). Student wages are among Europe’s highest at DKK 130–180/hour (EUR 17–24). You must register with SKAT (tax authority). Common student jobs include hospitality, retail, and student assistant roles at Danish companies.
Can I stay in Denmark after graduating?
Yes. Graduates can apply for an establishment card (job-seeking permit) valid for up to 3 years. You must find a job meeting the Pay Limit Scheme threshold (DKK 375,000/year) or a role on the Positive List. Denmark’s job market is strong for STEM, IT, engineering, and green energy sectors. Learning Danish significantly improves job prospects. Apply before your student residence permit expires.
What is SU and can international students get it?
SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte) is Denmark’s state education grant of DKK 6,397/month (EUR 860). EU/EEA students who work at least 10–12 hours per week qualify. It is a grant, not a loan — you do not repay it. Combined with free tuition, this makes Denmark essentially free for EU students who work part-time. Non-EU students are not eligible for SU. Apply through the minSU portal after getting your CPR number.
What are the best universities in Denmark?
Top universities include University of Copenhagen (QS 82) for sciences and medicine, DTU (121) for engineering, Aarhus University (132) for research and environmental science, CBS for business (top 5 in Europe), and SDU and AAU for innovative engineering. ITU Copenhagen is a specialist IT university. Nearly all offer extensive English-taught master’s programmes. Denmark has 8 universities, all publicly funded and high quality.
Are programmes taught in English in Denmark?
Yes. Denmark offers over 700 English-taught programmes. Almost all master’s programmes at major universities are in English. Many bachelor’s programmes are also available in English. Danes have among the highest English proficiency in the world. At DTU and CBS, the majority of master’s students are international. No Danish language skills are required for English-taught programmes, though learning Danish helps with integration and employment.
Is Denmark expensive for students?
Denmark has high living costs — Copenhagen is one of Europe’s most expensive cities. Budget EUR 1,100–1,400/month in Copenhagen or EUR 900–1,100 in Aalborg and Odense. However, free tuition for EU students and the SU grant (EUR 860/month) offset costs significantly. High student wages (EUR 17–24/hour) also help. Subsidised student housing and the cycling culture reduce housing and transport costs. Outside Copenhagen, Denmark is more affordable.
How do I find student housing in Denmark?
Apply through Kollegiekontoret for subsidised student housing in Copenhagen, or directly through university housing portals. Boligportal.dk and Facebook groups are common for private rentals. Copenhagen has the longest wait times (3–12 months for Kollegiekontoret); Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg are significantly easier. Budget DKK 3,000–5,000/month for a kollegium room. Always demand a written contract (lejekontrakt). The Housing Foundation provides temporary housing for newly arrived international students.
Is healthcare free for students in Denmark?
Yes, once you have a CPR number (issued within 1–2 weeks of registering). You receive a yellow health card and are assigned a GP. All GP visits, specialist referrals, and hospital stays are free. Dental care is not covered for adults — budget DKK 1,000–3,000/year. Non-EU students need private insurance until they receive their CPR number. EU students should also bring their EHIC card as a supplement.
What is the best city to study in Denmark?
Copenhagen is Denmark’s largest and most international city with the most universities (KU, DTU, CBS, ITU) and strongest job market, but it is the most expensive. Aarhus is Denmark’s second city with a strong university (AU), lower costs, and a vibrant cultural scene. Odense (SDU) and Aalborg (AAU) are the most affordable options with excellent student life and easier housing. Lyngby (DTU) is technically part of Greater Copenhagen and offers a quieter campus atmosphere.
How Denmark Compares
Denmark’s standout advantage is the SU grant system — no other country pays EU students EUR 860/month simply for studying while working part-time. Combined with free tuition, this makes Denmark effectively free (or even profitable) for EU students. Compared to Sweden, Denmark offers a more generous post-study work visa (3 years vs 9 months) but restricts student work hours (20/week vs unlimited). Compared to Germany, Denmark has higher living costs but higher student wages and a more streamlined application process. Non-EU students face moderate tuition (EUR 6,000–16,000), lower than the UK or Netherlands but higher than Germany’s near-zero fees.
Key Takeaways
- EU/EEA students study for free at all Danish universities, and the SU grant of DKK 6,397/month (EUR 860) effectively pays you to study if you work 10–12 hours per week.
- Non-EU students pay DKK 45,000–120,000/year (EUR 6,000–16,000), but merit-based scholarships are available at every major university. Apply early — scholarship deadlines are typically in January.
- The establishment card gives graduates up to 3 years to find qualifying employment — one of the most generous post-study work pathways in Europe.
- Copenhagen is expensive but Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg offer excellent education at 20–30% lower living costs with easier access to student housing.
- Learn Danish during your studies to significantly improve post-graduation employment prospects. Free language courses are available for up to 3.5 years.
- Student wages are among Europe’s highest at DKK 130–180/hour (EUR 17–24), making part-time work a genuine income source rather than pocket money.
Related Guides
- Study in Germany — tuition-free option with lower living costs
- Study in the Netherlands — another strong English-taught destination
- Study in Sweden — compare Nordic study destinations
- Study in Austria — low tuition European alternative
- Study Abroad from India — compare Denmark with 9 other destinations
- Emigrate to Denmark — immigration guide for workers and professionals
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Get Student Report — €29Last updated: 4 March 2026. Tuition data from Study in Denmark (official portal), individual university websites, and the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science. Scholarship details from official programme pages. Living costs based on Numbeo, Boligportal, and student surveys. Exchange rate: 1 DKK ≈ 0.134 EUR (Q1 2026). This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or financial advice.