Study Destinations
Denmark is known for its intellectual excellence and efficiency, making it a prime destination for international students. This appeal is further enhanced by the country's beautiful surroundings and top-notch public services.
Denmark has a rich tradition of education, with higher education institutions dating back to 1479. The country boasts five types of institutions: universities, art academies, marine education institutions, business academies, and university colleges. Universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs across various fields. University colleges focus on vocational professional courses to prepare students for careers. Art academies specialize in design and art studies. Marine education institutions provide courses that blend research and practical training. Business academies offer professional bachelor's degrees and two-year academy profession programs. Degrees from Danish institutions are recognized internationally, adhering to the Bologna Process.
Denmark has 8 universities among many other higher learning institutions. Five Danish universities are ranked in the top 500 of the QS World University Rankings for 2022. The University of Copenhagen, ranked 79th, is the highest-ranked. Following closely is the Technical University of Denmark, ranked 99th.
Officially known as the Kingdom of Denmark, the country has over 5.78 million residents. Situated in the Nordic region, Denmark borders Germany. It features a flat landscape, sandy coasts, low elevation, and a temperate climate, consisting of 443 islands. Denmark joined the Kalmar Union in 1397 with Sweden and Norway, which Sweden left in 1523. After the Napoleonic Wars, Denmark and Norway remained under the same monarchy until 1814. Denmark joined the European Economic Community (now the EU) in 1973 but kept its own currency. Denmark is a founding member of the United Nations, the OECD, and NATO.
One of the world's most socially and economically advanced nations is Denmark.
Denmark enjoys a high standard of living and ranks highly in democratic governance, healthcare, and education. The nation is led by a monarch with executive authority and a prime minister. However, the monarch's role is largely ceremonial, with the Prime Minister handling policy decisions.
Denmark's official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK).
Tuition costs in Denmark vary based on your country of origin. If you are from an EU/EEA nation, Danish universities are free to attend. International students must pay tuition, which varies by institution and level of study. On average, you should budget between DKK 45,000 and DKK 120,000 annually. Many organizations and universities offer scholarships that students can apply for.
Your living expenses will vary based on your location, with larger cities and towns being more expensive than smaller ones. Plan to spend between DKK 6,000 and DKK 13,500 monthly, covering lodging, food, and transit. Health insurance is another cost to consider emergency medical care is sometimes free, but insurance may be necessary. Check with your institution if you're unsure about health insurance requirements. Citizens of Nordic countries, the EU/EEA, or Switzerland can work in Denmark during their studies without a work permit. Other international students can work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year and full-time in June, July, and August, but will need a work permit.
Depending on your country of origin, you might need a student visa to study in Denmark. Students from the EU/EEA or Switzerland do not require a visa but must apply for a residency permit upon arrival. To apply for this permit, you need to submit your passport, a passport photo, and a letter of admission from your school to your local Statsfervaltningen (state administration). If you are from another country, you will need a visa to study in Denmark. Additionally, you must have a resident permit before entering the country.
Danish is the official language of Denmark, with degree programs commonly offered in both Danish and English. If studying in a language other than your mother tongue, you must prove your language proficiency, usually through an English language test or test results. If you don't meet the required standard, you may take a language course to improve. Even if your studies are in English, learning Danish is beneficial. Practicing with locals and other students will enhance your daily life and look impressive on your CV or resume.
Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, is home to over 777,000 residents. Located on the island of Zealand, it is connected to Sweden's Malmö via the Resund Bridge, Europe's longest combined road and rail bridge. Originally a small fishing village founded in the tenth century, Copenhagen evolved into Denmark's cultural, intellectual, and economic center, becoming the nation's capital in the fifteenth century. The city hosts three universities and several other higher education institutions. Established in 1479, the University of Copenhagen offers a wide range of degree programs across various disciplines and attracts over 1,500 international students annually.
Aarhus, located on the Danish mainland, boasts a population of over 273,000 residents. Known as Aarhus from 1948 until 2010, the city experienced rapid expansion during the industrial revolution. Today, Aarhus is a key hub for trade, services, and industry in the Jutland region. It holds the distinction of being Denmark's fastest-growing city with the youngest population. Alongside various higher education institutions, Aarhus is home to two universities, including Aarhus University, a prominent public research institution founded in 1928. Comprising four faculties and 27 departments, the university offers a diverse array of courses across numerous disciplines.