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Admissions • Costs • Scholarships • Visas • Student Life
Study in Denmark
World-class education in a progressive Nordic environment
Overview
Denmark combines world-class education with a progressive, student-centered approach. The Danish education system emphasises critical thinking, practical problem-solving, and interactive learning, preparing graduates with skills valued globally.
The country offers over 600 English-taught programmes across public universities. International students benefit from modern facilities, safe cities, excellent public services, and a welcoming multicultural environment. Denmark's commitment to innovation and equality makes it an attractive destination for students seeking quality education and career opportunities.
Why Choose Denmark
Top-ranked universities
Innovation hub
English-friendly
Quality of life
Top Universities in Denmark
University of Copenhagen
Key Strengths
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Key Strengths
Aarhus University
Key Strengths
University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
Key Strengths
Aalborg University
Key Strengths
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
Key Strengths
Popular Programmes & Focus Areas
Denmark excels in engineering, business, health sciences, and sustainability. Programmes emphasise practical learning, research projects, and collaboration with industry.
Engineering & Technology
Strong programmes in renewable energy, wind power, pharmaceuticals, and software engineering with industry partnerships.
Featured: DTU, Aalborg University, University of Southern Denmark
Business & Economics
World-renowned business programmes at CBS, Aarhus, and Copenhagen with focus on sustainable business and innovation.
Featured: Copenhagen Business School, Aarhus University, University of Copenhagen
Health Sciences & Medicine
Excellent medical and health science programmes with strong research connections and clinical training.
Featured: University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, University of Southern Denmark
Admission Requirements
Applications are submitted through Optagelse.dk (for bachelor's) or directly to universities (for master's). Deadlines: January 15 for most programmes.
undergraduate
- Upper secondary diploma equivalent to Danish qualifications (Moroccan Baccalaureate recognised).
- Minimum GPA: 3.0/4.0 or B average (some competitive programmes require higher).
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80-88.
- Mathematics and science prerequisites for STEM programmes.
postgraduate
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field with strong academic record (minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA).
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 88 for most master's programmes.
- Statement of purpose, CV, two academic references, and transcripts.
- Work experience may be required for some programmes.
Language test benchmarks
IELTS Academic
6.0-6.5
TOEFL iBT
80-88
Danish language (for Danish-taught programmes)
Studieprøven C1/C2 or Danskprøve 3 B2
Application Steps
Most bachelor's programmes use Optagelse.dk with deadlines in January. Master's programmes have individual deadlines and application processes.
1. Research programmes
Shortlist universities and programmes matching your academic background and career goals.
2. Prepare documents
Gather transcripts, diplomas, English test scores, CV, motivation letter, and references.
3. Submit application
Complete online application via Optagelse.dk (bachelor's) or university portal (master's) and pay application fee (if required).
4. Await decision
Universities review applications and notify candidates typically in April-June for autumn intake.
5. Accept offer & apply for residence permit
Accept admission and begin residence permit application with SIRI (Danish Immigration Service).
12-9 months
- Research programmes, prepare IELTS/TOEFL, and gather academic documents.
- Explore scholarship opportunities (Danish Government, university-specific, Erasmus+).
9-6 months
- Submit applications by January 15 (most programmes) or March 15 (Tier 2 institutions).
- Request recommendation letters and prepare motivation statements.
6-3 months
- Receive admission decisions, accept offers, and pay deposits.
- Begin residence permit application with SIRI.
3-0 months
- Complete residence permit process, arrange travel, and prepare for arrival.
- Register with local municipality and obtain Danish CPR number.
Cost of Studying in Denmark
Denmark offers competitive tuition fees compared to other Nordic countries. Budget approximately DKK 6,000-7,000 per month (EUR 800-940) for living costs (2025 requirement for residence permit).
bachelor programmes
EUR 8,000-17,000/year (≈ 84,080-178,670 MAD)
master programmes
EUR 8,000-18,000/year (≈ 84,080-189,180 MAD)
phd programmes
FREE for all students
Copenhagen
DKK 11,800-13,200 (≈ EUR 1,580-1,770 ≈ 16,600-18,600 MAD)
Accommodation DKK 5,000-6,000; food DKK 2,500-3,500; transport DKK 500-700 with student discount.
Aarhus
DKK 9,000-10,000 (≈ EUR 1,207-1,341 ≈ 12,700-14,100 MAD)
Lower costs than Copenhagen; good student housing availability.
Odense & Aalborg
DKK 8,000-9,000 (≈ EUR 1,072-1,207 ≈ 11,300-12,700 MAD)
Most affordable options; excellent for engineering and business programmes.
| Expense | DKK | EUR | MAD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (master's avg) | EUR 8,000-14,000 | EUR 8,000-14,000 | 84,080-147,140 MAD |
| Accommodation | DKK 4,000-6,000 | EUR 536-804 | 5,630-8,450 MAD |
| Food & groceries | DKK 2,500-3,500 | EUR 335-470 | 3,520-4,940 MAD |
| Transport | DKK 500-700 | EUR 67-94 | 700-990 MAD |
| Insurance & healthcare | DKK 200-400 | EUR 27-54 | 280-570 MAD |
| Personal expenses | DKK 1,000-1,500 | EUR 134-201 | 1,410-2,110 MAD |
Scholarships & Funding
Denmark offers limited but valuable scholarship programmes for international students, including government awards and university-specific grants.
Government & University
Danish Government Scholarship
Full tuition waiver + DKK 6,090/month (EUR 817) stipend
Available at University of Southern Denmark for master's students; highly competitive.
University-specific scholarships
Merit-based and need-based awards
Check individual university websites for available scholarships.
EU & External
Erasmus+
Full scholarships for exchange and joint master's programmes.
Student Life & Support
Danish universities provide excellent student services, including affordable housing through student housing organisations, subsidised meals, and comprehensive support for international students.
Housing
Student housing (kollegium) available but with waiting lists. Shared rooms (DKK 4,000-6,000/month) and private studios (DKK 9,000-12,000) are alternatives.
Food & culture
Campus cafeterias offer subsidised meals. Danish cuisine includes smørrebrød, fish, and traditional dishes. Halal food available in major cities.
Transport
Student discounts on public transport (50% off). Cycling is popular and infrastructure is excellent.
Health & wellbeing
Free healthcare after CPR registration for stays 3+ months. Comprehensive coverage available.
Working During Studies
International students with residence permits can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
Work hours: 20 hours/week during term; full-time during holidays
Minimum wage: DKK 110-130/hour (≈ EUR 14.75-17.45 ≈ 155-183 MAD)
Popular roles: Retail, Hospitality, University support services, Tutoring
Internships: Many programmes include paid internships or thesis projects with companies.
Post-Graduation Options
Graduates can apply for a job-seeker residence permit for up to 6 months to find employment in Denmark.
Job-seeker residence permit
Duration: Up to 6 months
Completed degree in Denmark and proof of financial means (DKK 6,000-7,000/month).
Skilled worker permit
Duration: Up to 4 years (renewable)
Job offer with salary meeting threshold (DKK 375,000+/year).
Permanent residence
Available after 4 years of continuous residence with employment and Danish language proficiency (A2-B1).
Visa & Residence Permit
Non-EEA students must apply for a residence permit for studies through the Danish Immigration Service (SIRI) before travelling to Denmark.
Step 1
Receive admission letter from Danish institution.
Step 2
Prepare financial proof (DKK 6,000-7,000 per month), accommodation confirmation, and health insurance.
Step 3
Submit online application to SIRI with supporting documents and pay application fee (DKK 1,890).
Step 4
Provide biometrics at Danish embassy/VFS and await decision (typically 60 days).
Read the Denmark visa guide
Essential Documents Checklist
Academic
- Diplomas and transcripts with certified translations.
- Admission letter from Danish institution.
- English proficiency certificates (IELTS/TOEFL).
Financial
- Bank statements showing DKK 6,000-7,000 per month (minimum 3 months).
- Accommodation confirmation or housing guarantee.
- Health insurance covering entire stay.
Supporting
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity).
- Two passport photos.
- CV, motivation letter, and reference letters.
Application Timeline
12-9 months
- Research programmes, prepare English tests, and gather academic documents.
- Explore scholarship opportunities and application requirements.
9-6 months
- Submit applications by January 15 (Tier 1) or March 15 (Tier 2).
- Request recommendation letters and prepare motivation statements.
6-3 months
- Receive admission decisions, accept offers, and pay deposits.
- Begin residence permit application with SIRI.
3-0 months
- Complete residence permit process, arrange travel, and prepare for arrival.
- Register with municipality and obtain Danish CPR number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Danish?
No, many programmes are taught in English. However, learning Danish (A2-B1) improves job prospects and daily life.
How much money do I need for the residence permit?
You must show DKK 6,000-7,000 per month (≈ EUR 800-940 ≈ 8,400-9,900 MAD) in bank statements or scholarship proof.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays with a valid residence permit.
How long does the residence permit take?
Processing typically takes 60 days after biometrics. Apply early to avoid delays.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, the Danish Government Scholarship (at SDU) and university-specific awards provide funding for eligible students.