Denmark offers a range of English-taught programmes at five types of higher education institution. For students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, higher education is free of charge. Others usually pay tuition fees. The application process for undergraduate study is centralised, and the deadlines are strict. Here's what you need to know.
What can you study?
Danish higher education institutions offer full degree programmes and single subject courses. The number of English-taught full degree programmes at business academies and university colleges has been reduced in recent years, so most English-taught programmes are now at universities. You can browse the full list on our page of English-taught degree programmes.
There are five types of institution: universities, university colleges, business academies, artistic higher education institutions, and schools of maritime education and training. Each offers different degrees.
Academy Profession (AP) programmes
These are short, practical programmes of about 120 ECTS (two years), taught at business academies. They include work placements and prepare you for middle-management roles. Some graduates can top up to a professional bachelor's degree with an additional 90 ECTS.
Professional Bachelor's programmes
These are career-oriented programmes of 3 to 4½ years (180-270 ECTS), mainly at university colleges. They include a work placement of at least 30 ECTS and lead to specific professions such as nursing, teaching, or engineering.
University Bachelor's programmes
These are research-based, three-year programmes (180 ECTS) at universities. They give you a broad academic foundation and prepare you for master's study or the labour market.
Master's programmes (Candidatus)
Master's programmes normally take two years (120 ECTS) and are research-based. Since 2021, universities can also offer a one-year, 60 ECTS master's. They include a thesis of at least 30 ECTS.
PhD programmes
PhD programmes are three-year research degrees (180 ECTS) with opportunities for financial support. They are not part of the degree-programme register mentioned above.
How to apply for undergraduate study
Applications for bachelor's, professional bachelor's, and academy profession programmes are made through the national portal, optagelse.dk. You can apply for up to eight programmes at once, and you'll receive at most one offer, at the highest possible priority.
The deadlines are 15 March and 5 July, both at 12 noon CET. You must upload your diplomas and other documentation to optagelse.dk. Some programmes require a signature page, which you must print, sign, and send separately to the institution. Check the institution's website for specific document deadlines and requirements.
Master's programmes and other programmes may have different procedures and deadlines, so check with the institution directly.
Entry requirements and language
You must meet general entry requirements (your qualification must be equivalent to a Danish upper secondary certificate), specific requirements for the programme, and language requirements. For English-taught programmes, you need to prove English proficiency comparable to a certain level; some programmes require 'English A', which is one level higher than 'English B'. For Danish-taught programmes, you need to pass a Danish test such as 'Studieprøven i dansk som andetsprog' or 'Danskprøve 2' (some programmes require 'Danskprøve 3'). Check the institution's website for exact requirements.
Tuition fees and cost of living
For students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, higher education is free of charge. Other students usually pay tuition fees. The fee varies by institution and programme. Our guide to tuition fees explains how the charges are structured. You should also budget for living costs; our cost of living page gives you an idea of monthly expenses in DKK.
Scholarships and funding
Some institutions offer scholarships for international students. You can find more information in our scholarships section. For PhD funding, visit the website of Innovation Fund Denmark.
Residence permit and practical matters
Once you are admitted, you apply for a residence permit through SIRI. Your institution's International Office can help you with the process. You will also need health insurance; as a student you may be entitled to a CPR number and a yellow card. Find accommodation early and be aware of scams.
Life as a student
Teaching in Denmark often uses problem-based learning, with project work and group work. Many programmes include internships. You can take Danish lessons for free as an international student, which can help you if you want to continue in Danish at master's level.
Next steps
Start by exploring programmes on our programmes page and checking the websites of all Danish universities and other institutions. Make sure you meet the entry requirements, and prepare your documents well before the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Is studying in Denmark free for international students?
Higher education is free of charge for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Other students usually pay tuition fees, which vary by institution and programme. Check the institution's website for the exact amount.
What are the application deadlines for Danish universities?
For undergraduate programmes, the deadlines are 15 March and 5 July, both at 12 noon CET. You apply through optagelse.dk. Master's programmes may have different deadlines, so check with the institution.
Can I study in Denmark in English?
Yes, many programmes are taught entirely in English, especially at universities. However, the number of English-taught programmes at business academies and university colleges has been reduced in recent years. You need to prove English proficiency.
How much does it cost to live in Denmark as a student?
Living costs vary, but you should budget for rent, food, and transport. Our cost of living page gives you an idea of monthly expenses in DKK. Check the official pages for current figures.