Studying in Denmark: FAQ

Renowned for its high standard of education and global recognition, Denmark attracts a large number of international students each year.

Whether you have decided on Denmark as your study destination or are still considering your options, this FAQ guide will help you understand the Danish education system and the advantages of obtaining a Masters degree from this culturally rich and academically robust nation.

#1 What qualifications do I need to apply for a Masters in Denmark?

You will need an internationally recognised Bachelors degree of a good standard, and proficiency in the language of instruction for your course (usually Danish or English). Proficiency in English is generally demonstrated through an English proficiency test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL (minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 83). If your course is taught in Danish, you should check with your university whether it requires international students to take a language test.

#2 Are tuition fees covered for EU/EEA citizens?

Yes, tuition fees are covered for all EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. If you’re from outside of the EU/EEA, however, you will be liable to pay fees ranging from around €6,000 to €16,000.

#3 What scholarships are available for international students hoping to study a Masters in Denmark?

There are several funding options available to help talented students study a Masters in Denmark, including government scholarships and the possibility of state benefits in certain circumstances. Additionally, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are able to study for free at Danish universities. You can find out more information on funding options in our Denmark scholarships guide.

#4 How can I qualify for Danish State Educational Support (SU)?

You may be eligible for equal status to Danish citizens if you are an EU, EEA or Swiss national and have worked a minimum of 10 to 12 hours a week in Denmark for at least 10 weeks, or have lived in Denmark for at least five years. You may also be eligible if you have worked in Denmark for at least two years, completing at least 30 hours of employment a week, or have been ordinarily resident (i.e. not for the sole purpose of study) in Denmark for at least five years.

#5 How much is the Fulbright Scholarship for studying in Denmark?

The Fulbright Scholarship is worth €26,810 for 10 months of study in Denmark.

#6 Do I need a visa to study a Masters in Denmark?

If you are a Nordic citizen, or a national of an EU country, you won’t need a visa or residence permit to study a Masters in Denmark. However, if you’re staying for more than six months, you do need to register with the Danish authorities. If you’re an EU/EEA citizen, you need to apply for the residence permit for EU/EEA citizens.

#7 How do I apply for a residence permit to study in Denmark?

Non-EU citizens need a residence permit to study in Denmark, which should be applied for and received before going to Denmark. When your institution sends your letter of admission, you will receive an application form called 'ST1' which you need to complete to apply for your residence permit. The application process for a residence permit is a relatively lengthy process (taking two to three months) and universities advise that for a September start (as is usual in Denmark) the latest date you can apply for your residence permit is 1 May. However, you should start the application process as soon as you receive the letter of admission and the ST1. The first step is to contact the Danish consulate or embassy in your country for guidance on making an application for the residence permit. We have a whole section on visas in our Denmark study guide.

#8 What is the minimum amount of money I need to demonstrate I have in order to apply for a residence permit in Denmark?

The Danish Immigration Authorities have set a minimum equivalent of around €860 per month over the course of your studies in order to demonstrate you have the financial means to support yourself and your studies.

#9 What types of accommodation are available for Masters students in Denmark?

Most Masters students in Denmark live in either privately rented accommodation, or in halls of residence provided by universities. Rooms in shared private accommodation and student halls of residence (kollegier) are the two main options. It is advisable to start your accommodation search several months before you are due to start your Masters.

#10 How many hours per week can non-EU/EEA and non-Nordic students work in Denmark?

Non-EU/EEA and non-Nordic students are allowed to work in Denmark for a maximum of 20 hours a week from September to May, and full-time during holidays.

#11 What is the health insurance situation for students in Denmark?

Danish citizens and foreigners with a residence permit for Denmark are included in the Danish Health Insurance Scheme, which gives them the right to free medical treatment by general practitioners, dentists and in hospitals. After registering with a local authority, they will receive a health insurance card and a personal registration number. It is recommended to organise a personal insurance to cover the first few weeks in Denmark, as medical treatment is free only from the moment the health insurance card is received.