Denmark offers free tuition for EU/EEA students and a small number of state-funded places for non-EU students at public universities. The University of Copenhagen (#97 QS) and DTU (Technical University of Denmark, #126 QS) are Scandinavia’s top research universities. Denmark’s progressive society, high English proficiency, and strong life sciences and clean tech industries make it particularly attractive for STEM students.
Why Study in Denmark? Key Facts for 2026
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Free (EU/EEA + scholarship holders) / DKK 45,000–120,000/year (non-EU, ~€6,000–16,000) |
| Living Costs | DKK 8,000–11,000/month (~€1,100–1,500) |
| Student Visa | Residence Permit for Students (SIRI) |
| Language | English (most master’s programs) / Danish for some bachelor’s |
| Academic Year | September/October start (some: February/March) |
Source: OECD Education at a Glance 2024, official government immigration websites, QS World University Rankings 2026. Last updated: February 2026.
What Are the Top Universities in Denmark?
| University | Best For | Global Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| University of Copenhagen | Sciences, Medicine, Law, Humanities | #97 QS |
| DTU Technical University of Denmark | Engineering, Sciences, Food Tech | #126 QS |
| Aarhus University | Sciences, Business, Social Sciences | #133 QS |
| Copenhagen Business School | Business, Economics, Management | Top European Business |
| University of Southern Denmark | Sciences, Business, Humanities | Top 400 QS |
What Scholarships Are Available in Denmark?
| Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
| Danish Government Scholarships | Full or partial scholarships for non-EU students in English programs |
| Erasmus+ Scholarships | €500–700/month for EU mobile students |
| Novo Nordisk Foundation Scholarships | Research-focused; strong life sciences |
| University merit scholarships | 25–50% tuition waiver |
How Do You Apply to Universities in Denmark?
- 1. Apply via the Coordinated Enrollment (KOT) system for Danish bachelor’s programs OR directly to universities for master’s
- 2. EU citizens: no visa needed – register at local municipality (Borgerservice)
- 3. Non-EU: apply for Residence Permit for Students via SIRI (Study in Denmark) online system
- 4. Provide: acceptance letter, financial proof (DKK 5,521/month), health insurance
- 5. Processing: 2–4 weeks for EU processing; 4–8 weeks for non-EU
- 6. Register at the Civil Registration System (CPR) for Danish personal number
- 7. Open Danish bank account (NemKonto required for receiving scholarship payments)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Denmark free for EU students?
Yes. EU/EEA students study for free at Danish public universities (no tuition fees). Non-EU students pay tuition of DKK 45,000–120,000/year depending on program. However, a number of state-funded places (statesstøttede pladser) are available for non-EU students who meet certain criteria and apply through the Danish higher education application system.
What is the Danish student culture like?
Danish university culture is uniquely democratic and non-hierarchical. Students typically call professors by first name. Group work, projects, and independent thinking are emphasized over rote learning. The Danish concept of hygge (coziness and wellbeing) permeates social life. Danish students are welcoming to internationals, and English is spoken to a very high standard.
Do I need to speak Danish to study in Denmark?
For most bachelor’s programs, Danish is required. However, Denmark has a very high density of English-taught master’s programs – over 800 in total. DTU, Copenhagen Business School, and the University of Copenhagen offer comprehensive English-taught master’s options. Non-EU students on student permits typically study in English-taught programs.
How expensive is living in Denmark?
Denmark is one of Europe’s more expensive countries. Monthly student budget: DKK 8,000–11,000/month (€1,100–1,500), including rent DKK 3,500–6,000 (shared room), food DKK 2,000–3,000, transport DKK 400–600. Copenhagen is more expensive than Aarhus, Odense, or Aalborg. SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte) student grants are available only to EU citizens and Danes.
What industries are strong in Denmark for graduate careers?
Denmark has world-leading industries in: life sciences (Novo Nordisk – world’s largest insulin producer, LEO Pharma), clean energy (Vestas wind energy, Ørsted offshore wind), shipping (Maersk), design and architecture (Bjarke Ingels Group), food technology (Chr. Hansen), and IT (Systematic). These industries actively recruit graduates from Danish universities.
Can I stay in Denmark after graduation to find a job?
Yes. The Job Seeking visa allows graduates from Danish universities to stay for 6 months after completing their degree to find employment. For EU citizens, there are no restrictions on staying and working in Denmark. Non-EU graduates who find work can apply for a work permit under the Fast-track Scheme or Positive List of shortage occupations.
Information on this page is compiled from official government immigration sources, OECD data, and university websites. Last verified: February 2026.