Comprehensive guide to studying in Denmark and the student visa process
Use the official optagelse.dk portal (for bachelor's) and university websites (for master's) to find accredited programs that match your interests and academic background.
You will typically need:
Officially certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas.
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English).
A copy of your passport.
A completed application form.
Course-specific prerequisites: Some programs require specific subjects or levels from high school.
Yes. Your academic documents may need to be verified by your issuing institution and sometimes by the Danish Embassy in your home country. Always check the specific requirements on the university's website.
Typically, no. Admission is primarily based on your academic grades meeting the specific program requirements. Some creative fields may require a portfolio or interview.
EU/EEA applicants usually do not pay a fee. Non-EU applicants are often required to pay an application fee, typically around 750 DKK (approx. €100) per program applied to through the coordinated admission system.
For bachelor's programs, offers are released on a specific date in late July via optagelse.dk. For master's programs, it can take 4-8 weeks after the application deadline.
This is an offer pending the fulfillment of specific conditions, such as graduating from your current studies or submitting final official transcripts.
This means you have met all academic and language requirements and have been fully accepted. This is required for the residence permit application.
There is no upper age limit. For bachelor's programs, you must have a qualifying upper secondary education.
Yes, you can apply with your predicted grades or most recent transcripts to receive a conditional offer for many Master's programs. For Bachelor's, you apply based on your finished exams.
Yes, if your documents are not in English, Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish, they must be translated by an authorized translator.
It is typically valid for the specific intake it was issued for. You must confirm your acceptance by the deadline stated.
Yes. For bachelor's degrees, you can apply to up to 8 programs in order of preference through the coordinated application system on optagelse.dk.
You will receive information on why you were not admitted. You can often apply again in the next intake or apply for other programs where you meet the requirements.
Prosper Overseas provides end-to-end support, from selecting the right program to ensuring your application is complete and meets all Danish requirements.
The primary intake is in August/September. A smaller intake for certain programs is in January/February.
Apply at least 3-4 months before the application deadline. Deadlines are strict:
Bachelor's (Non-EU): Mid-March for September start.
Master's (Non-EU): January/February for September start.
Absolutely. Danish institutions are renowned globally, and their degrees are highly valued by employers and universities worldwide.
Denmark offers over 700 programs taught entirely in English. Learning basic Danish is encouraged for daily life and integration.
It is the governing body that ensures the quality of higher education in Denmark. All programs should be accredited.
You need a recognized high school diploma that is equivalent to a Danish upper secondary school leaving certificate. Specific subject and grade requirements (GPAs) are crucial and vary by program.
You will not be admitted. The language requirements are strict. You must retake the test to achieve the required score.
Some universities offer foundation programs for students who don't quite meet the academic entry requirements, often including Danish language preparation.
Yes, Prosper Overseas provides expert guidance to navigate the Danish application system and find the best program for your goals.
Interviews are uncommon for most programs but are used for some creative arts, journalism, or psychology programs.
After you accept your offer, the university will send an official acceptance letter, which is essential for your residence permit application.
It is highly competitive, especially for popular programs. Strong grades that meet the specific requirements are key.
It is very difficult. You would likely have to withdraw and reapply for the next intake.
Yes, for many programs there are a limited number of seats for non-EU students, making competition fierce.
The first semester's fee is usually required before the university can process your residence permit application.
Tuition fees vary:
Bachelor's & Master's Degrees: 45,000 - 120,000 DKK per year (approx. €6,000 - €16,000).
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Study for free.
You should budget for 6,000 - 10,000 DKK per month (approx. €800 - €1,350) to cover accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses. Copenhagen is the most expensive city.
Yes! Danish universities, the government, and the EU offer a range of scholarships, such as the Danish Government Scholarships for highly-qualified non-EU students, which can cover full or partial tuition and living costs.
Some are automatic with your application, while others require a separate application. Always check the specific university's website for deadlines and procedures.
Yes. Non-EU students are allowed to work 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during June, July, and August.
Banks like Danske Bank, Nordea, and Lunar offer student accounts. You will need your CPR number (personal registration number) to open one.
Yes, this is critical. You must prove you have sufficient funds to cover your living costs for one year, which is currently 6,397 DKK per month (Jan 2024 level, so 76,764 DKK for one year).
Fees are typically paid per semester.
Budget for books, study materials, and a deposit for accommodation (typically 3 months' rent).
As a non-EU student, your residence permit includes registration with the Danish public health insurance system once you obtain your CPR number. You may need private travel insurance for the first few weeks.
Yes, the cost of living is high. However, the quality of life, education, and the ability to work part-time help manage costs. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden.
It is rare. Most scholarships are awarded upon admission.
The Danish Krone (DKK).
As an international student, it is very difficult to get a loan from a Danish bank. Most students secure loans from their home country.
International bank transfers (SWIFT) or using services like Wise or Revolut are cost-effective methods.
Non-EU/EEA students need a Residence Permit for studies.
You apply online through the SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration) website. Your university must first confirm your enrollment.
1. Receive admission.
2. Pay your first semester's tuition fee.
3. Apply online to SIRI.
4. Submit biometrics at a Danish diplomatic mission.
5. Wait for approval.
SIRI's goal is to process applications within 60 days. Apply as soon as you have your acceptance letter and fee receipt.
Acceptance letter from a recognized institution.
Proof of paid tuition fees for the first semester.
Proof of financial means (76,764 DKK for one year).
Proof of English proficiency.
Valid passport.
Passport photos.
No, a medical test is not typically required for a Danish study permit.
You must:
1. Apply for your CPR number (personal registration number) at the International Citizen Service (ICS) or Citizen Service Centre (Borgerservice).
2. Receive your health insurance card (yellow card) in the mail.
3. Register with the university.
It is usually issued for the duration of your study program plus a short grace period.
Yes, your residence permit allows for free travel within the Schengen Area.
Rejections are usually due to insufficient funds or documentation. You can appeal the decision. Prosper Overseas can help you understand the reason and guide you.
It is possible if you can prove you can support them financially (additional funds required) and have suitable accommodation. They apply for family reunification.
You must pass your exams (make "normal academic progress"), have sufficient funds, and be enrolled at the university.
Report it immediately to the police and your embassy. Then inform SIRI and your university.
You can apply for a 3-year post-study work permit (Establishment Card) to find employment in Denmark.
Your university's International Office is your best resource. You can also contact SIRI directly.
The main options are:
Student Housing (Kollegium): The most popular and affordable option. Rooms are often in corridors with shared kitchens and bathrooms. Apply through your university's housing office or portals like s.dk and kkik.dk (Copenhagen).
Private Rental: Renting an apartment alone or sharing with others (kollektiv). This is more expensive and competitive, especially in larger cities. Use sites like boligportal.dk.
Costs vary significantly by city:
Copenhagen: 4,000 - 6,500+ DKK per month for a room.
Aarhus/Odense/Aalborg: 2,800 - 4,500 DKK per month for a room.
Smaller Towns: Can be slightly less.
Start immediately after acceptance! Contact your university's housing office for guaranteed or prioritized options. If searching privately, be extremely wary of rental scams—never wire money without a contract. Many students book a temporary hostel or Airbnb for their first week to conduct viewings in person.
Danish culture is known for "hygge" (coziness and togetherness), informality, trust, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance. The society is egalitarian, sustainable, and design-conscious. Danes are often reserved initially but are warm and loyal friends.
Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world with very low crime rates. Standard precautions apply, but overall safety is high.
It has a temperate coastal climate. Summers are mild and sunny (15-25°C), winters are cold, dark, and windy (around 0°C, with rain and occasional snow). Rain is possible year-round.
Denmark has excellent and sustainable transport:
Bicycles: The primary mode of transport for most Danes. Cities are incredibly bike-friendly.
Public Transport: Efficient trains (DSB) and buses connect cities and regions. Students get discounts.
Student Travel Card: Your university can help you get a travel card for discounts on public transport.
Pack for all seasons! Essential items include a high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket, warm layers (wool is best), sturdy waterproof shoes, and an umbrella. The Danish style is casual and functional.
Join your university's intro week (fresher's week), participate in Friday Bars (student-run social events), join clubs and societies (foreninger), and say yes to invitations for coffee or dinner. Learning basic Danish phrases goes a long way.
No. Danes have a very high level of English proficiency. However, learning Danish is highly encouraged for daily life, deeper integration, and improving job prospects after graduation. Most universities offer free Danish classes.
Cooking at home is common. Discount supermarkets like Netto, Fakta, and Rema 1000 are affordable. Don't miss trying open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød), pastries (wienerbrød), and the classic hot dog (pølse).
Excellent. Once you have your CPR number and yellow health card, you have access to Denmark's world-class public healthcare system. General practitioners are your first point of contact.
Explore other Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway), travel around Denmark's beautiful coastline and castles, or take advantage of cheap flights to other European cities.
With excellent internet, use video calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime), social media, and messaging apps. Prepaid SIMs from providers like Lebara, LycaMobile, or CBB are very cheap for international calls.
The CPR number (Det Centrale Personregister) is your personal registration number. It is your key to life in Denmark: you need it to open a bank account, get a phone plan, access healthcare, get paid, and much more. You get it when you register your address in Denmark.
Yes. Non-EU students on a residence permit can work 20 hours per week during the academic year (September-May) and full-time during the months of June, July, and August.
There are no formal restrictions on the sector. Many students work in hospitality (bars, restaurants), retail, cleaning, or as student assistants at their university.
Check your university's job portal, notice boards, and online job boards like jobindex.dk and ofir.dk. Networking and asking in local cafes/bars is also very common.
Denmark has no official minimum wage. Wages are determined by collective agreements between unions and employer associations. Unskilled student jobs typically pay 130 - 160 DKK per hour.
Yes, if you earn more than a certain amount (around 48,000 DKK per year in 2024), you will be taxed. Denmark has a high income tax rate, but you get access to services in return. You will receive a tax card (skattekort) when you get your CPR number.
Upon graduation, you can apply for the Establishment Card (Ophold efter uddannelse - opgang til arbejdsmarkedet), a 3-year post-study work permit to find a job in Denmark.
Once you find a job that meets the normal standards for Danish employment, you can apply to switch your Establishment Card to a specific work and residence permit. The salary must meet the collective agreement for the field.
Denmark has a strong economy and low unemployment. There is high demand for skilled graduates, especially in STEM, IT, life sciences, and cleantech. Danish language skills, even basic ones, dramatically increase your job prospects.
A common work permit pathway for graduates who secure a job offering a high annual salary (2024 limit: 465,000 DKK).
Universities have strong Career Centers that host job fairs, offer CV and interview workshops (tailored to the Danish market), and have online job portals exclusive to students.
Yes, the Establishment Card allows you to start your own business. You must then apply for a permit under the Startup Denmark scheme, which requires a viable business plan.
The Establishment Card is valid for three years, giving you ample time to establish yourself in the job market.
Yes, you can take any job to support yourself while you search for a position related to your degree.
Very high. Danish companies are international and actively seek talented graduates. Your international perspective is a valuable asset.
For many international companies and in tech startups, English may be sufficient. However, for most jobs, and for integrating fully into the workplace and society, learning Danish is a significant advantage and often a requirement.
Yes, Denmark has a clear, though demanding, path to Permanent Residence (Permanent opholdstilladelse).
The most common path requires that you have held regular, full-time employment in Denmark for 4 years under certain schemes (like the Pay Limit Scheme) and that you meet several other integration conditions.
No. Time spent on a student residence permit does not count towards the 4-year requirement for permanent residency.
It gives you the right to live and work in Denmark indefinitely without being tied to a specific employer or study program. It is a step towards citizenship.
Yes. After 9 years of continuous legal residence (which can include your study time), demonstrating strong Danish language skills (B2 level), passing a citizenship test, and being self-sufficient, you can apply for naturalization.
You must:
Pass the Danish Language Test 2 (PD2) or higher.
Have been in full-time employment for at least 4 years.
Pass a citizenship test on Danish culture and society.
Not have received certain types of public benefits.
Renewable Energy & Cleantech (e.g., Ørsted, Vestas), Life Sciences & Pharma (e.g., Novo Nordisk, Lundbeck), Information Technology, Shipping & Logistics, and Design.
Learn Danish to a high level. This is the most important factor. Secure stable, well-paid employment in your field and pass the required tests.
Yes, once you have a stable job and meet the financial requirements, you can apply for family reunification for your spouse and children.
Denmark has a progressive income tax system that can be high (often 38-45%+). This funds the country's extensive welfare state, including healthcare, education, and social security.
Always refer to the official website of SIRI (siri.dk) and New to Denmark (nyidanmark.dk). These are the authoritative sources.
Yes, the requirements are among the strictest in Europe, particularly the language and employment conditions. It requires long-term commitment.
The 3-year Establishment Card is one of the most generous and straightforward post-study work permits in Europe, giving you a long runway to find your dream job.
A voluntary membership you can join once you start working. It provides income if you become unemployed. It is a common and recommended practice in Denmark.
A Danish degree is highly respected. It allows you to build a professional network, learn the language, and understand the culture, making you a much more attractive candidate to Danish employers.
Finalize accommodation, book your flight, pack all original documents (including acceptance and payment proof), notify your bank, and download useful apps like Rejseplanen (public transport) and MobilePay.
Carry these with you; do not check them in!
Passport with Residence Permit sticker (if issued).
University Acceptance Letter.
Proof of Paid Tuition Fees.
Proof of Financial Means.
All original academic certificates.
Health Insurance documents (for initial cover).
Cash in Danish Kroner (DKK) for initial expenses.
Check EU and Danish customs regulations. Generally, illegal drugs, weapons, and certain animal/plant products are prohibited.
Proceed to passport control (the EU/EEA line if you have a visa, else the All Passports line). Present your passport and residence permit decision. The officer will stamp your passport.
This is the critical To-Do List:
1. Register your address at your local Citizen Service Centre (Borgerservice) to get your CPR number. Do this within 5 days.
2. Open a Danish bank account (you need your CPR number).
3. Get a Danish SIM card.
4. Activate your MitID (digital signature for all online services in Denmark).
5. Enroll at your university.
Universities offer a comprehensive intro week, buddy programs, Danish language courses, and administrative support with CPR registration and other practicalities through their International Office.
We remain your point of contact for any significant challenges, ensuring your smooth transition and offering guidance throughout your studies.
Dial 112 for police, fire, or ambulance. Also, save the contact details for your university's emergency line and your country's embassy.
Yes, it is highly recommended so they can contact you in case of an emergency in your home country and provide consular assistance.
It's normal. Be patient, join student activities, try to learn the language, and don't hesitate to seek support from your university's counselling services.
Yes, most universities have a Buddy Program or "intro family" where senior students help newcomers settle in during the first weeks.
It is collaborative, project-based, and focused on critical thinking. There is a flat hierarchy where you are expected to challenge professors and engage in debate. Group work is very common.
During the intro week, there will be a "club day" where all student organizations (foreninger) showcase their activities. It's the perfect place to sign up for sports, cultural, and academic groups.
Your first point of contact is always your university's International Office or Student Counselling Service. They are experienced in helping international students.
Become a buddy for new students, share your story on social media, or become a student ambassador. Your experience is invaluable to future students.