Study in Denmark: the ultimate guide for a Short Course in 2024
Denmark

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Denmark in 2024

Browse all short courses in Denmark

  • Sep-Jul Academic Year
  • 2 Listed Institutes
  • 8 Ranked Universities
  • 31,000 Int. Students
  • 308,000 Students
  • 5,835,000 Population

Study in Denmark

Planning on studying abroad in a place where everyone feels happy all the time? Well, Denmark should be your primary choice. Everyone knows that Denmark is the happiest country in the world and no doubt, the feeling of happiness is contagious.

In addition to being happy, in Denmark, you also have the chance to pursue a quality education in a friendly, safe and innovation-driven environment.

If you study abroad in Denmark, you’ll have a fun and enriching experience that will also help you gain an excellent foundation for your future career.

Why study in Denmark?

1. It's free for students from the EU/EEA

Yup, you've read that right. Public universities in Denmark are free if you come from the European Union or the European Economic Area.

For non-EU/EEA internationals, tuition ranges between 6,000 and 16,000 EUR per year, which is still much more affordable than studying in the US, Canada, or Australia.

You can also apply for various scholarships to support the costs of studying and living.

2. Danish universities are among Europe's best

Danish universities are often ranked among the best higher education institutions both in Europe and the entire world.

The University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) are only a few examples, but feel free to go through at all the top-ranked institutions.

3. The Danish education system places huge attention to the students

Depending on where you come from, you might have a small (positive) shock while studying at a Danish university. You won't find entire halls filled with students; classes are held in small groups, where everybody can focus better and the professors can pay attention to each student individually.

The whole purpose is to encourage you to push boundaries, ask questions, develop critical thinking, and learn how to properly work with other people.

4. English is widely spoken

Although it is not an official language, English is incredibly popular in Denmark. Approximately 90% of citizens speak English, so there's no reason to worry about language barriers or being misunderstood.

Still, you will need to know at least basic Danish if you want to work during your studies.

5. You'll fall in love with the Danish Hygge

Hygge is a word used to describe a situation or a moment when you feel cosy, calm, or special. It can happen when you're by yourself, enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee, or it can happen while playing a board game with your friends.

Hygge is simply the ability to be fully present and enjoy this moment as much as you can. You don't need to buy something, learn something, or do something specific in order to feel Hygge.

It's a popular concept and way of life in Denmark, which you'll probably adopt very soon after moving there.

Which universities and colleges to attend in Denmark?

The higher education system in Denmark is divided into several types of universities, depending on your specialisation and focus on research or practical skills.

  • Traditional universities – you can apply to Bachelor, Master and PhD degrees in almost any field you can imagine, from Psychology to Computer Science.
  • University colleges – these schools offer professional Bachelor's programmes in areas such as Teacher Training, Engineering, Business, Nursing, or Social Work. The study programmes include various workshops and work placements, including abroad.
  • Artistic higher education institutions – specialised schools where you can pursue a degree in Arts, Music, Architecture or Design

Schools of maritime education and training – schools highly focusing on research and practical skills, dedicated to students who are interested in Maritime and Technical Engineering.

Examples of universities in Denmark we recommend:

What is it like to study in Denmark?

Danish higher education combines traditional academic excellence with innovative teaching that will empower you to think, experiment and collaborate your way to new ideas and greater knowledge.

Combining traditional lectures and tutorials with project-based teaching methods, your studies in Denmark will help you develop a creative and collaborative approach to applying new knowledge and solving complex real-life challenges.

Universities, colleges and academies in Denmark are state-of-the-art. The learning environment is friendly and relaxed with students and teachers debating openly during class and lectures.

What to study in Denmark?

Whichever subject you choose to study in Denmark, you can expect outstanding quality and academic standards recognised worldwide. You can choose from a wide range of programmes taught in English, from Natural Sciences and Engineering to Architecture and Design.

Here are some of the most popular study options in Denmark:

Where to study in Denmark?

Denmark has only a few student cities, but they all offer a vibrant and lively environment. Outside classes, you can enjoy great leisure time, whether you’ll be biking in the city and the surroundings or attending a concert or other social event.

Check out some of these cities and learn more about what it is like to study there:

How to apply

Regardless of your chosen university, Denmark provides international students a special website for applications, where you can apply for up to eight programmes. Carefully check all the required application documents and make sure they are all translated into English.

For instance, an internationally recognised Bachelor's degree or equivalent is the main requirement when enrolling for a Master’s degree at a university in Denmark.

Make sure to know what the language requirements are, and whether you need to prove skills in English before enrolling in a degree programme. Show how you performed as a student, and be sure to know what your Grade Point Average (GPA) was during your studies.

To help your chances of going to Denmark, be sure to apply to more than one university!

Make sure you qualify for a Danish university

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in Denmark, you will sometimes need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

There are over 350 English-taught programmes in Denmark.

Universities in Denmark will want to see proof that you have good English-language skills, so that you can easily succeed in their courses. Almost all Danish universities accept these official English exams:

Living in Denmark

Let's take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in Denmark:

Tuition fees in Denmark

EU and EEA students enjoy the tuition-free status for all Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees available at public Danish universities. You also do not pay for tuition if:

  • you already have either a permanent or a temporary residence permit
  • one of your parents is from a non-EU/EEA country and is already working in Denmark

Non-EU/EEA students will have to pay tuition fees between 6,000 and 16,000 EUR per year at public universities.

Private universities have higher tuition fees, which usually apply to both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students.

Accommodation costs

The average price for student housing in Denmark ranges between 450 and 670 EUR/month, and it usually gets higher in Copenhagen (800–900 EUR/month). However, if you start looking for an accommodation option early on, you can find places for 250 EUR/month outside the city centre.

The number of places available in student halls of residence (kollegier) is usually limited, but if you manage to arrange a room, the rent would be around 250 EUR/month.

Health care

Except for dental care and physiotherapy, all foreign students in Denmark have equal and free access to health care services in case of accidents, acute illness or serious evolution of a chronic disease. For other health care services, you will have to pay depending on on your type of health care insurance.

If you come from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland and plan to stay in Denmark less than 3 months, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for any healthcare service.

Food costs

Your average food bills in Denmark will reach around 200–270 EUR/month, depending on your spending habits. If you choose to do your weekly shopping at discount supermarkets, you can save some money.

Having lunch or dinner out in a restaurant will cost you around 16 EUR/person, while a beer or a soft drink at a bar is around 6 EUR.

Overall, you should prepare a minimum of 800–1,200 EUR/month for living costs. 

Find out more about tuition fees and living costs in Denmark 

About Denmark

When you arrive in Denmark you will probably notice the relaxed atmosphere and the fact that things generally run pretty smoothly. A blend of stately old buildings and modern sustainable architecture speaks of cities that treasure the old but love experimenting with the new.

In terms of the weather, let’s face it! The cool Danish climate doesn’t offer ideal T-shirt weather. The short Danish summers are mild with near-midnight sunsets. But winters in Denmark also have their share of warmth – with candle-lit homes, warm, cosy gatherings and plenty of hot chocolate. Danes often refer to this snug and convivial wintery feeling as 'hygge'.

Denmark is a society driven by world-leading research and innovation within knowledge industries such as Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Science, Telecommunications and IT. Danish is the official language but you won’t have to worry about that, because everyone speaks very good English.

Therefore, if you have the talent, and you study and work hard, Denmark is a place with excellent opportunities to fulfil your potential.

Iconic places to visit

Most popular and famous place to visit in Denmark are inside Copenhagen. Some of the most popular and entertaining attractions are:

  • Tivoli Gardens – Denmark’s Disney theme parks
  • Christiansborg – home to the Parliament
  • The Blue Planet – Northern Europe's largest aquarium
  • Rosenborg Castle – Danish royal art treasures
  • The Round Tower - the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.
  • Outside Copenhagen, you can check out:
  • Legoland Bilund Resort
  • Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense
  • Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde
  • Anholt Island
Fun facts
  • Denmark is home to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør – the fictitious location of the famous Shakespeare play “Hamlet”.
  • The name Lego is an abbreviation of two Danish words, leg godt, meaning “play well.”
  • The Danish monarchy is the oldest continuing monarchy in the world and has existed for over 1,000 years.
  • Danes drink an average of four cups of coffee a day.
  • Denmark has 14 Nobel laureates, most of them awarded for great accomplishments in literature and medicine.

Universities, colleges and schools in Denmark

Aalborg

Aarhus

Copenhagen

Flakkebjerg

Skjern

Struer

Videbæk

How to Apply to a Master's in Denmark

If you've decided to study a Master's degree at a university in Denmark, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.

What documents do I need to provide to apply in Denmark?

To apply to a university in Denmark you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:

  • birth certificate;
  • recent photos;
  • your passport or national identity card;
  • one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
  • copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor's degree;
  • academic transcripts;
  • letter of intent;
  • Curriculum Vitae;
  • Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.

Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master's, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.

The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in Denmark so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.

Prove your English skills

Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you'll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.

Application deadlines for Denmark

The deadlines for applying to a Master's in Denmark are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.

To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.

Interesting programmes for you

Find Short Courses in Denmark

What subject to study in Denmark?

Numerous education initiatives in the world were formed to promote international cooperation and academic exchange between universities as well as attract students and staff worldwide. This focus on international student education provides high quality programmes in various fields of study and prepares students for future careers anywhere in the world.

Studying, for instance, in Australia, Asia, Europe or America represents a wide range of opportunities to see the world and interact with other students from different countries. Different study options allow students to hold a job during their study years in order to pay for their education, if they wish to do so. Online programmes help you get an international education without having to leave home.

The number of English-taught short courses in Asia, Australia, Europe and The United States are continuously rising in popularity in the last few years. Many countries offer English-taught study programmes, including: Australia, China, Denmark, Finland, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, France, Spain, Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States and more. Other English short courses may be found in the rest of the European countries as well.

Short courses / Summer Courses

Short courses offer a great variety of subjects for a short and fixed period. This period can vary between a week to six weeks, depending on country, institution and course. This is an excellent opportunity to gain academic, cultural and social experience if you are not able to access long-term study opportunities. A wide variety of countries and institutions offer summer and short courses in all kinds of subject areas. It is a great opportunity to get some background information for your own research, to learn a language or to gain knowledge on a related topic.

Sometimes summer and short courses provide students with short-term housing. Therefore, it is useful to find out if housing is included in the fee of the summer or short course you wish to apply for.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
France
France
France is a study destination whose romance, academic environment, and style of life charm thousands of international students every year. Students can enjoy the best of both worlds: the chance to enrol at top-ranked European universities while paying some of the lowest tuition fees worldwide. The Hexagon, a local nickname for France, is a multicultural hub, allowing you to meet, get to know, and develop friendships with people from all over the globe. There’s also a significant number of English-taught degrees (over 1,500). You can also learn French, the language of love, which will allow you to enjoy even more the local cuisine and touristic attractions and will make you a stand-out applicant on the job market.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
View all countries

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