Study in Denmark

Study in Denmark

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Last Updated: 05-08-2026

Study in Denmark: Student Visa Requirements, Universities, Fees & Scholarships

Denmark is one of the top study destinations in Europe, known for its high-quality education, innovative teaching methods, and globally recognised universities. The country offers hundreds of English-taught programmes, strong research opportunities, and excellent career prospects for international students. Denmark is one of the most popular countries in Europe for higher education. It is known for its top universities, modern teaching methods, and high quality of life. Every year, thousands of international students choose Denmark because of its excellent education system, research opportunities, and good career prospects. Whether you want to pursue a bachelor's, master's, or PhD, Denmark provides a safe, inclusive, and student-friendly environment with a high standard of living. Indian students planning to study in Denmark for more than 90 days must obtain a Denmark student residence permit before travelling.

Why Study in Denmark?

  • 100+ QS-ranked universities
  • Up to 3-year post-study job-seeking stay for eligible state-approved programmes
  • Tuition fees starting from around €7,000 per year
  • Scholarships available for international students
  • High-quality education with globally recognised degrees
  • Safe, innovative and student-friendly country
  • English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes
  • Opportunity to work while studying

Students studying in Denmark, highlighting world-class universities, innovative teaching, excellent quality of life, and career opportunities for international students

Eligibility to Study in Denmark

To study in Denmark, Indian students generally need to meet the following requirements:

  • Admission letter from a recognised Danish university or higher education institution.
  • Proof that you can financially support yourself during your studies.
  • Proof of English or Danish language proficiency, depending on your programme.
  • Valid passport.
  • Health or travel insurance if applicable.
  • Proof of accommodation in Denmark.
  • Payment receipt for the SIRI application fee.
  • Required academic qualifications and transcripts.

*Need assistance to Study Abroad? Y-Axis is here to assist you in all the ways.

Benefits of Studying in Denmark

Denmark offers students an excellent academic environment combined with a high standard of living. The country's universities focus on practical learning, research, innovation, and close collaboration with industries.

Some of the major benefits include:

  • Internationally recognised degrees.
  • Modern teaching methods with practical learning.
  • English-taught programmes across various disciplines.
  • Safe and welcoming environment for international students.
  • Opportunities to work while studying for eligible state-approved programmes.
  • Excellent research facilities.
  • High graduate employability.
  • Scholarships offered by universities and the Danish Government.
  • Strong work-life balance and high quality of life.

Denmark Intakes

Most Danish universities offer two major intakes every year.

Intake Programmes Admission Period
Summer Intake Undergraduate & Postgraduate January – Mid-March
Winter Intake Undergraduate & Postgraduate July – September

Students are encouraged to apply several months before the deadline, as obtaining a student residence permit can take around 2 months.

Top Universities in Denmark

Denmark has several internationally recognised universities known for academic excellence, research, and innovation. More than 35,000 international students study in Denmark every year.

Some of the country's leading institutions include:

  • University of Copenhagen
  • Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
  • Aarhus University
  • Aalborg University
  • University of Southern Denmark
  • Copenhagen Business School
  • Roskilde University

These universities offer hundreds of English-taught bachelor's, master's, and PhD programmes across engineering, business, healthcare, science, IT, social sciences, and humanities.

QS Ranking Universities in Denmark

University QS World University Rankings
University of Copenhagen 100+
Technical University of Denmark (DTU) 100+
Aarhus University 200+
Aalborg University 300+
University of Southern Denmark 300+
Copenhagen Business School 100+ (Business Subject Rankings)
Roskilde University 200+

Denmark University Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in Denmark depend on the university and programme. Generally, international students from outside the EU/EEA can expect tuition fees ranging between €7,000–€20,000 per year  Professional programmes such as engineering, business, medicine, and technology may have higher tuition fees.

Many universities also offer:

  • Tuition fee waivers
  • Merit-based scholarships
  • Danish Government scholarships
  • Erasmus+ funding opportunities

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens generally do not pay tuition fees at public universities.

Denmark Student Visa

Indian students who plan to study in Denmark for more than 90 days must apply for a Denmark Student Residence Permit through the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Before applying, you must have an admission letter from a recognised Danish university or institution. You can apply for the permit up to 3 months before your planned travel date.

To get a Denmark student visa in 2026, you must show DKK 7,426 per month about ₹1,08,900 as proof of funds and pay the DKK 3,060 application fee. Most applications are processed in about 2 months, but it may take up to 3 months if SIRI asks for additional documents.

Important Update (Effective 2 May 2025)
Students from outside the EU/EEA, including Indians, who apply for a non-state-approved higher education programme on or after 2 May 2025 cannot work while studying, cannot stay in Denmark after graduation under the job-seeking scheme, and cannot bring family members. Always check that your programme is state-approved before accepting admission.

Why Apply for a Denmark Student Visa?

A Denmark student visa allows international students to study at globally recognised universities while enjoying excellent career opportunities and a high quality of life.

Benefits include:

  • Study at internationally recognised Danish universities.
  • Access to innovative and research-based education.
  • Scholarships offered by universities and the Danish Government.
  • Opportunity to work while studying (eligible programmes only).
  • Excellent career opportunities after graduation.
  • Safe and student-friendly environment.
  • Opportunity to stay in Denmark after graduation subject to programme eligibility.

Denmark Study Visa Requirements

To apply for a Denmark student residence permit, you generally need the following documents:

  • Completed ST1 application form.
  • Letter of admission from a recognised Danish university.
  • Valid passport.
  • Recent passport-size photographs.
  • Proof of financial support.
  • Academic transcripts and certificates.
  • Receipt for payment of the SIRI application fee.
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel or health insurance if applicable.

English Language Requirements

Test Typical Score Required Notes
IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0 overall (some universities accept 6.0) Most widely accepted
TOEFL iBT 94–101 The only TOEFL format currently available
PTE Academic 59–65 Accepted by many universities
Duolingo English Test 115–125 Accepted by selected universities only

Residence Permit for Long-Term Study

If your course lasts more than three months, you must apply for a student residence permit before travelling to Denmark. The residence permit is normally issued for the duration of your programme. If your course is extended, you may apply to extend your residence permit. Students should ideally begin the application process at least three months before their planned travel date.

Working While Studying in Denmark

Students enrolled in state-approved programmes can work while studying in Denmark. They can work for up to 90 hours per month from September to May and full-time during June, July, and August. The 90-hour monthly limit is roughly equal to 20 hours per week and gives students more flexibility in managing their work hours. However, students who applied on or after 2 May 2025 for a non-state-approved higher education programme are not allowed to work while studying.

Post-study Stay in Denmark

The amount of time you can stay in Denmark after graduation depends on the programme you completed.

Programme Job-Seeking Stay Work Rights During Study Family Can Join
State-approved Professional Bachelor's, Bachelor's, Master's or PhD Up to 3 years Yes Yes
State-approved Master's for Working Professionals 6 months Yes Yes
Danish Business Academy (AP) Programmes 6 months Yes Yes
Non-state-approved programmes (Applied before 2 May 2025) 6 months Yes Yes
Non-state-approved programmes (Applied on or after 2 May 2025) No job-seeking stay No No

Important: Before accepting admission, confirm in writing that your programme is state-approved. This determines whether you can work during your studies, bring family members, and stay in Denmark after graduation.

Denmark Student Visa Validity

A Denmark student residence permit is generally issued for the duration of your study programme. If your studies continue beyond the original permit period, you can apply for an extension before your current permit expires.

Denmark Student Visa Cost

The SIRI case-processing fee for a Denmark student residence permit is DKK 3,060 (approximately ₹44,900). You must pay this fee before submitting your application. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused or withdrawn, and it must be paid separately for each applicant.

SIRI Fee Table

Programme Job-Seeking Stay Work Rights During Study Family Can Join
State-approved Professional Bachelor's, Bachelor's, Master's or PhD Up to 3 years Yes Yes
State-approved Master's for Working Professionals 6 months Yes Yes
Danish Business Academy (AP) Programmes 6 months Yes Yes
Non-state-approved programmes (Applied before 2 May 2025) 6 months Yes Yes
Non-state-approved programmes (Applied on or after 2 May 2025) No job-seeking stay No No

Denmark Student Visa Processing Time

SIRI generally processes Denmark student residence permit applications in about 2 months. If additional documents or information are required, processing may take up to 3 months. Students should apply well in advance to avoid delays before their course begins.

Financial Requirement for Denmark Student Visa (2026)

To receive a Denmark student residence permit, you must show that you can financially support yourself while studying. The required amount is DKK 7,426 per month (approximately ₹1,08,900) for the duration of your studies, up to a maximum of 12 months.

Required Funds

Study Duration Months Counted Funds Required (DKK) Approx. INR
One Semester 6 DKK 44,556 ₹6.54 lakh
Academic Year 10 DKK 74,260 ₹10.9 lakh
One Year or More 12 (maximum) DKK 89,112 ₹13.1 lakh

The bank statement:

  • Must be in your own name.
  • Should be issued within 30 days before submitting your application.
  • Must clearly show the currency.

If you have already paid your first semester tuition fees, you can submit the payment receipt instead of showing the full maintenance amount. Scholarship award letters are also accepted as proof of financial support.

CPR Registration in Denmark

If you stay in Denmark for more than three months, you must register for a CPR (Civil Registration) Number after arrival.

Your CPR number is required to:

  • Receive your Danish health card (Yellow Card).
  • Open a Danish bank account.
  • Obtain a tax card.
  • Apply for MitID (Denmark's digital identity).
  • Receive salary from your employer.
  • Access public healthcare.

Register at an International Citizen Service (ICS) centre or your local Borgerservice as soon as you have a permanent Danish address.

Documents Required

  • Passport and residence permit.
  • SIRI approval letter.
  • Danish accommodation proof.
  • University admission or enrolment letter.
  • Marriage or birth certificates (if registering family members).

Delaying CPR registration can delay opening a bank account, receiving salary, or accessing healthcare.

How to Apply for a Denmark Student Visa

Step 1: Secure admission to a recognised Danish university or higher education institution.

Step 2: Create a Case Order ID on the SIRI portal and pay the application fee.

Step 3: Fill in the ST1 application form. Some sections are completed by your educational institution, while others must be completed by you.

Step 4: Prepare all the required documents, including your passport, admission letter, proof of funds, academic certificates, and language test results.

Step 5: Apply online through the SIRI website and upload all required documents.

Step 6: Visit a Danish Visa Application Centre or Danish diplomatic mission to submit your fingerprints and photograph within 14 days of submitting your online application.

Step 7: SIRI generally processes applications in about 2 months. If additional documents are required, processing may take up to 3 months.

Step 8: After your residence permit is approved, travel to Denmark and complete your CPR registration after arrival.

Step-by-step Denmark student visa application process for international students, including university admission, document preparation, online application, biometrics, and residence permit approval

Scholarships to Study in Denmark

Several scholarships are available to help international students reduce the cost of studying in Denmark.

Scholarship Approximate Value
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships €12,000
Nordplus Scholarship €24,000
Danish Government Scholarship (Ministry of Higher Education and Science) €9,800
CBS International PhD in Economics €51,985
Danish State Tuition Fee Waivers and Scholarships (Roskilde University) €93,600
Lendwise Scholarship* Varies

Study Cost Calculator

How Y-Axis Help You to Study in Denmark

 Y-Axis can assist by giving more vital support to aspirants who wish to study in Denmark. The support process includes,  

  • Free Counseling: Free Counseling on university and course selection.
  • Campus Ready Program: Fly to Denmark with the best and ideal course. 
  • Course RecommendationY-Path gives the best suitable ideas about your study and career options.
  • Coaching: Y-Axis offers IELTS live classes to help students clear with high scores.  
  • Denmark Student Visa: Our expert team helps you to get a Denmark student Visa.

Looking for inspiration

Explore what Global Indians have to say about Y-Axis in shaping their future

Frequently Asked Questions

How much bank balance do I need for a Denmark student visa?
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You must show DKK 7,426 per month to prove you can support yourself while studying in Denmark. You only need to show funds for your study period, up to a maximum of 12 months, which is DKK 89,112 (about ₹13.1 lakh). The money should be in your own bank account, and the bank statement must be issued within 30 days before you apply. The statement should clearly show the currency. If you have already paid your first semester tuition fees, you can submit the payment receipt instead of showing the full living expense funds. If you have a scholarship, you can also use the scholarship award letter as proof of financial support.

How much is the Denmark student visa fee?
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The SIRI application fee for a Denmark student residence permit is DKK 3,060 (approximately ₹44,900). The fee must be paid before submitting your application and is non-refundable.

How long does it take to get a Denmark student visa?
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SIRI usually processes student residence permit applications in about 2 months. If additional documents or information are required, processing may take up to 3 months.

Can I work while studying in Denmark?
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Yes, students enrolled in state-approved programmes can work:


•    Up to 90 hours per month from September to May. 
•    Full-time during June, July and August. 

Students enrolled in non-state-approved programmes who applied on or after 2 May 2025 are not allowed to work while studying.
 

Can I stay in Denmark after graduation?
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It depends on your programme.


•    Up to 3 years for graduates of eligible state-approved bachelor's, master's, professional bachelor's and PhD programmes. 
•    6 months for certain eligible programmes. 
•    No job-seeking stay for students who applied on or after 2 May 2025 to non-state-approved higher education programmes. 

Always check whether your programme is state-approved before accepting admission.
 

Can I work in Denmark if my programme is not state-approved?
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No, if you applied on or after 2 May 2025. Students enrolled in non-state-approved higher education programmes:


•    Cannot work during their studies. 
•    Are not eligible for the post-study job-seeking residence permit. 
•    Cannot bring accompanying family members.
 

What is the ACR I-Card and do I need one?
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The ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card) is mandatory for all 9(g) visa holders in the Philippines. Initial issuance costs approximately PHP 2,700, and the card is required for all international travel while your visa is active. Cardholders must also file an Annual Report with the Bureau of Immigration between January 1 and March 1 each year, or face a fine of up to PHP 2,000.

Can I bring my family while studying in Denmark?
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Students enrolled in eligible state-approved programmes may be able to bring their spouse and dependent children, subject to SIRI's eligibility requirements. Students who apply on or after 2 May 2025 for non-state-approved higher education programmes are not eligible to bring accompanying family members.

Is health insurance mandatory for international students?
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Depending on your nationality and residence status, you may need health or travel insurance before arriving in Denmark. After completing your CPR registration, you will receive access to Denmark's public healthcare system through your Yellow Health Card (Sundhedskort).