Study in Denmark

Study in Denmark

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Last Updated: 09-09-2026

Study in Denmark: Top Universities, Fees, Scholarships & Visa Process 

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

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+

Popular Courses to Study in Denmark

Denmark is a strong study destination for international students, particularly in engineering, IT, business, life sciences, sustainability, and design. Danish institutions offer a wide range of English-taught programmes, and the official Study in Denmark portal currently lists more than 400 programmes. Below are the best courses to study in Denmark.

Course / Study Area Popular Specialisations Suitable For
Engineering Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical, Environmental Engineering Students with a technical background
Computer Science & IT Computer Science, Software Development, Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity IT and technology students
Business & Management International Business, Business Administration, Finance, Management Commerce and business graduates
Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Data Analytics, Machine Learning, AI, Business Analytics Students interested in data and technology
Renewable Energy & Sustainability Wind Energy, Sustainable Energy, Environmental Technology Students interested in green technology
Life Sciences & Biotechnology Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Science and biology graduates
Architecture & Design Architecture, Industrial Design, Digital Design, Product Design Creative and design-oriented students
Healthcare & Nursing Nursing, Health Sciences, Public Health, Nutrition Healthcare-focused students
Food Science & Technology Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology Students interested in food and life sciences
Business Analytics Business Intelligence, Analytics, Digital Business Business and IT graduates
Digital Design UX/UI Design, Interactive Design, Digital Media Students interested in design and technology
Environmental Science Climate Science, Environmental Management, Sustainability Students interested in environmental issues
Robotics & Automation Robotics, Automation, Control Systems Engineering and technology students
Maritime Studies Maritime Engineering, Shipping, Marine Technology Students interested in the maritime sector
Tourism & Hospitality Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Service Management Students interested in tourism and hospitality

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.

Cost of Studying in Denmark

The overall cost of studying in Denmark depends on your nationality, university, course, and lifestyle. For international students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, tuition fees generally apply. Denmark can be an expensive study destination, but students can manage costs by choosing affordable accommodation, cooking at home, and using bicycles or public transport.

Tuition Fees in Denmark

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.

Cost of Living for Students in Denmark

A student's monthly living expenses can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle. Based on the official student budget estimates, accommodation is usually one of the largest expenses, followed by food and personal costs.

Monthly Expense Approximate Cost
Accommodation DKK 3,000–6,500
Food DKK 2,000–3,500
Transport Around DKK 300
Books & supplies DKK 400–650
Mobile phone Around DKK 250
Insurance Around DKK 300
Personal expenses Around DKK 2,000

Study Cost Calculator

Estimated Total Cost

For a non-EU international student, a practical estimate would be:

Cost Category Estimated Annual Cost
Tuition fees DKK 45,000–120,000
Living expenses Approximately DKK 99,000–156,000
Total estimated cost Around DKK 144,000–276,000 per year

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

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

Types of Denmark Student Visas

Applicant Requirement
Non-EU/EEA and Swiss citizens Apply for a Denmark Student Residence Permit before travelling to Denmark.
EU/EEA and Swiss citizens Register with Danish authorities after arrival. A residence permit is generally not required.

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.

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

SIRI Case Area Fee (DKK) Approx. INR
Student Residence Permit DKK 3,060 ₹44,900
Job-Seeking Residence Permit DKK 3,060 ₹44,900
Accompanying Family DKK 3,080 ₹45,200
Au Pair and Internship Cases DKK 4,305 ₹63,200
Work Permit Cases DKK 6,810 ₹99,900

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.

Proof of funds for Denmark Student Visa

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.

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

Part-Time Jobs in Denmark for International Students

International students in Denmark can work part-time alongside their studies. Student jobs can help cover some living expenses while also giving students valuable Danish work experience and improving their CV. However, students should not depend entirely on part-time income to fund their studies.

Part-Time Job Approx. Hourly Pay
Restaurant / Café Staff DKK 120–160
Retail Assistant DKK 120–160
Warehouse Worker DKK 125–170
Delivery Worker DKK 120–170
Cleaning Staff DKK 120–160
Customer Service DKK 130–180
Teaching / Tutoring DKK 150–250
Research Assistant DKK 150–220
IT / Software Assistant DKK 160–250
Student Assistant DKK 140–220
Hotel Staff DKK 120–160
Childcare / Babysitting DKK 120–180

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Denmark

Denmark offers international graduates the opportunity to stay after completing an eligible higher education programme and look for a job.

Category Details
Post-Study Job-Seeking Period Up to 3 years for eligible graduates
Eligible Graduates Professional Bachelor's, Bachelor's, Master's and PhD graduates
Work During Job Search Up to 90 hours per month from September to May
Summer Work Full-time work in June, July and August
Full-Time Work After Job Offer Graduates can apply for an appropriate work and residence permit
Popular Job Sectors IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Business, Finance and Renewable Energy
Language Advantage Danish language skills can improve job opportunities
Long-Term Opportunity Graduates can build work experience and explore longer-term residence options

Key point: The post-study period allows eligible international graduates to remain in Denmark for up to 3 years to search for employment. However, this does not automatically give unrestricted full-time work rights during the entire period.

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 Recommendation: Y-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

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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.
 

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 a CPR number, and do I need one?
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Yes. If you stay in Denmark for more than three months, you must register for a CPR (Civil Registration) Number after arriving in Denmark. A CPR number is required to:

  • Access public healthcare.
  • Receive your Danish health card.
  • Open a Danish bank account.
  • Obtain a tax card.
  • Receive salary.
  • Apply for MitID.
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).