Study in Denmark for Indian Students: Universities, Cost & Programs

Dreaming of a top-notch education amidst breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant student life? Look no further than Denmark! 

According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, Danish universities are among the best in the world, with three universities ranked in the top 200.

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Imagine earning INR 7.3L to INR 8.1L monthly salary in a country consistently ranked at the top of the UN’s World Happiness Report—yes, you heard it right! Pursuing your higher studies from top Danish universities can help you get high-paying jobs in Denmark. Beyond the happiness factor, Denmark boasts captivating geographical features like stunning coastlines, charming towns, and a vibrant capital city, Copenhagen.

In recent years, over 4000 Indian students have been studying in Scandinavian nations, of which  413 were enrolled in the best Danish universities. This reflects Denmark’s growing appeal, as it offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and a supportive international environment. 

If you want to study in Denmark, keep reading to find out everything you need to know, from the cost to the best courses offered!

Key Highlights:

Thinking about studying in Denmark and attending a top Danish university? This table outlines the key details you need to know. From the best Denmark universities, such as the University of Copenhagen, the approximate cost of studying in Denmark, and the scholarship opportunities, we’ve got a brief overview of what awaits you during your academic adventure in Denmark.

Please note: The tuition fees above are rough estimates and may differ depending on the program and faculty.

Why Study in Denmark? 

Denmark is a forward-thinking nation and a global education leader. Top universities like the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the Technical University of Denmark are ranked among the top 130 universities in the world. 

The best Denmark universities are known for prioritising advanced research and innovation, fostering a dynamic learning environment. This focus on pushing boundaries translates into high-quality programs that equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in today’s competitive job market.

Modern infrastructure

Modern infrastructure plays a crucial role in supporting this innovative spirit. Universities across Denmark feature state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, research centres, and modern libraries.

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Diverse Institutions

Denmark’s higher education system offers a variety of institutions catering to different learning styles and academic goals.

• Research Universities: These prestigious institutions are at the forefront of academic research and offer a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across diverse subjects. Examples include the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the Technical University of Denmark.
• University Colleges: These institutions focus on applied science and professional programs, providing students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed for specific careers. Examples include Copenhagen Business Academy and Aarhus University College.
• Business Academies: These colleges offer shorter, career-oriented programs specifically designed to prepare students for immediate employment in the business and commercial sectors.

Higher Education in Denmark

With a fourth-place rank in the Quality of Life Index, Denmark offers a safe and easygoing environment that guarantees high living standards, a strong welfare network, and low crime rates. Additionally, 70% of the population in Denmark uses English as a means of communication thus making it easier for international students to study in Denmark.

• Multicultural Learning Environment: Denmark welcomes international students, fostering a diverse and enriching learning experience.

• English-Taught Programs: Many universities offer a wide range of English-taught programs in engineering, business, life sciences, design, and social sciences.

• High Quality of Life and Safety: Ranked 4th in the world in the Quality of Life Index, Denmark boasts a high standard of living.

• Scholarship for International students: Certain universities and colleges even offer scholarships to students based on merit with the aim to enrol high-achievers who are also able to uplift their education system.

• Support for International Students: Universities assist with pre-departure guidance, housing, and immigration procedures.

• Exceptional Career Opportunities: Along with a top-notch education, Denmark also boasts excellent job prospects for international students. While studying, international students in Denmark can work up to 20 hrs/week part-time on a minimum wage of INR 901 to INR 1081.

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5 Best Denmark Universities

For international students to study in Denmark, they must meet certain academic qualifications and language proficiency standards. English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL are mandatory for most universities, with minimum scores of IELTS (6.5) and TOEFL (79).

Indian students may consider strong fields in Denmark, like sustainable energy or business when choosing the course.

Let’s take you through the top 5 Denmark universities and discuss their annual tuition fees, popular courses, and student life.

University of Copenhagen (KU)

For students worldwide who want to study in Denmark, the University of Copenhagen is a dream destination. Founded in 1479, KU is Denmark’s oldest and most prestigious university, ranked as the fifth-best university in Europe. It is renowned for its advanced research and international outlook and offers a comprehensive range of programs. 

There are 54 master’s degree programs to choose from, and more than 500 courses taught in English. 

Student life: Every year, the University of Copenhagen attracts 5,500 students from all over the world. It is in Copenhagen, a dynamic city rich in culture and history and offers a vibrant social life. The University of Copenhagen offers a variety of clubs, organisations, and study groups where students can participate in a wide range of activities.

Alumni: Mette Frederiksen, Master in African Studies 2009 (Prime Minister of Denmark since 2019)

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Copenhagen:

Aarhus University

Founded in 1928, AU is a renowned research university known for its strong interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation focus. Ranked among the top 25 universities in Europe, AU offers more than 50 complete degree programmes in English at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels.

Student life: AU offers a lively and international campus environment in Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. At Aarhus University, you can join more than 4000 international students representing more than 120 nationalities. The university offers a dynamic learning experience with open and critical discussions between the students and the teachers.

Alumni: Bjarne Stroustrup, master’s degree in mathematics and computer science. (Professor and computer scientist)

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at Aarhus University:

Technical University of Denmark

Established in 1829, DTU is a leading technical university renowned for its focus on engineering, natural sciences, and technology. Ranked among the top 50 universities in Europe, DTU has 4 campuses and several research and test facilities throughout Denmark. 

Not only that, but 60% of DTU graduates got employment in jobs related to their fields while studying at the university.

Student life: With over 13,000 students worldwide, DTU presents a lively student and campus life. You can join one of the many clubs and associations or attend the Friday bars and other social events and festive occasions at DTU.

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the Technical University of Denmark:

Copenhagen Business School

Founded in 1917, CBS is an independent public business school in Denmark. It is renowned for its innovative teaching methods, strong international partnerships, and close ties to the Danish business community. CBS is one of the largest business schools in Europe and one of the 8 Danish universities and offers top business administration, economics, and law courses.

Student life: The campus is always full of life, with more than 21,000 students. Students use the campus for socialising and studying. Collaboration is an essential part of being a student at CBS.  CBS offers a dynamic and career-oriented learning environment in the heart of Copenhagen.

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at Copenhagen Business School:

University of Southern Denmark

Founded in 1966, SDU is a comprehensive university with campuses in Odense, Kolding, and Esbjerg. With over 27,000 students, almost 20% of whom are from abroad, SDU is regarded as a world-class research university and one of the world’s top 50 young universities.

With around 115 different study programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering, graduates from the University of Southern Denmark can now be found in almost every occupation in the global community. 

Student life: SDU is home to students from 80 nationalities who come together and create a multicultural study environment. SDU offers a diverse campus environment across its locations, providing a vibrant social scene for students. 

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Southern Denmark:

Choosing What to Study in Denmark

Denmark’s higher education system offers international students various academic opportunities. Over 500 English-taught study programmes are available at 30 Danish higher education institutions.

Many Danish programs integrate practical work experience into the curriculum. This could involve internships, project-based learning, or close collaboration with industry professionals. You can choose from research-intensive universities to more career-focused colleges depending on your learning style and goals.

In February of 2024, the present Employment Rate in Denmark grew to 69.80 per cent from 68.70 per cent in January. This means that Indian students can easily land a high-paying job in Denmark after completing their higher education in the most sought-after subjects such as Business administration and Environmental science.

Let’s look at the 5 best courses to study in Denmark that can help you land a high-paying job!

Please note: The salary figures above are rough estimates and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

Job opportunities in Denmark

Denmark boasts a thriving job market with a strong demand for skilled professionals.  This means graduates from top Danish universities can land exciting positions upon graduation. Novo Nordisk, Deloitte, Carlsberg Group and KPMG are some top companies hiring graduates from Danish universities.

• Thriving Sectors: Denmark is a leader in several key sectors, including business, information technology (IT), artificial intelligence (AI), software development, life sciences, and food production. Graduates with degrees in these fields will be in high demand.
• Graduate Programs: Many leading Danish companies offer structured graduate programs to nurture and develop fresh talent. These programs provide graduates with valuable on-the-job experience, and mentorship, and often lead to permanent positions within the company. Examples include Arla Foods, Danfoss, Novo Nordisk, and Vestas, all offering programs specifically for recent graduates 

Intakes in Denmark in 2024

After learning about the top universities in Denmark, it is important to understand the best time to apply. Danish universities traditionally follow a two-semester structure with admissions taking place during designated intake periods.

Main Intake Periods:

• Fall/Autumn Intake (mid-March deadline): For international students who want to study in Denmark, this is the main intake for most universities. It offers the widest range of programs and allows you to start your studies in the fall semester.
• Spring Intake (varies, often October/November deadline): Fewer universities offer a Spring intake. This can be an option if you miss the Fall deadline or prefer to start in the Spring semester. However, program options might be limited.

Check for Rolling Admissions: A few universities in Denmark might have rolling admissions for some programs. This means applications are processed on an ongoing basis until places are filled.

University Variations: Deadlines and admissions processes can vary between universities. While the Fall semester is the main intake for most, a few might offer a Spring intake with deadlines around October/November.

Application Deadlines: Deadlines are strictly enforced. You must submit your application well in advance to avoid penalties. 

Scholarship in Denmark for Indian Students

To study in Denmark you can get scholarships that can help streamline your academic finances. These scholarships and grants can come from the Danish government, Erasmus Mundus, and individual universities. 

174 Indian Students were awarded the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for Higher Studies in Europe in the academic year 2023-24.

Financial aid can vary and might cover full or partial tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters provides international students with a monthly scholarship of up to INR 1.2L.  By combining scholarships, grants, savings, and part-time work opportunities, studying in Denmark can become a more financially feasible option for Indian students.

Here’s a breakdown of scholarship opportunities specifically for Indian students.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Program

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJMs) are prestigious international postgraduate (Master’s) degree programs offered by various European universities. The EU provides competitive scholarships to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs to the best students worldwide and funds those exchange programs. 

EU provides individuals with a monthly scholarship of INR 1.2L (€1,400) for up to 24 months. 

Eligibility Criteria

• Students must have a bachelor’s level education from their respective countries.
• Graduate before the master’s programme starts

Also read: Erasmus Scholarship 2024- Eligibility, Application, and Selection.

Danish Government Scholarships Non-EU Students- University of Copenhagen

The Danish Government Scholarship program, in cooperation with the University of Copenhagen (UCPH), provides limited tuition waivers and grants. Scholarships are awarded on a merit basis to highly talented students from non-EU/EEU countries with excellent academic achievement.

The Danish Government Scholarship is awarded as either full or partial tuition fee waivers and an amount of INR 74K (€816) per month to cover basic living costs. 

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this prestigious scholarship, you must:

• Be a citizen of a country outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
• Have secured admission to a Master’s degree program at UCPH.
• Be granted a time-limited residence permit in Denmark for the purpose of studying a higher educational program.

Want to learn more about the eligibility and application process? Read: Danish Government Scholarships.

Danish State Scholarships Non-EU Students- Aarhus University

Aarhus University also offers a few Danish state scholarships for non-EU students, which are financed by the Danish government. The scholarship may consist of a complete or partial waiver of tuition fees and a monthly payment of INR 74K (€816) to cover basic living costs. 

Under this scholarship, 75% of the tuition waivers are awarded to students from India, Indonesia, Turkey, USA, Colombia, Brazil, China and Mexico.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this prestigious scholarship, you must:

• Only non-EU/EEA Switzerland applicants are available
• Have secured admission to a Master’s degree program at Aarhus University
• Applicants must follow the University’s general admission requirements, application procedures and deadlines.

Cost of Living in Denmark for International Students

Denmark offers a high standard of living coupled with a world-class education system. While costs may vary depending on factors like lifestyle and city of residence, students can expect to spend INR 78K – INR 91K monthly on average.

With effective budget planning, students can find ways to make their stay both affordable and enriching. 

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs of living for Indian students who want to study in Denmark.

Working in Denmark on a Student Visa and Post-Study

Are you wondering if you can work in Denmark on a student visa? Then the answer is yes because Denmark offers various opportunities for international students who wish to work during their studies and continue working after graduation. 

Denmark allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss students to work up to 20 hours a week and full-time during June, July, and August. However, you must have a work permit to work in Denmark.

Typically, international students earn up to INR 900 – INR 1100 per hour while working on a student visa.

Residence and Work Permit Post-Study

After graduation, international students can apply for a residence and work permit for up to 3 years to seek employment in Denmark.

How to Apply for a Student Visa in Denmark

Did you know that the Danish student visa success rate for international students applying to master courses is approximately 95%? This means that your chances of getting a student visa to study in Denmark and enrol in your dream university are higher.

Now, let’s have a look at the process for student visa application.

Documents Required:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Denmark.
• Formal Letter of Acceptance: An official acceptance letter from your chosen university in Denmark confirming your enrollment in a full-time degree program.
• Proof of Financial Means: Documentation demonstrating you have sufficient funds (approx INR 82K per month) to support yourself throughout your studies.
• Documentation of Health Insurance: Proof of private health insurance covering your stay in Denmark.
• Passport Photo
• Proof of Paid Application Fee: Confirmation that you have paid the student visa application fee (approx INR 23K)

Application Process:

1. Complete the online application by creating a case order on The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) website.
2. Pay the Application Fee
3. You can submit the Application either on the online portal or in person at a Danish diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your home country.
4. Register Biometrics: The SIRI system will inform you if this step is necessary for your application.
5. Processing time for a Danish student visa is typically around 60 days. 
6. Receive your Visa online or collect it from the Danish embassy/consulate.

Summing Up

Denmark emerges as a top destination for international students, blending academic excellence, affordability, and an unmatched quality of life. With renowned universities like the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, Denmark stands out globally, boasting three universities in the top 200 worldwide.

Furthermore, Denmark is a thriving hub for business and innovation. This translates into exciting internship and career opportunities for international students seeking to gain valuable experience alongside their studies.

Join the ever-growing number of Indian students who have already discovered Denmark’s unique appeal, where you can earn up to INR 8.1L per month post-graduation. 

So, don’t wait and get going on your journey of enrolling in your dream university in Denmark.

Frequently Asked Questions