Education System in Denmark: What makes it attractive

Denmark is renowned for its progressive, student-centered, and inclusive education system, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, active participation, open dialogue in the learning process, and individual development. The education system in Denmark is based on principles of equality and accessibility, with education mostly tax-financed and free for its students. Let's look into Denmark's educational landscape and holistic education approach.

Why Choose Higher Education in Denmark 

Considering their unique approach and education philosophy, Denmark is a perfect place to pursue higher education. Besides being part of the wonderful education system of Denmark, being surrounded by beautiful and scenic landscapes, and availing of its excellent work-life balance, Denmark offers:  

1.High-quality Education- 

Denmark is home to many top-ranked universities like the University of Copenhagen and the University of Southern Denmark. 

2.Scholarships and Grants- 

With comparatively affordable tuition, there are also multiple scholarships and grants offered, with several government scholarships given based on varying criteria. Moreover, universities provide grants and financial aid for deserving students. Scholarships such as the Erasmus Scholarship are also available.

3.Affordable Living Costs- 

Ranging from EUR 700-900 per month in smaller towns and around EUR 1200 in larger cities.

4.Inviting and Friendly to Newcomers- 

Denmark is one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. The easily accessible healthcare facilities and the large number of social events in Denmark also contribute to a high livability index and quality of life.

5.Incredible Career Opportunities- 

Supplementing its premium education, Denmark offers numerous career opportunities to international students. Students can work while studying (international students can work 20 hr/week on a minimum wage of EUR 10-12 per hour) and avail of internship opportunities through college/university placements. Students also get a job search visa for 6 months once they finish the course.  

Early Education in Denmark 

The education system in Denmark places great importance on developing social skills. Children begin daycare as early as 9 months and kindergarten by 3 years. Manned by childcare professionals, children are equipped with social skills in addition to learning the alphabet and numbers, with the day planned around activities and outdoor play. Formal schooling begins at age 6, and the education approach focuses on problem-solving, collaboration, and working in groups rather than memorization and relying on formal tests. 

Reasons to prefer Denmark:

Why study in Denmark

Grading System of Denmark

Since 2007, all education levels in Denmark (from the elementary education system in Denmark to the university level) have used the 7-trins-skala or seven-step grading scale designed to be compatible with the ECTS scale. The top grade is 12, corresponding to an ‘A’ on the ECTS scale (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). The lowest grade is -3, corresponding to an ‘E’ on the ECTS scale.

The scale consists of the following grades:

Type of Educational Institutes

The national higher education system in Denmark is in accordance with the Bologna Process, with higher education offered by a range of universities ranging from university colleges and business academies to specialized institutions. The Ministry of Higher Education and Science is mainly responsible for higher education, with some institutions within the arts under the mandate of the Ministry of Culture.

1.Folkeskole (Public Schools): 

Publicly funded primary education system in Denmark and lower secondary schools providing education for children aged 6 to 16. 

2.Gymnasium: 

Upper secondary schools for students aged 16 to 19 offering specialized academic programs.

3.Universities and Colleges: 

Denmark is home to many state-recognized universities and specialized higher education institutions offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in a range of fields. 

4.Business Schools: 

Business schools that offer programs in business administration, management, economics, and related fields.

5.Language Schools: 

Language schools in Denmark offer language courses for international students wanting to learn Danish or improve their language skills.

6.Folk High Schools: 

These are unique Danish institutions that offer non-formal adult education programs emphasizing personal development and community engagement.

Top Universities in Denmark 

Here’s a list of the top universities in Denmark. 

Application Deadline and Admission Process

Application deadlines and document requirements must be researched beforehand by visiting the official university websites.Admission to any Bachelor's, Master’s, or Professional program needs three types of requirements to be fulfilled:

1.General entry requirements: 

An applicant's qualifications must be on par with a Danish upper secondary school leaving certificate. For example, Indian applicants should present either an All India Senior School Certificate (AISSC) from CBSE (passed with a minimum of 65%), an Indian School Certificate from CISCE (passed with a minimum of 65%), or an equivalent Higher Secondary Certificate from other boards (passed with a minimum of 85%).  

2.Specific entry requirements: 

Specific requirements include the level of the subjects cleared, marks for individual subjects, overall average and other specific course requirements. For example, other requirements can include requiring a BSc with relevant subject components or topic profile if applying for an MSc in Agrobiology.

3.Language requirements: 

Requirements concerning Danish or English proficiency may apply. If an applicant plans to undertake a course in English, English language proficiency must be demonstrated on par with the Danish upper secondary course ‘English B’ level. English language proficiency tests (like IELTS-min 6.5, TOEFL iBT-min 83, or Cambridge English Qualifications- min 180) or certificates from previous studies can be used to document this. 

Begin your admission application by visiting the national admission website: www.optagelse.dk. Up to 8 programs can be applied at once, and an individual signature page has to be sent for each program (generated upon completing the digital application). The signature page has to be printed, signed, and sent to the university offering the program. The page contains the applicants' ID, which allows the institution to find and download the application.

Read more about study in Denmark:

• Universities in Denmark
• Cost of Study in Denmark
• Cost of Living in Denmark
• MBA in Denmark