Image Credits: Pexels
In recent years, Denmark has quietly emerged as one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations for Indian students. While countries like the USA, UK, and Australia have long dominated the study-abroad conversation, Denmark is now at the forefront when it comes to study abroad education with over 30+ higher education institutions with 500+ English-taught programs, including bachelors, masters, and PhDs. According to data in 2024, there were approximately 27,741 international students enrolled in higher education programs in Denmark across all levels of study. Out of which 509 were Indian students that chose to study in Denmark. Some of the popular courses in Denmark include life sciences, engineering, business courses, architecture and environmental sustainability.
So, if you’re an Indian student exploring international education options that balance quality, affordability, and career outcomes, Denmark should be on your list to consider. This guide breaks down everything you need to know from top universities and popular courses to admissions, fees, eligibility, scholarships, visas, and life as a student in Denmark.
Denmark consistently ranks among the happiest and most safe countries in the world, and its education system reflects the same values: balance, innovation, and inclusivity. The country has globally recognized universities like the University of Copenhagen, University of southern Denmark, Technical university of Denmark and many other top universities. Over 700 English-taught programs are available especially if you are planning to study masters. It also offers practical, industry-oriented learning rather than rote memorization. It is also said that it offers strong post-study work opportunities in engineering, IT, life sciences and business. These universities are known for the research based teaching.
Unlike traditional lecture-heavy systems, Danish universities encourage creativity, critical thinking, group projects, problem solving, and open discussion skills that global employers value deeply. The country is also widely recognised for its safe and inclusive society, where equality, diversity, and mutual respect are deeply valued, allowing students from different cultural backgrounds to feel welcomed and secure. Universities also have strong student unions and support systems that assist with academics, mental well-being, housing, and career guidance, ensuring students receive help whenever needed.
Denmark offers education at three main levels:
Most international students from India prefer master’s programs, as Denmark is especially known for its advanced postgraduate education. Another defining feature is Problem-Based Learning (PBL) students work on real industry or societal problems, often in collaboration with companies. Education is generally free for EU/EEA students, and the system encourages a balance between academic learning and practical skills.
Denmark’s primary education system is widely recognised for its child-centric and stress-free approach to learning. Education is free and compulsory from ages 6 to 16, and over 98% of Danish children attend public schools funded by the government. Instead of heavy examinations, the focus is on curiosity, collaboration, and creativity.
Formal exams are introduced relatively late, allowing students to develop confidence and independent thinking early on. Classrooms encourage open dialogue, where students address teachers by first names and are motivated to question ideas. According to the OECD Education at a Glance, Denmark consistently ranks high in student well-being and satisfaction, reflecting its emphasis on mental health alongside academics.
Project-based learning is central to the curriculum. For example, students may work on environmental projects linked to Denmark’s strong sustainability culture or solve real-world math problems connected to everyday life. This system produces learners who are not just academically capable, but also socially aware and adaptable.
Denmark’s higher education system is globally respected for its academic excellence, innovation, and strong industry integration.
Danish universities consistently feature in global rankings. Institutions like the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and Technical University of Denmark (DTU) regularly rank among the top 150 universities worldwide(QS World University Rankings). Programmes are designed in close collaboration with industries, ensuring that education aligns with labour market needs.
Students frequently work in teams to solve real business, engineering, health, or technology challenges. For instance, engineering students may collaborate with renewable energy companies, while business students work on live case studies from Danish startups or multinational firms like Maersk, Novo Nordisk, and LEGO.
Internships and industry projects are often embedded within degree programmes, giving students hands-on experience before graduation. According to official Danish education data, over 80% of international graduates find employment or continue further studies within a short period after completing their degree. This strong employability is supported by Denmark’s emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and digital skills.
As Denmark’s former Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen once noted,
“Education is not just about knowledge, but about preparing citizens to participate actively in society.”
This philosophy is evident across all levels of Danish education, making the country a powerful choice for students seeking both academic quality and real-world readiness.
Danish higher education follows a student-centred and problem-based learning approach, where students work on real-world challenges, case studies, and industry projects. Collaboration with companies, internships, and research opportunities are integral parts of many programmes. This practical focus ensures graduates are not only academically strong but also well prepared for the global job market.
| Rank | University | Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (DKK) (INR) | Best For / Popular Subjects |
|---|
| 1 | University of Copenhagen (UCPH) | 75,000 – 1,27,000 DKK (₹9 – ₹15.2 lakh) | Life Sciences & Health, Computer Science, Economics, Environmental Studies, Humanities — strong research focus |
| 2 | Aarhus University (AU) | 60,000 – 1,21,000 DKK (₹7.2 – ₹14.5 lakh) | Natural Sciences, Business & Economics, Psychology, IT & Engineering basics |
| 3 | Technical University of Denmark (DTU) | 1,00,000 – 1,34,000 DKK (₹12 – ₹16.1 lakh) | Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil), AI/Robotics, Biotechnology |
| 4 | Copenhagen Business School (CBS) | 93,000 – 1,19,000 DKK (₹11.2 – ₹14.3 lakh) | Business, International Business, Finance, Marketing, Strategy |
| 5 | Aalborg University (AAU) | 56,000 – 1,19,000 DKK (₹6.7 – ₹14.3 lakh) | Engineering, IT, Media & Communication, Problem-Based Learning |
| 6 | University of Southern Denmark (SDU) | 45,000 – 1,04,000 DKK (₹5.4 – ₹12.5 lakh) | Public Health, Engineering, Data Science, Business |
| 7 | IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) | 90,000 – 1,12,000 DKK (₹10.8 – ₹13.4 lakh) | Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game & Digital Design |
| 8 | Roskilde University (RUC) | 67,000 – 1,34,000 DKK (₹8 – ₹16.1 lakh) | Social Sciences, Communication, Interdisciplinary Studies |
| 9 | VIA University College | 45,000 – 75,000 DKK (₹5.4 – ₹9 lakh) | Applied Engineering, Business, Design & Tech programs |
| 10 | Copenhagen School of Design & Technology (KEA) | 52,000 – 90,000 DKK (varies) (₹6.2 – ₹10.8 lakh) | Design, Technology, Multimedia & Creative Fields |
For Bachelor’s Programs
Apply for visa and scholarship
Shortlist universities and programs
Prepare documents:
Academic transcripts
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
CV / Resume
English test scores
Apply online via university portals
Pay application fees (€100–€150 approx.)
Await offer letter
The cost of living in Denmark is a bit on a higher side than most countries. For a single Indian students in Denmark, expect monthly living costs of roughly 6,000 DKK (Danish Krone) to 8,000 DKK(₹70,000-₹1,05,000), Major expenses include accommodation (shared housing costing around €400–€800 per month), food and groceries (€200–€300 per month), transport, and personal expenses. Cities like Copenhagen are more expensive, while Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg offer more affordable living. Cooking at home, cycling, and using student discounts can significantly reduce costs.
To secure a Danish student visa, international students must show proof of sufficient funds, currently around DKK 6,397 per month (about ₹72,000). Indian students are also allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during summer holidays to earn for a living. Average student wages range between 110–140 DKK per hour, allowing students to earn roughly 8,000–12,000 DKK per month, which can cover a large part of living expenses. Although Denmark has higher living costs, its strong salary levels and part-time work opportunities help students manage expenses effectively.
Denmark is known for its post study work opportunities so if you graduate from a danish university you can stay and find a job but the time period depends on your student residence permit.
After graduating from a Danish higher-education institution, international students, including Indians, are eligible for a job-seeking residence permit of up to three years, allowing them to stay in Denmark and look for full-time employment. This permit usually comes automatically with the student residence permit, provided the student’s passport is valid for the full duration; otherwise, a separate application may be required. During this job-seeking period, graduates are allowed to work without hourly restrictions, unlike the student visa which limits work to around 90 hours per month. If a graduate does not find a job immediately, they may also be eligible to join an unemployment insurance fund (A-kasse) and receive benefits, subject to meeting specific residence and work conditions.
However, from May 2, 2025, Denmark has introduced new restrictions for students from non-EU/EEA countries, including India, only for those enrolled in non-state-approved (unaccredited) programmes. Students starting such programmes on or after this date will not receive an automatic work permit, will not be allowed to stay in Denmark after graduation for job-seeking, and will not be eligible for family reunification. These changes are aimed at ensuring student visas are used strictly for education and not as a migration route. Importantly, students who applied for or received their study permits before May 2, 2025 are not affected, and those continuing under existing permits retain their original work and post-study rights.
For Indian students, the key takeaway is clear: those graduating from state-approved (government-accredited) Danish universities and programmes remain fully eligible for part-time work during studies, up to three years of post-study job-seeking residence, and access to unemployment benefits if conditions are met. In contrast, students enrolling in non-state-approved programmes after May 2, 2025 will lose these benefits entirely. Therefore, Indian applicants are strongly advised to choose accredited programmes only, apply early where possible, and always verify a programme’s accreditation status before applying to study in Denmark.
Thus, Denmark stands out as a smart and future-focused study destination for Indian students seeking high-quality education, global exposure, and strong career prospects. With world-ranked universities, 500+ English-taught programmes, and a teaching style that emphasises critical thinking, innovation, and real-world problem-solving, Denmark prepares students for both international careers and further research opportunities.
While tuition fees and living costs are relatively higher compared to some European countries, generous post-study work opportunities of up to three years, part-time work rights, competitive salaries, and access to industry-driven education help balance the investment. Most importantly, choosing state-approved Danish universities ensures full work and post-study benefits. For Indian students looking for a safe, inclusive society, globally relevant skills, and long-term career growth in Europe, Denmark offers a well-rounded and rewarding education pathway.
Most people don’t spend much time thinking about HPV until they’re told they should get…
The much-anticipated E-Summit ’26, organised by the Symbiosis Institute of Digital and Telecom Management (SIDTM),…
In a world where we encounter many product launches, beauty influencers endorsing various items or…
New Zealand isn't the first place most people think about when considering where to study.…
Preparing for a professional career in financial regulation and governance? SEBI Grade A is among…
Pune, January 2026 - The Symbiosis Institute of Digital & Telecom Management (SIDTM), a constituent…