Denmark has become a premier destination for international students, celebrated for its high-quality, English-taught Master's degrees and innovative pedagogical approach. Beyond academic excellence, students are drawn to Denmark for its exceptional quality of life and the vast array of diverse study programmes offered at world-class Danish universities.
If you are considering studying abroad in Denmark, having a clear understanding of tuition and living expenses is essential for effective financial planning. This guide provides comprehensive estimates on tuition fees, accommodation, groceries, transportation, and additional academic costs to help you prepare for your journey.
1. University tuition fees in Denmark
Higher education in Denmark is tuition-free for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland. This policy also extends to international students participating in established exchange programmes.
You may also be eligible for tuition-free studies in Denmark if you meet the following specific criteria:
- You already have either a permanent or a temporary residence permit
- One of your parents is from a non-EU/EEA country and works in Denmark
For non-EU/EEA citizens, annual tuition fees typically range from 6,000 to 16,000 EUR. Because certain specialized or niche programmes may carry higher costs, we strongly recommend verifying the exact fee structure on your prospective university’s official website.
Explore more comprehensive information regarding tuition fees in Danish universities.
Tuition-free universities for EU/EEA students
Here are several examples of top-rated, tuition-free universities in Denmark for eligible EU/EEA students:
Universities we recommend in Denmark
Discover the best institutions in the country according to current global university rankings.
2. Student living costs in Denmark
Average living costs in Danish cities
While the absence of tuition fees is a significant draw, Denmark maintains a high cost of living. Managing your monthly budget effectively is crucial to ensuring you can comfortably afford your stay while enjoying the Danish lifestyle.
On average, international students should budget between 800 and 1,200 EUR per month. Your total expenditure will depend on personal lifestyle choices, such as dining out, travel, and social activities. Keep in mind that living in Copenhagen, the capital city, typically commands a higher monthly budget.
Accommodation costs
Rent will likely be your largest monthly expense, accounting for roughly one-third of your budget. Expect to pay between 400 and 670 EUR in most cities, whereas accommodation in Copenhagen often ranges from 800 to 900 EUR.
By starting your housing search early, you may find more affordable options, including rooms outside the city center for as little as 250 EUR per month.
Explore the primary accommodation options available to students in Denmark:
- Students living alone – 450 EUR/month
- Students living with their partner/a colleague – 500 EUR/month
- Student halls of residence (kollegier) – between 250 - 300 EUR/month
Securing housing immediately before the semester starts can be challenging. We strongly advise initiating your search months in advance. This proactive approach allows you to compare prices and locations without the pressure of a last-minute decision, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
- Studying in Denmark? University Living helps you find student rooms and shared flats in Copenhagen and beyond—no stress, no last-minute panic.
Gain insights by reading firsthand experiences from students who have pursued their degrees in Denmark:
Food costs
Monthly grocery expenses generally range from 200 to 270 EUR, depending on your shopping habits. You can significantly lower your food costs by choosing budget-friendly supermarkets such as Bilka, Lidl, Netto, Fakta, or Aldi.
Dining out in a city restaurant typically costs around 30 EUR per person, while a standard beer or soft drink at a local bar is usually priced at about 5 EUR.
Transportation costs
Cycling is the preferred mode of transport for nearly 50% of Danish students, while 30% rely on public transportation. A monthly pass for the bus, metro, or train usually costs between 40 and 50 EUR.
Denmark—and especially Copenhagen—is a true cyclist’s paradise, where bikes often outnumber the local population. Renting a bicycle is an affordable, authentic, and highly recommended way to navigate the city.
Extra costs and savings
- You will spend some money on books and other study materials, usually between 30 – 65 EUR/month.
- On average, for social activities, students spend between 120 and 175 EUR/month.
- If you register for an international youth travel card, you can get major discounts to visit sights around Denmark.
- If you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen and don’t register with the Danish Civil Registration System, you might have to pay for health insurance. Besides medical costs, there might be other things you would want your insurance to cover. Learn more about international student insurance for students studying in Denmark.
For updated price comparisons and detailed local cost-of-living data, you can consult the Numbeo website.
3. University scholarships and grants
There are several strategic ways to manage and cover your study and living expenses while in Denmark. Let’s examine these options in more detail.
- The Danish Government Scholarships under the Cultural Agreements – these are scholarships offered to highly qualified exchange students who want to study the Danish language, habits, and culture or related subjects (e.g. Architecture, Design).
- The Erasmus+ or Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) programmes – these are programmes offered by the European Union in collaboration with universities and other institutions. The aim of the programmes is to encourage people to go and study abroad, to explore and embrace different cultures, and develop both interpersonal and academic skills.
- The Nordplus programme – it’s available only for students who already study at a Nordic or Baltic higher education institution. If you qualify, you might have the opportunity to study in another Nordic or Baltic country.
- The Fulbright Programme – only available for American students who enrol in a Master’s or PhD programme in Denmark.
- Scholarships offered by universities to non-EU/EEA citizens – these scholarships are funded by the Danish government. To see which university offers them and how/if you can apply, check the admission or funding/scholarship page on the university website.
- The Danish State Educational Support (SU) – those are educational grants normally offered to Danish students. However, international students can also apply as long as they meet the application requirements.
Additionally, you can explore our portal to browse an extensive list of available degree programmes.
4. Visa and residence permit fees for Denmark
Students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland may stay in Denmark for up to three months without a permit. Beyond this period, you must apply for a registration certificate, which is processed within a week and issued free of charge.
Non-EU/EEA citizens are required to obtain a residence permit to study in Denmark. The processing typically takes approximately two months and includes a fee of 255 EUR. For complete details on visa regulations and permits, please visit the Nyidanmark.dk website.
Verify specific student visa requirements for Denmark based on your country of citizenship:
Never miss another updates!
Get the fastest exam results, recruitment news, and educational guides delivered directly to your phone.