Denmark is a popular destination for international students. It can be an appealing place for higher education because eligible students can study tuition-free, students can compare lower-cost universities in Denmark, and the country has a range of universities to consider. Students should still budget for living expenses and other costs.
In Denmark, higher education is tuition-free for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, as well as certain other eligible students, including some students with qualifying residence permits and exchange students. Other full-degree students generally pay tuition fees, which vary by program and degree level. To reduce costs and explore ways to study tuition-free in Denmark, consider the following strategies and options.
How to Study in Denmark for Free
1. Work on Having Great Credentials
When applying to a university in Denmark, do not settle for merely meeting the minimum requirements. If you want to study at a good school abroad, you should work on your credentials. It is highly recommended that you build your academic portfolio during your secondary school or high school years. Aim to earn good grades, volunteer, and participate in extracurricular activities. Make sure your activities align with your future educational goals.
Prepare your application early. This will give you enough time to gather the required documents and ensure that they are up to date.
2. Get Financial Support by Obtaining Scholarships
Scholarships can reduce your education expenses. Danish universities receive a limited number of government scholarships each year for highly qualified full-degree students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Depending on the institution, awards may include full or partial tuition fee waivers and grants toward living costs. Universities administer these scholarships and select the recipients. You can review additional scholarship opportunities in Denmark and learn more about Danish government scholarships.
A combination of strong academic results and a well-prepared application can help you stand out from other applicants. List the available scholarships and their requirements before applying so that you can prepare to meet the criteria.
3. Research Affordable Universities in Denmark
Denmark offers tuition-free higher education for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, as well as certain other eligible students. Full-degree students who are required to pay tuition typically pay between EUR 6,000 and EUR 16,000 per year (DKK 45,000 to DKK 120,000). Choosing a university with lower tuition rates and applying for scholarships may significantly reduce the cost of studying in Denmark.
Make a list of universities with lower tuition fees and choose the option that best fits your academic goals and budget. Tuition fees and scholarship conditions vary by institution and program, so check the university’s current requirements before applying.
Tuition-free Options for Bachelor’s Studies in Denmark
As stated earlier, undergraduate students can study tuition-free in Denmark if they are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland. Some students with qualifying residence permits may also be exempt from tuition fees. The entries below primarily describe tuition exemptions rather than competitive scholarships. Confirm your eligibility with the institution before applying.
| OPTION |
HOST INSTITUTION |
VALUE |
DETAILS PAGE |
| Tuition Exemption |
Copenhagen Business School |
(for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and qualifying residence-permit holders)
– full tuition exemption |
Details Page |
| Tuition Exemption |
Danish National Academy of Music |
(for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens)
– full tuition exemption |
Details Page |
| Tuition Exemption |
Roskilde University |
(for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and qualifying residence-permit holders)
– full tuition exemption |
Details Page |
| Tuition Exemption |
The Royal Danish Academy of Music |
(for EU/EEA citizens; contact the academy about any other exemption categories)
– full tuition exemption |
Details Page |
Tuition-free Options for Master’s Studies in Denmark
Several university scholarships are aimed at master’s applicants. Tuition exemptions are also available for eligible students. Scholarship eligibility, coverage, and selection procedures vary by institution.
| OPTION |
HOST INSTITUTION |
VALUE |
DETAILS PAGE |
| Tuition Fee Waiver and Scholarship |
Roskilde University |
(for eligible applicants to selected master’s programs)
– tuition fee waiver
– DKK 7,800 monthly living stipend
– maximum duration of 22 months for programs starting in September |
Details Page |
| Scholarship for Master’s Students |
Aalborg University |
(limited number of scholarships for non-EU applicants)
– tuition fee waiver
– DKK 11,225 monthly stipend for new students in 2026
– stipend available for up to four semesters |
Details Page |
| State Scholarship |
IT University of Copenhagen |
(for three or four exceptionally talented MSc applicants from outside the EU/EEA each year)
– free tuition
– partial coverage of living expenses
– eligible admitted MSc students are considered automatically |
Details Page |
| Tuition Exemption |
Danish National Academy of Music |
(for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens)
– full tuition exemption |
Details Page |
Tuition-free Options for Ph.D. Studies in Denmark
Ph.D. funding in Denmark is typically tied to specific positions or study tracks. Applicants should review the individual calls, funding structures, and employment conditions carefully before applying.
| OPTION |
HOST INSTITUTION |
VALUE |
DETAILS PAGE |
| Ph.D. Fellowships and Scholarships |
Aarhus University |
– documented funding for the entire Ph.D. program is required for admission
– three-year fellowship holders are employed as Ph.D. research fellows
– other Ph.D. tracks have different funding structures |
Details Page |
| Ph.D. Fellowships |
University of Copenhagen |
– funding and salary terms are stated in each vacancy
– employed Ph.D. students are generally paid monthly wages for a fixed three-year term |
Details Page |
Studying abroad with reduced tuition, a tuition exemption, or a funded Ph.D. position can make Denmark more accessible. Review current university requirements and funding terms carefully before applying.
We hope this article on studying in Denmark tuition-free was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe for International Students!
