If you are choosing between France and Denmark, the best choice depends on your budget, your study field, and how much support you want in English. France often has more universities and more low-cost public options, while Denmark is known for strong English-taught programmes and a very organised study style.
Both countries can work well for international students, but they feel different. France can be better if you want variety and possibly lower tuition at public universities. Denmark can be better if you want many English-taught master's programmes and a smaller, more direct academic system.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in both countries depends on your nationality, level of study, and the university. In France, public universities are often cheaper than many other countries, but non-EU students may still pay higher tuition at some institutions or programmes. In Denmark, tuition for non-EU students is often higher, especially at public universities, so you should check the programme page carefully.
Living costs are a big part of the decision. In general:
- France can be more affordable in smaller cities than in Paris.
- Paris is expensive for rent and daily life.
- Denmark is usually considered expensive, especially Copenhagen.
- Food, housing, and transport often cost more in Denmark than in much of France.
For both countries, the most useful source is the university's own cost page, plus the national student or immigration guidance for visa money requirements. Costs change by city, housing type, and study level.
English-taught study options
You can study in English in both countries, but the offer is different.
France has many English-taught master's degrees and a growing number of English-taught bachelor's options, especially in business, engineering, and international fields. Outside the big cities, you may find fewer options, and some programmes still expect French.
Denmark has a strong range of English-taught master's programmes and a fair number of English-taught bachelor's programmes too. Many universities use English in teaching, student services, and research, so it can feel easier if you do not speak Danish yet.
If you want to study fully in English, always check the programme page. Do not assume the whole university works in English. Some courses, internships, or group work may still need local language skills.
Admission difficulty and entry style
Admission is not the same in every university or subject. In both countries, competitive programmes can be selective, especially in popular fields like business, engineering, computer science, and design.
France often has a mix of admission systems. Some programmes use a central application platform, while others use direct university applications. You may need transcripts, a motivation letter, references, language proof, and sometimes a portfolio or entrance test.
Denmark usually has a more structured application process. Many programmes ask for academic records, proof of English, a motivation letter, and subject-specific requirements. Some degrees are very strict about matching your previous studies to the programme.
In general:
- France can give you more choice and more types of institutions.
- Denmark can be very clear but also quite strict about entry requirements.
- For both countries, meeting the minimum does not always mean admission.
The safest step is to read the exact admissions page for each programme. That page is the source universities use.
Student visa and proof of funds
If you are from outside the EU or EEA, you will usually need a student residence permit or visa for both countries. The exact steps depend on your nationality, study length, and where you apply from.
France and Denmark both usually ask for proof that you can support yourself. This can include:
- bank statements
- a blocked account or similar proof, depending on the country and case
- scholarship letters
- proof of accommodation, in some situations
The required amount changes over time, so do not rely on old blog posts. Check the official immigration site:
- France - the French government visa site or Campus France for study guidance
- Denmark - the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration, often called SIRI
Start early. Visa steps can take time, and you may need extra documents from your university before you can apply.
Part-time work and staying after graduation
Both countries allow many students to work part-time, but the rules are not identical.
In France, international students are usually allowed to work limited hours during the academic year, and you must still make study your main purpose. In Denmark, students from outside the EU often have work rights linked to their residence permit, but you should check the exact conditions on the official immigration site before you count on it.
If you want to stay after graduation, both countries have pathways, but they work differently:
- France may offer a post-study residence option or job-search route, depending on your qualification and situation.
- Denmark may allow a job-search period after graduation in some cases.
- In both countries, finding a qualifying job and meeting immigration rules matters.
Do not plan around a stay-back option until you read the official post-study rules for your citizenship and degree type.
Which country suits which student?
France may suit you better if you want:
- more universities and a wider choice of cities
- often lower tuition at public institutions
- a big student life and cultural variety
- the chance to learn or improve French while studying
Denmark may suit you better if you want:
- a high share of English-taught programmes
- a smaller, more structured academic environment
- clear teaching methods and often project-based learning
- a strong focus on independence and student participation
Think about your budget, your language comfort, and how you like to study. France can be a better fit for value and variety. Denmark can be a better fit if you want an English-friendly academic system and are ready for higher living costs.
Common questions
Is France cheaper than Denmark for international students?
Usually yes, especially outside Paris. France often has lower public tuition and, in many cities, lower living costs than Denmark. But the exact cost depends on your programme, city, and housing.
Do I need French or Danish to study there?
Not always. Both countries offer English-taught programmes, especially at master's level. But knowing the local language helps with jobs, daily life, and some courses or internships.
Which country is easier to get into?
There is no single answer. Some French programmes are easier to access, while some Danish programmes are more selective or strict about subject matching. The difficulty depends on the programme, not just the country.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.