If you want to study in Denmark, plan for two big costs: tuition and living costs. The exact amount depends on your nationality, your programme, and the city you choose. Always check the university's admissions page and the Danish immigration authority for the latest rules.
Tuition fees in Denmark
Tuition is usually free for students from Denmark, the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland. Most other international students pay tuition, but the amount varies a lot by university and study field.
- Humanities and social sciences are often at the lower end.
- Science, technology, engineering, and business programmes are often higher.
- Some master's programmes charge more than bachelor's programmes.
Typical tuition ranges are often around DKK 45,000 to DKK 120,000 per year, but some programmes can be outside that range. Check the programme page for the exact fee before you apply.
Monthly living costs
Your daily costs depend mostly on rent. Copenhagen is usually the most expensive city. Smaller cities are often cheaper, but prices can still be high compared with many other countries.
- Copenhagen: often around DKK 8,500 to DKK 13,500 per month
- Other large cities such as Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg: often around DKK 7,000 to DKK 11,000 per month
- Smaller towns: often around DKK 6,000 to DKK 9,500 per month
These totals usually include rent, food, local transport, study materials, phone, and basic personal spending. If you need a private room or live alone, costs are usually higher.
Rent, food, and everyday expenses
Rent takes the biggest part of your budget. A room in a shared flat or student housing is usually cheaper than a studio. Student housing can be good value, but it is often limited and may have a waiting list.
- Shared room or student housing: often the cheapest option
- Private room in a shared flat: usually mid-range
- Studio or one-bedroom flat: usually the most expensive
Food costs can be managed if you cook at home. Supermarkets, student canteens, and weekly meal planning help a lot. Many students also save by buying used furniture and second-hand bikes.
Proof of funds for your residence permit
If you need a Danish residence permit for study, the authorities usually ask you to show that you can support yourself. The required amount changes over time, so do not rely on old forum posts or social media. Check the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration, also known as SIRI, for the current amount.
As a general rule, you should expect to show enough money for one year of living costs, unless your situation is different. You may also need to prove that you can pay tuition, unless tuition is already covered.
- Check the current amount on SIRI's website
- Check whether tuition must be paid before the permit is issued
- Check which documents count as proof, such as bank statements or scholarship letters
The rules can change, so always use the official immigration website before you apply.
Can you work part-time?
Many international students in Denmark can work part-time while studying, but the rules depend on your permit and your study level. In general, students on a residence permit for higher education may work a limited number of hours during the school year and full-time during some holiday periods.
- Read the work conditions on your residence permit approval
- Check the current rules on SIRI's website
- Do not assume the same rules apply to every student
Part-time work can help with living costs, but you should not depend on it for your full budget. Jobs may be competitive, and study time comes first.
How to reduce your costs
You can lower your budget without cutting too deeply into your student life. Small choices make a big difference over a year.
- Choose student housing or a shared flat instead of living alone
- Apply early, because cheaper housing can go quickly
- Look at smaller cities if your programme offers them
- Cook at home and shop at budget supermarkets
- Buy used bikes, furniture, and books
- Use student discounts for transport, museums, and events
If your programme includes a semester abroad or exchange option, compare the total cost before you decide. A cheaper city can sometimes save more than a scholarship.
Common questions
Is Denmark expensive for international students?
Yes, it is usually more expensive than many European study destinations, especially in Copenhagen. But your real cost depends on tuition, housing, and how you live.
How much money should I plan for one month?
A practical budget is often between DKK 6,000 and DKK 13,500 per month, depending on the city and your housing. Always add tuition on top if your programme charges fees.
Where should I check the official rules?
Use three sources: the university's admissions page for tuition and fee details, SIRI for residence permit and proof-of-funds rules, and the scholarship provider's own site for any funding conditions.
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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.