Danish Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students

Denmark offers fully-funded scholarships to talented non-EU students each year, covering tuition fees and providing a living stipend. These Danish Government Scholarships are awarded through a quota system managed by individual universities, not a central application. You must be nominated by your chosen Danish university based on academic merit, and priority goes to students from countries outside the European Union and the European Economic Area.

What Are the Danish Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students?

These scholarships are part of Denmark’s official effort to attract highly qualified international students. The program is specifically designed for non-EU/EEA students who need a residence permit based on their studies.

• They are offered at most Danish universities, including the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the Technical University of Denmark.
• The scholarship typically covers full or partial tuition fee waivers.
• Some scholarships also include a monthly grant to cover living expenses.
• Funding is limited, so competition is strong for each available slot.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility depends on your nationality, academic background, and the specific university you apply to. The general rules are consistent across institutions.

• You must be a citizen of a country outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
• You must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• You need to have applied for a full-degree master’s program at a Danish university.
• A strong academic record (typically a high GPA) is required.
• You must meet the English language proficiency requirements of your chosen program.

“The Danish Government Scholarship is not something you apply for separately. You apply for the master’s program, and the university automatically considers you for the scholarship if you are a non-EU citizen with excellent grades.” — University of Copenhagen International Office

Which Universities Offer These Scholarships?

Not all Danish universities participate in the program, but most major public universities do. Each institution manages its own allocation.

• University of Copenhagen: Offers scholarships for most master’s programs, with priority for students from high-priority partner countries.
• Aarhus University: Provides tuition fee waivers and sometimes a living allowance for selected non-EU students.
• Technical University of Denmark (DTU): Grants full tuition waivers for the duration of the two-year master’s program.
• University of Southern Denmark: Offers partial or full tuition fee waivers, plus a monthly stipend in some cases.
• Aalborg University: Awards scholarships based on academic excellence and the strategic needs of each faculty.
• Copenhagen Business School (CBS): Provides a limited number of tuition waivers for non-EU students admitted to specific programs.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The coverage varies by university and year, but the core benefit is always financial support for tuition. A table below summarizes typical components.

“I received a full tuition waiver from Aarhus University and a monthly grant of 5,500 Danish kroner. That covered my rent and food in Aarhus comfortably.” — Former scholarship recipient from Nigeria

How Do You Apply for the Danish Government Scholarship?

The process is university-specific, but follows a standard pattern across all institutions. You do not submit a separate scholarship form.

• Step 1: Choose your master’s program and check the specific scholarship page for that university.
• Step 2: Submit your online application for the master’s program before the deadline (usually January or March).
• Step 3: Indicate in the application that you wish to be considered for the Danish Government Scholarship (most applications have a checkbox).
• Step 4: Upload your transcripts, degree certificates, motivation letter, and language test scores.
• Step 5: Wait for the university to evaluate your application and nominate you for the scholarship.
• Step 6: If nominated, you will receive a separate scholarship award letter along with your admission offer.

What Are the Selection Criteria?

Universities use a merit-based system, but they also consider strategic academic priorities. The criteria are transparent but competitive.

• Academic excellence: Your GPA and the quality of your previous degree matter most.
• Relevance of your bachelor’s degree: Your previous studies must closely match the master’s program you apply for.
• Motivation: A strong statement of purpose explaining why Denmark and why this specific program.
• Country quota: Some universities prioritize students from specific non-EU countries (e.g., Brazil, China, India, USA, Japan).
• Program capacity: Scholarships are allocated per program, so smaller programs may have fewer slots.

Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Receiving the Scholarship

Preparation and strategy can make a real difference, especially since the funding is limited. Follow these practical steps.

• Apply as early as possible in the application window.
• Choose a master’s program that closely matches your bachelor’s degree to show academic alignment.
• Write a focused, specific motivation letter that connects your goals to Danish research or industry.
• Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors who can speak to your academic abilities.
• Check if your home country has a bilateral agreement with Denmark that gives priority.
• Apply to multiple Danish universities to increase your nomination chances.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Deadlines vary by university, but most follow a similar annual timeline. Mark these on your calendar and prepare well in advance.

• University of Copenhagen: Application deadline is typically in early January for September intake.
• Aarhus University: Deadline is usually around March 1 for most programs.
• Technical University of Denmark: Application deadline is January 15 for autumn intake.
• University of Southern Denmark: Deadline is February 1 for most master’s programs.
• Aalborg University: Application period runs from February 1 to March 1.
• Copenhagen Business School: Deadline is January 15 for September start.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply for the scholarship if I already live in Denmark?

Yes, as long as you are a non-EU citizen and do not hold a permanent residence permit. The scholarship is for tuition fee-paying students, so even if you are already in Denmark on a residence permit for other reasons, you may still be eligible when applying for a master’s program.

Is the Danish Government Scholarship renewable for the second year?

Yes, in most cases it is renewable for the second year of a two-year master’s program. You must maintain satisfactory academic progress, typically a minimum grade point average set by your university, to keep the scholarship active.

Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application form?

No. You apply for the master’s program through the university’s online portal. The scholarship consideration is part of that same application. There is no separate form or fee for the scholarship.

What happens if I am not nominated for the scholarship?

You may still receive an admission offer to the master’s program, but you will have to pay the full tuition fees yourself. Some universities allow you to apply for other external scholarships if you are admitted without funding.

Can I work while on the Danish Government Scholarship?

Yes, the scholarship does not restrict your ability to work. Non-EU students in Denmark can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during June, July, and August. This can help cover living expenses.

Does the scholarship cover family members or dependents?

No, the Danish Government Scholarship covers only the student. If you bring a spouse or children, you must cover their living expenses and visa costs separately. The monthly stipend, if offered, is for one person only.

Which countries are prioritized for these scholarships?

Priorities change each year, but common priority countries include Brazil, China, India, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and sometimes countries from the Middle East and Africa. Check the specific university’s list for the most current priorities.

Is there an age limit for applying?

No, there is no age limit for the Danish Government Scholarships. Eligibility is based on academic qualifications and nationality, not age. However, you must meet the regular admission requirements for the master’s program.

What English language tests are accepted?

Most universities accept IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (minimum 83–88 depending on the program), and Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency). Some programs also accept PTE Academic. Check the specific requirements of each university.

Can I apply for the scholarship if my bachelor’s degree is from a Danish university?

Yes, but you are only eligible if you are a non-EU citizen. If you completed a bachelor’s degree in Denmark, you are still considered an international fee-paying student for master’s programs, so you can be considered for the scholarship as long as you meet the nationality requirement.

Conclusion

The Danish Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students provide a realistic pathway to affordable, high-quality education in Denmark. By focusing on your academic record, aligning your application with a specific university’s priorities, and submitting a well-prepared application, you can significantly improve your chances of receiving this funding. Start your research early, check each university’s exact requirements, and remember that the scholarship is tied directly to your master’s application. With careful planning, studying in Denmark can become a financially manageable and rewarding experience.