University of Copenhagen Scholarships
Covers full tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend for living expenses.
Opportunity details
Country
The University of Copenhagen offers a range of scholarship opportunities for non-EU/EEA students, primarily aimed at covering tuition fees for high-achieving applicants. These scholarships are competitive, fully or partially funded, and tied to specific Master’s degree programs, making them a strong option for international students seeking affordable education in Denmark.
Overview of University of Copenhagen Scholarships
The University of Copenhagen Scholarships target talented students from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. They are designed to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living costs.
- Coverage: Most scholarships provide a full or partial tuition fee waiver. Some include a monthly grant for living expenses.
- Eligibility: You must be a non-EU/EEA citizen with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Application process: You apply through the university’s online portal after submitting your program application.
- Deadline: Usually falls in the same period as the program application deadline, typically around mid-January or March.
- Number of awards: Varies each year, but typically around 100 to 150 scholarships are awarded across all faculties.
Types of Scholarships Available
University of Copenhagen Tuition Fee Waiver
This is the most common scholarship type. It covers either the full tuition fee or a significant portion of it for the duration of your Master’s degree.
Danish Government Scholarships
Funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science, these scholarships include a full tuition waiver and a monthly living allowance of around 6,000 to 7,500 DKK.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Individual faculties, such as Science or Social Sciences, may offer their own targeted scholarships for specific programs like MSc in Computer Science or MA in International Economics.
Eligibility Criteria for International Applicants
Meeting the eligibility requirements is the first step to securing a University of Copenhagen Scholarship. Only the strongest candidates are considered.
- You must hold a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Danish Bachelor’s degree.
- Your academic performance must be in the top 10-20% of your graduating class.
- You must apply for a Master’s program that is taught in English.
- You cannot already hold a Danish permanent residence permit or citizenship.
- You must submit all required documents, including transcripts, motivation letter, and English proficiency test scores.
How to Apply for the University of Copenhagen Scholarship
The application process is integrated into the Master’s program application. You do not submit a separate scholarship application for most awards.
- Choose your preferred Master’s program from the university’s official list.
- Submit your online application via the university’s portal by the specified deadline.
- In the application form, indicate that you wish to be considered for the scholarship.
- Upload all required documents, including a strong motivation letter and proof of academic excellence.
- Wait for the admission and scholarship decision, which is usually communicated together.
“The University of Copenhagen Scholarship made my dream of studying in Scandinavia possible. I only had to cover my living expenses, which was manageable with a part-time job.” — Former scholarship recipient, MSc in Environmental Science
Selection Process and Tips for Success
Selection is highly competitive. The university evaluates candidates based on academic merit and the quality of their application.
- Your GPA is the primary factor. Aim for a GPA equivalent to at least 8.0 on the Danish 12-point scale.
- Your motivation letter must clearly explain why you chose the University of Copenhagen and how your background fits the program.
- Relevant research experience, published papers, or strong recommendation letters can boost your application.
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Scholarship Value and What It Covers
Understanding the financial breakdown helps you plan your study budget in Copenhagen. Tuition fees vary by program.
| Scholarship Type | Tuition Fee Coverage | Living Grant (per month) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Tuition Waiver | 100% of tuition fees | None | Up to 2 years |
| Partial Tuition Waiver | 50% of tuition fees | None | Up to 2 years |
| Danish Government Scholarship | 100% of tuition fees | 6,000–7,500 DKK | Up to 2 years |
| Faculty Scholarship | Varies (50%-100%) | Possible | Up to 2 years |
“Receiving the Danish Government Scholarship through the University of Copenhagen allowed me to focus entirely on my studies without worrying about tuition or rent. It was a life-changer.” — MSc in Economics graduate
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many applicants are rejected due to simple errors in their application. Avoid these pitfalls to improve your chances.
- Missing the application deadline. Deadlines are strict and no extensions are given.
- Submitting incomplete documents, such as missing transcripts or English test scores.
- Writing a generic motivation letter that does not mention the University of Copenhagen or your specific program.
- Applying to multiple programs without tailoring each application.
- Ignoring the scholarship section in the application form.
Life in Copenhagen as a Scholarship Student
Copenhagen is a vibrant, safe, and student-friendly city. The university offers strong support services for international students.
- Housing can be challenging, but the university’s housing foundation helps find accommodation.
- Part-time work is allowed for international students up to 20 hours per week.
- Public transportation is efficient, and many students cycle to campus.
- Health insurance is mandatory, but EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the University of Copenhagen Scholarship if I already have a Master’s degree?
No. The scholarship is only available for new Master’s program applicants. You cannot apply if you already hold a Master’s degree or are currently enrolled in a Master’s program at another institution.
Do I need to submit a separate application for the scholarship?
For most scholarships, no. You simply indicate your interest during the online program application. Some faculty-specific scholarships may require a separate form, so check the specific program page.
Is the scholarship renewable for the second year?
Yes, for most awards. You must maintain satisfactory academic progress and register for a full course load each semester. The renewal is automatic unless you fail exams or drop courses.
What English proficiency tests are accepted?
The University of Copenhagen accepts IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (minimum 83), and Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency). Some programs require higher scores.
Can I work while on a scholarship?
Yes, international students with a residence permit can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during summer. Scholarship recipients have no additional restrictions.
Are family members allowed to join me?
Yes, you can apply for a residence permit for your spouse and children. However, the scholarship does not cover their living expenses or tuition fees.
What is the typical monthly living cost in Copenhagen?
Expect around 8,000 to 12,000 DKK per month for rent, food, transport, and personal expenses. The living grant from the Danish Government Scholarship covers a significant portion of this.
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Approximately 100 to 150 scholarships are awarded annually across all faculties. The number varies based on available funding and the number of qualified applicants.
Can I defer my scholarship to the next academic year?
No. Scholarships are awarded for a specific intake and cannot be deferred. You must reapply if you wish to start later.
Is there an age limit for the scholarship?
No, there is no age limit. The scholarship is based on academic merit and eligibility criteria, not age.
Final Thoughts on the University of Copenhagen Scholarship
The University of Copenhagen Scholarship offers a realistic pathway for talented international students to study in Denmark without overwhelming debt. Focus on building a strong academic record and crafting a compelling application. If you meet the eligibility criteria and apply strategically, this scholarship can open doors to world-class education in one of Europe’s most livable cities.