Masters Degree in Denmark

By Modoante – From campus to career, we’ve got you!

Denmark is a top choice for international graduate students seeking advanced education in innovation, sustainability, and research-driven disciplines. With over 700 master’s programmes taught entirely in English, world-ranked universities, and a thriving academic environment, Denmark offers both quality and opportunity. Though non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees, the return on investment is high—thanks to strong academic networks, global job prospects, and an inclusive, well-structured society.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to apply for a master’s degree in Denmark—from eligibility and deadlines to documentation, permits, and post-admission planning.

Step 1: Explore Master’s Programmes and Universities

Denmark’s master’s degrees are typically two years long (120 ECTS) and designed to combine theory with practical, project-based learning. Programmes span a wide range of disciplines—from engineering and biosciences to business, climate studies, design, and digital technology.

Start with:

• Modoante.com – to explore English-taught master’s degrees, compare tuition fees, check scholarship options, and confirm eligibility criteria.

• Leading institutions for master’s students include:
  

  • University of Copenhagen (KU) – top-ranked for research in health, science, and humanities

  • Aarhus University (AU) – strong in natural sciences, business, and education

  • Technical University of Denmark (DTU) – a leader in engineering, AI, and sustainable tech

  • Copenhagen Business School (CBS) – known for international business, marketing, and economics

  • Aalborg University (AAU) – recognised for its project-based learning and industrial collaboration

Step 2: Check Admission Requirements for Master’s Programmes

Each programme sets its own admission criteria, so it’s important to review specific requirements early. Generally, you’ll need to prove your academic background is relevant to the programme you’re applying for.

Most universities require:

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in a related subject area

• Transcripts and course descriptions showing academic performance and subject coverage

• Proof of English proficiency, such as:
  

  • IELTS (typically 6.5 or higher)

  • TOEFL iBT (minimum 88–100)

  • PTE Academic (depending on university policy)

• Motivation letter explaining your interest in the programme and career goals

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining academic, professional, and extracurricular experience

• Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended)

• Passport copy

Some programmes—especially in design, architecture, or visual arts—may require a portfolio. Technical programmes may request proof of mathematics or programming coursework.

Step 3: Prepare and Organise Your Documents

A successful application depends on the quality, clarity, and completeness of your documentation. Denmark has strict formatting requirements, and late or missing documents can lead to automatic rejection.

You’ll typically need to submit:

• Degree certificate and final transcript (plus official English/Danish translations if required)

• English language test results (ensure validity covers the application period)

• Personal statement or motivation letter (usually 1–2 pages)

• Updated CV

• Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)

• Scan of valid passport

• Portfolio (if required)

• Course descriptions (if needed to match prerequisites)

Translation tip:
If your documents are not in English or Danish, they must be officially translated by a certified translator. Always submit both the original and translated versions.

Start preparing at least 6 months in advance to gather all required documents, register for English tests, and arrange translations.

Step 4: Apply Online via University Portals

Unlike bachelor’s programmes (which use Optagelse.dk), master’s applications are submitted directly through each university’s online admission portal.

Follow these general steps:

1. Visit the university website and navigate to the admissions page for your chosen programme.

2. Create a user account in the admissions portal.

3. Complete the online application form, selecting your programme and study start date.

4. Upload your documents in the correct formats (usually PDF).

5. Pay the application fee, if applicable (usually €100 per programme for non-EU/EEA students).

6. Submit the application before the official deadline.

You can apply to more than one university, but each application must be submitted separately.

Step 5: Understand Application Deadlines

Deadlines for master’s programmes in Denmark are strict, especially for students requiring a residence permit.

For non-EU/EEA applicants:

• Most universities close applications by 1 March for the autumn intake (starts in August/September).

• Admission results are typically announced between May and June.

For EU/EEA applicants:

• Some universities allow later deadlines, usually in April or May, but this varies.

There is no major spring intake for master’s degrees, so plan your application around the autumn start. Always confirm exact deadlines on Modoante.com and the university’s official website.

Step 6: Apply for a Danish Student Residence Permit

If you’re accepted into a master’s programme and you’re from a non-EU/EEA country, you must apply for a residence permit before travelling to Denmark. This is handled by SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration).

You will need:

• Official admission letter from a Danish university

• Valid passport

• Proof of sufficient financial means (approx. DKK 6,397/month, around €860) to cover living expenses

• Proof of tuition payment (if required)

• Health insurance covering your initial stay

• Completed ST1 form (submitted online and at the nearest Danish embassy or consulate)

Residence permits can take up to 2 months, so apply as soon as you receive your admission letter.

EU/EEA citizens do not need a residence permit but must register with the CPR system after arrival.

• Start early – Begin researching programmes and preparing documents at least 6–8 months before deadlines

• Tailor your application – Your motivation letter should connect your background, career goals, and the specific programme

• Stay organised – Use checklists and file naming conventions to manage your documents

• Use Modoante.com – Get updates on deadlines, scholarships, and admission strategies

• Apply for funding – Explore:
  

  • Danish Government Scholarships

  • University-specific tuition waivers

  • Erasmus+ mobility support
    

Q1: Do I need to pay tuition fees for a master’s degree in Denmark?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €16,000 per year. EU/EEA students do not pay tuition.

Q2: Is IELTS required to apply for master’s studies in Denmark?
Yes, unless you studied in English and meet exemption criteria. Most programmes require IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 88–100.

Q3: When is the deadline to apply for master’s programmes?
Most universities close applications for non-EU/EEA students by 1 March. EU/EEA deadlines may be later.

Q4: Can I work part-time while studying?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA students can work 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.

Q5: Where can I find scholarships for master’s students in Denmark?
Visit Modoante.com for updated scholarship listings, university-specific grants, and funding advice.

This guide was written by Modoante using original research and information gathered from official education resources. Always verify deadlines and requirements on the official university portal before submitting your applications/documents.