Studying in Denmark offers a world-class education system, innovative teaching methods, and a high quality of life. To support talented students from outside the EU/EEA, the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science provides the Danish Government Scholarship, a prestigious funding program designed to attract highly qualified international applicants to Danish universities.
This article explains everything you need to know about the Danish Government Scholarship—its benefits, eligibility criteria, participating universities, application process, and tips for securing funding.
What Is the Danish Government Scholarship?
The Danish Government Scholarship is a funding initiative awarded to outstanding non-EU/EEA international students pursuing full-time master’s degree programs at participating public universities in Denmark.
The scholarship is administered directly by each university, not by the government itself. This means:
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Each university has its own selection criteria
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Each university offers a limited number of scholarships
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You must apply directly to the university to be considered
Key Benefits of the Danish Government Scholarship
Depending on the university and the applicant’s profile, the scholarship may include one or both of the following:
1. Full or Partial Tuition Fee Waiver
Many recipients receive a 100% tuition fee waiver, significantly reducing the financial burden of studying in Denmark.
2. Monthly Living/Stipend Allowance
Some universities also award a monthly grant to help cover living expenses such as accommodation, transportation, food, books, and health insurance.
3. High-Quality Education and Global Opportunities
Scholarship holders benefit from:
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World-leading research infrastructure
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Hands-on learning methods
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International learning environments
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Career opportunities within Denmark or globally
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
While requirements differ slightly by institution, the general eligibility rules include:
You must:
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Be a non-EU/EEA or non-Swiss citizen
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Be admitted into a full-time master’s program at a participating Danish university
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Have an excellent academic background
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Meet all program-specific entry requirements
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Demonstrate the ability to pay living costs if the scholarship does not include a stipend
You cannot apply if you:
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Are an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen
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Already hold a residence permit for Denmark for non-study purposes
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Are part of an exchange study program
Participating Universities Offering the Danish Government Scholarship
Several top Danish universities award this scholarship each year. The major ones include:
1. University of Copenhagen (UCPH)
One of Europe’s leading research institutions, UCPH offers several scholarships through its faculties.
2. Aarhus University (AU)
Provides tuition waivers and grants to highly qualified international students across all faculties.
3. University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
Offers a combination of tuition waivers and monthly stipends to outstanding applicants.
4. Aalborg University (AAU)
Provides a limited number of scholarships linked to its strong engineering, ICT, and design programs.
5. Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
Highly competitive scholarships for its globally ranked business programs.
6. Roskilde University (RUC)
Offers scholarships for select master’s programs focused on research and innovation.
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship applies to nearly all English-taught master’s programs, including:
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Engineering & Technology
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Computer Science & IT
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Natural Sciences
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Environmental Science
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Economics & Business
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Social Sciences
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Humanities
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Architecture & Design
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Health & Medical Sciences
How to Apply for the Danish Government Scholarship
The application process is tied to the university’s admission procedure. Follow these general steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Desired Master’s Program
Visit the participating universities’ websites and explore available English-taught programs.
Step 2: Submit Your Admission Application
You must first apply for admission before being considered for the scholarship. Prepare:
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Academic transcripts
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Bachelor’s degree certificate
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English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL)
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CV
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Statement of purpose
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Letters of recommendation (optional but helpful)
Step 3: Automatic or Separate Scholarship Application
Depending on the university:
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Some automatically consider all admitted students
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Others require a separate scholarship application
Always check your chosen university’s requirements.
Step 4: Wait for the Selection Outcome
Shortlisted candidates are evaluated based on:
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Academic excellence
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Motivational strength
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Relevance of past experience
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Potential contribution to the program
Step 5: Receive and Accept the Award
If selected, you’ll receive:
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A scholarship offer letter
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Information on residence permit application
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Steps for registration and enrollment
Selection Criteria: What Universities Look For
To increase your chances, aim to demonstrate:
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Strong academic performance (top grades or GPA)
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Clear academic motivation in your statement of purpose
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Relevant professional experience
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Community engagement or leadership
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Research interest aligned with the program
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Excellent English communication skills
Application Deadlines
Most Danish universities have deadlines around:
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February (for September intake)
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September/October (for February intake – fewer programs available)
It is important to check specific deadlines, as they vary by institution.
Advantages of Studying in Denmark
Studying in Denmark gives international students multiple benefits beyond the scholarship:
1. High Graduate Employability
Denmark hosts major global companies like:
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Novo Nordisk
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Vestas
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Maersk
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Lego
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Grundfos
Graduates enjoy strong job prospects.
2. Innovative Teaching and Research
Danish universities emphasize:
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Problem-based learning
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Research collaboration
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Entrepreneurship
3. Safe, Welcoming Environment
Denmark ranks among the safest and happiest countries in the world.
4. Post-Study Work Opportunities
International students can apply for:
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A post-study job-seeking residence permit, allowing them to stay and find employment.
Tips for Winning the Danish Government Scholarship
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Apply early and prepare high-quality documents
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Write a focused and compelling motivation letter
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Highlight academic achievements and research experience
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Tailor your application to the university’s strengths
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Provide strong references if required
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Choose programs that align with your background
Conclusion
The Danish Government Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for talented non-EU/EEA students seeking high-quality education in one of the world’s most innovative and forward-thinking countries. With tuition waivers, stipends, and access to world-class learning environments, this scholarship opens doors to academic excellence and global career prospects.
