Navigate the Practicalities
- Accommodation: Finding housing can be competitive. Start your search early. Explore university dorms, private rentals, and shared housing ("kollegiums").
- Healthcare: Make sure you understand your healthcare coverage. EU/EEA citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU/EEA citizens may need to obtain private health insurance.
- Registration: You'll need to register with the local authorities (Borgerservice) and get a CPR number (Civil Registration Number), which is essential for many things, including opening a bank account and accessing healthcare.
- Banking: Open a Danish bank account to facilitate transactions. Popular banks for students include Danske Bank, Nordea, and Nykredit.
Manage Your Finances Wisely
While tuition might be free for EU/EEA students, the cost of living is not so low. The good news is that international students are allowed to work part-time while studying in Denmark (up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays). This can be a good way to earn some extra money and gain work experience.
- Track your expenses: Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to monitor your spending.
- Cook at home: Eating out is expensive. Learn some basic cooking skills and shop at discount supermarkets like Netto, Fakta, or Lidl.
- Look for student discounts: Take advantage of student deals on transportation, entertainment, museums, and more.
- Explore free activities: Denmark offers many free activities like parks, beaches, free museums on certain days, and university events.
Danish student life goes beyond exams and lectures. It is a colorful experience in a creative, friendly society with safety and welcome. Here, you will find your rhythm, whether you're enjoying a beach sunset in Aarhus or diving into culture in Copenhagen. Denmark is perfect for anyone hoping to study overseas, with its English-friendly surroundings, student-oriented facilities, and encouraging community.