You want a world-class Master’s degree in Europe without crushing tuition bills. Denmark makes that possible. The Government of Denmark Scholarship helps top international students study at leading Danish universities with tuition waivers and, in many cases, a living stipend.
If you are a non-EU or non-EEA applicant eyeing a Master’s program, this is one of the cleanest, most competitive routes to fund your studies. At the University of Copenhagen and other major institutions, you do not need a separate scholarship application. Get admitted and you are automatically in the running. Below is the exact process, what it covers, who qualifies, deadlines, and pro tips to help you stand out.
Why this scholarship matters
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Denmark consistently ranks high for innovation, quality of life, and teaching standards. Tuition for non-EU students can be significant, but this scholarship cuts that cost dramatically and can also contribute to living expenses. It is merit-based and designed to attract exceptional students from around the world into Denmark’s research-driven classrooms and labs.
Snapshot: Government of Denmark Scholarship
Key Detail
Summary
Host Country
Denmark
Study Level
Master’s degree programs
Category
Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
Eligible Applicants
Citizens from outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland
Participating Universities
University of Copenhagen and other major Danish universities
Funding Type
Full or partial tuition waiver and/or stipend for basic living costs
Selection Basis
Academic merit only – financial need is not considered
Application
Automatic consideration when you apply for admission as a non-EU/EEA applicant
Primary Deadline
TBC
What the scholarship covers
Tuition support – either a full or partial tuition fee waiver.
Living support – in some cases, an additional amount to help cover basic living costs.
Coverage is competitive and varies by university and program. The University of Copenhagen awards are based strictly on academic excellence.
Who can apply
To be considered, you must meet these core criteria at the University of Copenhagen:
You are a citizen of a country outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
You are admitted to a full-time Master’s degree program at the University of Copenhagen.
You qualify for and will receive a time-limited residence permit for higher education in Denmark.
You meet all program-specific admission requirements, including academic and language criteria.
Other Danish universities use similar criteria for non-EU/EEA Master’s applicants, with small procedural differences.
Selection and competitiveness
This is a merit-first scholarship. Universities assess the strength of your academic record and the quality of your application materials. Financial need is not part of the decision process at the University of Copenhagen. Because the number of awards is limited and the applicant pool is global, expect significant competition.
How the process works
Choose your Master’s program at a participating Danish university. Confirm eligibility and language requirements on the program page.
Gather your documents typically including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL, a CV, and a strong statement of purpose.
Submit your admission application through the university’s online portal for MA or MSc programs.
Automatic scholarship consideration follows for all eligible non-EU/EEA applicants. You do not submit a separate scholarship form in most cases.
Wait for nomination and notifications. At the University of Copenhagen, nominated candidates are contacted through DANS’ application portal.
Accept within the deadline if you receive an offer. If you do not accept on time, the university will withdraw the scholarship and offer it to another applicant.
Complete residence permit steps after admission. As a non-EU/EEA student, you will need a time-limited residence permit for study in Denmark.
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Important: Specific steps and communication channels can vary by university. Always follow the instructions in your chosen university’s admissions portal.
Deadlines you should know
University of Copenhagen admission deadline is in January for most non-EU/EEA Master’s applicants. Applications submitted by this date are automatically considered for the scholarship.
Other Danish universities typically set their Master’s deadlines between January and March. Check your specific program page to avoid missing out.
Apply as early as you can. Early, complete applications give admissions teams enough time to assess you for both admission and scholarship nomination.
Documents you will typically need
Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
English language test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL, if required by the program.
Curriculum Vitae highlighting relevant coursework, projects, and experience.
Statement of Purpose explaining your academic goals, fit, and motivation for Denmark.
Programs may request additional materials. Always check the exact list on the program’s admissions page.
Visa and work rights in Denmark for scholarship students
As a non-EU/EEA student, you will apply for a time-limited residence permit for higher education in Denmark after receiving your admission offer. Your university will guide you on required documents and timing. Plan ahead so you have your permit in place before classes start.
Work is allowed while you study. International students can work part-time during their studies, up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during holidays. Use this to gain experience and supplement living costs, while staying within legal limits.
Tips to strengthen your application
Show academic excellence with strong grades, a clear upward trend, and evidence of rigor in your field.
Make your statement work hard. Connect your past achievements to your future goals and to the specific strengths of the program in Denmark.
Prove language readiness. Submit a competitive IELTS or TOEFL score if required by your program.
Submit early and complete. Missing documents can stall your assessment and hurt your chances for scholarship nomination.
Participating universities
The Government of Denmark Scholarship is available across leading institutions. Examples include:
University of Copenhagen
Aarhus University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Aalborg University
University of Southern Denmark
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Each university manages its own allocation and procedures. Always follow the specific guidance provided on the program page.
FAQs
What is the Government of Denmark Scholarship?
It is a merit-based funding program for outstanding non-EU/EEA students admitted to full-time Master’s programs at Danish universities. Awards can include full or partial tuition waivers and, in some cases, a stipend toward living costs.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be citizens of a non-EU/EEA country, meet the academic and language requirements of their chosen Master’s program, and receive admission. At the University of Copenhagen, you must also be eligible for a time-limited residence permit for study in Denmark.
What expenses does it cover?
Coverage varies by institution and program. It may include full or partial tuition fee waivers and an additional amount for basic living expenses.
Which universities offer this scholarship?
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Major universities across Denmark participate, including the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, DTU, Aalborg University, and the University of Southern Denmark. Each has its own allocation and processes.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Submit your Master’s application through the university’s admissions portal. Eligible non-EU/EEA applicants are automatically considered. You generally do not need to submit a separate scholarship application.
Do I need to speak Danish?
No. Many Master’s programs in Denmark are taught in English. You may be required to provide proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Deadlines vary by university and program. The University of Copenhagen deadline for non-EU/EEA Master’s applicants is in January. Other universities often fall between January and March. Confirm dates on the program page.
What are the selection criteria?
Selection is merit-based. Universities review academic excellence, relevant experience, and the overall strength of your application materials.
How competitive is it?
Very competitive. Awards are limited and target top-performing students worldwide. A strong academic record and a compelling application are essential.
Can I work while studying in Denmark?
Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays, in line with Danish regulations.
How to apply: step-by-step
Identify your target Master’s program at a Danish university and confirm you meet its entry requirements.
Prepare your documents: transcripts, IELTS or TOEFL if required, CV, and statement of purpose.
Submit your online application for admission before the program’s deadline.
As a non-EU/EEA applicant, you will be automatically considered for the Government of Denmark Scholarship.
Monitor your application portal. If nominated at the University of Copenhagen, you will be contacted through DANS’ application portal.
Accept any scholarship offer within the specified deadline. If you miss it, the offer is withdrawn and reassigned.
Proceed with your residence permit application and pre-arrival preparations for Denmark.
Why it is worth applying
Reduce or remove tuition costs at top European universities.
Access cutting-edge research environments and hands-on learning.
Study in a safe, innovative country with excellent work-life balance.
Gain part-time work opportunities during studies and build a European network.
Conclusion
Ready to study in Denmark on a tuition waiver with possible living support? Shortlist your Master’s programs now, apply before the deadline, and let your academic record do the talking. Get your documents in order, hit submit early, and watch for your scholarship decision. Apply now and take your next big step in Denmark.
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