Grants and Loans in Denmark | EFG - European Funding Guide

Denmark and its renowned higher education programmes has become a focal point for many Danish students as well as many international students. However, this is not all that has captivated their interests. The fact that coupled with excellent education, there are little to no tuition fees and additionally, available financial support from the government, makes obtaining an education in Denmark both wise and cost effective.

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Grants and Loans

General situation in terms of grants and loans

Even in the case that you’re attending a university that is free of cost, there may be the necessity to apply for a loan, whether to assist with living costs or the costs associated with books and other materials. Students in Demark are able to get a government granted student loan to assist with their studies. This is issued through the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education in Denmark. There are certain situations where international students are also eligible to receive the government granted loan. However, in the case that one does not qualify, international student loans along with loans from private institutions are abundant in Denmark. Grants are also offered through the Danish government. Students who are interested in pursuing a Doctorate typically opt for fellowships as opposed to grants.

Type of grants and loans and providing institutions

The main provider of grants in Denmark is the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education. This form of funding is available for 6 years and grants are capped at 70 overall. Students in Denmark also enjoy flexibility when it comes to how their grants are used as well as how they are spaced.

Availability and conditions for getting a grant or a loan

Students in Denmark who are members of an EU country are typically able to receive the same support as Danish students. This complies with the government position that supports students in accordance with the EU rules and regulations where the financing of higher education is concerned. Age restrictions, citizenship, as well as income restrictions typically apply to both loans and grants in Denmark. Additionally, the maximum number of grants that a student is able to receive is 70. This is structured to cover the time usually needed to complete a degree program. Provided additional funding is needed, other programs such as fellowships, are available.

Local grants and loans for foreign students

As far as local grants and loans for foreign students in Denmark are concerned, the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education is usually the place where these students turn. With the loans boasting a very low interest rate and there being no requirement that grants need to be paid back, this is the best option. However, there are restrictions that apply and thus, students who are not members of an EU country may see an increased level of difficulty when trying to secure a grant or loan through the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education.

Typical grants and loans in Denmark

The most typical grants and loans in Denmark are obtained through the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education. They are called State Educational Support Grants and they fall into two categories. The first takes into consideration students who attend either a secondary school or a tertiary school. In order to be eligible for the secondary school grant, the student needs to be over 18 years of age. University grants are obtainable by students in Denmark for up to 6 years. Rather than staying in accordance with the usual 5 year degree programme, the SU grant gives students a bit of leeway, through an additional year of grant eligibility.