Studying in Denmark
Cost of living
Denmark isn’t cheap, but students make it work. Here’s a realistic monthly budget and what you can earn on the side.
Last reviewed October 2026. Rules change – always confirm with the official source linked on this page.
A typical student budget
Monthly figures in Danish kroner (DKK). €1 is about DKK 7.46.
Rent (room or dorm)3,500 – 6,500
Food2,000 – 2,500
Transport300 – 500
Phone & internet150 – 300
Books & materials200 – 400
Other (leisure, clothes)800 – 1,500
Total≈ 7,000 – 11,500
Copenhagen is the most expensive city, mostly because of rent. Esbjerg, Odense, Aalborg, Kolding and Horsens are noticeably cheaper.
Working while you study
- EU/EEA & Swiss: you can work as much as you like.
- Non-EU: up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time in June, July and August.
Typical student jobs pay well by international standards, but don’t count on a job to cover tuition – non-EU students must document that they can support themselves before getting a residence permit.
Housing tips
- Ask your school about dorm places as soon as you’re admitted.
- Never pay a deposit for a room you haven’t seen without a written contract – housing scams target international students.
- Expect to pay a deposit of up to three months’ rent plus the first month in advance.
Find out what applies to you
Answer five questions and see which programme types you can apply for and when your deadline is.
Check your eligibility