Denmark
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ons to Study in Denmark
Posted by Abigail Wilsonon September 02, 2016in Study Abroad
Denmark is a land of old kings and ancient traditions dating back to the early Vikings, who ruled the lands long ago. Here one will find a diverse culture settled deep within Nordic customs.
Prospective students will also find advanced universities and student life unique to their own. Danish students flourish in their studies and attend many festivals and social events to celebrate their way of life.
These are just a few of the many reasons why you should study in Denmark.
1. Top-Rated Universities
The University of Copenhagen is ranked high amongst its fellow schools in Denmark. It boasts a high international student exchange rate with a myriad of courses from which you can choose. It's also one of the largest centers for research and education in the Nordic countries.
The University of Southern Denmark also offers competitive study abroad programs for international students. Its application process is simple and it provides accommodation ideas for students moving to Denmark from abroad. The university enjoys welcoming exchange students and offers a number of courses in English.
Other popular universities include:
2. Scholarships & Grants
The University of Copenhagen offers government scholarships for those traveling from China, Egypt, Israel, Japan, and Russia. It also offers other scholarships based on studies and origins.
Many universities will offer scholarships, grants, and/or financial aid to help fund your education, though not all scholarships are available to international students. However, there are other ways to get scholarships which are unique to you and your goals.
Be sure to check with your college or university at home, as it may also offer scholarships, grants, or essay contests which will allow you to earn money to put towards a study abroad program.
These will be listed on your school's website, or you can inquire with your adviser about your options.
3. Unique Social Life & Traditions
Students in Denmark are involved in more social interactions surrounding their studies. At the beginning of the year, students are placed into study groups which meet weekly to discuss readings and class work.
There are also traditional events, such as Aarhus University's "Kapsejlads," which means Spring Regatta. During this event, students gather around the lakes in the middle of campus for a day of drinking, relaxing, boat races, and a naked run to win tickets to the Roskilde Festival.
Another tradition is Friday Bars, when different departments from the university host wild, themed parties. This brings more fun and variety throughout the school year and is a great opportunity to bond with your classmates.
4. Housing & Living Costs
If your university at home is partnered with Denmark already, then you will only pay your school's tuition. If you are not coming from a partner school, then you will pay Denmark's tuition.
European students receive free tuition, with the exception of certain courses, if they meet the following requirements:
Permanent residence permit
Temporary residence permit that can be upgraded to a permanent one
Parent from a non-EU/EEA country who is already working in Denmark
Living costs will add up to around 700 - 900 EUR monthly in smaller towns. In larger areas, like Copenhagen, living costs could reach up to 1200 EUR a month.
MastersPortals, an online resource for international students, published an overview of how much food, housing, and transportation costs will be during your stay.
5. Happiest Country in the World
Denmark was voted the happiest country in the world in April 2016, via the World Happiness Report. To rank the 156 surveyed countries, a team from the University of British Columbia looked at what the "countries have in common: a large GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy at birth, and a lack of corruption in leadership.
But also essential were three things over which individual citizens have a bit more control: a sense of social support, freedom to make life choices, and a culture of generosity."
Denmark's results revealed a high percentage of gender equality and residents who love to bike. This contributes to the wellness of the people and the environment.
6. Exotic Food Culture
Another reason to study abroad in Denmark is to experience the country's unique food culture. For breakfast, Danish folk will often have a dish called "junket crumble" or "ymerdrys." It consists of crumbled rye bread mixed with brown sugar.
Another morning dish you can experience as a study abroad student is "wienerbrød," a Danish pastry filled with custard. Breakfast is usually the celebration time in Denmark, whereas dinner is the common American celebratory mealtime.
The average lunch consists of cold meats such as roast beef, fish, and sausage on rye bread with toppings.
Dinnertime, or "middag," is usually eaten at home with the entire family. It used to contain multiple courses, but since the 60's it has become simplified to one. The traditional gruel, meat broth, or sweet fruit soup is still served today.
American and Italian influences can be seen in Denmark with pastas, barbecues, and salad bars. However, the traditional cuisines outshine any foreign foods served here. As a student, getting to experience these traditional dishes with locals is part of the immersion process.
Perhaps you could try your hand at preparing some and invite a few classmates over. It would show them you are truly interested in their culture and perhaps gain you brownie points among the Danish.