Higher Education System

When they are old enough for college, every Dane is entitled to free tuition, thanks to their excellent educational system. They encourage freedom of choice. Whether they choose to study Gymnasium (academic upper secondary education), Higher Preparatory Education (one year shorter than Gymnasium), HTX (Higher Technical Education Program with emphasis on Mathematics and Engineering), HHX (Higher Commercial Examination Program with emphasis on trade and business), or vocational education that puts emphasis on learning a trade by apprenticeship and training, every student is encouraged to “think for themselves.” Innovation and creativity are prized qualities in the system.

Denmark has eight universities. The largest is the University of Copenhagen which was founded in 1479. It’s also ranked #39 in the QS Top Universities’ “Best Student Cities” this year. Other prominent universities include the Aarhus University, and the University of Southern Denmark which is located in Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen.

Denmark is not an inexpensive place to live, but it can be done on a budget. Transportation for most Danish is their bikes. Copenhagen, the nation’s capital, is bike-friendly and also one of the most walkable cities.

What could be better for an international student to live and study in one of the best student cities in the world?

Gateway to Europe
Denmark’s location makes it a gateway to other Scandinavian countries and the rest of Europe. Berlin is just an hour’s flight away. London and Paris can be reached in less than two hours. And Barcelona, Rome, Vienna and Prague are all just a few hours flight away.
It is rated as one of the happiest countries in the world. Why? The Danes enjoy social welfare system that is the envy of the world. Although they pay one of the highest percentages in income taxes, ranging from 40 to 65%, they believe it is for the common good. All citizens and legal residents alike receive tax-funded healthcare and unemployment insurance. The egalitarian principle is embedded in the society. The Danes also believe in balancing work with family life. Their children are safe to roam without worrying about crime as they have the lowest crime rate in the world.