Frequently asked questions

• What is it like to study in Denmark?

  Danish academic culture is characterised by an informal relationship between students and lecturers, and many courses are taught in small classes, which encourages students to ask questions and actively participate in discussions.

  As a student in Denmark, you are expected to be proactive in classrooms and in relation to the curriculum, but also in the administration of your studies, e.g. to register for courses and exams, observe deadlines and ask for help, if you need it.

  Read more about Danish academic culture
• How do I open a bank account in Denmark

  To open a Danish bank account, contact a bank of your choice and ask about their requirements for international students. You need to have a CPR number, MitID and bring your passport or ID card. 

  Read more
• How expensive is it to live in Denmark?

  The cost of living in Denmark depends on where you live and your lifestyle. Your main expenses will typically include accommodation, food, transport, phone and other everyday costs.

  Accommodation is usually one of the biggest expenses for students in Denmark.

  
  

  Read more about living cost in Denmark
• What should I know about everyday life and culture in Denmark?

  Denmark has a rich cultural heritage, and it is a country with many traditions.

  Equality is a core value in Danish society, and it is reflected in gender roles, low poverty rates, flat organisational structures in the workplace, etc. For example, it is perfectly normal to address professors or high-ranking employees by their first name.

  Many Danes speak English and are very helpful if you ask for help or directions. There is a high level of societal trust in Denmark and virtually no corruption.

  Read more about Danish culture and traditions
• What should I do in case of emergency?

  For life-threatening emergencies, call (+45) 112 for the police, ambulance and fire services.

  For non-acute medical assistance, you should call your doctor. The phone number is at the top of your yellow health card.

  For non-acute out-of-hours assistance (16.00–8.00 + weekends and holidays), you can call the medical helpline in the Region of Southern Denmark on (+45) 7011 0707.

  The service number to the Danish police is (+45) 114. Use this number for general enquiries.

• How do I get a Danish phone number and internet?

  The Danish country code is +45.

  A Danish phone number is often required for online verification for many things: from booking an appointment with a hairdresser to ordering a pizza. You will also need a Danish phone number (and a Danish bank account) for the app MobilePay, which is commonly used to make payments and for money transfers.

  The 5G network covers almost all of Denmark, and the connection is good in most of the country and in all cities. Wifi is free in libraries and in many cafés and shops.

  Sim cards are available in many small shops and supermarkets.

• How do I shop and pay in Denmark?

  Most shops in Denmark accept credit cards as payment. Visa or Mastercard are the most common international cards. You can also use the credit card function on your phone. You rarely need cash for payment, so you will not need to bring much, as long as you have an international credit card or two.

  The app MobilePay is very common for making payments and money transfers.

  Grocery stores in larger cities in Denmark are usually open every day from 8.00–20.00 or later. High street shops and similar are usually open from 10.00–17.00 on weekdays and 10.00–14.00 on Saturdays.

  Read more about living costs in Denmark
• What is the easiest way to get around?

  Cycling is the main form of transport for commuting and getting around in Danish cities – even on a rainy day or on a cold winter morning. Remember to familiarise yourself with the biking rules in Denmark before you head out.

  If you are travelling longer distances in Denmark, public transport is fairly convenient and easy to use – although services are not as frequent in rural areas. Taxis can be quite expensive, but Uber also operates via Danish taxi companies.

  Visit the journey planner rejseplanen.dk to plan your journey via public transport
• Can I work while studying, and how do taxes work?

  A student job is a good way to make money, practice your Danish skills and get to know the Danish work culture.

  You will need a Danish bank account for your salary, and you should familiarise yourself with the Danish tax rules before you start working in Denmark.

  Visit the tax website skat.dk to learn more about taxes when you come to Denmark to study
• What insurance do I need during my stay?

  It is highly recommended that you take out accident insurance, third party liability insurance and home insurance while you are in Denmark.

  You are not covered by any insurance policies from the University of Southern Denmark.

  Once you have your Danish CPR number, you are covered by the Danish health insurance system, which means you have access to free healthcare. However, it is recommended that you have your own health insurance for the initial period of your stay until you are covered by the Danish system.

• Should I learn Danish?

  Although many Danes speak English quite well, understanding and speaking Danish is the key to becoming fully integrated in Danish society and Danish workplaces.

  There are different providers of Danish lessons in SDU's student cities that can teach you basic language skills and introduce you to Danish culture. The lessons are free; you only pay a deposit which will be refunded when you pass the test.

• What is student life like at SDU?

  All SDU campuses offer a range of extra-curricular activities – often arranged by other students – and participating in sports or other social activities is a very good way to make new friends and get to know some Danes.

  Many Danes are part of associations for sports, acting, history, art or other activities, and there are many associations at SDU and in all campus cities, so you will surely be able to find something to match your interest.  

  Read more about social life at the University of Southern Denmark
• Can I bring my partner or children to Denmark?

  Your partner and your children can come with you to Denmark when you come to study.

  SDU's student housing options are primarily designed for one person, but there are couple accommodations available. For large accommodation options you will have to look for private renting.

  All children in Denmark are guaranteed a place in a childcare institution, and most Danish families use child daycare.

  Read more about the rules for accompanying family members
• What is the weather like in Denmark?

  Denmark has mild summers and cool winters, with changing weather throughout the year. Rain and wind are common, while temperatures typically range from around 15–25°C in summer to 0–5°C in winter. 

  The amount of daylight also varies significantly throughout the year, from around 7 hours in winter to 17 hours in summer.

• How does healthcare work in Denmark?

  As a student and resident in Denmark, you have access to the Danish healthcare system. Once you have a CPR number, you are generally covered by the Danish health insurance system and can choose a general practitioner, who is usually your first point of contact if you need medical advice or treatment.

  Most public healthcare services are free, although some services, such as dental care, require you to pay.

   

  Read more about healthcare in Denmark