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Discover Denmark - opportunities for postgraduate studies
Postgraduate application procedures and deadlines vary considerably. If a student wishes to take a full degree at ahigher education institution in Denmark, students must acquire the information about application deadlines, entrance qualifications, supplementary tests and the possibilities of transfer of credits from the admission offices at the institutions where they seek admission. The application forms are available at the institutions about 2 months before deadline, should one apply.
One of the most attractive features of Danish postgraduate education is the cost of the programmes, either at the masters or PhD levels. Higher education is in general free for all EU/EEA citizens but, as of August 2006, students coming from outside the EU/EEA will have to pay tuition fees, unless they are part of a bilateral or international exchange programme. The fee level will be confirmed shortly and students should ascertain all financial information from the institution in which they wish to study. There are some scholarships or tuition fee waivers for international full degree students, for example:
- Institutional and governmental scholarships for highly qualified students
- Industrial scholarships for PhD studies that are taking place in cooperation with a Danish enterprise
- Erasmus Mundus scholarships for specific master programmes.
In certain cases, it is possible for international students to apply for residence and work permits. However, students interested in this area must contact the institution where they have been admitted for detailed information on procedures for obtaining a residence and work permit. The procedures vary depending on nationality. Students from outside the EU/EEA should be aware that the residence permit must be applied for from their home country. There are also certain financial requirements. Non-EU/EEA students can apply for a work permit, which allows for up to 15 hours per week work during the semester and full time during the summer holidays.
Away from the lecture hall and library, studying in a Danish institution offers many other opportunities. The social life is vital and varied with several committees at most institutions organizing activities such as parties, cafés, excursions and student politics. Popular events at most institutions are Friday-get-togethers, Fredagsbar in Danish. Many higher education institutions offer sports activities, too. Special introductory programmes for international students and short-term courses in Danish language and culture are often organized. They take place before or during the first weeks of the semester. Longer language courses are offered during the semester. Taking part in these programmes gives a student an excellent opportunity to learn about Danish culture and meet other international and Danish students. Most institutions have established a student- to-student programme in order to make new international students feel at home. On arrival, a ‘buddy’ (a fellow student) will help a student to get settled, meet other students and assist them with practical matters.
Moving to another country for postgraduate education also means looking for somewhere to live. Finding a cheap place to live often takes time and we therefore strongly advise students to contact the education institution shortly after admission for information on accommodation possibilities. Often the administrative offices will be able to help and in some cases international students are guaranteed a place to live. In general, there are various accommodation opportunities available, which may include a room in a residence hall or an apartment – either for one, shared with other students or a family group. Prices vary considerably.
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