Denmark Rated Third Best Place to Study in Europe

According to StudyPortals’ International Student Satisfaction Awards 2014, Denmark is rated the third best place to study in Europe, behind fellow Nordic nations Finland and Sweden. The awards are based on almost 7,000 students’ opinions, after students reviewed their experience of what it’s like to study in Europe in various different countries, via the world’s largest database of international student experiences, STeXX.eu.

Based on 287 international students’ comments, Denmark received a final overall score of 9.1 out of 10. Compared to last year, the level of student satisfaction among those studying in Denmark increased notably, from an average of 8.9. The Student Satisfaction Awards provide valuable information about education standards and performance, as well as the overall impressions of international students enrolled in Danish universities.

Recognition for high-performing universities in Denmark

Six universities in Denmark were nominated for student satisfaction awards. Aarhus University received the highest distinction, awarded for “outstanding” international student satisfaction; it received an average rating above 9.5 out of 10, making it the highest-rated university in Denmark.

The next three institutions received an “excellent” rating: Copenhagen Business School, Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and VIA University College. Meanwhile the University of Copenhagen and the University of Southern Denmark received awards for “very good” international student satisfaction.

What makes Denmark one of the best places to study in Europe?

As one of the best locations to study in Europe, Denmark provides quality higher education programs to international students. Most student reviewers appreciate Danish universities’ innovative teaching, combining theoretical knowledge with project-based practical experiences that require critical thinking and cooperation.

Students also said they enjoyed the great level of independence and the fact that some programs offer self-scheduling options. Modern Danish universities provide well-equipped laboratories and libraries in a friendly learning environment. International students also gave high marks to the staff and services at universities in Denmark.

“The university has great academics. All the teachers are very friendly and the learning program is very efficient. University facilities are very modern and encourage the use of new technologies as a tool that should help to acquire new knowledge during the classes.” – Student from Poland

“Nice teachers with great methods. Good organization, great lessons with fun activities. We also learned a lot. You were never scared of a teacher or of a presentation – teachers and students are on the same level.”– Student from Austria

Other positive feedback for Danish universities includes an international study experience, with students coming from all over the world, as well as English-speaking teachers. Many reviews speak highly of Danish city life, especially the capital Copenhagen, which blends historic buildings with modern architecture. Those studying in Denmark appreciate the great variety of social, cultural and historical attractions.  

“I had a chance to try so many different things, from tasting interesting food, riding a bike every day, to trying my hand at the local language, which was very hard but very enjoyable. The university was very helpful and all teachers/students spoke perfect English, so we were never stuck. Social life was great, with lots to do in the town. We were always having fun.” – Student from UK

“There is also a huge mixture of people from countries around the world, so you have the opportunity to know many, many cultures.” – Student from Poland

The challenges of studying in Denmark: Cold winters and high costs

As is the case for other Northern European countries, those studying in Denmark are not very fond of the cold weather and the high living expenses. However, Danes compensate for these difficulties by the high standards of living and the strong sense of community they manage to create. Although some students may consider locals too reserved, they soon discover friendly, helpful people, always ready for an open discussion.

While smaller Danish towns may not provide many attractions, Copenhagen and other major Northern European cities are easy-to-reach destinations, thanks to good transportation infrastructure. Some international students may have trouble adapting to the informal learning environment at universities in Denmark, which requires a great deal of student self-reliance.

For more information about studying in Denmark, visit the StudyPortals’ country overview. You can also search more thank 350 English-taught master’s programs, and over 100 English-taught Bachelor’s programs offered by universities in Denmark.