Denmark on a Student Budget: Affordable Living and Financial Aid Options

Over the years, Denmark has become a hotspot for international students. The quality of educational experience, cultural engagement, and the living standard make this country a sought-after destination for higher studies. However, people often express their fears regarding the cost of living in Denmark. This guide will help you get an idea about the cost of living, affordable housing options, and financial aid opportunities for students so they can stand in Denmark, find their footing in life, and live on a budget.

Why Choose Denmark for Your Higher Studies?

Denmark is all about that perfect combo of quality education, state-of-the-art research, and a high standard of living. Danish universities are recognized internationally, and many programs are taught in English, along with the collaborative and innovative learning environment students enjoy here. However, studying in Denmark has steep living costs, so proper planning is required.

Cost of Living in Denmark for Students

Living expenses vary from city to city but Copenhagen is considered the most expensive. The estimated living expenses for a student here would be between €800 and €1,200 per month, including renting accommodation, food, transport, and everything in between.

Rent: Rent is definitely the major expense that you should plan for. It typically ranges from €300 to €600 per month for a bed in a shared apartment or student dormitory.

Food: Student budget for food is around €200-€300 per month. The cheapest supermarket chains are Netto, Rema 1000, and Lidl.

Transportation: Bicycling is the most popular transport option in Denmark, and it’s the least expensive means of transportation, too. A public transport pass costs between €50 to €70 per month.

Affordable Housing

Finding economcial accommodation is challenging, more so in the country’s largest cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus. Here are some types of housing that you may consider.

Student dormitories: Typically the most affordable. Dormitory rent begins at €300.

Shared apartments: Many students prefer sharing apartments with fellow students. This cuts the rent down to a quite acceptable level.

Co-living space: Co-living spaces are the newest concept in Denmark. They are very pocket-friendly and may even include utility and other rent costs.

Tips on Budgeting as a Student

Living Costs are high; therefore, while studying in Denmark, you must stay vigilant about your budget. You can follow these two money-saving tips.

Meal planning: Instead of frequently eating out, try cooking at home. Make the most of the deals that stores offer and discounted student prices at some grocery markets.

Student discounts: Most shop and restaurant chains and entertainment venues offer some discount when a student uses their card to pay. Apps like Studenterguiden. dk can also help you with them.

Working While Studying

If you’re an international student, you can work 20 hours a week when school is in session and full-time when you’re on break. Student jobs are expected to pay between €10 and €15 an hour. This helps supplement the budget and beats some of the living costs.

Scholarship and Financial Aid to International Students in Denmark

Denmark offers several scholarships and financial aid to international students, which are as follows.

Danish Government Scholarship: The Danish Government Scholarship is exclusively for students who are not from EU/EEA countries.

University-Specific Scholarships: Most Danish universities have scholarships available to international students. Interested candidates can visit the chosen institution’s website for information on eligibility and their application procedure.

Private Scholarships: Numerous private providers and foundations offer financial help to international students

Different Ways to Get Financial Help in Denmark- SU

Denmark also offers the SU system for EU/EEA and Swiss students on condition of working at least 10-12 hours a week. This, therefore, means that the SU grant amounts to up to €800 per month, which is very helpful in reducing the financial burden.

Transportation on a Budget

Public transport is economical, and students get a student fare discount. Biking is the cheapest and most commonly used method of transportation. Purchasing a second-hand bike that lasts two years will cost €150 to €250, and the rest will be saved throughout your stay there.

Grocery Shopping Budget

Affordable supermarket chains include Netto, Fakta, and Rema 1000. Students can also participate in bulk buying and embracing fresh produce from local shops.

Health Care for Students

Students can enjoy health insurance and healthcare from hospitals, clinics, and a doctor’s private practice.

All residents of Denmark, students included, get free health care upon registration for a CPR number.If you’re studying from the EU or EEA, you can use your EHIC for healthcare. But if you’re a non-EU/EEA student and your stay is under three months, you’ll need to handle your health insurance on your own.

Discounts and Freebies for Students

Because Denmark also offers student discounts on public transport, cultural events, and shopping, it makes things more affordable for international students. Furthermore, applications like Studentkortet. dk enables students to find and take advantage of those discounts.

Is Denmark Affordable for International Students?

Even though the Cost of living in Denmark is much higher than in other European countries, proper budgeting and financial aid with student discounts can make it manageable for students on a budget. Its quality of education and experience in invaluable culture make the investment worthwhile for students.

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