The Danish Government Scholarship 2026 is one of Denmark’s flagship international education funding initiatives, created to attract outstanding students from outside the European Union and European Economic Area into its higher education system. Funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science and administered through participating Danish universities, the scholarship reflects Denmark’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence, innovation and global collaboration.
Over the years, the scheme has enabled students from diverse backgrounds to study in Denmark, contributing to the country’s reputation as a global hub for research, sustainability, design, technology and progressive education. Beyond financial support, the scholarship plays a strategic role in strengthening international ties, developing future leaders and enriching Danish campuses with global perspectives.
For the 2026 academic cycle, the Danish Government Scholarship continues to support both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes at selected institutions, offering full or partial tuition fee waivers and, in many cases, additional financial support to help students focus fully on their studies.
Who Can Receive the Danish Government Scholarship
The Danish Government Scholarship is not open to everyone. It is intentionally targeted at students who would otherwise face financial barriers to studying in Denmark.
Nationality Requirements
The scholarship is primarily available to students from non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss countries. If you are required to pay tuition fees as an international student in Denmark, you fall within the core target group for this scholarship.
Admission to a Danish University
Applicants must apply for and secure admission to a full-time Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programme at a Danish university that participates in the government scholarship scheme. The scholarship is linked directly to admission, meaning you cannot receive the scholarship without being admitted to an eligible programme.
Academic Qualifications
Bachelor’s level: Applicants must meet the standard academic entry requirements for their chosen programme, typically based on secondary school qualifications recognised by Danish universities.
Master’s level: Applicants must hold a recognised Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification that meets the academic and subject-specific requirements of the Master’s programme.
Strong academic performance significantly improves your chances, as the scholarship is competitive.
Language Requirements
Most programmes supported by the scholarship are taught in English. Applicants are usually required to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised qualifications or proof of prior education taught in English, in line with university standards.
Additional Criteria
Depending on the institution and programme, applicants may be assessed using:
Motivation or personal statements
Academic references
CV or portfolio
Online interviews or aptitude tests
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as awards are limited and merit-based.
Full or Partial Tuition Fee Waiver Explained
A defining feature of the Danish Government Scholarship is the tuition fee waiver. This can be awarded in two main forms.
Full Tuition Fee Waiver
A full waiver covers 100 percent of tuition fees for the standard duration of the programme. This applies to:
Three years for most Bachelor’s degrees
Two years for most Master’s degrees
With this waiver, students are exempt from paying any tuition fees to the university for the covered period.
Partial Tuition Fee Waiver
Some institutions offer a partial tuition fee waiver, which may cover:
Selected semesters
A percentage of tuition fees
Tuition fees combined with limited financial support
In such cases, students may still need to pay part of their tuition, depending on the structure of the award.
Importantly, applicants are usually automatically considered for the tuition waiver when they apply for admission. A separate scholarship application is not always required, although this depends on the university.
Scholarship Coverage and Financial Benefits
While tuition coverage is central, the Danish Government Scholarship may include additional benefits depending on the institution.
Tuition Fee Coverage
Full or partial tuition fee waiver for the entire programme or selected semesters
Applies only to the specific programme and institution offering the scholarship
Living Allowance
In some cases, scholarship recipients receive a monthly living stipend intended to help cover essential expenses such as accommodation, food and transport. The amount varies by institution and funding allocation.
Academic and Student Support
Depending on the university, scholarship recipients may also benefit from:
Academic mentoring and supervision
Career development and employability support
Access to student services and integration programmes
Support with settling into Danish academic and social life
Students should note that the scholarship does not automatically cover travel costs, visa fees or health insurance, unless explicitly stated by the university.
Application and Selection Criteria at Bachelor’s Level
Students applying for the Danish Government Scholarship at Bachelor’s level should approach the process carefully and strategically.
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Programme
Identify Bachelor’s programmes offered in English at participating Danish universities. Confirm that the programme is open to non-EU students and linked to the government scholarship scheme.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Typical documents include:
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of English language proficiency
Personal statement or motivation letter
Copy of passport
Additional documents requested by the university
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted through the official university admissions platform within the stated deadline. Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
Step 4: Assessment and Shortlisting
Universities assess applications based on academic merit, relevance to the programme and overall potential. Some candidates may be invited for interviews or additional assessments.
Step 5: Admission and Scholarship Decision
Successful candidates receive an admission offer. Scholarship decisions are often communicated alongside or shortly after the admission offer.
Application and Selection Criteria at Master’s Level
The Master’s level scholarship process is more competitive and academically focused.
Academic Eligibility
Applicants must hold a recognised undergraduate degree that aligns closely with the chosen Master’s programme. Subject relevance and academic performance are critical.
Application Documentation
Master’s applicants are typically required to submit:
Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
English language proficiency evidence
CV highlighting academic and professional experience
Motivation letter outlining goals and study plans
Academic references, where required
Selection Process
Universities assess applications holistically, considering:
Academic strength
Motivation and clarity of purpose
Relevance of previous studies
Potential contribution to the academic environment
Interviews may be conducted for shortlisted candidates, particularly for competitive programmes.
Scholarship Offer
Scholarship offers are limited and awarded to top candidates. Receiving an admission offer does not automatically guarantee scholarship funding.
Pro Tips for Danish Government Scholarship Applicants
Apply early and stay organised. Deadlines differ across institutions and intakes, so early preparation gives you a clear advantage.
Write a strong motivation letter. This is your opportunity to show why Denmark, why the programme and why you are a strong candidate.
Highlight academic consistency. Scholarships are merit-based, so show a clear record of academic focus and progression.
Demonstrate independence and adaptability. Danish universities value students who can thrive in self-directed, research-oriented learning environments.
Check programme-specific requirements carefully. Missing a single document can disqualify an otherwise strong application.
The Danish Government Scholarship 2026 represents more than financial support, it is an invitation to study in one of Europe’s most forward-thinking education systems. With its emphasis on innovation, sustainability and student-centred learning, Denmark offers an academic environment that prepares graduates for global careers.
If you are serious about studying in Denmark, now is the time to research eligible programmes, prepare your documents and position yourself as a competitive candidate. Start early, apply strategically and give yourself the best chance of securing a fully funded opportunity in 2026.
Visit the SDU official page for more information.
