DENMARK

DENMARK:
About Denmark:
Capital (and largest city) : Copenhagen
Official language(s): Danish
Major trading partners: Germany, Sweden, UK, U.S., Netherlands, Norway, France, Italy, China (2004).

Major Companies: AP Moller Maersk, IKEA, H. Lundbeck A/S, Carlsberg a/s, Den Danske Bank, TDC A/S, Arla Foods amba, ISS (Integrated Service Solutions) A/S, Vestas, Borealis A/S, Novo Nordisk A/S, Danisco AS, FLS Industries, Danfoss AS, Unidanmark, Lego Co, Post Danmark, Egmont International Holding A/S, NKT Holding AS,

Geography and climate
Denmark is situated in northern Europe; it is one of the Nordic countries and a part of Scandinavia. Greenland and the Faeroe Islands are also part of Denmark, but they are autonomous regions. Denmark consists of the Jutland peninsula and a large number of big and small islands.
The country is relatively flat with the highest point rising to only 173 meter above sea level. About 65 per cent of the country is farmland, 11 per cent is woodland and the rest is built-up areas, roads, and lakes. The winters are wet with only little snow. It can be as cold as -5–10°C in the winter whereas the summer temperature rises to 15–25°C.
Population and language
The total population of Denmark is 5.3 million and the population density is 120 people per square kilometer. The capital is Copenhagen, which has approximately 1.2 million inhabitants. Copenhagen – often called the Paris of the North – has an old, historical centre and a large network of pedestrian streets, bicycle paths and parks.
Denmark's official language is Danish, and most people understand and speak English. The number of immigrants has doubled over the past 20 years and now account for about 5 per cent of the population.
Politics
Denmark is a modern welfare state and a constitutional monarchy with a history of monarch dating back to year 1000. A democratically elected government and a par-liament, Folketinget, govern the country. Many political parties are represented in the parliament (often 10 to 15 parties). Denmark has a high level of social security and free public services, including a high quality educational sector. A relatively high tax rate makes it possible to provide this service level.

Denmark has a strong international political commitment and is a member of the Euro-pean Union, the Nordic Council, the United Nations and NATO. The country has been a member of the European Union since 1973, but opinions are divided about how the membership of the union should progress. In 1993, the Maastricht Treaty allowed Denmark to opt out of four areas, including common defense policy and union citizenship. This arrangement can only be changed through a referendum. In 2000, Denmark in a referendum voted against participating in the European Monetary Union. The Danish currency is therefore still the Krone, DKK, although it is pegged to the Euro.
Economy
Denmark has one of the highest standards of living in the world. Since 1963, industry has accounted for the majority of exported goods. However, North Sea oil and natural gas become increasingly important to the economy, as have biotechnology and information technology. A very high percentage of women are active on the labor market and the unemployment rate has been relatively low since the mid-1990es.
Education
Education in Denmark is provided free of charge at all levels and there are nine years of compulsory education. Public expenditure on education and training corresponds to 7 per cent of the country's GDP and around 13 per cent of total public expenditure.
Adult learning plays a considerable role in the educational system, and many Danes participate in some kind of formal or informal learning. Denmark is also known for its many local associations and organizations at grassroots level.
Why study in Denmark:
Denmark is one of the emerging educational hubs in Europe because of its high academic standards and modern teaching methodology for many international students. The modern social welfare state with its good research based learning atmosphere, interdisciplinary studies and project-based activities along with clean and safe environment and attractive business atmosphere made it more popular destination among international student.
Danish higher education has historical academic traditions that merge excellence in teaching methods and learning environments with a dynamic and innovative culture in research. In most of the Danish educational institutions, not only students are provided the lectures but are also grouped together for the discussions in their related subject matter, expecting each of them to actively contribute for the betterment of the world. Along with their academic studies, students also learn to work independently. They become able to think critically on any issues and solve the subject matter with analytical initiatives.
EDUCATION SYSTEM:
Higher education system in Denmark comprises Academies of professional education, Colleges or University. Academies of professional higher education offer 2-year programs in fields such as business, technology, and IT. Specialized colleges and centers for higher education/university colleges offer 3-4 year professional bachelor programs in fields such as business, education, engineering and nursing. Theoretical studies, practical training through work placements and a bachelor project are always part of the program.
Universities offer Bachelor's, Master's and PhD programs. Foreign students may be admitted to Danish higher education either as guest students, international students or as regular students along with the Danish applicants.
Denmark encourages life-long education. Courses at all levels and in subjects ranging from cooking to international business economy are offered within and outside the public education system, some of them specifically targeted at foreigners.
What makes education in Denmark special?
An academic tradition combining excellence with an innovative culture for both teaching and research; a typical class consisting of lectures as well as discussions in small groups; internationally oriented wide variety of programmes (that too in English); an open minded population with global outlook; institutions of higher education collaborating with business life and research institutions -- all this and much more creates an enriching learning environment. And that makes studies in Denmark a truly world class experience.
The results of a recent survey on international students in Denmark showed that students enjoy their stay in Denmark, because they feel it is a safe place to live.
Of the 2,800 international students surveyed
~ 92 per cent would recommend studying in Denmark to other students
~ 75 per cent are considering staying in Denmark to work
~ 82 per cent think Denmark is a safe country
~ Survey conducted by CIRIUS, 2006 (based on standards of health, welfare, and education)
Special introduction for international students
As mentioned above, international students have many pleasant surprises in store for them in Denmark. A lot of institutions have a buddy system in practice wherein they send a buddy to meet you on arrival. S/he will help you get settled, meet other students and deal with practical matters in your first weeks in Denmark.
Institutions also organize special orientation programmes and short-term courses in Danish language and culture during the same.
These programmes and the courses provide international students with another opportunity to familiarize them with their host country and meet other international and Danish students.
Social life
At most institutions of higher education, social life is vital and varied. The students themselves are the driving force behind parties, cafés, excursions and student politics. Fredagsbar, as the Danish name indicates is an open café; usually held on Fridays, is very popular among the domestic as well as international student community.
Leisure and sports activities
For students interested in sports activities, there are plenty of options both on campus and in public and private clubs and organizations.
Student jobs
International students from outside the EU can apply for a work permit as part of their residence permit which entitles them to work for up to 15 hours a week during the semester, and full time during the summer holiday, that is, in June, July and August.
Managing your money
Before we discuss how the students should manage their money, they should know what the currency of Denmark is. Denmark's national currency is the Krone (plural: Kroner), which is linked to the Euro.The exchange rate is very steady at approximately 7.45 Kroner per Euro. Currently the Krone converts to Indian rupees at a rate of about Rs 8.70 per Krone.
UNIVERSITIES IN DENAMARK:
Aalborg University (AAU)
Aarhus University (AU)
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
IT University of Copenhagen (ITU)
Roskilde University (RUC)
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
University of Copenhagen (KU)
University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Architecture
Aarhus School of Architecture
The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Schools of Visual Arts
The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Conservation
The Royal School of Library and Information Science
The Royal Danish Academy of Music
The Royal Academy of Music, Aarhus
Carl Nielsen Academy of Music, Odense
Academy of Music, Aalborg
Academy of Music, Esbjerg
The Rhythmic Music Conservatory
Copenhagen University College of Engineering
Engineering College of Aarhus
Metropolitan University College
University College Capital
University College Lillebaelt
University College of Northern Denmark
University College Sealand
University College South
VIA University College
West Jutland University College

PROGRAMS:
Advanced and Applied Chemistry
Agricultural Development
Agro-Environmental Management
Agrobiology
Applied Mechanics
Aquatic Science and Technology
Architectural Design
Architectural Engineering
Bioinformatics
Biology-Biotechnology
Biosystems Engineering
Biotechnology
Biotechnology (Engineering)
Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering
Building and Construction
Business Administration
Business, Language and Culture
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Chemistry
Chemistry (Engineering)
Cognition and Communication
Communication
Computer Engineering (Software)
Computer science
Computer Science and Engineering
Corporate Communication
Creative Business Processes
Culture, Communication and Globalisation
Design and Innovation
Development and International Relations
Economics
Economics and Business Administration
Electrical Engineering
Electronics and Information Technology
Engineering Design and Applied Mechanics
Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
Environmental and Resource Management
Environmental Biology
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Chemistry and Health
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Management
Food Science and Technology
Food Technology
Forest and Nature Management
Geology-Geoscience
Global Studies
Horticulture
Human Biology
Information Architecture
Innovation and Business
Innovative Communication Technologies and Entrepreneurship
International Business and Politics
International Studies
International Tourism and Leisure Management
IT Product Design
Lifelong Learning: Policy and Management
Maritime Archaeology
Master of Disaster Management
Materials Science and Engineering
Mathematical Modelling and Computation
Mathematics
Mechatronics (Engineering)
Media Technology and Games
Medialogy
Medicine and Technology
Molecular Biology
Molecular Biomedicine
Molecular Nutrition and Food Technology
Nanotechnology
Parasitology
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Philosophy
Physics and Nanotechnology
Physics and Technology
Process Analytical Technology
Product Development and Innovation
Production
Public Administration
Public Health
Robotics
Software Construction
Software Development and Technology
Sustainable Energy
Sustainable Energy Planning and Management
Systems Biology
Technological and Socio-Economic Planning - TekSam
Telecommunication
Thermal Energy and Process Engineering
Tourism
Transport and Logistics
Urban, Energy and Environmental Planning
Water and Environment
Wind Energy
Wind Power Systems


ADMISSION IN DENMARK:

Instructions about the method to get admission in Danish Universities
Depending upon the level of study and the program chosen, the admission requirements, application procedures and deadline for submitting application may vary in Denmark.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary according to level of study and program chosen. The requirements for admission are listed with respect to study level below:
Undergraduate Programs
International students are eligible for admission to undergraduate programs if they hold qualifications comparable to a Danish qualifying examination.
It is advised to contact the respected institution where they would like to seek admission in order to hear more about their specific admission requirements as admission requirement may also vary institution to institution.
All programs require a high proficiency in English. For admission to programs in Danish, student must also prove sufficient command of Danish by taking The Study test of Danish as a Foreign or The Danish Test 2. Some programs may even require that student have passed The Danish Test. Moreover, some of the study programs have additional admission requirements, such as specific subjects or level of subjects, practical work experience etc.
Post Graduate Programs
Admission requirements for master programs are:
1. An internationally recognized bachelor's degree of good standard or equivalent qualifications
2. Proficiency in English
3. Proficiency in Danish if the program is taught in Danish.
PhD Programs
Admission requirements for PhD studies are at least a master level qualification recognized internationally.
Admission Procedures
The application procedures and deadlines may vary according to level of study, program chosen and from institution to institution.
Degree programs
If student wish to take a full degree at a higher education institution in Denmark, they should require information about entrance qualifications, supplementary tests and the possibilities of transfer of credits from the admission offices at the institutions, where they seek admission.
Undergraduate studies
The deadline for admission in August or September is the 15th of March. A few institutions also offer admission in January or February with deadline the 1st of September. The application forms are available at the institutions about 2 months before deadline.
Postgraduate studies
The deadlines for the different programs vary, and student should therefore always contact the relevant institution for further information.
For further information, please contact the higher education institutions directly.
Summer University
Several higher education institutions offer summer courses taught in English. The application deadlines for summer university courses vary, and student should therefore contact the relevant institution for further information.
Note: Each institution is responsible for admission. Students are therefore requested to contact the educational institution where they are seeking admission for information about entrance qualifications, supplementary tests, and the possibilities of transfer of credits. The admission offices at the institutions will provide all information requested by student.
FINANCIAL AIDS

Scholarships and Financial aid available for International Students in Denmark
New Scholarship program is launched by the Danish Ministry of Education for highly qualified, deserving and self motivated students from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. Scholarship and Tuition Fee Waiver is awarded for a full degree or for part of a degree at undergraduate level for certain study programs only. The minimum duration of a scholarship and tuition fee waiver is one academic year and is awarded only to full time studies.
Universities and educational institutions may have their own scholarship and tuition fee waiver programs or any other subsidy for international student. Students are requested to visit the respective institution’s official website for more information regarding awards, tuition fee waiver, and scholarship programs.
International students fulfilling all the admission procedures, if are not residents of Twenty Five European Union Member States and have not carried out the studies and work activities for more than a 12 months over the last five years in EEA-EFTA states are also eligible to apply for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship. This scholarship can also be applied for completing certain portion of master’s degree from Danish educational institutions and certain portion from any other European Union member countries.
LIVING IN DENMARK:
A range of practical information about living and studying in Denmark
Before you embark on your study period abroad, you probably wish to familiarise yourself with the country in which you are going to study and live.
It might be useful to know about the culture of your host country and what characterises its people and their traditions and student life. There is also a range of practical information, e.g. about residence and work permit, public transport, cost of living and accommodation, which will be useful.
Accommodation
Housing options for students
Finding a place to live often takes time, so we would strongly advise you to contact your Danish education institution for information about accommodation as soon as you have been admitted.
The institutions will be able to assist you in finding a place to live - some may even guarantee to find somewhere for you. There are several accommodation options:
• room in a hall of residence ( Kollegium ), price: 240-400 Euro per month.
• privately rented room in a house or a flat , price: 200-500 Euro per month.
• privately rented flat - either alone or shared with other students, prices vary considerably.
Alternatively, you could swap flat or room with students from Denmark who are going to study in your home city.
Residence and work permit
Whether you need a residence or a work permit to study or work in Denmark depends on your nationality. You should always contact the institution where you have been admitted for detailed information and procedures. Below you will only find information on the general rules.
If you are not a Nordic or EU/EEA citizen, you need to get a residence permit and maybe also a visa before entering Denmark. You should apply for the residence permit at the Danish Embassy or Consulate in your home country after you have been accepted for admission at the educational institution. You must be able to provide documentation that you can pay all the costs related to your stay (currently minimum DKK 4.200 per month). For further information, please contact your host university. The application for a residence permit is also an application for a work permit, allowing students to work for up to 15 hours work a week during the academic year and full time during the summer holidays (June, July and August).
STUDENT VISA PROCESS

Process to obtain Danish Student Visa for international students
The international students being a foreign national are required to have a residence permit to be eligible to continue their education in any educational institution of Denmark.
In order to be granted a residence permit student must document:
• That they have been admitted to a higher educational program which has been approved by a state authority or which is offered by a publicly accredited institute of learning.
• That student can support themselves for the duration of their stay in Denmark. If they are to pay a tuition fee, they must document that they have paid the tuition fee for the first semester or year, instead of documenting that they can support themselves.
• That student can speak and understand the language of instruction and have a working knowledge of Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, English or German.
Student’s participation in the educational program must have been arranged by a ministry or institution of higher learning or the educational program must be part of a post-secondary educational program which they have already commenced in their country of origin. In other words, they may be granted a residence permit either in order to complete an entire educational program or in order to follow part of a program as a guest student.
Normally, student must have obtained a residence permit before entering Denmark. They can submit their application in their country of origin (or in the country where they have resided permanently for the past three months). Students are required to submit their application at the Danish diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate general) in their country of origin.
Documents Required for Submitting Application
• A copy of a valid passport or other form of legitimate travel documentation issued to them.
• A passport photo. The photo must be 35 mm x 45 mm (size of head 30-36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head). They must be facing the camera directly.
• Original documentation showing that they have been accepted at an educational institution. Please note that the original letter of acceptance must be attached to the application - copies will not be accepted.
• If they have been accepted at a post-secondary educational program and have to pay a tuition fee, they must attach documentation that this has been paid for the first semester or school year.
• If student is at a basic or youth education program, prerequisite course, folk high school, or if you are a guest student at a post-secondary educational program, or any other study where they are not to pay a tuition fee, they must attach documentation that they can support themselves during their stay. The required amount is DKK 4,200 per month, and the documentation can be a bank statement, evidence of a grant or scholarship, or similar. Please note that a bank statement could come from a foreign bank, if they submit a first-time application from abroad. (However, if they are from Bangladesh, Benin, Cameroun, Ghana, India, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan or Togo, the bank statement must be from a Danish bank or a bank in another EU country.) If student submit a first-time application from Denmark, then the bank statement must be from a Danish bank or a bank in another EU country. The same applies if student are applying for an extension of their residence permit on the grounds that they have been accepted for a new course of study.
• If student is at a folk high school or at a basic or youth education program, they must attach documentation that applicable student fees have been paid. If student fees are to be paid in installments, subsequent to arrival in Denmark, they must attach documentation showing that they have the financial means to make these payments for the current school year.
Processing Application
When the Immigration Service has received application for a residence permit, it will evaluate it along with the enclosed documentation. In addition, the Immigration Service will check to find out if they have been reported to the Schengen Information System (SIS).

If the Immigration Service receives information that does not correspond with the information they provided, they will normally be asked to explain discrepancies before the Immigration Service rules in the case.

Once the Immigration Service has received all necessary information relating to their application, it will rule in the case.
Receive the Ruling
Immigration Service will send the ruling to the diplomatic mission where student submitted their application. The diplomatic mission will then forward it to student’s home address, or request them to pick it up in person.
Processing Time
In an average, it takes about 60 days for the application to be processed.
Length of Residence Permits Granted
The duration of student residence permit depends on whether they are going to complete an entire education program, or only follow part of a program as a guest student.

If they are to complete an entire program, they will be granted a residence permit for the duration of the program.

If, on the other hand, students are only to follow part of a program, the residence permit will be granted for at maximum of two years.

It is a condition for the residence permit that students are active and enrolled in the educational program. If this is not the case, the Immigration Service can revoke their residence permit. The educational institution is obliged to inform the Immigration Service if they are not actively following the educational program.