University of Copenhagen Admission Requirements

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University of Copenhagen Admission Requirements: The University of Copenhagen (UCPH), established in 1479, is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Located in Denmark’s capital, it stands tall among the world’s top academic institutions and boasts a strong international reputation. The university offers a wide range of research-led programs across various disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences, health, and law. Every year, thousands of students from around the globe aspire to secure a seat at UCPH, attracted by its academic excellence, rich cultural setting, and strong ties to global research initiatives.

Whether you’re looking at a bachelor’s degree, master’s program, or PhD, UCPH maintains rigorous academic standards and fosters an inclusive, intellectually stimulating environment. If you’re an international student, applying to the University of Copenhagen can seem complex at first, but with the right information and preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly. In this guide, we’ll break down the admission requirements for all levels of study and help you understand exactly what it takes to become part of the UCPH community.

General Admission Requirements

Before diving into the specific details for undergraduate and graduate admissions, it’s essential to understand the general admission criteria. The University of Copenhagen sets a baseline for all applicants, ensuring they meet the academic and linguistic prerequisites necessary for success in their chosen programs.

For undergraduate admissions, the university requires applicants to have completed secondary education that qualifies them for university studies in their home country. For example, this might be a high school diploma, GCE A-levels, IB Diploma, or equivalent. The university carefully evaluates international qualifications to ensure they align with the Danish upper secondary school leaving certificate (Studentereksamen).

For graduate admissions, a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory. The degree must be equivalent to a Danish bachelor’s degree in terms of duration, level, and content. Some programs may have additional prerequisites, such as specific coursework or a minimum GPA.

Another crucial requirement is language proficiency. Most programs are offered in English or Danish, so demonstrating adequate language skills is vital. Applicants must also submit various documents such as transcripts, diplomas, and proof of identity.

Lastly, the university differentiates between domestic and international applicants, particularly those from the EU/EEA and non-EU countries. This distinction influences tuition fees, application procedures, and visa requirements.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Applying to an undergraduate program at UCPH means meeting a combination of academic and language requirements. Let’s unpack what you’ll need as a future undergraduate student.

Academic Qualifications

The primary requirement is a secondary school qualification that grants access to university-level studies in your country. UCPH evaluates each applicant’s educational background through the lens of Danish academic standards. Your grades, subjects taken, and overall academic performance are key components of this assessment.

For example, students applying from the United States need a high school diploma plus either two years of college or a combination of AP exams in specific subjects. UK students need A-levels in subjects relevant to their intended field of study. IB students should hold a full diploma with high marks in higher-level subjects.

The university provides country-specific guidelines, which help applicants determine if their qualification is eligible and if additional documentation or courses are required. These requirements can be very specific, so checking them ahead of time is crucial.

Language Proficiency Requirements

If you’re applying to a program taught in English, you must provide proof of your English proficiency through internationally recognized tests such as:

TOEFL iBT – Minimum score of 83
IELTS Academic – Minimum overall band of 6.5
Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) or Proficiency (CPE) – Grade C or above

For programs taught in Danish, applicants must demonstrate Danish language skills at the “Studieprøven” level or through equivalent qualifications. Keep in mind, these requirements aren’t negotiable. If your scores are below the minimum threshold, your application may be rejected outright.

Documentation Needed

Applicants must submit several essential documents, typically through the online application portal:

Certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas
Proof of English or Danish language proficiency
A copy of your passport or national ID
Course descriptions (if applying for credit transfer)

Every document not originally in Danish, English, Swedish, or Norwegian must be accompanied by an official translation. It’s also recommended to submit all documents well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Graduate Admission Requirements

For those aiming to pursue a master’s degree or higher at the University of Copenhagen, the bar is set a bit higher compared to undergraduate programs. UCPH’s graduate programs are designed for academically strong candidates who have a solid foundational background and a keen research interest. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need.

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

To be eligible for a master’s program at UCPH, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an internationally recognized university. Your degree must be equivalent in level and content to a Danish bachelor’s degree. This typically means a three-year program consisting of at least 180 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). Some master’s programs might require a higher number of credits or a more specialized academic background.

The university evaluates whether your bachelor’s degree includes the necessary subjects and academic training to prepare you for graduate-level study. If your degree is in a related but not directly aligned field, you may still be considered, though your chances of admission may depend on the strength of your application package.

Specific Program Prerequisites

Each master’s program at UCPH has its own set of prerequisites. For example:

MSc in Computer Science requires a strong background in programming, mathematics, and algorithms.
MA in Anthropology may require prior study in social sciences or humanities.
MSc in Economics generally demands previous coursework in statistics, microeconomics, and macroeconomics.

If you’re unsure whether your degree meets the criteria, UCPH provides detailed program descriptions and eligibility information on their website, including recommended courses and qualifications.

Statement of Purpose and CV

Almost every graduate program will ask for a statement of purpose (SOP)—a document that explains your academic interests, why you’re applying to the program, and how it fits into your career goals. A strong SOP can often tip the scale in your favor, especially if your grades are borderline.

In addition, a curriculum vitae (CV) is usually required. This should include:

Educational background
Work experience
Research or publications (if any)
Volunteer experience
Skills relevant to the field of study

Together, these documents allow the admissions committee to assess your potential not just on paper, but as a future researcher or professional in your field.

Required Documentation

Documentation is a major part of the application process and missing even one item can result in delays or rejection. Here’s what you’ll typically need to submit:

Transcripts

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended are required. These transcripts must:

Be certified
Clearly list courses, grades, and credits
Include an explanation of the grading system (if not on a standard scale)

If your university doesn’t issue transcripts in English, you’ll need to get them professionally translated and notarized.

Recommendation Letters

Some programs may ask for one or two academic references. These letters of recommendation should come from professors or academic advisors who can vouch for your abilities, academic performance, and readiness for graduate study.

The letters should ideally highlight:

Your intellectual curiosity
Research potential
Work ethic
Suitability for the specific program

Personal Statement

A personal statement is not always mandatory but is highly recommended. It’s your opportunity to explain gaps in your academic history, changes in career direction, or your passion for the field. Use this space to give context to your academic journey and make a compelling case for your admission.

University of Copenhagen Application Process

The University of Copenhagen uses an online platform for all admissions—optagelse.dk for undergraduate programs and UCPH’s graduate portal for master’s programs. While the platforms may differ, the application process follows similar steps.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Create an account on the online application system.
Choose your program(s) of interest. You can typically apply to up to three programs.
Upload required documents, including diplomas, transcripts, and language test scores.
Submit your application before the deadline.
Pay the application fee (if applicable).
Track your application status online.

Deadlines for Each Intake

Application deadlines are firm, and late applications are rarely accepted. General deadlines include:

Undergraduate programs: March 15 for international students
Graduate programs (September intake): January 15
Graduate programs (February intake): Varies by program

Always verify deadlines on the program-specific webpage, as certain faculties may have earlier or later dates.

Application Fee and Exemptions

For most graduate programs, international applicants (non-EU/EEA) must pay an application fee—generally around DKK 750 (approximately €100). This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

You may be exempt from the application fee if:

You have a permanent residence permit in Denmark
You are a citizen of an EU/EEA country
You’re applying for an exchange or joint degree program

It’s important to provide documentation supporting your exemption status if you believe you’re eligible.

Admission for EU/EEA vs. Non-EU Students

Whether you’re from an EU/EEA country or not makes a big difference in the application process, tuition fees, and visa requirements.

EU/EEA Students

Students from EU/EEA countries are treated almost like domestic students. They:

Are exempt from tuition fees
Follow the same application timeline
Do not require a student visa
Must still show proof of sufficient income or means for living expenses

Non-EU/EEA Students

Non-EU/EEA students face additional requirements:

Must pay tuition fees, which can range from €10,000 to €17,000 per year depending on the program
Need to apply for a student visa (residence permit) through the Danish Immigration Service
Must show proof of financial self-sufficiency (around DKK 6,397/month as of 2025)

Despite these hurdles, many non-EU students choose UCPH because of the university’s academic prestige, quality of life in Denmark, and the doors it opens globally.

Special Requirements for Certain Programs

While the University of Copenhagen maintains general admission standards, some of its programs have additional or more competitive entry requirements. These special criteria exist to ensure that students have the right foundation and are well-prepared for the academic rigor of these specialized fields.

Medicine

Medicine is one of the most competitive fields at UCPH. The Bachelor of Medicine program (in Danish) and the Master of Medicine require more than just academic excellence. Here’s what’s needed:

Exceptional high school grades in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
For international students, qualifications must match the Danish “STX” with advanced courses in the sciences.
Some programs require Danish language proficiency at a very high level (Studieprøven or equivalent).
Motivation letters or entrance interviews may be part of the assessment process.

Because the Medicine program is conducted in Danish at the bachelor level, most international students begin their journey at the master’s level, after completing a medical degree elsewhere.

Law

The Faculty of Law at UCPH offers programs such as the Master of Laws (LL.M.), which is quite popular among international students. The admission criteria for this include:

A bachelor’s degree in law or a closely related discipline.
A strong academic transcript.
Demonstrated proficiency in English (since LL.M. courses are in English).
Possibly a letter of motivation explaining why you’re interested in Danish law or international law.

Unlike medicine, you can pursue legal education entirely in English at the postgraduate level, making it an attractive option for global professionals.

Science and Engineering

UCPH offers a variety of programs in science and technology, such as Physics, Biochemistry, Computer Science, and Data Science. These fields have highly specific entry requirements, often including:

A solid foundation in mathematics and core science subjects.
Prior coursework relevant to your chosen specialization.
For programs like Data Science or Bioinformatics, programming experience and statistical knowledge may also be required.

Certain courses or labs may also require safety training or previous exposure to scientific equipment and methodologies. These requirements are detailed on each program’s website, and they can differ even within the same faculty.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities

While Denmark is known for its high quality of life, it’s also relatively expensive—especially for non-EU/EEA students who must pay tuition fees. The good news? The University of Copenhagen offers a number of scholarships and financial aid options to help ease the financial burden.

Types of Scholarships

Danish Government Scholarships

Offered to highly qualified non-EU/EEA students.
Includes either full or partial tuition waivers, and in some cases, monthly living stipends.
Automatically considered upon applying to a qualifying master’s program—no separate application needed.

Faculty-Specific Scholarships

Some faculties, such as Science or Humanities, offer additional merit-based scholarships.
These may be funded by private foundations or partnerships with research projects.

External Scholarships

Students can apply for scholarships from international organizations, like Erasmus Mundus, Fulbright, or the Nordic Council.
These often come with specific eligibility requirements and may require a separate application process.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a UCPH scholarship:

You must be from a non-EU/EEA country and required to pay tuition.
You must apply to a full-degree program (not exchange or part-time).
You should have an excellent academic record.
Some scholarships also consider your motivation, research interests, and career goals.

Application Procedure

While some scholarships are automatic, others may require:

A separate scholarship motivation letter.
Additional documents proving your financial need or academic excellence.
Meeting the early application deadline, often before January 15.

Be sure to read the scholarship information on your program’s page to avoid missing out on funding opportunities.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Missing a deadline can derail your entire application, so keeping track of important dates is crucial. UCPH operates on a strict academic calendar, and different programs may have their own internal cutoffs.

Undergraduate Application Timeline

Application Opens: February 1
Application Deadline: March 15 (for non-EU students)
Response/Admission Letter: By early July
Semester Start: September

Keep in mind that if you need a visa, applying early is highly recommended. Processing times can vary and sometimes take several months.

Master’s Application Timeline

Application Opens: November 1 (for September intake)
Application Deadline: January 15
Scholarship Consideration Deadline: Same as program deadline (January 15)
Decision Notification: Typically by April or May
Semester Start: September

Some master’s programs also have February intake, but availability is limited. These intakes have application deadlines around September 15 of the previous year.

Visa and Residence Permit Timelines

If you are a non-EU student, the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration recommends applying for a student residence permit immediately after receiving your admission letter. The process can take 60 days or more, and you’ll need:

Your admission letter
Proof of tuition payment
Proof of financial support

Tips for a Successful Application

Securing admission to one of Europe’s most prestigious universities isn’t just about ticking boxes. You also need to strategize, personalize, and polish your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing deadlines or submitting incomplete applications.
Uploading untranslated documents without official certification.
Providing low-quality scans or photos of certificates.
Ignoring program-specific prerequisites or language test requirements.

Highlighting Your Strengths

Make your application stand out by:

Crafting a powerful motivation letter that aligns with the university’s values and program goals.
Providing academic references that highlight your unique skills.
Tailoring your CV and statement of purpose to the exact program and career path you’re pursuing.

Preparing Strong Supporting Documents

Even if it’s not mandatory, include:

A portfolio (for creative programs).
A list of relevant coursework.
Research summaries or abstracts of any prior academic work.

This extra mile can give the admissions committee more insight into your passion and preparedness for graduate-level studies.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your application is in, the waiting game begins—but there’s still a lot happening behind the scenes. Understanding what to expect can reduce stress and help you plan ahead.

Admission Decision Process

Your application is first reviewed by the admissions office to ensure it meets the basic eligibility criteria. Then, it’s forwarded to the relevant faculty or department for academic evaluation. This stage looks closely at:

Your grades and qualifications
Relevance of your previous education
Fit with the program’s focus
English/Danish proficiency

Most decisions are finalized between April and July, depending on the program.

How to Accept Your Offer

If you’re admitted:

You’ll receive an official offer letter.
You must formally accept your offer by a given deadline.
Non-EU students must pay tuition before applying for a residence permit.

Be sure to check if your acceptance is conditional (e.g., pending final exam results) and fulfill all requirements before enrollment.

What to Do if Rejected

Don’t panic. A rejection isn’t the end. Consider:

Applying to a different program or intake.
Taking a foundation year to improve your qualifications.
Seeking advice from the admissions office on what to improve.

You can also appeal the decision, although this is usually only successful if there’s been an administrative error.

FAQs about University of Copenhagen Admission Requirements

1. What GPA is required to get into the University of Copenhagen?

The University of Copenhagen does not follow a strict GPA system like in the U.S., but competitive grades equivalent to a strong upper-secondary school diploma are required. For international students, a high academic standing is essential.

2. Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory for admission?

Yes, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. The University accepts IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 83). Some programs may have higher requirements.

3. Can I apply without Danish language skills?

Yes, many Master’s and some Bachelor’s programs are taught in English. However, programs taught in Danish require proof of proficiency in the Danish language.

4. Are there any specific subject requirements for undergraduate programs?

Yes. Each program has its own subject-specific requirements. For instance, science-based programs often require mathematics, physics, or chemistry at advanced levels.

5. How do I apply as an international student?

International students must apply online through the Danish universities’ admission portal. You’ll need to submit academic transcripts, language test scores, and specific documents required by your chosen program.

6. Is there an entrance exam for admission?

Generally, no. Most admissions are based on academic merit. However, some programs may require supplementary documentation or assessments.

7. What is the application deadline for international students?

For Bachelor’s degrees, the deadline is usually March 15. For Master’s programs, deadlines vary by faculty but are generally January 15 or March 1.

8. Does the University offer conditional admission?

Yes, some programs may offer conditional admission if certain requirements (e.g., language proficiency) are pending, provided all other criteria are met.

9. What are the tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students?

Non-EU/EEA students typically pay between DKK 45,000–120,000 per year, depending on the program. EU/EEA students are usually exempt from tuition fees.

10. Are there scholarships available for international students?

Yes, the University offers scholarships and tuition waivers to outstanding non-EU/EEA applicants through the Danish Government Scholarship program.

Conclusion

Remember, applying to UCPH isn’t just about securing a seat in a classroom—it’s about joining a vibrant academic community at the heart of Copenhagen, one that thrives on innovation, cultural diversity, and cutting-edge research.

So, if you’re dreaming of studying in Denmark, the University of Copenhagen could very well be your next academic home. Start preparing today, stay organized, and give it your absolute best shot. Your future in Copenhagen is waiting.