Denmark is known for high-quality, practical education, a safe society and English-taught programmes. Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland pay tuition fees, but the Danish Government Scholarships can cover some or all of those fees, and sometimes living costs too.
Many websites advertise “Denmark scholarships without IELTS, fully funded”. The real picture is more nuanced. This guide explains how Danish Government Scholarships actually work, who can get them, how to apply, and what to know about English requirements.
Last checked: November 2026. Confirm details with your chosen Danish university.
How Danish Government Scholarships Work
- They are funded by the Danish government but awarded by each university.
- They are for talented full-degree students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
- Awards can be a full or partial tuition waiver, a living grant, or both.
- There is no single national application; you apply through the university, usually with your admission application.
See the official overview on Study in Denmark.
Who Can Apply?
- Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, including Bangladesh.
- Applicants to full degree programmes (mostly master’s; some bachelor’s).
- Students with excellent academic results.
Each university sets its own selection criteria and deadlines. For example, the University of Southern Denmark explains its process on its scholarships page.
Do You Need IELTS?
Most English-taught programmes in Denmark require proof of English. This is often IELTS or TOEFL, but some universities accept other evidence, such as a previous degree taught in English. “No IELTS” does not mean no English requirement. Check each programme’s language rules carefully.
How to Apply
- Choose your programme and check its admission requirements.
- Apply for admission by the deadline (often in January for September entry).
- Indicate that you want to be considered for a scholarship, if the university asks.
- Submit any extra documents, such as a motivation letter.
- Wait for the admission and scholarship decision.
Tips for Bangladeshi Applicants
- Apply to several Danish universities to improve your chances.
- Write a clear motivation letter linking the programme to your goals.
- Budget for living costs if you receive only a tuition waiver.
- Ignore agents promising guaranteed “fully funded” places.
Other Nordic and European Options
See our guides to Swedish scholarships, European government scholarships and Erasmus Mundus programmes in the official catalogue. Also read types of scholarships.
Final Thoughts
Danish Government Scholarships are real and valuable, but they are awarded by universities and are often tuition waivers rather than full funding. Apply early to several universities and meet the English requirements.
