Top 5 Public Universities in Denmark for Studying in 2026

Public universities in Denmark are limited in number but are popular for their education, research and graduate outcomes. For those who want more information around Denmark's public universities, can check out this article and shortlist for application for 2026 admissions.

There are 37 higher education institutions in Denmark. International applicants can choose to study in Denmark at any of these institutions. At present out of 37 institutions, there are 8 public universities in Denmark. These universities are popular and globally recognised for their quality education. Danish public universities offer courses in Danish and English. Those interested in applying to universities in Denmark can apply for English taught programs.

Majority of the programs offered at Denmark public universities are technical, science or business related. The public universities in Denmark offer non-EU applicants across their intake in Autumn and Spring each year. Most programs are open for admission for international students; some may not be because they are offered in the Danish medium of instruction. Check out the best public universities in Denmark for international student admission in this article. Details around these public universities will help applicants shortlist the best possible options based on their academic preferences.

Top Public Universities in Denmark 2026

If you are seeking admission to public universities in Denmark, you should review the latest rankings. Here is a list of public universities in Denmark along with their 2026 global university rankings as per QS and THE in the table below:

Though there are more public universities in Denmark, only these 5 make it to the global rankings for 2026.

5 Best Public Universities in Denmark for Studying

Based on the top ranking public universities in Denmark, we will discuss in detail about these universities. For those who plan on applying to any of these Danish public universities can check the following section and then shortlist one for application. 

1. The University of Copenhagen

The University of Copenhagen was founded in 1479. It is the oldest university in Denmark and a popular research institution in Europe. This public university in Denmark is also popular because 10 Nobel Laureates, 37 Prime Ministers, 34 Olympic medalists have graduated from here. While majority of bachelor's courses at University of Copenhagen are offered in Danish, international students can consider applying for English taught master's courses. More details are as follows:

If you plan on taking admission at the University of Copenhagen, as an international applicant, you can apply by March 1 or October 15 each year.

2. Technical University of Denmark

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is an international institution focused on developing sustainable technologies and driving economic growth, centered on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. DTU integrates research and interdisciplinary education and provides scientific advice, generating over €107 million in turnover from advisory services. This Denmark's public university is known for offering technical, natural science and business related courses. For more details check out the table below:

There are various English taught courses at DTU for international students. Those looking for admission, can apply for the upcoming Autumn or Spring intake 2026. 

3. Aarhus University

Next best public university in Denmark is Aarhus University. This is the second largest university in Denmark and is renowned for its English taught courses at UG and PG level. Aarhus University rankings globally are consistent - among top 100 or 120. It is also a research intensive university since 1928 which offers courses in Arts, Health, Natural Sciences and other areas. Check out more details below:   

Those who plan to take admission at Aarhus University can shortlist their courses and intake and then apply. There are two intakes here - Summer and Winter and deadlines vary for both.

4. The University of Southern Denmark

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is a leading public research institution in Denmark. It is known for its high-quality, societal education and groundbreaking research. Established in 1998 through the merger of several regional institutions, SDU now operates across six campuses. This public university in Denmark is a global leader in drone technology and robotics, which are popular courses at SDU. SDU's Faculty of Engineering offers this course and, in turn, collaborates with tech companies in Odense. If you are interested in studying at SDU, check out more details:

There are various English taught programs both for UG and PG. You can apply to the admission portal before the propsoed deadlines for 2026 intakes.

5. Aalborg University

Another popular public university in Denmark is Aalborg University (AAU). This university has a unique education system model. The Aalborg Model combines problem-based learning with external collaboration to prepare students for the workforce. Students engage in real-world projects, with 38% of master’s theses developed in partnership with external organisations. AAU invests in young researchers, having supported 27 talents since 2016 to develop their ideas and networks. Plan to apply here? Get more details below:

AAU also offers admission for its Autumn intake and deadlines close by March 1. If you are interested you can also shortlist some popular courses at AAU and apply.

Other Popular Public Universities in Denmark

Apart from the top 5 ranking public universities in Denmark, there are 3 more that can be considered for admission from India. While the other 3 remaining public universities in Denmark do not rank among global universities, yet they can still be explored for affordable education. These are as follows:

1. Copenhagen Business School (CBS): One of the largest business schools in Europe, strictly focused on business and economics.

2. Roskilde University (RUC): Known for its interdisciplinary approach and student-led project work.

3. IT University of Copenhagen (ITU): A specialized institution focused entirely on information technology and the digital economy. 

Cost of Studying at Public Universities in Denmark

The annual cost of studying at public universities in Denmark averages around €7,000 to €10,000 for undergraduates and €7,500 to €12,000 for postgraduates. Though costs will vary per level based on the chosen Danish public university. Here is the cost breakdown for Denmark public universities for studying in 2026: 

These are just estimates, the actual cost may vary per course, level and university. So you must check all related costs and make a cost of studying in Denmark analysis before applying for admissions.

Why Study at Public Universities in Denmark?

Studying at public universities in European countries is usually beneficial. If you are an international student and want to apply to public universities in Denmark can consider some of the reasons for the same below:

• As compared to private universities, public universities in Denmark are cheaper by about 10-15% for international students.
• Public universities are tuition-free for students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, as well as those with a permanent residence permit. Non-EU/EEA students typically pay between €8,000 and €18,000 per year.
• Despite Danish being the national language, Denmark public universities offer English taught programs.
• 70% of public universities in Denmark are globally ranked and also make it to the world university rankings in 2026.
• The public universities in Denmark offer quality education and are renowned for their research.
• Many public universities offer fully funded scholarships for international students to study in Denmark if they have a good academic background.

There are benefits of studying at public universities in Denmark and international students can also get them. Admissions at public universities open in Autumn and Winter, so if you are interested, you should start shortlisting as early as possible.

Eligibility Criteria to Study at Public Universities in Denmark

There are benchmark scores for Indian students applying to public universities in Denmark. Applicants who meet them are eligible to apply and study there. The basic eligibility requirements for applying to public universities in Denmark are as follows:

• For bachelor's admissions, applicants must have 60% and above in class 12. 
• For master's admissions also 60% and above in bachelor's is the benchmark.
• Proof of language proficiency and score of 83 on TOEFL or 6.5 on IELTS is needed (both UG and PG).

Around 5-10 backlogs can be accepted at public universities in Denmark from those who are applying for admission. Again, acceptance will depend on the overall academic profile.

How to Apply for Public Universities in Denmark?

Applications are accepted differently for bachelor's and master's admissions in Denmark's public universities. Check out this section on how to apply for public university admission in Denmark as Indian applicant in 2026:

Bachelor's applications are usually accepted through university portals. But for Master's there is a common portal for admission that is commonly used. Here along with course, the applicants will also have to choose their Danish university for admission, including public universities. Check out how to apply for public university admissions in Denmark:

• Autumn Intake starts in September – October. This is one of the most major intakes in Denmark. Ideally application deadlines close in November – January.
• Spring Intake starts in January – March. It is the next intake which is also a minor intake. Applicants can apply in August – September of the previous year for this intake.

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