Education system and best schools in Denmark: Compulsory education age: 6-16 years. Folkeskole: Main public school system. International schools availability. Private schools with subsidies. High PISA rankings in reading/math/science. Focus on student well-being. Emphasis on project-based learning. Availability of bilingual programs. Free higher education for EU students. Popular universities: University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University.
Compulsory education age: 6-16 years.
In Denmark, Compulsory Education is obligatory for all children from age 6 to 16. Education is free in public schools, and parents have the option to choose private or home education under certain conditions. For more detailed information about the educational framework and policies in Denmark, you can visit the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education website. This ensures that every child has access to fundamental learning opportunities, tailored to different preferences and educational approaches.
Folkeskole: Main public school system.
The Folkeskole is Denmark's main public school system, providing free and compulsory education from ages 6 to 16, including one year of pre-school, nine years of primary and lower secondary education, and an optional tenth year. It is regulated by the Folkeskole Act, ensuring common standards and objectives while allowing for local municipal flexibility in school organization and additional objectives. For more detailed information, visit this National Education Systems Overview to explore how Denmark navigates its educational structure.
International schools availability.
In Denmark, there are 24 international schools, mostly located in the Copenhagen area, offering various curricula such as the International Baccalaureate, International Primary Curriculum, and British, French, or German curricula. These schools include both public and private institutions, with some public international schools run by municipalities being free, while private schools charge tuition and afterschool care fees. For more detailed information about the education system, visit InterNations, a valuable resource for expatriates discovering educational options in Denmark.
Private schools with subsidies.
In Denmark, private schools receive government subsidies that match public spending in municipal schools, minus the tuition fees paid by parents. These educational institutions, which encompass small independent schools, large independent schools, religious schools, and progressive free schools, are required to meet the same educational standards as their public counterparts and are typically smaller in size. For more comprehensive details, you can explore the insights offered by Medicolink. This ensures that they provide a comparable level of education while often offering a more intimate learning environment.
High PISA rankings in reading/math/science.
In Denmark, students scored higher than the OECD average in mathematics, reading, and science, with a significant proportion achieving a minimum level of proficiency in all three subjects. However, the system faces challenges such as a performance gap between socio-economically advantaged and disadvantaged students, and difficulties in addressing the needs of students with a migrant background. For more detailed insights, visit the PISA 2022 Results to explore comprehensive data and analyses of Denmark's educational outcomes.
Focus on student well-being.
In Denmark, the well-being of upper secondary students is notably high, with a general well-being score of 4 out of 5, though they experience significant pressure and concerns, scoring 2.6 out of 5. Schools like Copenhagen International School, Rygaards International School, and Osterbro International School are highly regarded for their comprehensive educational and extracurricular programs that support student well-being. More detailed statistics on these topics can be explored on Statista, which provides a deeper insight into the factors affecting student well-being in Denmark.
Emphasis on project-based learning.
In Denmark, Project-Based Learning is deeply integrated into the education system, with initiatives like Autens' PBL Academy and LEAPS (Learning and Engagement Through Authentic Projects) emphasizing authentic, contextually meaningful learning that develops 21st-century skills and deeper learning competencies, supported by extensive teacher training and community engagement.
Availability of bilingual programs.
In Denmark, bilingual programs are available, particularly in some German schools that teach both German and Danish. Additionally, international schools such as the Institut Sankt Joseph offer a bilingual program teaching in both Danish and English, following the Cambridge International curriculum.
Free higher education for EU students.
Higher education in Denmark is free for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, as well as for those participating in exchange programs or meeting specific residence criteria. However, other international students must pay tuition fees ranging from USD 8,000 to 21,000 per year. For more information about these costs and the available financial support, you can visit the official website on Tuition Fees and Scholarships. This provides a comprehensive guide to understand the funding options for studying in Denmark.
Popular universities: University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University.
The University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University are among the top universities in Denmark. The University of Copenhagen, established in 1479, is a leading research institution with a wide range of courses in English and is ranked 103rd globally. Aarhus University, known for its arts subjects and research intensity, offers over 60 courses in English and is ranked 109th globally, with a strong support system for international students.