Decoding the "Danish Way" of Studying
Studying in Denmark is More Than Just Academic Tasks – it’s Mastering the Danish School System.
I hope you invested time to read yesterday’s article, Welcome to the Danish School Experience. As you probably noticed, stepping into the Danish school system can feel like the beginning of an exciting adventure. But like any adventure, there will also be challenges along the way before reaching "the happy ending".
Today, I'll share two articles with you.
#1 Studying in Denmark
In the first article, we explore the concepts of freedom, responsibility, and cultural differences.
These principles are deeply embedded in the Danish education system and often come as a surprise to international students. Why is that?
First, students in Denmark are expected to manage most aspects of their studies digitally. Homework, timetables, assignments, and other important information are typically accessed through the digital platform Lectio. In addition, many official matters in Denmark are handled online using MitID, Denmark’s national digital ID for secure login, and e-Boks, the digital mailbox where all Danes receive official communications from public authorities and private companies, with a high level of security to protect sensitive personal data.
Secondly, and just as importantly, Danish students are usually 16-17 years old when they begin upper secondary school (gymnasium). Many have already spent a year at an “efterskole” (a Danish boarding school for grades 9 and 10) or participated in an exchange year before starting. As a result, they are often already prepared to manage both their daily (digitally) lives and their studies independently.
Danish schools are designed to meet Danish societal expectations. They are public institutions primarily for Danish students, whose parents typically live near the school and are already familiar with the expectations placed on both students and families.
Being part of the public school system means that all schools follow the same national requirements set by the Ministry of Education, so students can expect a similar level of academic achievement across schools and similar guidance for all students meeting the Danish requirements. However, it also means that schools generally do not provide special adjustments for international students or parents who may not yet be familiar with Danish expectations and the many unspoken “rules of the game.”
#2 Meet Our Students
In the second article, I'll share with you, you'll meet Ruth and Andreu, who are already studying here and have learned the many unspoken rules of studying abroad.
You are not the first – and with GKX Support, you will never walk alone.
Keep in touch, and “see you” soon.
Warm regards,
Britta Brandt
Founder, Global KnowleX
A Moment for Reflection
Take a moment today to talk with your parents about these questions:
#1
What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for your teenager in moving abroad?
#2
What will be the biggest challenge for you to leave your teen here?
#3
Have you discussed how to access reliable, professional support if, during your stay, you experience homesickness or find it difficult to settle in at school or at the boarding house?
Happy Student Life in Denmark
We provide Parental Support along with Professional Care and Networking
At GKX, we support you every step of the way, from selecting the high school that best matches your ambitions to securing priority admission and guiding you through the application process. We also ensure a smooth start in Denmark, assist with residence matters, and provide ongoing support throughout your studies.
Our mission is to ensure that you and your teenager feel confident, prepared, and fully supported during this unforgettable experience abroad.
As one parent said: “We sleep well at night knowing that professional help is always within reach if our child or we need it.”
· Download our flyer with an overview of our support services