In Denmark, we have a well-functioning and inclusive education system characterized by a high degree of trust between teachers, students, and parents. The Danish school system is free, and all children have equal access regardless of their background.
In Denmark, there is compulsory education, which means that all children from the year they turn 6 must receive education for the next 10 years. Afterwards, they have the opportunity to pursue either a gymnasium (upper secondary) education, a vocational education, or another form of youth education before potentially moving on to university.
In this article, we provide you with an overview of how the Danish school system works, the educational paths available, and the requirements involved.
Folkeskole – The Primary Education System in Denmark
In Denmark, the public primary school, known as "folkeskolen," is attended by nearly all children. It is free and open to all children.
Public school in Denmark starts in 0th grade when the child is 6 years old. This is followed by 1st through 9th grade. Many also choose to take a 10th grade as an additional year, but this is optional.
One can choose to spend one or more years at a boarding school, typically in 8th, 9th, or 10th grade. However, if your child attends a boarding school, you will need to cover some of the expenses yourself.
The purpose of public school is to provide all children with a strong academic, social, and personal foundation for development and to prepare them for further education.
As alternatives to public schools, there are private schools and free schools, which, however, require a tuition fee.
Secondary Education After Primary School
After finishing primary and lower secondary school, there are several paths to choose from for further education in Denmark.
One can either choose to pursue a high school education, which typically takes 3 years, or opt for a vocational education, such as carpentry, electrician, nursing assistant, etc.
It is also possible to pursue a combined youth education program, where you combine vocational training with a secondary school diploma.
All these educational programs are free, and young people also have the opportunity to receive student financial aid starting the year they turn 18. You can read more about this in the article here.
Alternatively, after finishing primary school, one can also choose to attend a folk high school or work if they are undecided about which educational path to take.
It is important to note that there are specific requirements that must be met if the child wishes to pursue upper secondary education after finishing primary school. Among other things, the final exams must be passed, and the student must have an average grade of at least 5.0. You can learn more about the Danish grading system right here.
Continuing at the university
In Denmark, after completing a secondary education, one has the opportunity to continue their studies at a university or a university college, both of which are also free. Here, one can pursue a professional bachelor's or a bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree.
There are specific entry requirements for various programs at universities and professional colleges. These may include certain subjects that must be taken at specific levels. Requirements might also include certain grade point averages.
After completing a master's degree at a university, one has the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. This is typically done by applying for a Ph.D. position.
Denmark's education system offers children and young people numerous opportunities for both academic and personal development. We hope that this article has given you a clearer understanding of how the Danish education system functions, as well as the opportunities and requirements for children and young people.