In Denmark, we offer three Danish language courses tailored for adult foreigners where you learn the Danish language and gain knowledge about the society and culture. If you pass one of these three language courses, you will receive a certificate as proof of your skills.
But what is the difference between the three Danish language programs and, not least, the various exams that conclude them? We will delve into that in this article.
What is the Official Danish language course?
The Danish education program is a free offer for adult foreigners who meet a series of requirements - see more about them here - because the municipality you live in covers all costs of the education.
In the Danish language program, you learn to speak, understand, read, and write Danish. You also learn about Danish culture and society, enabling you to become an active part of life in Denmark – as a citizen, in employment, and in education.
The Danish Education program is offered at language centers and language schools and is divided into three levels, each of which constitutes a separate education. Therefore, you only need to attend one of the Danish education programs.
You do not choose which Danish education course you'll attend yourself. The law determines the Danish course you'll enroll in based on your educational background, qualifications, and prerequisites. You will learn about your placement in the Danish education course after an intake interview.
Below, we will review the differences between the three Danish language programs.
The Difference Between the Three Danish Language Education Programs
The three Danish language courses are referred to as DU1, DU2, and DU3.
Danish Education 1 and 3 consist of five modules, while Danish Education 2 consists of six modules. After each module, you must take a module test, which you must pass to proceed to the next module.
All three programs conclude with a Danish exam, which includes both an oral and a written component.
The three tests are called PD1, PD2, and PD3. Each test is tailored to the level of the Danish course you have completed. This means that if you have completed Danish Education 1 (DU1), you must take Danish Test 1 (PD1).
Danish Education 1 (DU1)
Danish Education 1 is designed for those who have little or no schooling from their home country and who cannot read and write in their mother tongue. It is also for those who are not familiar with the Danish alphabet and writing system.
The aim of Danish Education 1 is for you to learn Danish to a level that enables you to actively participate in your workplace and manage everyday life in Danish.
Danish Education 1 consists of five modules, all of which must be passed. After you have completed module 5, you will take the Danish 1 Exam.
Danish Education 2 (DU2)
Danish Education 2 is designed for those who have a short to medium-length educational background from their home country.
The goal of Danish Education 2 is for you to become proficient in speaking and understanding Danish, and to learn how to read and write simple texts and messages.
Danish Education 2 consists of 6 modules, all of which must be passed and concluded with the Danish 2 Exam.
Danish Education 3 (D3)
Danish Education 3 is designed for individuals who have completed a higher or intermediate level of education in their home country, are proficient in one or more European languages, and have a basic understanding of grammar.
The objective of Danish Education 3 is to teach you Danish at a level that enables you to actively participate in society, including the labor market, as well as pursue an education in Denmark.
Danish Education 3 consists of five modules and concludes with the Danish 3 Exam.
In Danish Education 2 and Danish Education 3, you have the option to take the course online, where you only need to attend four or five module exams and the final exam, which always takes place in person.
Language proficiency test
If you have completed Danish Education 3 (DU3) and passed the Danish Test 3 (PD3), and you want to apply for admission to a higher education program, you can speak with the municipality about being referred to apply for module 6, which concludes with the Study Test (SP).
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