University of Copenhagen: Acceptance Rate, Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarship & More
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The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, attracting thousands of international students each year. Established in 1479, it has a strong academic reputation and is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. With an acceptance rate of 40-50%, UCPH is moderately competitive, offering a diverse range of master’s programs in science, business, technology, and architecture. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from €10,000–17,000 per academic year, while EU/EEA students enjoy tuition-free education. The university also offers scholarships and student accommodation, making it a top choice for higher education in Denmark. In this blog we will talk about everything that you need to know about the University of Copenhagen. Let’s dive in!
University of Copenhagen Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1479 |
| Campus Size | 983,775 square meters |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #100 globally |
| Campus Locations | Four main campuses in Copenhagen: Southern Campus Northern Campus City Campus Frederiksberg Campus |
| Placement Rate | Approximately 90% STEM graduates secure employment within a year |
| Popular Courses for International Students | MSc in Computer Science MSc in Statistics MSc in Economics MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences MSc in Bioinformatics MSc in IT and Cognition MSc in Chemistry MSc in Landscape Architecture |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS or TOEFL |
| Acceptance Rate | Between 40% and 50% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | Ranges from €10,000–17,000 per 60 ECTS academic year. |
| Website | www.ku.dk |
University of Copenhagen: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees 2025
The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) is one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, attracting thousands of international students each year. The university offers a diverse range of master’s programs in fields such as Science, Architecture, Business, and Technology. Denmark is known for its high-quality education system, and UCPH provides students with an opportunity to study in a globally recognized institution that ranks among the top 100 universities in the world.
The tuition fees for international students vary depending on the program, with EU/EEA students exempt from tuition fees, while non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition. Below is a detailed breakdown of the University of Copenhagen courses, tuition fees, eligibility, and admission criteria:
| Course | 1st Year Tuition Fees (INR & AUD) | Duration | Eligibility Criteria | English Language Requirement |
| Master of Science (MS) | INR 11 L – 15 L (~AUD 20,000 – 27,000) | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with strong academic performance | IELTS: 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT: 83+ |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA/PGDM) | INR 9 L (~AUD 16,000) | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or related discipline. Work experience preferred but not mandatory. | IELTS: 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT: 83+ |
| Master of Architecture (M.Arch) | INR 15 L (~AUD 27,000) | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Urban Planning, or related field. Portfolio submission required. | IELTS: 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT: 83+ |
| Master of Science (M.Sc.) | INR 9 L (~AUD 16,000) | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in science, Engineering, or related field | IELTS: 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT: 83+ |
University of Copenhagen Rankings 2025
The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. In 2025, the university secured a QS World University Ranking of 100 and a Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of 97, solidifying its place as Denmark’s top university. Over the years, UCPH has maintained a strong global reputation, with high rankings across various prestigious ranking bodies, including CWUR, U.S. News & World Report, and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). Below is a detailed breakdown of the University of Copenhagen rankings over the past years:
| Ranking Organization | Global Rank (2025) | Global Rank (2024) | National Rank (Denmark) |
| QS World University Rankings | 100 | 107 | 1st |
| Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings | 97 | 103 | 1st |
| U.S. News & World Report – Best Global Universities | – | – | 1st |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) | – | – | 1st |
| CWTS Leiden Ranking | – | – | 1st |
University of Copenhagen Acceptance Rate 2025
The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) is one of Denmark’s most prestigious institutions, attracting thousands of applicants each year. With an acceptance rate of approximately 40-50%, UCPH is considered moderately competitive, meaning that nearly half of all applicants secure a place. The acceptance rate at UCPH is influenced by factors such as program capacity, admission quotas, and academic performance requirements. Additionally, students must meet specific eligibility criteria, including language proficiency, minimum GPA, and program-specific prerequisites. Below is a detailed breakdown of the University of Copenhagen acceptance criteria:
| Category | Details |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 40-50% (Varies by program) |
| Factors Affecting Acceptance Rate | – Admission quotas (limited spots in some programs) – Number of applicants vs. available seats – Grade point average (GPA) requirements – Danish language proficiency for bachelor’s programs |
| Competitive Programs | Programs with limited seats (e.g., Medicine, Law, and Natural Sciences) have lower acceptance rates. |
| Programs with Flexible Admissions | Programs with higher intake capacities (e.g., Humanities and Social Sciences) may have a higher acceptance rate. |
Eligibility Requirements for Admission to UCPH
| Requirement | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Completion of upper secondary (high school) education |
| Minimum GPA Requirement | Equivalent to Danish grade 6.0 or higher |
| Language Proficiency | – Bachelor’s Programs: Requires Danish language qualifications – Master’s Programs: Requires English proficiency (IELTS: 6.5+ or TOEFL: 83+) |
| Specific Program Requirements | Some programs may require additional qualifications or prior coursework in relevant fields. |
| Master’s Applicants with Prior Degrees | If an applicant already has a master’s degree, they may only be admitted to another master’s program if there is a vacant slot. |
University of Copenhagen Scholarships 2025
The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) offers a range of scholarships to support outstanding international students pursuing their master’s degrees. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. In 2024, recipients of these scholarships had a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 98%, highlighting the competitive nature of the awards.
The scholarships typically cover full tuition fees for the two-year program and provide a monthly living allowance of DKK 10,309 for 22 months. The selection process also considers the employability of graduates from different MSc programs. In 2024, students awarded this second-year scholarship had a GPA of 10.75 or higher on the Danish grading scale. Below are the key details of everything that you should know about University of Copenhagen scholarship:
| Scholarship Type | Eligibility Criteria | Coverage | Duration | Application Process |
| Faculty of Science MSc Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA applicants with a GPA above 90% | Full tuition fees and monthly living expenses (DKK 10,309) | 22 months | Automatic consideration upon application to first-choice MSc program |
| Second-Year Scholarship | Fee-paying students who have completed 60 ECTS in the first year with a GPA of 10.75 or higher on the Danish grading scale | Tuition fees and living expenses for the second year | Remaining duration of the program | Eligible students are contacted at the beginning of the second year |
| Danish Government Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA applicants admitted to a master’s program | Full or partial tuition fee waivers and/or coverage of basic living costs | Duration of the program | Automatic consideration upon admission; no separate application required |
University of Copenhagen Accommodation 2025
Securing suitable accommodation is an important aspect of the student experience at the University of Copenhagen (UCPH). Given Copenhagen’s status as a vibrant educational hub, the demand for student housing is high, making early planning essential. UCPH offers a variety of housing arrangements to cater to diverse student preferences and budgets. These options are primarily categorized into on-campus and off-campus accommodations. Below are the key details of various accommodation options available at University of Copenhagen:
| Accommodation Type | Description | Average Monthly Cost (DKK) | Average Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| On-Campus Housing | Managed by the Housing Foundation Copenhagen, these accommodations include dormitories and shared apartments. Students typically have a private room with shared common areas. | 4,000 – 10,000 | 540 – 1,350 |
| Off-Campus Housing | Options range from private rentals to shared flats in various Copenhagen neighborhoods. Costs vary based on location and amenities. | 4,000 – 10,000 | 540 – 1,350 |
Conclusion
With its world-class education, strong industry connections, and high employability rates, the University of Copenhagen remains a top destination for students worldwide. From globally recognized rankings to generous scholarship opportunities and well-structured accommodation options, UCPH provides a holistic and enriching academic experience. If you are considering studying at UCPH, applying early and meeting eligibility criteria can greatly enhance your chances of admission. With a rich history and a commitment to innovation, UCPH continues to be one of the best choices for students pursuing higher education in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at the University of Copenhagen?
The University of Copenhagen acceptance rate is approximately 40-50%, making it a moderately competitive institution. However, acceptance rates vary based on program competitiveness, available seats, and applicant qualifications.
What are the tuition fees for international students at UCPH?
For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees range from €10,000 to €17,000 per 60 ECTS academic year, depending on the program. EU/EEA students are exempt from tuition fees.
What are the most popular courses for international students at UCPH?
Some of the most sought-after University of Copenhagen courses include:
- MSc in Computer Science
- MSc in Bioinformatics
- MSc in Statistics
- MSc in Economics
- MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences
- MSc in IT and Cognition
- MSc in Chemistry
- MSc in Landscape Architecture
Can students work while studying at UCPH?
Yes, international students can work part-time while studying in Denmark. The regulations are:
- Non-EU/EEA students: Up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during summer breaks.
- EU/EEA students: No work restrictions but must maintain full-time student status.
What are the English language requirements for admission at UCPH?
International students at UCPH must demonstrate English proficiency through the following test scores:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5+
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 83+
