If you are planning to study in Denmark, finding affordable accommodation will probably be one of the first challenges you face.

Student housing — often referred to as a kollegium in Danish — can be one of the most practical options for international students. It isn’t only about finding a cheaper place to live. Student residences can give you access to useful facilities, a social community and, in some cases, housing suitable for couples and families.

Having experienced student life in Denmark myself, I also learned how important it is to understand the student housing system early. Here are 10 reasons why student housing is worth considering.

1. More affordable rent

Student accommodation is often considerably cheaper than renting on the private market.

Depending on the residence, location and type of accommodation, you may find rooms and apartments at around DKK 3,000–7,000 per month.

Deposits can also be lower than those required for many private rentals, where the initial payment can include a deposit as well as prepaid rent.

Always check the individual residence, as prices and payment requirements vary considerably.

2. Useful facilities included

Depending on the residence, you may have access to facilities such as:

• study rooms

• common rooms and kitchens

• laundry facilities

• gyms

• party or activity rooms

• bicycle storage

Some residences may also allow pets, although you should always check the individual housing rules before applying.

3. Shared outdoor spaces

Many student residences have courtyards, gardens or other shared outdoor areas.

This can be particularly valuable if you live in a small student room or apartment and want somewhere outside to relax or meet other residents.

4. You may qualify for housing benefits

Depending on the type of accommodation and your personal circumstances, you may be eligible for Danish housing benefit (boligstøtte).

The amount is calculated individually and can depend on factors including your income, household, rent, size of the home and type of accommodation.

Rather than assuming you will receive a particular percentage of your rent, check your eligibility through the official Danish system.

5. Student housing isn’t necessarily only for single students

Some student residences offer apartments suitable for couples and families.

Depending on the rules of the individual residence, it may be sufficient for one member of the household to meet the student requirements.

This can make student housing particularly interesting if you are studying in Denmark while raising a family.

6. Childcare may be nearby

Some larger student and family residences are located close to daycare centres, kindergartens and other services for families.

If you are moving to Denmark with children, location can make a significant difference to your everyday routine.

7. You could save money on transportation

Student residences are often located with students in mind, with access to universities, public transportation and cycling routes.

Living within cycling distance of your university can reduce your monthly transportation costs considerably — and give you a very Danish introduction to everyday life.

8. Bicycle and car facilities

Depending on the residence, facilities may include secure bicycle storage, parking or areas where residents can maintain and repair their bikes.

These little practical benefits can make everyday student life much easier.

9. An international community

For an international student, this may be one of the biggest advantages.

Student housing gives you an opportunity to meet people from Denmark and around the world.

Residents often share information, experiences and sometimes even furniture and household items. More importantly, living around other students can make it easier to build friendships and feel part of a community when you are new to Denmark.

10. You may be able to stay for several years

Student housing isn’t necessarily a temporary solution for your first semester.

Depending on the residence and its rules, you may be able to remain there throughout a significant part of your studies. Some residences also allow graduates a limited period after completing their education to find another home.

However, the rules vary between student residences, so always check the conditions of your particular housing provider.

Is student housing in Denmark worth considering?

Absolutely.

For many international students, student housing can provide much more than an affordable room. It can mean lower living expenses, useful facilities, easier transportation and an opportunity to become part of a student community.

But there is one important lesson I would add from my own experience:

Start looking for student housing as early as possible.

Waiting lists can be long, particularly in Copenhagen and other popular university cities. Understanding how the waiting lists and student housing organisations work before you arrive can save you a lot of stress later.

Planning to study in Denmark?

Student housing is only one part of preparing for student life in Denmark.

In Chapter 3 – Student Life of our digital guide, Living in Denmark – Study, Work, and Settle, you can find practical information about studying in Denmark, universities and applications, SU and financial support, student housing, student jobs, taxes, A-kasse and more.

→ Look Inside the Guide