INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 2010/2011 - FOR - DPU

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 

2010/2011 

- FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 

COMING TO AARHUS UNIVERSITY, 

COPENHAGEN CAMPUS

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

04 A WARM WELCOME 

06 PLANNING YOUR STAY IN COPENHAGEN 

12 TRAVELLING TO DENMARK 

14 ARRIVING IN DENMARK 

18 TRAVELLING AROUND DENMARK 

19 GETTING AROUND COPENHAGEN 

22 STUDYING AT AU 

26 WORKING IN DENMARK 

28 LIVING IN COPENHAGEN 

32 GOING OUT IN COPENHAGEN 

34 LEARNING DANISH 

36 IMPORTANT ADDRESSES 

38 USEFUL LINKS

Credits 

Text: International Centre, Copenhagen Campus 

Layout & design: Mio Schrøder 

Photo: AU/DPU 

Version: 2010/2011 

International Centre 

Tuborgvej 164, A124/126. 

2400 Copenhagen NV 

E-mail: international@dpu.dk 

Tel: +45 8888 9188 

www.dpu.dk

4 



A WARM WELCOME 

A Warm Welcome 

Welcome to Aarhus University, Copenhagen 

Campus! We are pleased that you have decided 

on our university as your future study 

institution and we look forward to greeting 

you in Copenhagen. 

Year after year Aarhus University welcomes 

an increasingly large and diverse group of 

international students. The University believes 

in the growing importance of students having 

an international dimension in their education 

and is a strong supporter of international 

mobility. 

Arriving in a new country and enrolling at a 

new and different university can seem confusing 

and overwhelming at times. This Student 

Guide caters to international students and 

aims to make your transition from home to 

here as easy and pleasant as possible. Read 

the guide carefully and make sure to bring it 

with you when you leave for Denmark. The 

guide will cover everything you need to know 

to prepare your arrival in Copenhagen. Remember, 

that the more thorough your plan- 

ning is the less confusing your arrival will be. 

The International Centre is here to help you 

throughout your stay. All of us at the International 

Centre aim to provide you with the 

best possible services and we are looking 

forward to assisting you in making this the 

best experience possible. 

Sincerely, 

The International Centre 

Aarhus University, Copenhagen Campus 

Where are we located? 

Aarhus University 

International Centre, Copenhagen Campus 

Tuborgvej 164, A124/126 


How can you contact us? 

Phone: +45 8888 9188 

Fax: +45 8888 9714 

Email: international@dpu.dk 

www.dpu.dk/site.aspx?p=6515

6 

PLANNING YOUR STAY 

IN COPENHAGEN 

Checklist 

Practicalities before arrival 



c Residence certificate, permit or visa and 

work authorisation (page 6) 

c Insurances (page 8) 

c Housing (page 9) 

Checklist 

What to bring with you 

The following is a list of items you should 

consider bringing with you. 

c Tickets and insurance papers 

c Passport and passport sized photos/ID 

card 

c Letter of admission 

c Marriage certificate (if applicable) 

c Credit card/traveller’s cheques/Danish 

currency 

c Cell/mobile phone 

c Adaptor for electrical appliances (220V) 

c Laptop 

c Good dictionaries 

RESIDENCE 

PERMIT/CERTIFICATE 

It is a condition for the residence permit/certificate 

that you are active and enrolled in 

an educational programme. If this is not the 

case, the Immigration Service can revoke 

your residence permit/certificate. The University 

is obliged to inform the Immigration 

Service if you are not actively following the 

educational programme. 

We encourage you to check 

www.newtodenmark.dk to see if there are 

any special requirements for applicants from 

your country. Read the appropriate section 

to find out what further steps you must take 

to apply for a residence permit/certificate. 

Nordic citizens 

If you are a Nordic citizen, you are free to enter, 

reside, study and work in Denmark. You do 

not need a visa, residence permit/certificate 

or work authorisation. For further information, 

please see www.newtodenmark.dk under EU 

and Nordic citizens.

EU/EEA citizens 

Since you will be in Denmark for more than 

three months, you will need to apply for a 

residence certificate. To obtain it, you must 

submit an application to the Regional State 

Administration immediately after your arrival. 

With the residence certificate, you will gain 

work authorisation (See page 26 for more 

about working in Denmark). 

When applying, you need to bring the following 

documents: 

• Residence certificate application form 

• Valid passport or ID card 

• A photocopy of your passport 

• One passport-sized photo 

• Letter of admission to Aarhus University 

The residence certificate is valid as long 

as you are actively enrolled as a student at 

Aarhus University. 

Other foreign citizens 

Since you will be in Denmark for more than 

three months, you will need to obtain a residence 

permit. You are expected to apply for 

and receive the permit prior to your arrival 

in Denmark. 

Upon acceptance to the University, you will 

receive the appropriate application form. The 

University completes part 2 of the original 

ST1 form and sends the application to you. 

You then complete your part (part 1) of the 

form, attach the required documents, and 

submit the entire original application to a 

Danish diplomatic mission in your country 

of residence. You must apply for a Danish 

residence permit before you leave for Denmark. 

It takes approximately three months 



to obtain your permit therefore you should 

apply at least three months prior to arrival. 

Documentation required to be submitted 

along with your application: 

• Copy of passport (all pages including the 

front page). Your passport must be valid 

for 6 months longer than your intended 

stay in Denmark. 

• Two passport-sized photos 

• Proof (original documents) that you can 

support yourself financially while in Denmark. 

This should include documentation 

from your own bank account or a receipt 

of scholarship certifying that you have 

the equivalent of DKK 4,200 per month 

during your intended stay. 

• We recommend that you check with the 

Danish diplomatic mission in your country 

of residence for any additional requirements 

such as fees or additional 

copies of the application and work permit 

application procedures (See page 

26 for more about working in Denmark). 

If you have not received your residence permit 

before arriving in Denmark, contact the 

International Centre, Copenhagen Campus 

as soon as you arrive. 

Extension of residence permit 

An application for extension can be submitted 

no earlier than four months and no later 

than one month prior to the expiration of your 

current permit. All application forms can be 

found on the relevant website for the Danish 

Immigration Service.. 

The application must be submitted to the 

7

8 

Service Centre of the Danish Immigration 

Service along with the documentation required 

for your original permit. Make sure all 

of this documentation is up-to-date, especially 

the confirmation that you are currently 

enrolled at the University. 

The Regional State Administration 

www.statsforvaltning.dk 

Tel: +45 7256 7000 

Telephone hours: Monday 8-15, Tuesday- 

Wednesday 9-15, Thursday 13-18, Friday 

9-14 

Email: hovedstaden@statsforvaltning.dk 

The Danish Immigration Service 

www.newtodenmark.dk 

Tel. students: +45 3530 8750 

Telephone hours: Monday-Friday 9-15 

Email: study@us.dk 

INSURANCE 



Health Insurance 

If you plan to stay in Denmark for less than 

three months, you should purchase private 

health insurance to cover any medical treatment 

that you might require during your stay. 

The Danish Health Security Act covers foreign 

students staying for more than three months. It 

means that once you have your yellow Health 

Insurance Card, showing your name, address 

and personal registration number (CPR 

number), you will be allowed to receive free 

medical treatment in clinics and hospitals. 

However, please note that this does not cover 

the costs of medical evacuation back to your 

home country, emergency repatriation and 

personal liability. For this reason, we encourage 

you to purchase travel insurance as well. 

Nordic students 

You are automatically covered by the Danish 

Health Security Act. 

EU/EEA students 

You should get your European Health Insurance 

Card from your local authorities before 

travelling to Denmark. This card is proof that 

you are entitled to health insurance in your 

home country. Above all, it gives you access 

to free medical care in Denmark until the 

Danish Health insurance covers you. 

To be covered by the Danish Health Security 

Act, you must register at the Borgerservice 

(Citizen Service) immediately upon receiving 

your residence certificate. 

Other foreign students 

It is your responsibility to insure yourself while 

you are staying in Denmark as Aarhus University 

does not cover any losses that may occur. 

We highly recommend that you take out the 

following insurance policies either before or 

immediately after arriving in Denmark. 

Third-party insurance/liability insurance (ansvarsforsikring) 

is a must: this insurance covers 

any losses you might have if you have to pay 

compensation to another person. 

Third-party insurance/liability insurance 

(ansvarsforsikring) is a must: this insurance

covers any losses you might have if you have 

to pay compensation to another person. 

Accident insurance (ulykkesforsikring): this 

insurance covers the financial consequences 

of an accident. 

Home insurance (indboforsikring): insurance 

of your personal belongings. 

If you decide to buy insurance in Denmark, 

the University recommends that you contact 

different insurance companies to find the one 

that best suits your needs. The large insurance 

companies such as TRYG, Alm. Brand Forsikring 

and Top Danmark have homepages 

in English. 

HOUSING 

IC Housing Guarantee 

The IC guarantees a housing offer for all 

international students who submit their application 

by the stated deadline. Once you 

have been assigned accommodation, you 

will receive an email with further information, 

and upon arrival, you will receive more practical 

information about your housing – rent, 

distance to the university, shared facilities, 

location, etc. 

Please note that the earliest you can pick 

up your keys is on the first working day of 

the month after the start of your lease. Contract 

the International Centre, Copehagen 

Campus and arrange the pick up of your key. 



Regarding payment : Depending on the type 

of housing assigned to you, you will either 

have to pay the first months rent and deposit 

prior to arrival or, in case you have been assigned 

a room to sublet, to transfer rent and 

deposit to your landlord before arrival. What 

applies to you will clearly be informed to you 

by email. 

Please contact the International Centre, Copenhagen 

Campus for further enquiries. 

Hotel bookings (temporary housing) 

If you arrive in Copenhagen prior to the start 

of your lease you will not be able to move 

into your accommodation. Below you can 

find a few resources with temporary housing 

options. 

www.copenhagendowntown.com/da/ 

www.dgi-byen.dk/hostel 

www.cabinn.com/english/kbh/kbh.html 

9

12 

TRAVELLING TO DENMARK 

BY AIR 

To Copenhagen Airport 

There are direct flights to Copenhagen Airport 

from most European cities. When you arrive 

at Copenhagen Airport, you can catch the 

metro to go to Nørreport Station (city center). 

BY TRAIN 



If you travel by train all the way from your 

home country, your local railway station will 

inform you about prices and schedules. Remember 

to ask for discount tickets. 

How can I get from the train station to 

the International Centre, Copenhagen 

Campus? 

You can take one of the following buses 

from Nørreport Station: 42, 43 (towards 

Værebropark) and get off the bus at Emdrup 

Station. 

You can take the following S-train: Blue 

line A (towards Farum) and get off at Emdrup 

Station. 

How much does bus fare cost? 

A single ticket costs DKK 23. 

A 10-ride ticket for two zones costs DKK 135. 

A 1-month pass for two zones costs DKK 320.

14 



ARRIVING IN DENMARK 

Checklist 

What to do when you arrive 

You should contact the following institutions: 

c Regional State Administration 

(EU citizens only) (page 8) 

c Borgerservice (CPR number and choosing 

a doctor) (page 14) 

c Bank (opening a bank account & pay 

back the housing deposit) (page 28) 

c Tax authorities (tax registration, 

if applicable) (page 26) 

c Regional customs and tax authorities 

(car registration, if applicable) (page 21) 

You need to carry out the following tasks at 

the University: 

c Register at the IC as soon as you arrive 

(page 14) 

c Contact the IC to sign up for courses and 

exams (page 23) 

c Attend the Introduction Week (page 15) 

c Apply for a travel grant 

(if applicable) (page 15) 

REGISTERING AT THE IC 

You have to register at the International Centre, 

Copenhagen Campus no later than the 

first working day after you arrive. Among 

other things, you will receive your student 

card there. You will need this card to check 

out books at the library, get access to campus 

or get student discounts. 

CIVIL REGISTRATION (CPR) 

NUMBER 

After you have obtained your residence permit 

or certificate, you must apply for your 

Danish CPR number. This number is used 

when dealing with public authorities, health 

authorities, libraries, banks and the like. The 

CPR number is issued at the Borgerservice 

(Citizen Service). If you are staying in Denmark 

for less than three months, please notify 

the International Centre. The card with your 

CPR number is also referred to as your health 

insurance card or ’yellow card’. If you need 

medical attention before you receive your 

CPR number, please contact the IC or the 

emergency room.

Nordic students 

You must apply for a CPR number if you 

are staying in Denmark for more than three 

months. As soon as you arrive, you should 

visit the Borgerservice, bringing your passport 

or other photo ID, in order to obtain a 

CPR number. 

EU/EEA students 

Once you have received your residence certificate, 

you must apply for a CPR number at 

the Borgerservice. It takes approximately 1-2 

weeks before you receive your CPR number. 

Other foreign students 

You must register at the Borgerservice within 

five days after your arrival. Bring your residence 

permit and accommodation contract 

with you. It takes approximately 1-2 weeks 

before you receive your CPR number. 

CHOOSING A DOCTOR 

When you fill in the forms for a health insurance 

certificate, you receive a list of general 

practitioners (GP) in your area of residence, 

and you can choose your own practitioner. 

You are free to choose between the GPs who 

accept new patients which are indicated 

on the list. 

MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE 

If you are married you must bring your original 

marriage certificate as well as an officially 

translated copy (Danish or English). You must 



present this when applying for a CPR number 

and bring this even if your partner is not with 

you in Denmark. 

INTRODUCTION WEEK 

This event, which is organized by the IC, Copenhagen 

Campus, is designed to give new 

international students an introduction to the 

University and to the city of Copenhagen. 

The introduction program offers academic 

introductions, talks, tours and a welcome 

party to allow students to get to know each 

other and their surroundings. You will receive 

further information about the programme at 

a later date. 

TRAVEL GRANT 

15 

The Travel Grant is a reimbursement of travel 

expenses up to 1000 € for exchange students 

from selected non-European partner universities. 

Please check with your university or on 

our website to see if you are eligible to apply 

for this grant. If you are eligible to apply, you 

must be enrolled on a full-time basis as an 

exchange student at Aarhus University for a 

period of at least 3 months. ‘Full-time basis’ 

means that you must be able to document 

that you have signed up for at least 30 ECTS 

per semester. The program of study at Aarhus 

University must also be recognised by your 

home university.

18 

TRAVELLING AROUND DENMARK 

TRAINS 

DSB is the Danish railway network that runs to 

all regions of the country. You can get discount 

tickets, called DSB Orange, which are considerably 

cheaper than the regular prices. You 

can also purchase a Wild Card which offers 

discounted tickets to students. For information 

on ticket prices and timetables, contact the 

DSB Customer Centre at +45 7013 1415 or book 

your tickets online at www.dsb.dk. You can buy 

either electronic tickets or paper tickets that 

you have to pick up at the railway station. 

LONG DISTANCE COACHES 

There are a number of bus companies that 

offer transportation within Denmark and to 

larger European cities. See some of the following 

web sites: 

www.abildskou.dk 

www.eurolines.dk 

JOURNEY PLANNER 



You can book your trip online by using the 

Journey Planner (Rejseplanen), which finds 

the quickest possible travel options (buses 

and trains) when you type in departure and 

destination points. It is an easy way to plan 

your travels until you get an understanding 

of the transportation network. 

www.rejseplanen.dk 

BY TRAIN TO AARHUS 

If you want to travel from Copenhagen to 

Aarhus by train, you can easily find a direct 

train from Copenhagen’s central railway 

station or. The train ride takes 3–4 hours and 

there are trains leaving for Aarhus every half 

hour during the day and the evening. When 

travelling in Denmark, there are special discount 

tickets for people below the age of 26, 

but you must obtain a Wild Card (ID card) 

from DSB first. 

www.dsb.dk 

BY BUS 

For international bus connections, Eurolines 

is a possible choice: www.eurolines.dk 

By bus between Copenhagen and Aarhus 

Abildskou Coaches operates within Denmark 

and is often a cheaper alternative to the train 

for travel between Copenhagen and Aarhus: 

www.abildskou.dk.

GETTING AROUND 

COPENHAGEN 

www.guloggratis.dk 

BICYCLES 

Cycling is the easiest way to get around in 

Copenhagen. Everything is reachable within 

cycling distance and you can find bike facilities 

everywhere. It is possible to rent a bicycle 

for a shorter stay in Copenhagen. Companies 

such as Rent a Bike and Cykelbørsen 

offer special rates for renting bikes for longer 

periods. 

www.rentabike.dk 

www.cykelboersen.dk 

You can also purchase a second-hand bike at 

the police auction held approximately every 

two weeks. You can inspect the bikes half an 

hour before the auction begins. 

www.topauktioner.dk 

Addresses for auctions: 

Saturdays: Slotsherrensvej 113, 2720 Vanløse 

Thursdays: Tæbyvej 3B, 2610 Rødovre 

Phone: + 45 39 62 02 72 

Mobile: + 45 40 88 18 01 

Email: post@topauktioner.dk 

Another possibility is to look for a secondhand 

bike in newspapers such as Gul & Gratis 

and Den Blå Avis (in Danish only). 



www.dba.dk 

During summer, Copenhagen provides city 

bikes which you can use free of change. You 

release the bike from its stand by depositing 

DKK 20, which you get back when you return 

the bike to one of the 58 designated parking 

places in the city. For further information, 

please see www.bycyklen.dk. Please note 

that you are only allowed to use the city bikes 

in the inner parts of Copenhagen. 

City bikes can also be found in Aarhus. 

BUSES 

19 

Movia – the largest public transportation 

company in Denmark – runs the yellow buses 

in the city. The bus route number is indicated 

at the front and the back of the bus and the 

destination is displayed at the front and next 

to the front door. You must enter through the 

front door and exit through the back door. 

Every bus is equipped with a validation machine 

when you enter the bus. 

A-busses (marked by red corner on the bus 

and an ‘A’ after the number) crisscross all over

20 

the city and run every 10 min. In peak hours, 

they run without a schedule but with an expected 

interval of 3-4 min. 

S-busses (marked by a blue corner on the bus 

and an ‘S’ after the number) run more directly 

through the city with fewer stops. 

Night buses (marked by a grey corner on the 

bus and an ‘N’ followed by a number) operate 

after hours and run at least every hour. They 

are the price of a regular fare. They run in the 

city from 1 am to 5 am, but be sure to check 

the schedule, as they do not operate on a 

regular basis every night. 

www.moviatrafik.dk 

TRAIN 



DBS operates the S-trains which covers the 

city area and beyond. You will find S-train 

station from which most S-train lines run within 

walking distance from each other all over the 

city area. Each train line has an end-station 

according to which direction it runs. Please 

make sure to locate the right end-station ac- 

cording to your destination. Most trains run 

at an interval of 10 min. It is possible to bring 

your bike on the train free of charge in the 

designated carriages. 

www.dsb.dk 

METRO 

The Copenhagen Metro has two lines which 

run 24 hours a day, every day of the week. 

Note that both lines will take you to the city 

center, but only one will take you to the airport. 

You can transfer to the S-train stations 

at some Metro stations. 

www.m.dk 

All public transportation in the city and greater 

Copenhagen operates on a zone system. 

At bus stops, on Metro stations and in S-train 

stations, you will find coloured zone maps by 

which you calculate the fare for your journey. 

The city center is zone 1 and the Aarhus 

University, Copenhagen Campus is zone 2. 

You can purchase single tickets with the

us driver on the bus. Multi-ride tickets and 

monthly cards are much cheaper than ordinary 

tickets, and you can purchase them at 

all train stations and in most kiosks. 

CAR 

Because of the 25% VAT, cars in Denmark are 

very expensive. Add to that a high registration 

duty – 60–63 % of the market price – and you 

will understand why many people choose alternative 

means of transportation in Denmark. 

If you wish to register your car in Denmark, 

you must do so within 14 days of your arrival 

in Denmark. Registration of vehicles is administered 

by SKAT, where you can also find 

rules and tax rates for imported cars. 

For further information, please see www. 

workindenmark.dk under Information > Information 

for jobseekers > Life in Denmark 

> Transport > Car in Denmark. 

Converting your driving licence 

You do not need to convert a drivers licence 

issued in an EU country, Iceland, Lichtenstein 



21 

or Norway. Driving licences issued in other 

countries are valid for 14 days after establishing 

permanent residence in Denmark. 

After this time, you must convert your licence. 

Contact the nearest driving licence office 

and bring along your: 

• national driving licence 

• officially issued identification and your CPR 

number 

• passport, original baptismal record or birth 

certificate 

• valid residence permit or certificate of registration, 

unless you can legally reside in 

Denmark without a permit 

• photo 

• medical certificate 

• DKK 260

22 

STUDYING AT AU 

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS (2011) 

Christmas Eve December 24 

Christmas Day December 25 

Boxing Day December 26 

New Year’s Day January 1 

Maundy Thursday April 21 

Good Friday April 22 

Easter Day April 24 

Easter Monday April 25 

Labour Day May 1 

Store Bededag May 20 

Ascension Day June 2 

Constitution Day June 5 

Whit Sunday & Monday June 12-13 

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 



Aarhus University follows a semester calendar with examinations twice a year*. 

Teaching and examination periods 

Introduction Week August 18-27, 2010 

Autumn semester begins August 30, 2010 

Deadline for submitting assignment/Autumn semester January 4, 2011 

Examinations January 17-28, 2011 

Semester ends January 31, 2011 

Spring semester begins February 1, 2011 

Deadline for submitting assignment/Spring semester May 24, 2011 

Examinations June 13-24, 2011 

Semester ends June 30, 2011

COURSE REGISTRATION 

You will have already been signed up for 

courses when you arrive. However, please 

check with IC, Copenhagen Campus for any 

specific procedures. 

EXAM REGISTRATION 

It is very important to register for exams in 

advance. You may not be allowed to take 

your exams if you fail to sign-up in due time. 

In most cases, it can be done online at 

www.mit.au.dk 

WORKLOAD 

Just like any other university, Aarhus University 

has high academic standards and requires 

that international students keep up with these 

standards. Students are expected to complete 

30 ECTS credits per semester and complete 

at least the equivalent number of study hours. 

STUDY METHODS 

Teaching at Aarhus University is generally 

structured around lectures, tutorials (teaching 

in small groups) and practical exercises. Active 

participation is expected from students. 

On a regular basis, guest lectures are organised 

and students often form study groups 

among themselves to discuss class topics 

and to help each other. There is considerable 

interaction between students and professors, 



and students often make individual and/or 

group presentations in class 

LANGUAGE 

OF INSTRUCTION 

Danish is the primary language of instruction, 

but there are also a number of courses 

taught in English. In this case, textbooks are 

written in English. If you are a non-native 

English speaker, we suggest you take an 

English language course before coming to 

Copenhagen. 

You should be aware that you are expected 

to be proficient in both oral and written English 

at a sufficient level for academic studies. 

LIBRARIES 

23 

The library on campus is Danmarks Pædagogiske 

Bibliotek where you can take out 

specialized books. You can find more information 

regarding the location and the opening 

hours on the website www.dpb.dpu.dk/ 

site.aspx?p=160. 

In Copenhagen the library system is integrated, 

meaning that it is possible for students 

to lend books and material from all university 

libraries in the city. The Royal Library has 

facilities for the public at four locations in 

Copenhagen. Copenhagen University Library 

has services at all four locations. You need 

your yellow health insurance card to take 

out books, but you are allowed to consult

24 



books in the reading room without it. There 

are photocopiers and printers available in 

most libraries. Most university libraries also 

subscribe to all major newspapers around 

the world. Furthermore, the libraries are connected 

to an extensive electronic journal 

database, which you can use by logging on 

as a student or researcher at the library or 

from home. For further information on how to 

become a user of the many online facilities 

of the library, see www.bibliotek.dk or visit 

the library on campus. 

Copenhagen has a network of municipal 

libraries (Kommune bibliotek), where the 

main library is called Hovedbiblioteket and 

is located in the centre of town. You can use 

your health insurance card to take out books 

and other materials. All the municipal libraries 

provide free internet access. 

Be aware of library fines. The lending periods 

are generous, as it is possible to renew the 

borrowed material up to 3 times. However, if 

you do not return the material borrowed you 

will receive a fine per borrowed material. 

STUDENT RESOURCES AT 

THE AARHUS UNIVERSITY, 

COPENHAGEN CAMPUS 

The International Study Administration 

The International Study Administration is located 

in the A-building. It offers advice and 

assistance to international students on any 

practical matters, both academic and nonacademic 

with regards to studying at Aarhus 

University, Copenhagen Campus. 

Legal Aid Office (Studenterrådets Retshjælp) 

The office provides free legal advice to students 

on all matters. If they are not able to 

provide you with an answer right away, they 

are likely to investigate the matter further for 

you. The office is located in the University 

Student House, Aarhus Campus. 

http://sr.au.dk/ (Danish page) 

Student Advisory Office 

This group of social workers and psychologists 

is employed by the Danish State to assist 

students with personal matters. The service is 

free of charge and completely confidential. 

www.studraadgiv.dk/Default.aspx?ID=769 

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 

WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 

The Counselling and Support-Centre can 

offer counselling and assistance for international 

students who experience study-related 

difficulties caused by dyslexia, physical, mental 

or behavioural disabilities. We offer free 

counselling and full professional secrecy. 

Please contact the Counselling and Support 

Centre by e-mail rsc@dpu.dk or phone 

+45 8942 2375

26 

WORKING IN DENMARK 

As a foreign student following a higher educational 

programme, you are allowed to work 

37 hours per week (EU & Nordic citizens) or 

15 hours a week (other foreign citizens), as 

well as full-time during the months of June, 

July and August. For full-degree students the 

same applies during the job-seeking period 

after completion of your educational programme. 

Apply for a work permit at the same 

time as applying for a residence certificate/ 

permit. If you are a Nordic citizen, you can 

work without a permit. 

If you work illegally in Denmark, you risk deportation, 

and you and your employer risk 

fine or imprisonment. 

TAX REGISTRATION 



All residents of Denmark, as well as people 

staying in Denmark for more than six months, 

are fully liable to taxation in Denmark. This 

means that any income earned in Denmark 

is subject to taxation in Denmark. Any income 

earned in another country is subject to tax 

in that particular country. Denmark has entered 

into double taxation agreements with 

a number of countries in order to avoid tax 

being paid on the same income in both countries. 

Prior to departure you should contact the 

local tax authorities in your home country to 

settle this matter. 

As soon as you arrive in Denmark and accept 

employment, you must contact the local tax 

authorities in your municipality. They will issue 

an electronic tax card, which your employer 

needs in order to calculate your taxes. The 

Danish tax rules are quite complicated so it is 

important that you talk to the local tax administration 

before taking up work. If you do not 

have an electronic tax card, your employer 

must withhold 60% of your salary. 

How to contact the tax authorities 

Phone: + 45 72 22 18 18 

Phone hours: Monday-Wednesday 9-16, 

Thursday 9-18, Friday 9-14 

Address: Sluseholmen 8B, 

2450 Copenhagen SV 

Opening hours: Monday-Wednesday 10-14, 

Thursday 10-17, Friday 10-14 

Things to remember when registering at the 

tax authorities 

You need to bring: 

• Information about salary and pension (contract 

of employment) 

• Your purchase agreement if you have pur-

chased a property 

• Information about free benefits (free car or 

free board and lodging) 

• Credit information about interest income 

and expenses, foreign accounts etc. 

• Personal identification, e.g. a passport 

Read more about taxation at www.workinden 

mark.dk under Information>Information for 

jobseekers>Tax rules or on the SKAT website, 

www.skat.dk. 

Searching for a job in Denmark 

The following websites offer job listings in 

Denmark. 

• Temp agencies can offer periodic office 

and cleaning work: www.moment.dk, 

www.dkvikar.dk, www.adecco.dk 

• Large job databases such as 

www.jobindex.dk and www.jobnet.dk 

• Work import offers job postings in English 

www.workimport.dk 

• www.projektzone.dk 

• www.workindenmark.dk 

CV & interview tips 

An application normally consists of a cover 

letter and CV (Curriculum Vitae). In Denmark, 

the cover letter is very important. It is one 

page long and should include reasons why 



27 

you are good for the job and what you can 

offer the company with respect to your previous 

experiences. The CV should be at least 

one page long and give an outline of your 

educational and work experiences. Depending 

on the job, the application may require 

additional documentation. 

It is difficult to find a job in Denmark without 

adequate Danish language skills. The 

most important thing you can do when job 

searching is to ask your network of friends 

and acquaintances.

28 

LIVING IN COPENHAGEN 

MEETING OTHER 



INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 

Studenterhuset 

(Student House @ Købmagergade) 

University of Copenhagen runs the Studenterhuset 

@ Købmagergade 52. A membership 

to students from other universities costs 

DKK 75 for two semesters. Studenterhuset 

organises a number of activities throughout 

the semester for international and Danish 

students, ranging from parties to road trips 

to weekly international nights (Wednesday 

from 19-02). 

www.studenterhuset.com 

MONEY & BANKING 

Living expenses for the average student in 

Copenhagen are estimated at DKK 5,500 

per month, including travel expenses. However, 

expenses vary depending on your own 

spending habits and your living situation. 

The prices of housing, food, transport and 

leisure activities are relatively high in Denmark 

in comparison with many other countries. 

However, salaries are also relatively high, and 

many services such as medical treatment 

and schools are paid for via taxes and the 

Danish welfare system. 

Please note that the amounts below are an 

estimate and that expenses may vary according 

to individual needs.

BUDGET AND SAMPLE PRICES 

Living expenses on average per month 

Housing/rent: 

(dorm room/student residence) 

+ three month’s deposit 

DKK 2,500-4,000 

Food and daily expenses: DKK 1,700-2,400 

Telephone: DKK 200 

Leisure activities: DKK 500-1,500 

Transportation (monthly pass): DKK 320 

Insurances (accident and personal belongings): DKK 2000 / year 

Media licence: DKK 200 

Total (approximately): DKK 5,400-8,600 

Further information, see www.workindenmark.dk under Information>Information for 

jobseekers>Life in Denmark>Living expenses 

Sample prices 



Milk: 6 DKK / litre 

Bread: 5-30 DKK / loaf 

Butter: 8 DKK / package 

Cheese: 50 DKK / 600g 

Beef: 30 DKK / 400g 

Chicken: 35 DKK / 400g 

Eggs: 12-20 DKK / half dozen 

Rice: 18 DKK / kg 

Newspaper: 15 DKK 

Wine: 30-150 DKK / bottle 

Beer: 3-10 DKK / 33cl 

Cinema: 100 DKK 

International City Cost Guide: www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=cou-58&tefl_session=9f 

ad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1 

You can keep expenses down by borrowing school books from the library, cooking your own 

meals, shopping at discount supermarkets and looking out for sales and student deals. 

29

30 



Currency and Taxes 

The currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone 

(DKK) and one krone equals 100 øre. For the 

latest exchange rate: 

www.finance.yahoo.com/currency 

Tips are automatically included in all bills, but 

it is common to leave a small tip if you are 

at a good restaurant and think the service 

has been good. 

There is 25% consumer tax (moms) on all 

goods and services sold in Denmark. In stores, 

this consumer tax is always included in the 

price (incl. ‘moms’). 

Danish Bank Account 

All banks require a CPR number to open a 

bank account. It is also wise to bring your 

admission/enrolement letter along, confirming 

your status as an international student at 

Aarhus University. Once you have opened 

a Danish bank account, you will be able to 

have your rent debited from your acount 

automatically and make other similar payments. 

Another benefit of having a Danish 

bank account is that you will be able to use 

a Dankort to make payments in most stores. 

Debit and Credit Cards 

Dankort is the most widely used debit card in 

Denmark. We therefore highly recommend 

you to get one when you open an account. 

All major credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, 

American Express, Euro Card and 

Diner’s Club are widely accepted in large 

stores and international chains. However, 

most of your day-to-day grocery shopping 

in smaller stores cannot be carried out with 

your foreign credit card. In those places you 

can either pay cash or use a Dankort. 

Electronic money transfer 

Today, many types of payments are increasingly 

transferred electronically to people’s 

bank accounts. These include wages and 

salaries, cash payments, child benefits and 

pensions. Most people therefore have a bank 

account. 

Money Withdrawals 

Contact your local bank in order to obtain 

a credit card, which you can use in all cash 

dispensers in Copenhagen. Be aware of 

transaction fees. 

Travellers’ Cheques 

It is really easy to convert travellers’ cheques in 

Denmark but it might be an expensive option 

as there is a substantial fee for cashing them. 

Most international students only use travellers’ 

cheques to open a Danish bank account as 

personal cheques are not accepted. 

Normal banking hours in Denmark 

Weekdays: 9.30 - 16.00 

Thursdays: 9.30 - 18.00 

Weekends closed 

ALL CITIZENS MUST HAVE A 

NEMKONTO 

A NemKonto (Easy Account) is an account 

into which all payments from the state, such

as wages, the State Education Grant and Loan 

Scheme (SU in Danish), tax rebates, pensions, 

etc. are paid. When you open a bank account, 

you therefore also need to choose a 

NemKonto. 

A NemKonto is an ordinary bank account – one 

you already have. It is just necessary that you 

nominate an account to be your NemKonto, if 

you have an existing account you may nominate 

that one, you do not need to open a 

new account. 

www.au.dk/about/digital/nemkonto 

POSTAL, PHONE AND 

INTERNET SERVICES 

The public communication network in Denmark 

is highly developed. The postal service 

is efficient and you can find a post office in 

all towns. You can buy stamps in kiosks and 

department stores. The mail boxes in Denmark 

are bright red and they are emptied once a 

day and sometimes once on the weekend. 

Just as everywhere in the world, mobile 

phones are widely used in Denmark. If you 

plan on buying a new mobile phone, be aware 

that most companies offer six-month contracts. 

Otherwise, it is easy to buy a prepaid SIM card 

in kiosks or on the Internet. www.cbb.dk and 

www.telmore.dk 

Most residences have Internet connections 

and there is access to wireless connection 

on campus and Internet access in all libraries. 

There is also wireless internet access at all the 

University campuses. 

In cities such as Copenhagen and Aarhus you 

can also find numerous Internet cafés where 

you can go online for a reasonable price. 



WEATHER 

Because of the warm Gulf Stream on the 

west coast, Denmark’s climate is relatively 

mild compared with its Scandinavian neighbours. 

Nevertheless, expect rain and wind all 

year round. While it does not tend to snow a 

lot during winter, heavy rains and strong winds 

are typical for this time of year. Temperatures 

in winter are often around freezing point and 

during summer around 20-25 degrees Celsius. 

www.dmi.dk 

HEALTH AND WELL BEING 

31 

There are a number of community sport centres 

open to the public, as well as private health 

clubs. On the website of the municipality you 

will find a listing of the different recreational 

activities 

www.kk.dk 

The University Student Gymnastic Association is 

an old sports club founded in 1918. Its principal 

aim is to give students in Copenhagen an opportunity 

to participate in all kinds of different 

sports at both an exercise level as well as at a 

more ambitious tournament level. At USG you 

have the chance to do water sports, ballgames, 

outdoor activities, dance/exercise, martial arts 

and many other activities. 

www.usg.dk

32 

GOING OUT IN COPENHAGEN 

The city of Copenhagen offers a variety of 

cultural experiences, and for a complete listing 

of the activities and events, visit: 

www.visitcopenhagen.dk 

NIGHTLIFE 



Like many other capitals, Copenhagen has 

a bustling nightlife. From Irish pubs to jazz 

cafés, you can probably find a café or bar 

to fit your taste. 

In the inner city, around the pedestrian zone, 

there are a number of bars and cafés, but 

these tend to be a bit expensive with prices 

up to DKK 50 for a beer. For cheaper places, 

we recommend that you check out the numerous 

neighbourhood bars. You may also 

want to check out the Copenhagen Culture 

Guide for concert listings as bars often serve 

as musical venues. 

Culture Guide: www.kultunaut.dk and 

www.gaffa.dk/live 

There are a number of dance clubs around 

the city, where the admission is around DKK 

70. The minimum age for these clubs varies 

from 19 to 23 years of age, although you 

may find that some venues have a much 

younger crowd. 

CULTURAL EVENTS 

The Royal Theatre is worth a visit if only to 

take a look at its decorative facade and interior. 

Located near Kongens Nytorv in the 

centre of town, it has eight stages situated 

all over the city and its own theatre troop 

which gives performances from September 

to mid-June. The Royal Theater has a wide 

repertoire covering ballet, opera and drama. 

www.kglteater.dk

You might also want to check out Tivoli Koncertsalen, 

the Tivoli Garden’s Concert Hall. A 

wide range of performances are presented 

all year round from international concerts to 

ballet to performances by the Tivoli Garden’s 

symphony orchestra. 

www.tivoli.dk 

For other option for a night out a good idea 

will be to find inspiration from AOK (Alt om 

København) which is the largest city guide 

of Denmark containing information on all 

types of events. 

www.aok.dk/english 



MOVIES 

33 

There are several movie theatres all over 

the city that show movies in their original 

language with Danish subtitles. During the 

week there are student discounts and matinee 

tickets. 

Metropol and Palads www.kino.dk 

Empire Bio www.empirebio.dk 

CinemaxX www.cinemaxx.dk

34 



LEARNING DANISH 

The University offers new international students 

the possibility to learn Danish through 

the language school CLAVIS – sprog og kompetencer 

(www.csok.dk). 

The aim of the language lessons is to provide 

participants with sufficient Danish language 

skills to communicate with fellow students 

and cope with everyday life in Copenhagen. 

However, the course will not give participants 

enough knowledge of Danish to match an 

academic working level. 

The tuition is free for holders of a Danish residence 

permit and the CPR-number. 

Other Language Courses 

To improve your Danish skills or simply learn 

the basics, you may join one of the various 

off-campus classes. 

Online language resources 

If you would like to learn some Danish 

before your arrival in Denmark, try some of 

these free online resources. 

www.dansk.nu 

www.speakdanish.dk 

www.eulanguages.net 

www.grammarexplorer.eu

36 

Emergencies 

In case of an emergency, dial 112 (medical) or 114 

(police). It is free from all phones. 

Police 

Station City 

Halmtorvet 20 

1700 Copenhagen V 

Tel: + 45 3314 1448 

Station Bellahøj 

Borups Alle 266 


Tel: +45 3314 1448 

After Hours Doctor 

Tel: +45 7011 3131 

Hospital/Emergency rooms 

Bispebjerg Hospital 

Bispebjerg Bakke 23, Opgang 7C 


Tel: +45 3531 2373 

Frederiksberg Hospital 

Nodre Fasanvej 57 

2000 Frederiksberg 

Tel: +45 3816 3522 

Immigration, Residence 

Permit/Certificate and Registration 

Danish Immigration Service 

Udlændingeservice 

Ryesgade 53 

2100 København Ø 

Tel: +45 3536 6600 

Monday-Friday: 9-15 




IMPORTANT ADDRESSES 

Citizen Service 

Borgerservice 

Jarmers Plads 7 


Borgerservice 

Lærkevej 18 


Office hours for: 10-18 

Tel: +45 3366 3366 

Phone hours: 8-18 

The Regional State Administration 

Statsforvaltningen Hovedstaden 

Borups Alle 177 


Tel: +45 7256 7000 

Telephone hours: Monday 8-15, Tuesday-Wednesday 

9-15, Thursday 13-18, Friday 9-14 

Opening hours: Monday-Wednesday 9-15, Thursday 

9-18, Friday 9-14 

Health and Safety 

Pharmacies are usually open between 9 and 17:30 

during the week and from 9:30 to 13 on Saturdays. 

24 Hour Pharmacy 

Steno Apotek 

Vesterbrogade 33 


Tel: +45 3314 8266 

Emergency Dentist 

Copenhagens Tandlægevagt 

Oslo Plads 14 

2100 Copenhagen Ø 

Opening hours: Weekdays: 20-21-30/Saturday-Sunday: 

10-12 and 20-21-30 

Only open for personal enquiries

Student Resources 

International Study Administration 

International Studieadministration 

Tuborgvej 164 

2400 Købanhavn NV 

Tel: +45 8888 9000 

Student Advisors 

Studenterrådgivningen 

Kompagnistrædet 21,1 

1208 Copenhagen K 

Tel: +45 3312 1911 

www.studraadgiv.dk 

Libraries 

Campus Library 

Danmarks Pædagogiske Bibliotek 

Tuborgvej 164 


Tel: +45 8888 9300 

Monday-Thursday: 9-19 

Friday: 9-17 

Saturday: 11-15 

Royal Library 

Det Kongelige Bibliotek – four locations around the 

city of Copenhagen 

The National Library 

Copenhagen University Library - The Black Diamond 

The Black Diamond 

Søren Kierkegaards Plads 1 


Faculty Library of Social Sciences 

Gothersgade 140 


Faculty Library of Natural and Health Sciences 

Nørre Alle 49 

2200 Copenhagen N 



Faculty Library of Humanities 

Njalsgade 112 

2300 Copenhagen S 

Opening hours vary from facility to facility. 

Please keep your self updated on 

www.kb.dk/en/kb/aabningstider/ 

Main Library 

Hovedbiblioteket 

Krystalgade 15 


Tel: +45 3373 6060 


Saturday: 10-14 

CBS – Copenhagen Business School 

Library Solbjerg Plads 

Solbjerg Plads 3 

2000 Frederiksberg 

Tel: + 45 3815 3815 


Saturday-Sunday: 8-22 

Public holidays: 10-22 

Shopping 

Downtown Copenhagen (Pedestrian Area) 

Strøget 


www.visitcopenhagen.dk 

Fisketorvet Shopping Center 

Kalvebod Brygge 59 


www.fisketorvet.dk 

Field’s 

Arne Jacobsens Alle 12 

2300 Copenhagen S 

www.fields.dk 

37

38 

USEFUL LINKS 



www.au.dk 

Danish School of Education 

www.dpu.dk 

International Centre (IC) 

www.au.dk/ic 

General Information 

Denmark.dk 

www.denmark.dk 

New in Denmark 


Work in Denmark 

www.workindenmark.dk 

Study in Denmark 

www.studyindenmark.dk 

Tourist Information 

Denmark 

www.visitdenmark.com 

Copenhagen 

www.visitcopenhagen.com 


2010/2011

Aarhus University, 

Copenhagen Campus 

Tuborgvej 164 


Denmark 

www.dpu.dk

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 2010/2011 - FOR - DPU

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