International schools in Denmark — costs, waiting lists & how to choose

Overview — the international school landscape

Denmark has approximately 20 international schools, with the highest concentration in greater Copenhagen. These schools teach in English (and sometimes French or German) and follow international curricula — most commonly the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British/American systems.

International schools in Denmark are private (privatskole or friskole). They receive a government subsidy covering approximately 70–75% of operating costs — which is why tuition is significantly lower than international schools in most other countries. Annual fees typically range from DKK 30,000 to DKK 130,000, compared to DKK 200,000+ in the UK, Singapore, or Switzerland.

International school vs folkeskole — the comparison

Major international schools in Copenhagen

International schools outside Copenhagen

• International School of Billund (ISB) — IB World School in Billund (Jutland), connected to the LEGO Foundation. Ages 3–16. Innovative, project-based learning. DKK 25,000–50,000/year.
• Aarhus International School — IB PYP and MYP. Ages 3–16 in Aarhus. Growing school with a strong community. DKK 30,000–55,000/year.
• Scandinavian School of Aarhus — Waldorf/Steiner approach with international sections.
• European School Copenhagen — EU-established school following the European Schools curriculum. Free for children of EU institution employees; others pay tuition.

Curriculum types explained

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The most common curriculum in Danish international schools. Three programmes: PYP (ages 3–12), MYP (ages 11–16), and Diploma (ages 16–19). Recognised globally for university entrance. Emphasis on critical thinking, international-mindedness, and extended essay writing. The IB Diploma is rigorous — expect heavy coursework in the final two years.

British (IGCSE / A-Levels)

Follows the English National Curriculum. Students sit IGCSE exams at 16 and can continue to A-Levels at 18 (though few Danish schools offer A-Levels — most transition to IB Diploma). Well-structured, subject-specialist teaching.

French Baccalauréat

The French national curriculum, available at Lycée Prins Henrik. Leads to the French Baccalauréat at 18. Strong in literature, philosophy, and mathematics. Instruction primarily in French.

Understanding the costs

Tuition fees at Danish international schools are lower than global averages because the Danish government subsidises private schools. However, there are additional costs to be aware of.

• Registration / application fee: DKK 1,500–5,000 (non-refundable)
• Capital contribution: Some schools charge a one-off building fund contribution of DKK 5,000–15,000
• Lunch programme: DKK 400–800/month at schools with mandatory lunch
• After-school care (SFO/fritid): DKK 1,500–3,000/month
• School trips and activities: DKK 2,000–8,000/year depending on age
• Uniforms: Required at some schools (British School, Rygaards). Budget DKK 2,000–5,000 for starter set.

Waiting lists — how to manage them

Most international schools in Copenhagen have waiting lists, particularly for entry at popular ages (3–4 for Early Years, and 11–12 for secondary). Here is how to navigate them.

• Apply early. Register your child as soon as you know you are moving to Denmark — ideally 12–18 months before the start date. Some schools accept applications before you arrive.
• Apply to multiple schools. Do not rely on a single application. Apply to 2–3 schools and accept whichever offers a place first.
• Mid-year entry. Waiting lists are often shorter for mid-year entry (January or April) than for the September start. If your child is flexible, starting mid-year can be significantly easier.
• Sibling priority. Most schools give priority to siblings of current students. If your eldest is enrolled, younger children typically get preference.
• Corporate relocations. Some schools maintain priority lists for families relocating through corporate partners. Ask your employer’s relocation company.

Employer-paid tuition

Many Danish employers — particularly international companies and those hiring through the Pay Limit Scheme or Positive List — offer international school tuition as part of the relocation package. This is a standard negotiation point when accepting an expat position in Denmark.

How to choose — decision framework

The right school depends on your family’s specific situation. Here are the key questions to work through.

• How long will you stay in Denmark? If less than 3 years, international school makes sense — your children maintain curriculum continuity. If long-term or permanent, strongly consider folkeskole, especially for children under 8.
• What is your child’s age? Younger children (under 7–8) adapt to Danish language remarkably quickly and integrate well in folkeskole. Older children (12+) face a much steeper language barrier and may struggle socially in a Danish school.
• Will you relocate again? IB is the most portable curriculum — recognised globally. If another move is likely, IB provides the smoothest transitions.
• How important is Danish integration? Folkeskole immersion is the fastest route to Danish language and local social connections. International schools offer Danish as a second language, but the depth of exposure is limited.
• What is your budget? Folkeskole is free. The difference between DKK 0 and DKK 130,000/year per child is significant. If you have 2–3 children, the financial impact is substantial.

Transitioning from international school to folkeskole (or vice versa)

Switching from an international school to folkeskole is possible at any age, but easier the younger the child. Most municipalities offer a modtagelsesklasse (reception class) — an intensive Danish language programme for non-Danish-speaking children that runs for 1–2 years alongside mainstream classes.

Switching from folkeskole to an international school is straightforward — the child simply needs to meet the school’s admission requirements, which typically include an English assessment and age-appropriate academic evaluation.