Schools & Childcare in Denmark (2025)
Everything international parents need to know about daycare, kindergartens, public and private schools in Denmark: ages, fees, language, how to apply, and tips for a smooth start.
Overview: what to expect
🧸 Childcare
Municipal daycare (vuggestue), kindergartens, and after-school care.
🏫 Schooling
Free public “Folkeskole” (ages 6–16), plus private and international options.
đź’¬ Language
Public institutions use Danish; international schools teach in English/other languages.
đź’¸ Costs
Daycare subsidised (~DKK 2,000–4,500/mo). Public schools are free.
⏳ Apply early
Waitlists possible in large cities—register as soon as you have CPR & address.
🤝 Support
Extra language support and buddy programmes help newcomers settle.
Types of childcare & schools
👶 Daycare (Vuggestue)
Ages ~6 months–2/3. Public & private providers; subsidised fees.
🧒 Kindergarten (Børnehave)
Ages 3–6. Play-based, outdoors, strong focus on social skills.
🏫 Public school (Folkeskole)
Ages 6–16. Free. English from early grades; reception classes in some schools.
🌍 International schools
English/other languages; fees apply. Best for short-term or mobile families.
👩‍🏫 Private/independent
Smaller classes or alternative methods; tuition with partial state subsidy.
🎒 After-school (SFO/Club)
Before/after school care (grades 0–3), open to late afternoon.
Age groups & structure
0–2/3: Daycare (vuggestue) → usually transition to kindergarten.
3–6: Kindergarten (børnehave), mainly play-based and outdoors.
6–16: Primary/lower secondary (Folkeskole), 10 compulsory years.
16–19: Upper secondary (Gymnasium/HF/VET) — optional pathways.
How to apply
Daycare & kindergarten: Apply via your municipality once you have CPR and address. Add multiple choices; waitlists are common.
Public schools: Assigned by address. Registration is often automatic—contact the school if you’re new to the area or need language support.
International/private schools: Apply directly to the school; places are limited in big cities—apply early.
Need help? Your municipality’s Family/Child Services and schools’ international coordinators can assist in English.
Useful resources
🏫 Danish schools (official)
🧸 Childcare (official)
🌍 International schools
Frequently asked questions
🇬🇧 Are there English-speaking schools?
Yes — international and some private schools in major cities offer English (and other languages).
đź’¸ Is daycare free?
No — it’s heavily subsidised. Expect roughly DKK 2,000–4,500/month depending on municipality and income.
🆔 Do I need a CPR?
Yes — a CPR and registered address are usually required for public daycare/school applications.
🗓️ When does school start?
Mid-August for public schools. Daycare/kindergarten run year-round.
🤗 Will my child fit in?
Most do! Many schools provide language support and buddy schemes for newcomers.
🎒 After-school activities?
Yes — SFO, clubs and sports are a big part of Danish school life.
Ask a question or get help
Need personal advice about daycare or schools in Denmark? Send us a message and we’ll reply as soon as we can.