Ready to study in Europe without drowning in tuition fees? The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) offers funded Masters scholarships that make a top Danish degree realistic for you. If you are a talented international student, you can get a tuition fee waiver and, for some programs, a living grant to help with monthly expenses.
You are automatically considered for the scholarship when you apply to eligible English-taught Masters programs. No separate scholarship form. No long essays. Just a strong application and clear evidence you are an outstanding candidate.
Applications for the 2026/2027 intake are moving fast. If Denmark is on your list, this is your signal to apply now.
Why this scholarship stands out
- Funded opportunity for international students paying tuition fees
- Automatic consideration when you apply to an eligible SDU Masters
- High-quality education, cutting-edge labs, and strong links to industry
- Campuses in innovation hubs like Odense and Sønderborg
- Work part-time as a student in Denmark and build your European network
What the scholarship covers
The SDU scholarship for non-EU/EEA students typically includes one of the following packages, depending on the program and your academic strength:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the standard duration of the Masters program
- Full tuition fee waiver + a monthly grant to help cover living costs, paid for the normal duration of the degree
Funding levels vary by faculty and program. Some programs award only a tuition waiver, while others include an additional stipend. Always check the exact benefits listed on your chosen program’s page on the official SDU website.
Eligible programs and campuses
Scholarships are offered for selected full-time, English-taught Masters programs at SDU. Popular areas include:
- Engineering: Mechatronics, Electronics, Software Engineering, Energy Engineering
- Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence
- Business and Economics: Finance, Economics, Marketing, Management
- Social Sciences and Humanities: International Security and Law, English Studies, Cultural Studies
- Environmental and Natural Sciences
Teaching locations include SDU campuses in Odense, Sønderborg, Kolding, Esbjerg, and Slagelse. Availability of scholarships varies by faculty and program each intake.
Who can apply
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss citizens who are required to pay tuition fees in Denmark |
| Academic background | Recognized Bachelor’s degree closely related to the chosen Masters program |
| Admission | Offer of admission to an eligible English-taught full-time Masters at SDU |
| Academic excellence | Strong grades, relevant coursework, and a competitive profile |
| Language | Proof of English proficiency as required by the program (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or equivalent) |
| Funding status | No other tuition-waiver scholarship that conflicts with SDU’s award terms |
| Study status | Full-time, on-campus study for the standard duration of the Masters |
Selection criteria
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Enter Your Email Address HERE & You Will Receive a Notification About Your Application Immediately.SDU awards scholarships on merit. Your application is assessed on:
- Overall GPA and grades in core, relevant subjects
- Quality and accreditation level of your previous university
- Fit with the program, including relevant projects, internships, or work experience
- Motivation, clarity of study goals, and potential contribution to SDU
- English language proficiency
No separate interview is typical. Some faculties may request extra documentation if needed.
How to apply
- Choose your program
Browse eligible Masters at SDU and confirm the program includes scholarship consideration for non-EU/EEA students. Start at the official site: sdu.dk/en. - Check entry requirements
Review academic prerequisites, required courses, GPA expectations, and accepted English tests on the program page. - Prepare your documents
Gather transcripts, degree certificate, course descriptions/syllabi if asked, English test score, CV, motivation statement, passport, and any work letters or portfolios. - Apply online
Submit your Masters application via the SDU application portal linked on the program page. There is no separate scholarship application. You are automatically considered if you are tuition-fee liable and meet the criteria. - Track your status
Respond quickly to any requests for missing documents. Watch for your admission and scholarship decision in your email or portal. - Accept your offer
Follow the instructions to accept the admission and scholarship. Pay any necessary deposits if instructed by the program. - Apply for your Danish residence permit
Once you have your admission documents, begin your student residence permit process with SIRI. Book biometrics early and prepare financial proof. - Plan your arrival
Arrange housing, register for classes, and prepare for orientation at your campus.
Application deadlines for 2026/2027
Typical SDU timelines for international, non-EU/EEA applicants:
- February 2027 intake (limited programs): Apply by October 2026
- September 2027 intake: Apply by February 2027
Deadlines can vary by program and faculty. Always confirm the exact deadline on your program’s page on the official SDU website.
Required documents
- Official transcripts for all higher education studies
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or provisional certificate if final diploma is pending
- Course descriptions or syllabi for key subjects if requested
- Proof of English proficiency meeting the program’s minimum level
- Curriculum Vitae highlighting relevant projects and experience
- Motivation statement tailored to the specific program
- Passport bio page
- Letters of reference if the faculty requests them
- Portfolio for design/creative programs where applicable
Submit certified translations for any document not in English or Danish.
Student visa and arrival in Denmark
If you receive admission and a scholarship, you will need a student residence permit to study in Denmark. The process generally includes:
- Receiving your SDU admission letter and, if awarded, your scholarship confirmation
- Completing your residence permit application with SIRI and paying the official fee
- Providing biometrics at a Danish mission or designated center
- Showing proof of funds for living costs if required by SIRI
- Arranging accommodation near your SDU campus
Processing times vary. Start your permit application immediately after accepting your offer to avoid delays.
Costs and living in Denmark
Denmark offers a high standard of living, strong student services, and safe, modern cities. While living costs are higher than many countries, the scholarship reduces your study budget significantly by removing tuition and, in some cases, topping up with a monthly grant.
- International students can usually work part-time during studies and more hours in holiday periods, under current Danish rules
- Public transport is reliable, and student discounts are widely available
- Many programs include industry projects or internships to build Danish work experience
Tips to boost your chances
- Target programs that closely match your Bachelor’s coursework
- Explain your academic strengths with clear examples in your motivation statement
- Highlight projects, capstones, or internships with tangible outcomes
- Submit a recent, valid English test that comfortably meets or exceeds the minimum
- Apply early so the admissions team can request clarifications before the deadline
Frequently asked questions
Is the SDU scholarship fully funded?
It is a funded opportunity that typically covers full tuition and, for some programs, adds a monthly grant for living costs. The exact package depends on the faculty and program.
Do I need a separate scholarship application?
No. If you are a non-EU/EEA applicant who is liable for tuition fees, you are automatically considered for the scholarship when you submit your Masters application.
What English tests are accepted?
Programs generally accept IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic. Minimum scores vary by program. Check your chosen program’s page for the current thresholds.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. International students are usually allowed to work part-time during the academic year and additional hours during holidays under Denmark’s current rules. Confirm the latest limits when you arrive.
Is there an application fee?
SDU does not normally charge an application fee for Masters admissions. Always verify on your program’s official page.
How long does the scholarship last?
For the standard duration of your full-time Masters, typically two years, provided you make normal academic progress.
Where to apply
- Official SDU website: https://www.sdu.dk/en
- Admissions and program pages: follow links from your chosen Masters to the application portal
Visit the official website for the current deadline and exact scholarship benefits for your chosen program.
Final call
You have the talent. SDU has the funding and the platform. Lock in your 2026/2027 spot in Denmark’s innovation ecosystem. Apply now, aim high, and let this scholarship carry you to a world-class Masters.







