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Updated July 22, 2026
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Moving to Denmark and worried about finding the right school for your child? Start by matching the curriculum and location to your family’s plans – this guide walks you through what to expect from international schools across Denmark and how to get your child enrolled without surprises.
Education in Denmark
Denmark’s education system is regarded as strong and flexible. Compulsory schooling runs until about age 16, covering the combined primary and lower-secondary school called folkeskole. After that many students go on to upper secondary (gymnasium, vocational tracks or international programmes), although upper secondary is not compulsory.
International schools exist alongside local public and private options. Unlike many countries where international schools are almost always private, Denmark has a mix – some international programmes are publicly supported while many are run as private schools. That means costs and admission rules vary a lot between schools.
Common curricula you’ll find in Denmark’s international schools include the International Baccalaureate (IB), British IGCSE/A-Levels, American-style programmes, and national systems such as French or German schools. Instruction is usually in English or the school’s national language. Accreditation and international recognition are common, which makes moving between countries easier for expat families.
- Typical ages covered: from nursery (age 3) through upper secondary (18) depending on the school.
- Curricula: IB, British (IGCSE/A-Levels), French, and national programmes are available.
- Tuition: ranges from free/low-cost (some municipal options) to private school fees – check individual schools.
- Application timing: many popular schools have waiting lists; apply as early as possible.
International Schools in Denmark
International schools in Denmark are often multicultural with students from diplomatic families, international businesses and local families seeking an international curriculum. Class sizes tend to be smaller than in many public schools, but limited places mean you should expect a competitive admissions process for the most popular schools.
Before you contact schools, decide what matters most: curriculum transferability (for example IB if you move country often), language of instruction, location and commuting time, and costs. If you’re new to Denmark, our new to Denmark guide can help with settlement logistics and municipal registration that you’ll need before enrolling.
- Shortlist schools by curriculum and catchment/commute time.
- Check each school’s admissions page for age cut-offs, documents and deadlines.
- Book visits or open days, and prepare previous school records and passports/residence documentation.
- Apply early and join waiting lists if offered; follow up by email to keep your application active.
Waiting lists and fees are the common traps: popular schools (notably in Greater Copenhagen) can have long waits. Also check whether the school expects a minimum stay or has scholarship/voucher options – policies vary.
If you want to support your child’s language transition, consider starting to learn Danish with apps before term begins. For older students thinking about internships or practical routes into work-study balance while living here, see our piece on internships in Denmark.
Ranum Efterskole College
What to expect: Ranum is a residential efterskole (boarding-style) in North Jutland that offers international-facing programmes and typically draws students from across Denmark and abroad. Efterskole years in Denmark usually cover the 8th-10th grades and focus on both academic and personal development.
Practical notes: if you’re considering a boarding option, factor in travel on term breaks and clear communication about guardianship and local contacts. Efterskoles have different admission windows than day schools – contact Ranum early to confirm details.
Aarhus Academy for Global Education
What to expect: Based in the Aarhus area, this school emphasizes international education approaches with IB-style learning and English instruction in many programmes. It suits families who want an international curriculum outside Copenhagen.
Practical notes: Aarhus is Denmark’s second city and offers a lower cost of living than the capital with good transport links. If you plan to live in Jutland, shortlist schools in Aarhus early and check entry ages and programme options directly with the academy.
Copenhagen International School
What to expect: One of Denmark’s largest international schools, Copenhagen International School (CIS) serves a broad age range with established IB programmes. CIS is known for strong facilities, a wide extracurricular offer and an international student body from dozens of countries.
Practical notes: CIS is popular with expat families and often has waiting lists for several year groups. If you want your child at CIS, start the application process as soon as you have confirmed dates for your move – and be prepared to show residence documentation and previous school records. Consider living within a manageable commute to avoid long daily travel.
Bjørns International School
What to expect: Located in Copenhagen, Bjørns International offers IGCSE and related programmes and teaches Danish from the middle grades for those staying longer term. The school typically attracts families on shorter to medium-length stays as well as locals seeking international qualifications.
Practical notes: Bjørns may have minimum stay requirements for some places (short-term placements are sometimes available). Ask about language support for newly arrived students and how the school integrates them into classes.
Prince Henrik’s School (Lycée Français de Copenhague)
What to expect: The French school in Copenhagen follows the French national curriculum and is supported by French education networks. Instruction is in French and the school accepts children from early years upward.
Practical notes: If you want continuity with the French system, this is the obvious option. Non-French speakers should check for language support and whether the school offers bilingual paths. Documentation requirements often include recent school records translated into French or English.
How to choose between schools
Decide using five criteria: curriculum (will it transfer with future moves?), language support, location and commute, total cost (tuition plus extras), and how the school handles integration for newly arrived students.
Tip: visit at least two schools in person or join a virtual open day. Ask about orientation programmes, English-language support and examples of where recent graduates moved on to (universities or vocational paths).
- Shortlist 3 schools by curriculum and commute time.
- Contact admissions to confirm documents needed: passport, residence permit, previous school reports.
- Enroll in early language support (or learn Danish with apps) to ease the first term.
Pick two schools from this list, check their admissions pages and email each admissions office with your child’s age, current school records and planned arrival date. If you’re still settling in, our new to Denmark guide and the primary school education in Denmark article will help with registration and local school options.