Every year, thousands of international students arrive in Denmark, drawn by its world-class universities, high quality of life, and progressive society. From Erasmus exchange students to master’s and PhD candidates, young people from all over the world come to cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg in search of not just education, but a place to call home. Unfortunately, the hunt for student rentals in Denmark for foreigners is often anything but smooth for international students.
According to the Ministry of Higher Education and Science in Denmark, over 45,000 international students were enrolled in Danish universities in 2023. Meanwhile, Copenhagen alone faces an estimated shortage of 10,000 student housing units annually. With such high demand and limited supply, students, especially those unfamiliar with the local rental market, face a serious uphill battle when searching for student housing and dormitories. Add a foreign language, unfamiliar laws, and different cultural expectations into the mix, and things can quickly become overwhelming.
Here are the key points we cover in this guide:
- Denmark has a high demand and low supply for student rentals, especially in university cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus.
- Foreigners face extra difficulties including language barriers, legal complexities, rental scams, and unfamiliar norms.
- It’s essential to begin your housing search early and use only verified, English-friendly platforms tailored to international student needs.
- Top student rental services include: HousingAnywhere, Student Housing Aarhus, CIU.dk, Nestpick, and Uniplaces.
- Related services like CPR registration help, mobile plans, insurance, and moving assistance can significantly improve your onboarding experience.
If you are looking for more in-depths guides on renting in Denmark, property rental sites, or short-term rentals, you may want to check out our other guides, in which we dive into those topics in more detail.
Why Finding Student Rentals in Denmark Is So Challenging for Foreigners
Denmark is known for having a strict housing market, and that scenario becomes even more competitive in university cities where student demand is high. Landlords often prefer long-term Danish tenants who understand the legal system and rental norms. As a foreigner, even having your paperwork in order and guaranteeing income may not be enough to secure a lease in time.
In cities like Copenhagen, the average student apartment is rented out in less than 72 hours after being listed. This gives internationals little time to research or negotiate, and that’s assuming they even manage to find a listing in time.
Language Barrier and Legal Confusion
While many Danes speak excellent English, rental agreements, housing rules, and contract details are often written exclusively in Danish. Non-Danish speakers can easily overlook crucial clauses about notice periods, deposit terms, and utility fees. What’s more, the Danish rental laws are stringent and include tenant rights that must be properly understood — otherwise, a seemingly innocent oversight could result in expensive penalties or eviction.
Also, foreigners unfamiliar with the process might not understand norms like the obligation to renovate an apartment before moving out, which is a common practice in Denmark and often a surprising one to non-locals.
Risk of Rental Scams
Sadly, international students are frequent targets of housing scams. Fake landlords, false listings, and upfront payment requests via insecure channels are common traps. In many cases, students are asked to pay 1-3 months’ rent in advance plus a deposit — often totaling over 20,000 DKK (€2,700) — only to discover the listing was fake.
Foreign students, especially those outside Denmark who are trying to secure housing from abroad before arriving, are particularly vulnerable. Without local connections or the ability to physically view a property, it’s easy to fall prey to scams.
Lack of Local Credit History and Guarantees
Landlords in Denmark commonly require tenants to provide documentation like proof of income, a CPR number (Danish social security number), or a Danish bank account — items many international students don’t yet have upon arrival. Some landlords are wary of renting to foreigners without these details, even if they are financially stable and verified.
This can result in delays during the rental process or rejections altogether, increasing stress and uncertainty for students who are already navigating a new school, country, and culture.
Why Getting the Right Help Makes All the Difference
What truly sets successful students apart when it comes to finding rentals is not luck — it’s having access to the right platforms and services. The best student rentals in Denmark for foreigners understand the unique challenges faced by internationals and offer solutions that go far beyond standard accommodation listings.
Services that provide full English interfaces, transparent pricing in euros and kroner, verified listings, and customer support tailored for non-Danish speakers can dramatically reduce the risk of mistakes, scams, or unnecessary stress. Some platforms go a step further, helping with move-in coordination, rental documents in English, furniture and bedding packages, and even CPR and bank registration guidance.
Best Student Rentals in Denmark for Foreigners
Finding accommodation in Denmark as a foreign student can be daunting if you don’t know where to begin. Denmark is known for its efficient systems, but the housing market remains one of the most competitive, especially in major university cities. Fortunately, there are several trusted companies and platforms that cater specifically to international students, helping them secure safe, verified, and affordable rental options across the country.
Before diving into the best student rentals in Denmark for foreigners, let’s cover the key things every foreign student should keep in mind.
What to Know Before Getting Best Student Rentals in Denmark for Foreigners
Start Early and Be Proactive
In Denmark, student housing demand often outweighs supply — particularly in Copenhagen and Aarhus. The best time to search for housing starts between May and July, well before the semester begins in August or September. Many international students wait until the last minute, only to find limited and expensive options or no availability at all. As soon as you receive your acceptance letter, put housing at the top of your to-do list.
Understand the Costs Involved
Renting in Denmark will typically require a security deposit of 1-3 months’ rent, plus prepaid rent for 1 month. For a small studio or student room in central Copenhagen, expect to pay between 4,000–7,000 DKK per month. When budgeting, also consider utilities and internet, which are not always included in the rental price. Knowing the average costs helps you avoid overpaying or falling victim to false listings that seem “too good to be true.”
Learn About Danish Housing Norms
Rental etiquette and expectations in Denmark might feel foreign to newcomers. For instance, it’s common for apartments to be unfurnished (sometimes even without light fixtures). Tenants are usually expected to maintain the apartment well — including repainting it at the end of the lease if required. Also, short-term rentals are rare in the traditional market. Student accommodation services that explain these nuances can make a big difference in your rental experience.
Avoid Scams by Using Verified Platforms
One of the biggest pitfalls foreign students face is falling for scams on unofficial websites or social media groups. Always use platforms that verify listings, screen landlords, and provide secure payment systems. Verified student rental platforms can also give peace of mind when reserving housing from abroad.
Look for English Support and Transparent Contracts
Not all housing platforms have multilingual support. Services that provide English-speaking customer support, translated contracts, and organized documentation processes will be a tremendous asset — especially if you’re unfamiliar with your legal rights as a tenant in Denmark.
Top 5 Student Rental Services for Foreigners in Denmark
1. HousingAnywhere
HousingAnywhere is a popular international housing platform with a strong presence in Denmark. It specializes in student and expat rentals and features listings from cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg.
Why it’s great for foreigners:
– Verified listings with photos and landlord reviews
– Upfront pricing and safe online payments
– Dedicated customer service and support in English
– Filter options for furnished, short-term, and contract-type rentals
– Easy to reserve housing remotely
HousingAnywhere is particularly ideal if you’re a foreign student still abroad and want to secure accommodation before your travel.
2. Student Housing Aarhus (KOLLEGIEKONTORET)
If your studies are bringing you to Aarhus, this is the go-to site for authentic and affordable student housing. Kollegiekontoret is affiliated with Aarhus-based universities and manages a wide portfolio of dormitories and student apartments.
Why it’s great for foreigners:
– Low-cost options tailored to international students (€250–€550/month)
– Website available in English
– Transparent application system accepting foreign student credentials
– Most properties are fully student-oriented with furniture and common areas
Be aware that demand is high, and you should file your application well in advance — ideally the moment you are admitted.
3. Copenhagen Housing (CIU.dk – Centralindstillingsudvalget)
CIU is a unique collaboration platform that bundles the application process for student housing in Copenhagen. For students attending University of Copenhagen, DTU, and other institutions, this is an essential resource.
Why it’s great for foreigners:
– Platform in English with student-specific contracts
– Access to large kollegiums (student dorms) in greater Copenhagen
– Offers long-stay housing for both undergraduates and postgraduates
– Managed via institutions which ensures trust and security
Some dorms are highly coveted, with limited rooms allocated per intake. Still, CIU can lead to great housing communities and affordable rents.
4. Nestpick
Nestpick aggregates mid- to long-term furnished rental options across Europe. In Denmark, it offers extensive listings ideal for postgraduate students, exchange students, and early-career researchers.
Why it’s great for foreigners:
– User interface in multiple languages, including English
– Listings include pictures, virtual tours, and pricing details
– Filter by city, price, and home type
– Supports remote booking with guaranteed listings
Nestpick is ideal if you want to enter the Danish rental market with flexibility and the convenience of pre-furnished apartments — without having to navigate Danish websites.
5. Uniplaces
Uniplaces targets students needing reliable housing in Europe. It offers student-focused housing in Danish cities and ensures each landlord meets strict quality and communication standards.
Why it’s great for foreigners:
– No Danish CPR number required to apply
– Fully furnished and ready-to-move-in properties
– No local guarantor or bank account required
– Offers discounts for long-term stays and flexible contracts
This is a great choice if you’re moving to Denmark for just one semester or prefer minimal hassle during move-in.
Other Honorable Mentions for the Best Student Rentals in Denmark for Foreigners
– BoligPortal: One of Denmark’s largest platforms for housing listings. While mostly in Danish, the site is reliable and has good coverage in second-tier cities like Aalborg and Odense. Be cautious and use tools like Google Translate.
– FindRoommate.dk: A community-focused platform where you can find flatshares or rooms in existing apartments. Support is limited, but it’s helpful if you’re open to co-living experiences.
Related Services for International Students in Denmark
Finding the best student rentals in Denmark for foreigners is often just the beginning of settling into your new environment. Moreover, international students frequently need additional services to make their transition smoother, more affordable, and less stressful. Whether it’s assistance with getting your CPR number, choosing the right mobile data plan, or finding a part-time job, there are many other services that help you build stability and routine in Denmark — especially when you’re far from home.
Here are the six most important related service categories that international students in Denmark should explore:
1. CPR Registration Assistance – Services that help you register with Danish authorities to receive your Civil Personal Registration (CPR) number.
2. Mobile & Internet Plans – Affordable SIM cards and Wi-Fi plans tailored to students who are new to Denmark.
3. Bank Accounts for Foreigners – Danish bank account setup support, often required for receiving scholarships, salaries, or paying rent.
4. Moving and Furniture Packages – Services that offer delivery and setup of basic furniture for student apartments.
5. Student Insurance Packages – Health, liability, and property insurance plans designed for EU and non-EU students.
6. Job and Student Work Platforms – Resources for finding student jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule and visa.
Conclusion: Best Student Rentals in Denmark for Foreigners
Securing student housing in Denmark as a foreigner can seem like a major challenge at first, but it becomes far less intimidating when you know where to look and how to navigate the process. With an understanding of Danish rental customs and the use of reputable platforms designed specifically for international students, you can avoid scams, reduce costs, and find a housing option that suits your academic and personal lifestyle.
Whether you choose a dorm, shared apartment, or private studio, the key is to be proactive, informed, and supported by services that understand your unique situation as a foreign student. Additionally, companies like HousingAnywhere and Student Housing Aarhus are valuable allies in this process. Combine their offerings with relevant services like CPR assistance and internet setup, and you’re well on your way to a successful academic journey in Denmark.
FAQs: Best Student Rentals in Denmark for Foreigners
1. When should I start looking for the student rentals in Denmark?
Ideally, you should begin your search at least 3–4 months before your semester starts, especially if you’re moving to a high-demand city like Copenhagen or Aarhus. Summer intake students should begin searching by May.
2. Do I need a CPR number to get the best student rentals in Denmark for foreigners?
Not always. Some private landlords and platforms like Uniplaces allow you to rent without a CPR number initially. However, for long-term stays, a CPR number is usually required and essential for accessing Danish healthcare and banking.
3. What is the average cost of the best student rentals in Denmark for foreigners?
For a furnished student room or small studio, expect to pay anywhere from 4,000 to 7,000 DKK per month. Rent in dormitories and outer neighborhoods may be lower than city center apartments.
4. What documents do I need to rent student housing in Denmark?
You typically need an ID/passport, admission letter from a university, proof of funds or scholarship (sometimes), and occasionally a local Danish contact or temporary address for correspondence.
5. Can I book my accommodation before arriving in Denmark?
Yes, you can — and should. Most international student housing platforms let you view listings, message landlords, and pay deposits online, allowing you to reserve a room before arrival.
6. What is a “kollegium” and how is it different from other rentals?
A kollegium is a student dormitory or residence hall, often offering more affordable and communal living options.
7. How can I avoid scams when looking for housing in Denmark?
Use only vetted rental portals, never pay through unsecure methods (like Western Union), and always verify listings. Also, platforms like HousingAnywhere and CIU.dk offer fraud protection and verified properties.
8. Is it possible to get short-term student accommodation?
Yes, but options are limited. Space in shared flats or furnished apartments through platforms like Nestpick and Uniplaces can offer flexible lease periods ranging from 1–6 months. Just be aware these may come at a higher price.
