Language is key to fully enjoying life in Denmark, both professionally and socially. For most foreigners, learning Danish is essential for integration, accessing the job market, and participating in everyday life. At the same time, there is a strong emphasis on English, as it is widely spoken and often used in international workplaces, universities, and business settings. Language schools in Denmark offer both options.
In this guide, we give a comprehensive overview of the main options for language learning in Denmark, focusing on courses for both Danish and English. While this page provides a general overview, you can find more detailed recommendations in our dedicated guides best Danish courses in Denmark for foreigners and best English courses in Denmark for foreigners.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Danish Language Schools and Programs: Denmark offers various Danish language learning options, including municipal centers, private schools, online courses, and community programs, catering to different needs and levels from beginner to advanced.
- English Language Learning Options: Foreigners can improve their English skills through private schools, adult education centers, online courses, and workplace programs, which are especially valuable for professional and academic purposes.
- Effective Teaching Methods and Learning Styles: Language schools in Denmark employ diverse teaching approaches such as group classes, private tutoring, hybrid models, and immersive techniques, with tips emphasizing combining formal study with daily practice.
- Statistics Highlighting Language Learning in Denmark: Over 40,000 adults enroll in Danish courses annually, and Denmark ranks high in English proficiency, with language skills significantly increasing employment prospects and aiding social integration for foreigners.
- Frequently Asked Questions on Language Learning in Denmark: Key questions addressed include the importance of learning Danish, duration to fluency, online courses availability, need for English courses, suitability for children, effective learning methods, and how to select the best language school.
Danish Language Schools and Programs
For foreigners, Denmark offers a variety of Danish language learning options. These programs cater to different needs, whether you are a beginner, an advanced learner, or someone aiming to improve your professional language skills.
Types of Danish language programs:
- Municipal Language Centers (DUC / Danskuddannelse for voksne udlændinge): Funded by the government, these centers provide free or subsidized courses for residents with permanent or temporary permits. They are designed to help foreigners integrate socially and professionally.
- Private Language Schools: Offer flexible schedules, intensive courses, and often smaller class sizes. These are suitable for working professionals or individuals who prefer a more personalized approach.
- Online Courses: Many schools provide online or hybrid courses, allowing learners to study at their own pace while combining classroom lessons with digital exercises.
- Workplace and Community Programs: Some companies and municipalities offer Danish courses tailored to employees or community members, often focusing on practical language skills for daily life.
Course Levels and Integration:
- Courses typically follow levels from A1 (beginner) to C1 (advanced) according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
- Many programs include cultural integration, helping learners navigate Danish social norms, work culture, and daily life practices.
For those looking for more specific recommendations on high-quality programs, see our guide best Danish courses in Denmark for foreigners.
English Language Schools and Programs
While most Danes speak English fluently, many foreigners still seek structured courses to improve their language skills for work, study, or social integration. English courses are especially valuable for professionals, academics, and expats who want to enhance their communication abilities in business or academic environments.
Options for English learning in Denmark include:
- Private Language Schools: Offer tailored courses for adults, focusing on conversation, business English, or exam preparation (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
- Adult Education Centers (VUC): Provide general English courses for adults, often at affordable rates.
- Online and Hybrid Courses: Flexible programs for learners who cannot attend in-person classes regularly.
- Corporate and Workplace Courses: Some companies offer English training to help employees meet international work requirements.
For detailed recommendations, see our guide best English courses in Denmark for foreigners, which highlights schools and programs with experience teaching expats.
Learning Styles and Teaching Methods
Language schools in Denmark use various teaching approaches to accommodate different learning preferences and goals. Here’s an overview:
| Learning Style | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Group Classes | Interactive sessions with classmates focusing on conversation and practice. | Beginners to intermediate learners; social learning |
| Private Tutoring | One-on-one lessons tailored to individual goals and pace. | Advanced learners, exam prep, or business-specific needs |
| Online / Hybrid | Combines digital exercises with in-person or virtual classes. | Busy professionals, remote learners, flexible schedules |
| Immersive Techniques | Practical application through cultural experiences, conversation cafes, and work placements. | All levels; learners seeking real-life practice and integration |
Tips for Success:
- Combine formal courses with daily practice in Danish or English.
- Engage in community activities, clubs, or social events to reinforce language skills.
- Balance speaking, listening, reading, and writing for comprehensive learning.
What the Numbers Say About Language Schools in Denmark
Language learning plays a crucial role in integrating foreigners into Danish society and the workforce. Several studies and reports provide insights into how expats and residents approach language education:
- Danish as a Second Language: According to the Danish Ministry of Education (2022), over 40,000 adults enroll in municipal Danish language courses (DUC) annually, demonstrating strong demand among foreigners for structured language learning.
- English proficiency: Denmark consistently ranks among the top non-native English-speaking countries. The EF English Proficiency Index (2023) places Denmark 3rd in Europe for adult English skills, highlighting widespread English competency in society.
- Impact on employment: Research from Copenhagen Business School (2021) shows that foreigners who complete Danish language courses are 30–40% more likely to secure full-time employment in Denmark within the first two years of residency.
- Learning outcomes: A study by the Danish Evaluation Institute (EVA, 2020) indicates that immersive and interactive teaching methods—such as group discussions, cultural integration activities, and workplace language programs—significantly improve retention and fluency.
- Children and youth: For school-aged foreigners, mastering Danish quickly is linked to better academic performance and social integration, according to Statistics Denmark (2022).
Takeaway for foreigners: Structured language courses, combined with practical daily use, are essential for successful integration in Denmark. Both Danish and English skills provide significant advantages for employment, education, and social engagement.
FAQ About Language Schools in Denmark for Foreigners
Do I need to learn Danish to live and work in Denmark?
While many Danes speak excellent English, learning Danish is highly recommended for long-term integration, career opportunities, and social life. Certain jobs and residency requirements may also require Danish proficiency.
Are there free Danish courses for foreigners?
Yes. Municipal language centers (DUC) offer free or subsidized Danish courses for residents with temporary or permanent permits. These courses are structured to help foreigners integrate socially and professionally.
How long does it take to become fluent in Danish?
It varies depending on your learning pace, intensity of study, and practice. Many structured courses follow CEFR levels from A1 to C1, with full fluency typically achievable in 1–3 years with consistent practice.
Can I take online language courses?
Yes. Many schools provide online or hybrid courses, combining self-paced digital exercises with live lessons, which are ideal for busy schedules or remote learners.
Are English courses necessary for foreigners in Denmark?
Not always, but English courses can help non-native speakers improve communication in workplaces, universities, or social settings, especially if they come from non-English-speaking countries.
Can children attend language courses too?
Yes. Many schools offer Danish support for children and youth, especially non-native speakers, through public schools, supplementary programs, or after-school classes.
Which learning method is most effective?
Interactive and immersive approaches—such as group classes, cultural integration activities, and real-life practice—tend to improve retention and fluency more than passive learning alone.
How can I find the best language school for my needs?
It depends on your goals, schedule, and budget. For detailed recommendations, see our guides best Danish courses and best English courses in Denmark for foreigners.
