Expat Education Guide: Schools in Copenhagen

Education Overview

Copenhagen scores 5.0/5 for education quality and 4.0/5 for family-friendliness. The city has 12 school neighborhoods with international, bilingual, and local options for expat families. Expect approximately 27 education-related costs.

Copenhagen boasts one of the world's highest-quality education systems, characterized by its student-centered approach, emphasis on creativity, and strong focus on social development. The Danish education philosophy prioritizes critical thinking and practical skills over rote memorization. Copenhagen offers a diverse range of educational institutions, from public municipal schools (folkeskoler) to private alternatives (friskoler and privatskoler) and a robust selection of international schools catering to the city's significant expatriate population.

Quick Stats

Education Score

5.0 /5

Family Score

4.0 /5

School Areas

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$7,600

Monthly Costs

$4,420/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

School Registration $0

Private School Application Fee $300

International School Application Fee $500

Monthly

Tuition Fees Private $800/mo

Tuition Fees International $1,800/mo

Transportation Monthly $70/mo

Showing 6 of 27 costs — sign up to see all

Top School Neighborhoods

See All 12 →

Indre By

Density 4/6

Types: Public, private, and international options

Notable: Øster Farimagsgade School, Ingrid Jespersens Gymnasieskole, N. Zahles Gymnasiesk...

Nørrebro

Density 4/6

Types: Public, private, international and bilingual

Notable: Nørrebro Park Skole, Blågård Skole, Den Franske Skole

Østerbro

Density 4/6

Types: Public, private, international and bilingual options

Notable: Østerbro Lilleskole, Kildevældsskolen, Skolen på Strandboulevarden

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Practical Tips

Explore international or bilingual school options in Copenhagen and Frederiksberg early

These schools offer instruction in English and have specific application processes distinct from public schools, often with varying availability.

they offer the most comprehensive module system and this timing allows you to secure a spot in evening classes before they fill up with university students

Engage with expat parent groups on social media platforms before school applications

These groups offer community support and shared experiences that can provide practical insights into school options and local educational practices.

Investigate private bilingual schools in Copenhagen for flexible enrollment options

Many private institutions, unlike public schools, offer programs with English instruction and may have more adaptable admissions policies for mid-year arrivals.

Useful Links

Copenhagen Municipality Schools

Official guide to the Copenhagen school system, enrollment procedures, and educational options for international families with children.

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University of Copenhagen

Denmark's largest and oldest university offering numerous programs in English for international students and researchers moving to Copenhagen.

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Copenhagen Language Center

Official language school offering Danish courses for foreigners, including free courses under the government's integration program.

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Copenhagen International School

Premier international school in Copenhagen offering IB curriculum from preschool through high school for expatriate and local families.

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Technical University of Denmark

Leading technical university located near Copenhagen with numerous English-taught programs and strong industry connections.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Copenhagen has 12 neighborhoods with excellent school options. The best areas depend on whether you need international, public, or private schools. Check ReloPlanner for detailed school density scores per neighborhood.

International school tuition in Copenhagen varies widely by school and grade level. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see detailed education cost breakdowns personalized to your family size.

There are approximately 27 education-related costs to consider when moving to Copenhagen, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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