Student Jobs in Denmark 2026: Complete Guide to Working While Studying

Denmark is one of the best countries in the world to be a student: generous government grants (SU), affordable education, high minimum wages for student work, and a labour market that actively values part-time student workers. Whether you are a Danish student starting university or an international student arriving for the first time, this guide covers everything you need to know about student jobs in Denmark in 2026 — from SU eligibility and tax rules to finding work, understanding your rights, and planning your career while studying.

For a broader look at the Danish labour market, see our working in Denmark guide. If you are searching for your first job after graduation, check our first job after graduation guide.

SU: Denmark's student grant system

SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte) is the Danish government's financial support for students. It is one of the most generous student grant systems in the world — and it is a grant, not a loan.

SU amounts in 2026

SU eligibility rules

• Danish citizens: Automatically eligible when enrolled in an approved education programme
• EU/EEA citizens: Can qualify if you work at least 10-12 hours per week in Denmark (the "worker" criterion)
• Non-EU citizens: Generally not eligible for SU unless they have permanent residency or special status
• Duration: Up to 70 monthly grants (roughly 6 years of support)
• Earnings limit: You can earn approximately 15,500 DKK per month alongside SU before your grant is reduced

Apply for SU through minSU at su.dk. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. You can also apply for SU-lån (student loan) at favourable interest rates if you need more than the grant covers.

Types of student jobs in Denmark

The Danish student job market is diverse. Here are the main categories, with pros and cons for each.

Studentermedhjælper (student assistant)

The most sought-after student job type. You work part-time (typically 15-20 hours/week) in a company or organization doing tasks related to your field of study. These positions are common in corporate offices, startups, consulting firms, government agencies, and NGOs. They offer career-relevant experience and often lead to full-time offers after graduation.

Service and hospitality

Cafes, restaurants, bars, and hotels employ large numbers of students. Hours are flexible (evenings and weekends), and pay is generally good due to Danish collective agreements. Tipping is not expected but occasionally received. See our side hustle guide for creative ways to boost your income.

Retail

Supermarkets (Netto, Føtex, Rema 1000), clothing stores, and electronics shops regularly hire students. Weekend and evening shifts are common, and many stores offer flexible scheduling around exam periods.

Tutoring and teaching

If you excel in a subject, private tutoring pays well (150-250 DKK/hour). University teaching assistant (instruktor) positions are also available and provide valuable teaching experience.

Freelance and remote work

Graphic design, web development, translation, copywriting, and social media management are popular freelance areas for students. You can set your own hours, but you must handle your own tax registration. Learn more in our freelance guide.

Popular student jobs and typical hourly rates

Rates vary by region — Copenhagen typically pays 5-10% more than smaller cities. Evening and weekend work often comes with an overtime supplement (tillæg).

Where to find student jobs

• Jobindex.dk — Denmark's largest job portal, filter by "studiejob"
• LinkedIn — Especially for studentermedhjælper positions. See our LinkedIn profile tips
• Graduateland.com — Specifically for students and recent graduates
• University career portals — KU, DTU, CBS, AAU, and SDU all have dedicated job boards
• Facebook groups — "Studiejob" groups for each city are very active
• Unsolicited applications — Very common in Denmark; contact companies directly
• Student unions — DSF, Studenterrådet, and faculty-specific unions often post jobs
• Networking — Career fairs, company presentations, and alumni networks. Check our networking guide

Tax rules for students

Understanding Danish tax rules is essential for students. The system is straightforward once you know the basics.

Frikort (tax-free card)

If your total annual income will be below approximately 49,000 DKK in 2026, you can use a frikort. This means you pay zero income tax on earnings up to that threshold. Ideal for students who only work during summer or a few hours per week. Apply at skat.dk.

Hovedkort (primary tax card)

If you earn more than the frikort threshold, you need a hovedkort. Your employer deducts tax automatically from your salary. The tax rate includes AM-bidrag (labour market contribution, 8%) plus income tax (typically 37-42% depending on municipality, but only on income above your personal allowance).

Bikort (secondary tax card)

If you have two or more jobs simultaneously, your primary employer uses your hovedkort, and additional employers use a bikort. The bikort has no personal allowance, so tax is deducted from the first krone.

Forskudsopgørelse (preliminary income assessment)

At skat.dk, you can submit a forskudsopgørelse to estimate your annual income. This ensures the correct tax rate is applied throughout the year, avoiding a surprise bill or refund in March/April the following year. For more on understanding your finances, see our payslip guide.

Work-study balance

Most Danish students work 10-15 hours per week alongside full-time studies. Here is how to make it work.

• Communicate early: Tell your employer about exam periods, project deadlines, and holiday plans well in advance
• Prioritize relevance: A studentermedhjælper role in your field pays dividends at graduation — even if it pays slightly less than a bar job
• Use semester structure: Work more hours during quieter periods (October, March), fewer during exam months (January, June)
• Know your limits: Studies come first. If your grades drop, reduce hours or find a less demanding role
• Leverage flexibility: Many Danish employers offer flexible scheduling — ask about working from home or shifting hours

Your rights as a student worker

Student workers in Denmark have the same fundamental rights as any other employee. For comprehensive details, visit our employee rights guide.

• Employment contract: You must receive a written employment contract within the first month if you work more than 8 hours per week
• Holiday pay: You accrue 2.08 days of paid holiday per month, just like full-time employees. See our holiday law guide
• Sick pay: You are entitled to sick leave from day one, though the specifics depend on your contract and any applicable collective agreement
• Notice period: Depends on your contract — typically 14 days to 1 month for student positions
• Pension: Many collective agreements require employer pension contributions even for student workers, usually starting after a qualifying period
• Unions: You can join a student-rate union membership (typically 50-100 DKK/month) for legal support and advice

Student unions and organizations

Danish student unions play an important role in academic and work life.

• DSF (Danske Studerendes Fællesråd): The national union of students, advocating for student rights at the political level
• Studenterrådet: University-level student councils that handle local issues, housing advice, and social events
• Faculty-specific unions: Organizations like Djøf Studerende (business/law), IDA Studerende (engineering), and DM Studerende (humanities) offer networking, career events, and discounted insurance
• International student organizations: ESN (Erasmus Student Network) and university-specific international committees help with integration

Internship rights and opportunities

Many Danish education programmes include a mandatory internship (praktik). Here is what you should know.

• Paid vs. unpaid: Most internships at private companies are paid (typically 10,000-15,000 DKK/month). University-arranged mandatory internships may be unpaid but supported by SU
• Duration: Usually 3-6 months
• Legal protection: If you perform real work, you are considered an employee regardless of the label — you have worker rights
• Finding internships: Use your university's career centre, Jobindex, LinkedIn, or apply directly to companies

For a comprehensive overview, see our internship guide.

Gap year and sabbatical options

Taking a gap year (sabbatår) is very common in Denmark — nearly 50% of students take at least one year between gymnasium and university.

• Højskole: Danish folk high schools offer non-degree residential courses in everything from art to outdoor life
• Volunteering abroad: Through organizations like ICYE, Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke, or Red Cross
• Working full-time: Many students work full-time during their gap year to save money and gain experience
• Travelling: No formal programme needed — just save up and go

International students: Essential steps

If you are an international student arriving in Denmark, here is your checklist.

Administrative setup

1. CPR number: Register at your local International House or Borgerservice to get a CPR (Civil Registration Number). You need this for everything — bank account, tax card, healthcare
2. Tax card: Register at skat.dk to get your tax card (frikort or hovedkort). Your employer cannot legally pay you without one
3. NemKonto: Open a Danish bank account and register it as your NemKonto (mandatory payment account) at nemkonto.dk
4. MitID: Denmark's digital ID system — needed for online banking, SU applications, tax returns, and government services

Work permit rules

• EU/EEA citizens: No work permit needed. You can work freely alongside studies
• Non-EU citizens on student visa: Can work up to 20 hours per week during term, full-time in June-August
• After graduation: Non-EU graduates can apply for an Establishment Card (opholdstilladelse med henblik på jobsøgning), giving you 6 months to find a job

Language considerations

Most student jobs in hospitality, retail, and warehouse work require at least basic Danish or English. Studentermedhjælper positions at international companies and startups often operate entirely in English. Investing in Danish language skills (even A2 level) dramatically increases your job options.

Career planning while studying

The best time to start building your career is while you are still studying. Here is a practical approach.

• Year 1: Focus on settling in. Take any job to gain work experience and build your network
• Year 2-3: Transition to a studentermedhjælper role relevant to your field. Attend career fairs and company presentations
• Year 3-4: Complete your internship strategically — choose a company you would want to work for after graduation
• Final year: Start applying for graduate positions 3-6 months before finishing. Many companies have structured graduate programmes with application deadlines in September-November

For detailed advice on the transition from student to professional, read our first job after graduation guide.

Graduating and the first job search

When you finish your degree, the Danish system provides a safety net — but you need to act quickly.

• A-kasse: Join an unemployment insurance fund (A-kasse) at least 1 year before graduation to qualify for dagpenge (unemployment benefits). Many student memberships cost only 50-80 DKK/month
• Dimittend status: As a recent graduate, you have special rights including dimittend-dagpenge if you are an A-kasse member
• CV and cover letter: Tailor these to the Danish job market — straightforward, factual, and skills-focused. Our CV tips guide can help
• Networking: Up to 70% of jobs in Denmark are filled through the hidden job market. Network actively

Frequently asked questions

How much SU do students get in Denmark in 2026?

Students living away from parents receive approximately 6,600 DKK/month before tax (around 4,600 DKK after tax). Students living with parents receive approximately 3,200 DKK/month before tax. EU/EEA citizens working 10-12+ hours per week in Denmark can also qualify. You can receive SU for up to 70 months and earn approximately 15,500 DKK/month alongside it.

What is a frikort and how does it work for students?

A frikort allows you to earn up to approximately 49,000 DKK per year without paying income tax. It is ideal for students who work part-time or seasonally. Apply at skat.dk. Once your income exceeds the threshold, switch to a hovedkort.

Can international students work in Denmark?

EU/EEA citizens can work freely. Non-EU students on a student residence permit can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time in June-August. You need a CPR number, tax card, and NemKonto.

What are the most common student jobs in Denmark?

Retail (130-145 DKK/hour), cafe/restaurant work (130-160 DKK/hour), warehouse work (140-160 DKK/hour), cleaning (140-165 DKK/hour), tutoring (150-250 DKK/hour), student assistantships (130-170 DKK/hour), and university teaching assistant positions (160-200 DKK/hour).

How do I balance work and studies in Denmark?

Most students work 10-15 hours per week. Prioritize career-relevant jobs, communicate your exam schedule to employers, keep hours flexible, and reduce work during exam periods. Danish employers are generally very accommodating of student schedules.

Conclusion

Denmark offers students an exceptional combination: a generous grant system, high wages for part-time work, strong worker protections, and a culture that values work experience alongside academic achievement. Whether you are a Dane starting your first semester or an international student navigating CPR numbers and tax cards, the key is to start early, choose strategically, and balance your workload thoughtfully.

Your student years are not just about the degree — they are the launchpad for your career. Use them wisely, and you will enter the Danish job market with experience, connections, and confidence.