Minimum mark 60%
Level Undergraduate
Language/s English
Agreement Scope Biology department exchange
Arts & Humanities faculty exchange
Exchange Places
2 Student places for Biology in 2025/2026
5 full year exchange places for Arts and Humanities students in 2025/26
About:
Aarhus University (AU) is Denmark’s second oldest university and the country’s largest with approx. 39,000 students. Consistently ranked as one the world's top 100 universities, AU’s main campus is situated at the heart of the historic Danish city and is set in the hills and lakes of University Park.
Highlights:
The AU teaching style includes innovative teaching methods and an informal learning environment that is designed to promote creativity as well as analytical/critical thinking. The city is described as having a vibrant, youthful energy. There are always things to do across this very walkable city, from forest treks to independent flea markets and art exhibitions.
Location:
Aarhus is the second-largest city in Denmark. It is located on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula.
Courses / Modules:
Aarhus University offers 1000 courses taught in English across 33 study areas. For more details see the full course catalogue of modules offered in English. The University is split into faculties: Arts, School of Business and Social Services (Aarhus BSS), Health Sciences, Science and Technology. Generally, students can choose courses from one faculty only.
Credit (Full-time Load per semester):
You must take a full credit load while on exchange. Aarhus University uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) to show credit values. 30 ECTS is the equivalent to 60 York credits, and 60 ECTS is the equivalent to 120 York credits.
Teaching Periods:
The full academic year spans from late August to late June. It is split into two semesters with short holidays for Christmas and other nationally observed days. Here is the academic calendar for more information.
Language:
Check the course catalogue for modules taught in English. There may be opportunities for exchange students to take part in Danish classes - check with your department if you are able to take such courses for credit.
Accommodation:
There is an optional application for housing integrated into the admission application. AU housing outlines various housing options on their housing website for exchange students.
Orientation / Welcome week:
The University's welcome events are encompassed in what are known as "AU Intro Days". These are arranged by the International Centre, the Aarhus faculties and a local student organisation (Studenthus Aarhus). Have a look at a schedule of the online events being held this year for an insight into intro week.
Support Services:
Aarhus University provides a range of online resources on their Boost your student life webpages, including links to support services such as the Student Counsellors' Office (academic support), the Special Educational Support team for students with disabilities, the Student Counselling Service, Student associations and so on.
Visas:
You may need a visa to study in Denmark. If you are a UK National you must refer to the Travel Advice page for Denmark and its Living in Denmark guide to check on any visa requirements, and raise any queries directly with the relevant embassy/consulate. If you are not a UK national you should check equivalent advice for your home country.
The AU webpage on Immigration also provides guidance.
Travel insurance:
If you complete the Travel Authorisation process and are approved by the University of York to participate in this programme, you will be covered by the University's Travel Insurance Policy. This is a complimentary policy to cover you for the duration of your University of York mobility experience. Please refer to the Insurance website for all travel insurance queries. You may be required to obtain health insurance valid during your exchange.
Health insurance:
Students travelling to Europe may be able to apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or in some circumstances a new UK-issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which gives the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. You are strongly recommended to obtain a GHIC / EHIC if eligible. To check your eligibility and find out how to apply if you are eligible, go to the NHS page on Applying for healthcare cover abroad (GHIC and EHIC).
Students in Denmark are all covered by the Danish Health Securities Act, which provides free health care. In order to access this, students must apply for a CPR number (Danish social security number). For more information, see Aarhus University's guidance on health insurance.
Jack, History, Year Abroad 2023/24
“Now that I am well into the 2nd semester abroad I feel much more at home and confident about conducting myself abroad. I have found volunteering at the student bar to be a good way to meet people and it has helped me to stay up to date with events. I feel I have matured a little and started to think of the world in a much broader scope, especially when considering steps for after uni. I have been able to manage my budget quite well, between rent, food expenses and new recreational activities like renting a bike and attending a climbing wall. Mostly I use international cards like Monzo, but have also tried to make use of a Danish bank for the money I have earned while abroad. Living costs are similar to York, at least in terms of food shops, as going out is much more expensive, but rent is considerably cheaper.”
Evan, Philosophy, Year Abroad 2023/24
“I feel very settled here now. It's strange that I will be moving back again soon because it's only now felt just like home. I think i've become a lot more independent and disciplined whilst here which is what I wanted. My biggest challenge has been being so far from my family and partner but it has definitely got easier. The best way to meet people is to go to any international party/events that are hosted as well as talking to people in classes. The cost of living has been much cheaper in Denmark than in UK - the housing is much much cheaper so has been easier to manage. I just kept my UK bank account and every now and then put in that i'm abroad so I don't get conversion fees."
Have a look at some more student stories on the Global Opportunities website!
Please note: these tips have been provided by students who have studied abroad - Global Opportunities recommends that you use these as a guide only and do your own research on what is best for you.
Money and Banking:
Revolut or Monzo: consider opening an account with one of these online banks. You can regularly transfer money over from a UK bank account, make free card payments and there are minimal fees when making withdrawals. They also have some of the best exchange rates which can be very useful while travelling.
Staying Connected:
Make plans: Making plans to meet up with your friends from York who are also abroad keeps you connected to that bit of familiarity, especially good if you are missing home. It also means you have something exciting to look forward to, which always helps.
Post: A little thing like sending a postcard to your friends or family back home can make all the difference. Not only is it a thoughtful touch, but it keeps you connected to anyone you might be missing.
Food:
"Aarhus Central Street Food market is a great place to buy affordable food"
Grocery stores like Lidl, Aldi and Netto are recommended because they are considerably cheaper than places such as Fotex and Kvickly.
On campus, you can go to the kantine to grab food during the day at an affordable price.
Paperwork and bureaucracy:
Similar to York, you will have a printing account that you can top up, just make sure you have a CPR number! (This is sorted within the first couple weeks of your arrival).
What I wished I'd known...
Denmark is a very bike friendly country and buying a second hand one for the year is very common.
Find out general living cost information in advance.
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