Erasmus Experience in Copenhagen, Denmark by András

Why did you choose to go to Copenhagen, Denmark?

I had a strong personal interest in scandinavian culture.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I got a 4-month scolarship, receiving 300 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Copenhagen?

It is really easy to get to know people, if someone is committed to do so. There are a lot of different programmes organised by the student networks and the student community is very diverse and friendly in general. Lots of exchange students from overseas. Relaxed attitude, but a respect for rules and customs at the same time.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Copenhagen to other students?

Definitely.

What is the food like?

Traditional danish cuisine typically uses fresh, seasonal ingredients and a lot of fish. One typical feature are the open sandwiches that come in a lot of different types. It is very easy to eat healthy in the city, as danish society cares a lot about healthy lifestyle in general.
The city also has a good selection of cuisines from around the world.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Copenhagen?

It did. I was completely on my own because the university did not provide student housing only to a limited number of exchange students and I was not in the lucky half.

How much does it cost to live in Copenhagen?

I don't remember the exact ammounts I payed, but prices are well over the european average in general. The 300 euros I got with the scolarship was not by far sufficient to cover the expenses.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are danish language courses in the uni. Danish language is a bit similar to english (and german as well). The pronunciation is extremely hard for someone who tries to learn it. Because of that, it is a challenge.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Copenhagen from your city?

I took a flight to Malmö, Sweden, and took a train to Copenhagen from there.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Copenhagen?

Australian Bar, Penthouse, Sukkerbageren

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Copenhagen?

There are sandwich bars and places with decent menus on every corner.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Old Town in general, The Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, Christiania, Royal Palace, Round Tower, Christiansborg Palace, Gefion Fountain, Rosenborg Palace

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Copenhagen in the future?

If you do not get a housing offer from the university in time, start organising accomodation on your own IMMEDIATELY! August and September is a crazy time for students without housing, as the demand is really high and there are not enough offers. Be prepared to spend you first days in a hostel, if you do not have any other choice. Register on accomodation websites, contact family, friends, anyone who could possibly help you. Take it seriously or you are gonna have a really hard time trying to find a place, where there is a roof over your head. If you find yourself without housing, do not expect the university to offer a lot of help, they do not really care.