Student enrolled in a full-degree programme is entitled to a number of monthly grants if they fulfil the general conditions. When the student starts his or her education, we grant SU corresponding to the education’s prescribed duration in months. If the student is admitted to his or her first higher education course no later than two years after his or her first completed qualifying exam, the student receives SU to the prescribed duration of the education + 12 extra grant portions. Inside a maximum of 70 grants students can change from one course to another. If the student is studying at a higher education course and has used all his or her grant portions, the student can some times receive a completion loan in the last year of his or her studies.
All students (1 and 2) living with their parents are supported with a lower grant than students living in lodgings. Students under 20 enrolled in a youth education program are supported as if they are living with their parents whether they do so or not, but may apply for an exemption.
Students who accept support in a year in which their private earnings exceed a set amount have to repay some of the grants and loans received that year plus 7%. However, they have the option of not accepting support for a period of time thus enlarging the set amount.
Students in higher education (under a time limitation) have the choice of using these grants later, to prolong their studies (for instance, to prepare for re-examination after a failed exam).
In particular situations - mainly sickness and childbirth - students can apply for extra monthly grants. New mothers, fathers and legal co-parents are eligible for 9 extra monthly grants, with certain stipulations.
Altogether the rules make for a flexible system. Students have the option of organising their studies according to their personal preferences and earning possibilities. At the same time, however, they incur a measure of personal accountability for managing their financial situation.
SU and internship
If you are to participate in a paid internship, you are not entitled to SU in the months in which you get paid.
If your higher education includes periods of unpaid internships or project-oriented courses, you can receive SU in these months if you meet the general conditions.
The host company of your internship is allowed to give you a token of appreciation in the form of a small amount. Read more about the requirements for receiving this token of appreciation in addition to your SU and see how much you are allowed to receive here (in Danish).