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Denmark Applications

Motivation Letters and Recommendations for Danish Universities

Danish universities decide mostly on your grades and degree. Some programmes also ask for a motivation letter, a CV or two recommendation letters. Here is what they ask for.

Example statement plan

Example
Motivation LetterExample: why this programme
Recommendation LetterExample: from a teacher or employer

Example: what a motivation letter covers

Example
What Danish Universities Ask For

Requirements differ by university and programme. Always read your programme's page.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Roskilde University: up to one A4 page.
  • Explain why you chose the programme and how your bachelor's fits it.
  • Write it in English.
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
  • Technical University of Denmark (DTU): two letters, only for some programmes.
  • Upload them as two separate PDF files.

How They Use These Papers

Quota 2

For bachelor's quota 2 (places by the university's own rules), universities judge you on their own rules. Some ask for an essay.

Selection

DTU checks each applicant with a degree from another country one by one against the programme's rules.

Scholarships

DTU's tuition fee waiver (you do not pay the tuition) needs a separate letter.

Writing Your Motivation Letter

A motivation letter, or statement of academic interest, explains why you want the programme and why you fit it.

Essential Components of a Strong SOP

1

Your motivation

Why you want this programme at this university.

2

Your academic fit

How your bachelor's courses match the master's content.

Length and Format

Length & Format

  • Roskilde University: at most one A4 page, in English.
  • Check each programme's own rules.
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Recommendation Letters

Most Danish programmes do not ask for recommendation letters. Where they do, follow the university's exact instructions.

Get Expert Guidance on LORs
Mistakes to Avoid

Simple errors that can cost you a place.

SOP Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting the DTU waiver statement

Without a separate letter, DTU will not think about giving you a tuition fee waiver (no tuition fee).

Better Approach:

Add the statement when you apply, by 15 January 2027.

Statements and Recommendation Questions

What Danish universities ask for besides grades.

Need help with a statement for a Danish programme? Talk to us.

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