Fields of study: Humanities, Social Sciences, Health, Science, Law, Theology
The University of Copenhagen offers fully funded PhD positions across its six faculties. Unlike many other countries, PhD students in Denmark are considered employees and receive a monthly salary rather than just a stipend. The positions are typically for 3 years (5+3 scheme) or 4 years (4+4 scheme). Current open calls for September 2026 intake include 23 scholarships in the Faculty of Humanities and various positions in Health and Science.
Benefits
Monthly Salary of approx. DKK 28,000 - 30,000 (approx. €3,800 - €4,000) before tax
Pension contribution (17.1%)
Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Paid parental leave and sick leave
Travel funding for conferences and research stays abroad
Eligibility
Must hold a Master's degree equivalent to a Danish two-year Master's (120 ECTS) for the 5+3 scheme
Must hold a Bachelor's degree and be enrolled in a Master's programme for the 4+4 scheme
Must have excellent academic qualifications and a project proposal aligned with the department's research
Must possess high proficiency in English (and Danish for specific projects)
Requirements
Submit an online application via the UCPH Job Portal
Submit a Project Description (approx. 12,000 characters)
Submit a CV (max 2 pages) and Cover Letter
Submit Diplomas and Transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's)
Do NOT submit letters of recommendation unless explicitly requested
Required Documents
Cover Letter
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
Project Description
Diplomas and Transcripts
Project Abstract
Programs of Study
PhD in English, Germanic and Romance Studies
PhD in Communication
PhD in Nordic Studies and Linguistics
PhD in Saxo Institute (History, Ethnology, Archaeology)
PhD in Economics
PhD in Psychology
PhD in Pharmacy
PhD in Computer Science
Application Process
Identify a relevant open PhD call on the UCPH Job Portal (employment.ku.dk/phd).
Prepare your project description according to the specific faculty guidelines.
Submit the application online including all attachments (PDF/Word) before the deadline.
Wait for the assessment committee's evaluation (typically takes a few months).
How to Apply
You do not apply for a 'scholarship' separately; you apply for a specific PhD VACANCY (job position). If hired, the funding is automatic. Read the specific department call carefully as priorities change every year.