Denmark is renowned for its high-quality education system, which extends to its international schools. These institutions cater primarily to expatriates and international students, offering diverse curricula including International Baccalaureate (IB), British GCSE and A-Levels, as well as the American curriculum. These schools are known for their robust academic programs, multilingual education, and emphasis on global citizenship.

Criteria for Choosing the Best International Schools

Selecting the right international school in Denmark depends on various factors that align with the student’s needs and family preferences. Key considerations include:

Curriculum: Parents should choose a school that offers a curriculum that best fits their child’s future educational plans.

Accreditation: Schools accredited by reputable international organizations ensure quality education standards.

Language of Instruction: Most international schools in Denmark teach in English, but some offer instruction in other languages, which can be a determining factor for non-English speaking families.

Extracurricular Activities: Quality international schools provide a wide range of extracurricular activities that support intellectual, emotional, and physical development.

Location and Facilities: The school’s location and its facilities can also significantly impact the choice of school, affecting daily commute and access to modern educational resources.

Top International Schools in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, hosts several top-tier international schools, which are popular among expat communities. Some of the most notable include:

Copenhagen International School (CIS): CIS is one of the most prestigious in Denmark, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from primary years to the diploma level. With students from over 80 countries, it boasts a truly international environment.

Bjørn’s International School: This school offers a unique blend of Danish and international education systems and provides Cambridge International Examinations alongside Danish ‘Folkeskole’ education.

Europa School: Known for its small class sizes and individualized attention, Europa School offers the European Baccalaureate, which is recognized across the European Union.

Best International Schools in Aarhus

As the second-largest city in Denmark, Aarhus also has reputable international schools that cater to diverse educational needs:

Aarhus International School (AIS): AIS offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. The school is known for its strong emphasis on technology integration across all levels of education.

Risskov Efterskole: While technically an ‘efterskole’ (a unique Danish boarding school), Risskov offers an international line with a global curriculum, focusing on global citizenship and multicultural understanding.

International Schools Offering American Curriculum

For families preferring American educational standards, certain schools in Denmark specialize in the American curriculum:

Copenhagen American School: This institution provides American-style education with Advanced Placement (AP) courses available for older students. It aims to foster an understanding of American culture and values.

Odense International School: Located in Odense, this school offers an American curriculum alongside the IB Diploma for students aged 16-19.

Specialized International Schools in Denmark

Some international schools in Denmark also offer specialized programs tailored to specific cultural or educational philosophies:

The German School Copenhagen: As the name suggests, this school caters primarily to students from German-speaking countries, offering education from kindergarten through to the European Baccalaureate.

The French School of Copenhagen (Lycée Français Prins Henrik): This school offers a curriculum based on the French national education system and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education.

Rygaards International School: While it follows the British curriculum, Rygaards uniquely integrates aspects of Danish education, particularly in the early years.

Conclusion

Choosing the right international school in Denmark involves considering various factors such as curriculum, accreditation, language of instruction, extracurricular activities, and location. Whether in Copenhagen, Aarhus, or other cities, Denmark offers a range of top-quality international schools that cater to diverse educational needs and prepare students for global challenges. This comprehensive guide aims to help parents make informed decisions to ensure their children receive the best possible education in an international environment.