New figures released on Monday revealed that out of the 85,508 applications to Danish Universities for the academic year starting in September 2025, only 1,317 were for language courses.
Despite 356 more applicants to higher education institutions than last year, the number of applicants for language programmes has decreased across Danish universities offering language degrees.
According to figures from the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science, the number has fallen by 23 percent.
The figures prompted Higher Education Minister Christina Egelund to express serious concern about the low number.
"If you look at language studies, which I consider to be fundamental to a civilised society, the numbers have fallen to a level that requires action," said Egelund.
“It is important that young people improve their skills in European languages and cultures, because it broadens our cultural horizons and understanding. European cooperation and community are crucial for Denmark,” she said.
The breakdown of the figures revealed that there were only 61 applicants for degree programmes in German and French, which is a 13 percent decrease compared to 2024.
“The combination of strong professionalism and practical language skills is attractive to many companies – regardless of whether it is the engineer who can speak German or the lawyer who can do well in French.” said the minister.
“We live in a world that is undergoing intense geopolitical change, and in that context it is extremely important that we become better and not worse at understanding each other."
Egelund said she feels compelled to “do something about it”, although she did reveal what kind of action she planned to take.
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