Student loans in Denmark: SU loan, completion loan and other credit options 2026

Kristian Ole Rørbye

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Updated July 22, 2026

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How the SU loan works

The SU loan (studielån) is a government-backed loan designed to top up the SU grant. It is administered alongside the SU system and is not a product from a private bank. The main practical differences compared with private loans are:

• Lower interest and longer standard repayment terms (official figures change – always check current terms on su.dk).
• Repayment schedule tailored to former student income and typical study timelines.
• Application and disbursement are coordinated with your SU administration rather than a consumer lender.

If you are eligible for SU, taking the SU loan generally means you borrow under state rules that can be more flexible than private credit-however, the loan still creates a repayment obligation, so plan for it when budgeting.

Amounts and eligibility basics

Exact monthly amounts and eligibility criteria vary by education level (e.g., youth education, higher education) and by whether you live with parents or independently. Important points to check:

• You normally must be approved for SU to be eligible for the SU loan.
• There are rules about study pace and completion; falling behind can affect both SU and access to the loan.
• Foreign students with permanent residence or certain permits can sometimes get SU and the SU loan; others cannot – check the rules that apply to your permit.

Do not rely on an assumed monthly number without checking the official site – amounts and maximums are updated periodically. If you need a quick overview of other credit types in Denmark, see our loan options in Denmark guide.

Completion loan (færdiggørelseslån)

The completion loan is a limited option designed to help students who are only a short distance from finishing their programme but have exhausted other SU support. Key characteristics:

• It is intended as a one-time help to finish your degree; there are strict eligibility windows and documentation requirements.
• Authorities expect you to demonstrate that the loan will enable timely completion – e.g., an approved study plan or supervisor confirmation.
• The amount and availability can vary; do not count on it for long-term funding.

Before you plan your budget around a completion loan, contact your institution’s student support or the SU office. If you want the pros and cons of the main state loan itself, read our piece on the SU loan’s pros and cons.

Repayment terms and how to manage the SU loan

Repayment usually starts after you finish your studies, but the exact timing and options depend on when you finished and your individual circumstances. Practical steps to manage repayment:

1. Check your loan balance and the repayment schedule on the state portal or paperwork you received at graduation.
2. Set up a monthly budget that includes the loan instalment and any mandatory taxes or contributions.
3. If you expect low income after graduating, apply for any available postponement, income-based repayment plan or debt negotiation options early.

If you plan to travel, move abroad or change your bank after graduation, tell the loan administrator. Missed notices can lead to default or extra fees.

Private quick loans as a student

Private lenders and online payday-style products may approve students, even without SU. Important warnings and when they might make sense:

• Private short-term loans usually carry much higher interest and fees than the SU loan; they can quickly become expensive if you roll them over.
• Some private lenders rate college students as higher risk – expect lower loan amounts and stricter repayment terms.
• Use private credit only for short, unavoidable gaps (for example, an urgent repair) and if you have a clear, short repayment plan.

If you are considering consumer credit instead, see our overviews of installment loans in Denmark and broader loan options so you compare APR, fees and repayment length rather than just the monthly amount.

Choosing between the SU loan and other credit

Compare these factors when deciding:

• Interest rate and total cost over the life of the loan – state loans normally win here.
• Repayment flexibility – the SU loan usually offers more student-friendly options.
• Urgency and paperwork – private lenders can be faster but costlier.
• Impact on future borrowing, housing and banking – heavy private debt can harm your credit history.

Also consider non-loan options: part-time work, scholarships, using savings, or short-term paid gigs – our guide to ways to earn extra income covers common quick options for students.