The importance of a student job in Denmark
Many students in Denmark, Danish and internationals alike, choose to work part time during their studies, both to support themselves financially, but also to gain work experience. International students from the EU are required to work to qualify for the SU grant.
Having experience on your CV when you graduate makes it a lot easier to get a job after graduation. In addition, having a student job within your academic field allows you to test your skills in practice and test different types of tasks and positions in your chosen industry. This way, you will learn what type of job you want to pursue after graduation. Moreover, being a student worker in a business in the industry you want to work in after graduation allows you to build a network and connections, which may lead to your future full-time job.
Businesses in Denmark are generally open and welcoming to student workers as they see the student as a valuable source of new knowledge and also as a future candidate for a full-time position. Employers want the best and most skilled employees and by having student workers they gain access to new talent early on.
Types of student jobs
There are many different types of student jobs available in Denmark. From student worker positions in a field relevant to your studies to jobs in the service industry, e.g. cafés, hotels and restaurants, storage facilities and temp jobs through agencies. Most student jobs are 10-20 hours per week with flexible hours to fit your study schedule.
It is an advantage for your job hunt after graduation, if you get experience from a student job related to your field of study. Meet Tereza, Software Technology Engineering student and student worker at The LEGO Group and learn more about how she got her student job.
However, any student job shows employers that you are diligent and able to balance studies with work. If you want a very flexible student job, take a look at temp agencies, where you can sign up for work in periods that fit into your study schedule – for example during summer or winter breaks.
Finding a student job in Denmark
The process of finding a student job in Denmark resembles that of finding a full-time job. You can look for job postings at online job portals – there are specific ones for student jobs – but the regular job portals as Jobindex and LinkedIn also have student positions. As with regular jobs, speaking some Danish will greatly increase your chances of landing a student job - how to learn Danish in Denmark.
Here are a few dos and don’ts when looking for a student job in Denmark:
Do:
- Write a targeted, short and to-the-point CV and application/cover letter – make sure to include your motivations for applying for the job, any relevant experience, education and a few words on your personality.
- Apply in person. When sending unsolicited applications, hand in your application in person, preferably to the person in charge of the department you are applying for – this shows that you are motivated and makes a good first impression.
- Research. If you get the job, make sure to get a contract and that the salary is reasonable and comparable to what a Dane would be paid for the same job. There is no minimum wage in Denmark as a whole and standards vary from industry to industry, but you should aim for 110 DKK per hour as a minimum.
- Consider joining a trade union. They can help you understand the rules and provide support if you have a falling out with your employer.
Don't:
- Forget to prepare. If you are invited to a job interview, make sure to prepare well and do some research about both the company and the position. This will help you come across as confident in the interview.
- Forget to pay taxes. If you have a legal contract, your employer will usually deduct taxes automatically. If you perform undeclared work, you risk hefty fines on up to triple the amount that you were supposed to pay in taxes. More about taxes in Denmark.
As a student at VIA, you have access to our Career Centre. Here you can get guidance on how to find a student job and they also share student job openings at local businesses and host events such as Company Dating and Meet the Company, which are a great way of meeting employers face-to-face.
Balancing a job with studies
It can be difficult to balance studies, student job and your personal life. At VIA, we of course recommend that your studies remain your priority, but that does not mean that there is not room for a part time job and having fun with your friends.
It is a good idea to try to plan ahead. Scheduling time for study, working out, hanging out with friends, shifts at work, ect. Time management will provide you with an overview of your time and you will become aware of any scheduling conflicts in time to reschedule.
Also, once you land a student job make sure that your expectations are aligned with your boss and do not be afraid to turn down tasks at work if they interfere with your studies. Danish employers are generally welcoming and open to help you manage time during busy study periods, e.g. approaching exams.
If you are having trouble managing your time and are feeling overwhelmed, you can contact Student Counselling Services at VIA. Book a meeting here.