Learning Danish as an Expat

Learning a new language in a new country is always a challenging experience. Learning Danish is so far an exciting journey for me. During the early days in Denmark, I had to rely on Google Translator for every single word and sentences. It was a painful experience. The emails or posts you receive, bills and receipts, product documents, shopping labels and every content is in Danish. I realized how important it was to learn the language if I am planning to stay for long.

I was using the Duolingo app to learn Danish. It’s a great app when learning a new language. When we moved here, kommune pointed us to the closest language school for us. I joined the Speak School of Danish in February. My class started in March. We had module 1 as a virtual classroom over the Zoom for 2 months due to the COVID-19.

Duration

Danish language course has 3 categories: DU1, DU2 and DU3 (Danske Uddannelse – Danish Education). If you have more than 12 years of education you can start with DU3. During the initial interview with the school representative, they will evaluate your danish language skill and assign you to any of the categories. In each category, there are 5  – 6 modules. You must complete the Danish language course within a voucher system called ‘Klippekort’ within 5 years. You can read more about it here.  The duration will vary depending on the level and the school. It takes 3 months to complete module 1. I completed the module 2 intensive course during my 3  weeks summer vacation. Then I started module 3 a few weeks ago. 

Each module includes grammar, listening, reading, writing and mainly speaking. The teacher encouraged us to ask questions and talk in Danish. Each module exams have written and spoken tests. We had classmates from various countries. It was a perfect ground to let your fear go and start speaking. Because all of us are there for the same purpose. It was a wonderful time. We learnt about different cultures, different lifestyles and made some nice friends and of course, had fun. We had great teachers for all the modules. During module 2 the school arranged a few outings to go to museums and boat rides. These outings are good for learning Danish art, architecture and culture.  

There are some good reasons to learn Danish if you are planning to stay for a long time. If you are a non-EU person, you need to pass module 5 in DU3 to apply for the Permanent Residence in Denmark. Also, if your kids are going to Danish school, you may want to understand what they’re talking about as kids pick up the language very fast. After completing module 2, I could understand the conversations and write to a certain level. Obviously, progress will vary for each person. In my experience that the motivation to learn a new language plays a major role in your progress. Even before I moved here I knew the importance of Danish language in Danish society so it was in one of our priority lists. Also, it will give you one less reason to complain about your ex-pat life in Denmark. I am fortunate enough to have Danish friends and colleagues who are helping me to improve my Danish language.

If you would like to know more about this, drop me a message in Contact us page