Denmark has an excellent public education system which is free of charge to all children living in Denmark. Danish-language instruction is provided free within schools to the children of foreign nationals. In Denmark, education is compulsory between the ages of 7 and 16. There are also some private schools and many of these are subsidised by the state. The vast majority of Danish children attend state schools (folkeskole).

State-subsidised day nurseries are also provided for babies and children aged 3 or below, and kindergartens and pre-school classes for children from 3 to 7. Parents are required to pay part of the cost, normally amounting to around DKK 2,000-3,000 per month.

The folkeskole provides primary and lower secondary education up to the 9th form at the age of 16. Some children transfer to a continuation school (efterskole) for 9th form, since this type of school offers a wider range of subjects and facilities.

The upper secondary school (gymnasium) consists of a three-year preparation for the Danish secondary school leaving certificate, which qualifies students for entry to university. The higher preparatory course offers a two-year alternative to a gymnasium education and also prepares students for higher education. Students can alternatively opt for vocational, technical and commercial courses at upper secondary level.

There are also a number of private international schools which mostly provide teaching in English. These are mainly found in Copenhagen and the other main cities. Many prepare students for the International Baccalaureate.