Getting

Started
A guide for degree and exchange students

Roskilde University

Contents
Welcome to Roskilde University 3
About Denmark 4
About Roskilde University (RUC) 6
Preparing for your stay in Denmark 8
What to do upon arrival in Denmark 14
What to do upon arrival at RUC 18
Student life at Roskilde University 20
Transportation 24
Experience Denmark 26
Other useful information 28
Contact information and campus map 30

Welcome to Roskilde University

It is our pleasure to welcome you as one of the more than 300 international students who
Roskilde University receives every year. Roskilde University is often abbreviated to RUC according to its original name; Roskilde University Centre.
This handbook is meant for both exchange students and full degree students, who have been
accepted to study at RUC. It includes specific and general information which we hope you will
find helpful, when planning your stay and during the first period of time, as you settle into your
new environment at RUC and in Denmark.
The International Team is available to help you, if you have any questions with study-related
and practical matters. We understand that when you go abroad to study, you can at times
feel confused and overwhelmed, so please feel free to drop by if you have any problems or
questions.
We hope you will enjoy your studies at RUC and your experience as a student in Denmark
making new friends and experiencing new cultural aspects.
Wishing you all the best!

The International Team

Welcom

A guide for degree and exchange students

Getting Started 2016-2017

About De
Your study abroad destination will change your life - Denmark has a

People who have visited Denmark often emphasise how safe the

lot to offer.

country feels. The statistics confirm this image of Denmark as a safe

place: the country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Den-

Denmark is located in the Northern part of Europe called Scandina-

marks official language is Danish. Approximately 80 percent of the

via. Denmark is north of Germany, south of Norway and southeast

population understand and speak English and many speak German,

of Sweden. This geographical position makes Denmark an excellent

French or Spanish.

gateway for those, who want to explore Europe and Scandinavia.

The Danes emphasise equality, individuality and democracy. The
Denmark is the oldest monarchy in the world, yet it is a modern

tone between Danes is relatively informal. Hygge is an important

welfare state. The country has a high standard of living and has

element of the Danish culture. The word is difficult to translate, but

often been noted for its high level of social security and free public

those seeking to grasp its meaning will quickly realise that it is close-

services, including a high quality educational sector.

ly associated with having a good time together with friends or family

and with eating and drinking.

Danish higher education is famous for its innovative teaching

approach and high international standards. The Danish institutions
offer a dynamic study environment with an emphasis on independent study, initiative and project-oriented learning.

A guide for degree and exchange students

enmark

Getting Started 2016-2017

About
Roskilde Unive
Information about RUC
Located in a beautiful landscape close to the town of Roskilde and
just around 20 minutes by train from central Copenhagen, RUC offers
an international study and learning environment. Bachelor and Mas-

RUC also offers a large number of courses. Courses and project work
usually each compromise 50% of a degree programme. Graduates
from RUC have as a result acquired skills for doing collaborative
work, and they are characterised by being responsible, innovative,
creative thinkers and having leadership skills.

ter Programmes are offered within the Social Sciences, the Humanities and the Natural Sciences.
9000 Bachelor and Master students are enrolled at RUC. About 10
% of these students have another nationality than Danish and they
come from more than 90 different countries.
Since its foundation in 1972, the university has focused on new ways
of learning based on high-quality academic research and interdisciplinary bachelor and master programmes. RUC is in the lead among
European universities in the field of education and has in many ways
broken with traditional educational thinking and practice to develop a
unique model for teaching principles. Graduates and research results
from RUC are thus in great demand both nationally and internationally.

Academic Culture
The relationship between students and teachers in Denmark may
seem informal to many foreign students, as they like to treat each other as equals, and students are not expected to address the teachers
by using their last name or Mr/Mrs. In classroom situations you are
encouraged to participate actively in discussions. You are welcome to
disagree with your teacher in academic matters. Disagreement is in
no way punished with lower grades.
In fact having a critical attitude towards your chosen subject and
putting forward a well-reasoned argument is highly valued, instead
of simply reproducing information from books and lectures. It is in

Principles of Learning

fact an important part of the study culture. The teachers will guide
you in the right direction, they will give you references and advice and
discuss the theories and methods, but they will not provide the final

What sets RUC apart from other universities in Denmark and abroad

answer. You should feel free to ask your teacher questions during

is our emphasis on problem-oriented project work. The project work

and after class; however, the teachers do not have the obligation to

is done in groups, where students play an active role and decide

monitor everything you do.

within a certain framework set by the teacher, the areas and research
problems they want to work with. You might find this form of study

You have to contribute in every way in the relationship, asking ques-

socially challenging at first, as you have to organize work, make deci-

tions about whatever you do not understand, making appointments

sions and evaluate the process in collaboration with other students;

for meetings and submitting your papers. In general courses, project

however, most students end up being enthusiastic about it.

work and meetings with the teacher are offers that you should accept
and participate in actively.

The nature and development of the project is negotiated in a continuing dialogue and discussion within the group under the supervision of a teacher. This implies that students are expected to be very
actively involved in designing their projects and to take active part in
group and academic discussions, which in turn requires a sufficient
level of English.

A guide for degree and exchange students

versity (RUC)
The Danish Evaluation and
Grading System
In Denmark two evaluation systems are used in all State-regulated
education. Some courses are evaluated by the 7-point grading scale
others are evaluated as passed or failed. For courses evaluated by the
pass/fail evaluation system student will not receive a grade. If you are an
exchange student, please note that not all universities accept the pass/

The Academic year

is divided into
two semesters:

fail assessment when you have to transfer the credits. Ask your home
university for their credit transfer policy. If they do not accept pass/fail
make sure to choose courses at RUC evaluated by the 7-point scale.

Grade

Description

ECTS

Old scale
(00-13)

12

For an excellent performance displaying

a high level of command of all aspects of
the rewnesses.

13
11

10

For a very good performance displaying a high level of command of most

aspects of the relevant material, with
only minor weaknesses.

10

For a good performance displaying

good command of the relevant material
but also some weaknesses.

9
8

For a fair performance displaying some

command of the relevant material but
also some major weaknesses.

02

For a performance meeting only the

minimum requirements for acceptance.

00

For a performance which does not

meet the minimum requirements for
acceptance.

Fx

5
03

-3

For a performance which is unacceptable in all respects.

00

Spring semester
from February 1
to July 1
Autumn semester
from September 1
to January 31

Getting Started 2016-2017

Preparing for you

stay in Denmark
Residence Permit/
Registration Certificate

Non-EU/EEA citizens need a residence permit to study in Denmark.

You must apply for a residence permit through the Danish Embassy in
your home country before leaving. Non-EU/EEA citizens who need to
apply for a residence permit for Denmark should notice the following:

Nordic citizens, i.e. citizens of Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

are free to enter, reside and study in Denmark without a residence

1. You cannot apply for a residence permit for Denmark before you

permit/registration certificate. However, upon arrival in Denmark, you

have received an e-mail from Roskilde University containing a

have to register with the local Citizen Service (Borgerservice) in order

reference number and an access code that you need in order to

to get a Danish CPR-number - a civil registration number. See the

access the online ST1 form. You must complete and submit the

section What to do upon arrival in Denmark.

online application no later than 30 days after your educational

institution began it. Please note that you only have 14 days to

EU/EEA citizens including citizens from Switzerland need a regis-

record your biometric features at the Danish embassy/consulate

tration certificate, if you are staying in Denmark for more than three

after submitting your online application.

months. We strongly recommend that you obtain a registration certificate before arriving, as you will be able to register for your Danish

2. The processing time of your application for a residence permit

CPR number, when you arrive. For more information see the section

by the Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment may

What to do upon arrival in Denmark. It is, however, possible to get

take up to 2 months from the date that the agency receives a fully

your registration certificate once you are here. The registration certifi-

completed application. This means that you must apply for a

cate is a certification of the rights that you have according to the rules

residence permit immediately after receiving the documents from

on free movement within EU/EEA. If you apply, when you arrive in

the university in order to receive your permit in due time before

Denmark, we recommend that you apply for a registration certificate

coming to Denmark.

as soon as possible. The processing may take up to three weeks. In

order to apply you should go to the State Administration. You can find
information on how to apply and the application form at:

3. We recommend that you contact the Danish embassy/consulate

in your country for information before you hand in your application for a residence permit.

www.statsforvaltning.dk/site.aspx?p=6028
4. In order to apply for a residence permit, you must pay an appliUnless you live in Jutland or Funen, you must hand in the application

cation fee to the Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruit-

form to the State Administration is in Copenhagen:

ment to have your application for a residence permit processed.

Please find more information about payment of the application

Statsforvaltningen, Afdeling Kbenhavn

fee at https://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/fee/

Ellebjergvej 52

about_fees/. Please note that your bank may charge a fee for

2450 Kbenhavn SV

transmitting the application fee, as will the Danish bank too for

handling the transfer. You should therefore make sure that the full

For personal enquiries concerning the registration certificate the

amount covering all expenses is paid to the Danish Agency for

opening hours are as follows:

Labour Market and Recruitment.

Monday - Wednesday: 08-14

Thursday: 12-16
Friday: 08 14

A guide for degree and exchange students

ur
5. Applicants that are to pay tuition fees should note that the Danish
Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment will only process the

Residence Permit Extensions

application for a residence permit, if you have paid the tuition

fee to Roskilde University. Applicants that are to pay tuition fees

If you need to extend your residence permit, you must meet the condi-

must therefore pay this fee within the given deadline stated in the

tions for your original application. You are required to pay a fee, when

admission letter; otherwise the admission will be annulled.

applying for an extension for a residence permit. It is crucial that you

apply for an extension before your original permit expires but no

6. If you are not required to pay tuition fee, and have not been

sooner than four months before this deadline. If you apply after your

granted a Danish State scholarship (tuition waiver and covering

original permit has expired, your application will be rejected because

of living expenses), you must prove that you have DKK 5.941 per

you will be residing illegally in Denmark. You will then have to leave

month at your disposal, during your stay in Denmark. This proof

the country and apply for a residence permit from your home country.

can include bank statements in your own name or documents for

For more information:

a grant or scholarship covering this amount.

www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/studies/extension.htm
7. With the letter of admission and the ST1 form, you can only apply
for a residence permit from the day your studies commence. The
university cannot help you apply for a residence permit for an
earlier period.
8. With the letter of admission and the ST1 form you can apply for a

Work Permit
Nordic, EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a work permit.

residence permit for studying at the university which issued the

letter of acceptance and the ST1 form. If you are no longer actively

Students from all other countries can apply for a work permit as part

studying at the university, you cannot uphold your residence permit.

of their residence permit, which entitles them to work for up to 20

The university will inform The Danish Agency for Labour Market and

hours a week during the semester, and full time during the months of

Recruitment, if you are no longer actively studying at the university.

June, July and August. It will be stated on your residence card whether or not you are allowed to work, and the specific number of hours a

9. The students themselves are responsible for the application

week you are allowed to work during the semester. You must comply

process. The university has no influence on the process.

with the terms stated in your residence permit. Application for a work
permit must be submitted to the Danish representation in the home

You can find more information regarding residence permit at:

country before leaving for Denmark.

www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/studies/post_second-

Please note if you work illegally in Denmark, e.g. by working more

ary_education.htm

than the allowed number of hours, the Danish Agency for Labour
Market and Recruitment may revoke your residence permit or refuse
to extend it. This can happen even if you otherwise meet the conditions for your residence permit, e.g. if you are still actively enrolled in
your course or study programme. If you work illegally in Denmark,
you risk deportation, and you and your employer risk fine or imprisonment. For more information:
www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/studies/post_secondary_education.htm

Getting Started 2016-2017

10

A guide for degree and exchange students

Due to the housing situation, it is

essential that your accommodation
has been secured before you
arrive in Denmark
Accommodation
Danish students live in private or rented flats, rented rooms or in
residence halls (kollegium). Finding accommodation for students is

For other housing option we recommend you to take a look at the

housing platform for international students;
www.HousingAnywhere.com

generally quite challenging.

Full Degree Students

Exchange Students

RUC is unfortunately not able to assist our full degree students in

RUC has secured a limited number of rooms for our exchange stu-

Roskilde or Copenhagen, we suggest that you contact the accom-

dents. Information on how and when to apply for a room is sent along

modation agencies mentioned below. You can also send an email to

with the Letter of Acceptance.

markedsplads@ruc.dk, which is a digital notice board that many stu-

finding accommodation. If you wish to apply for accommodation in

dents and members of staff subscribe to. When applying for accomThe residence halls, which RUC has access to, are located on campus.

modation in student halls please keep the following in mind:

The residence halls have kitchen and laundry facilities. The rooms are
furnished with basic furniture and equipped with the most necessary
kitchen utensils. However, you have to provide sheets and towels. For the

Apply immediately since accommodation will be distributed in

the order the applications are registered.

residence halls on campus, you will need to put down a deposit of 10.000
DKK, and pay 3100-4200 DKK per month depending on the room.

Finding accommodation in Copenhagen is normally more difficult

than finding accommodation in the Roskilde area.

RUC has secured rooms at the following residence halls Kolibrien,

Korallen and Rockwool. You will find a student video about one of
the residence halls Korallen on Youtube:

When you fill out an application make realistic demands of

location, type and rent. We recommend that you do not set your
maximum rent lower than 2500-3000 DKK per month.

http://youtu.be/sccGVUuTP70
Apartments and rooms are normally without furniture, unless
There are 4 kinds of university accommodations:

you apply specifically for rooms with furniture. If you need to buy
furniture, you can also send an e-mail to markedsplads@ruc.dk.

Single room with own bathroom and kitchenette and shared

common rooms/big kitchens (KORALLEN, app. 37 rooms)
Shared flat with 4 single rooms, 2 bathrooms and shared kitchen/
common room. (ROCKWOOL, 3 flats)

You can also find cheaper furniture in a number of warehouses or

second-hand shops.
Please notice RIUs regulations regarding cost of maintenance after departure. These costs might be disproportionately high if you
only live in the room/apartment for a short period. Please contact

Single room with own kitchenette and shared bathroom (ROCKWOOL, 2 rooms)
Single room with own bathroom and shared kitchen and common
room (KOLIBRIEN, app. 14 rooms)

RIU to find out more if you plan to live less than one year in the
room/apartment.
You will not be contacted, if it is not possible to match the demands made in your application.

11

Getting Started 2016-2017

Useful links and addresses to

external housing agencies
RIU-Roskilde (residence halls in Roskilde)
c/o UBSBOLIG A/S
Frederiksberggade 2, 2. sal
1459 Kbenhavn K
Phone: (+45) 3946 6262
Email: info(at)riu-roskilde.dk
www.riu-roskilde.dk (only in Danish)
Kollegiernes Kontor I Kbenhavn (residence halls in Copenhagen)
Dahlerupsgade 3, st.

Budget
In terms of living expenses, it is difficult to predict how much money
you will need. To give you an idea of average monthly expenses, here
is a rough budget:
Housing

DKK 3000-4000 ( 400-535)

Food

DKK 1500-2000 ( 200-270)

Transportation DKK 300-1100 ( 40-150)

Books

DKK 450-600 ( 60-80)

In total, you should expect to use approximately DKK 8000 per month,
but it depends on your personal standards and requirements.

1603 Kbenhavn V
Danmark
Phone: (+45) 3363 0500

Student Job

www.kollegierneskontor.dk
Some international students find work in bars or restaurants. Others
FindBolig.nu is a free website, where you can apply for accommoda-

distribute newspapers, work in telemarketing or get jobs, where

tion throughout Denmark.

certain language skills are required. Few find employment relevant to

www.findbolig.nu (only in Danish)

their studies.

Housing Anywhere is a free international housing platform:

You should not, however, count on obtaining a part-time job nor plan

www.HousingAnywhere.com

your finances accordingly. It is not always easy to find a student job in

Denmark, if you do not speak Danish. For more information and tips

Danhostel Roskilde (could be an opportunity the first days in

on finding a student job in Denmark, please visit these websites:

Denmark)
Vindeboder 7

www.workindenmark.dk

4000 Roskilde

www.jobnet.dk

Danmark

www.so.dk (especially for students)

Phone: (+45) 4635 2184

Email: roskilde(at)danhostel.dk
www.danhostel.dk/roskilde

12

A guide for degree and exchange students

Clothing

Mobile Phone

In Denmark each season has its distinctive characteristics. It can be

It might be a good idea to bring or buy a mobile while you are in

as cold as -510C in the winter. If you are here during the autumn

Denmark, especially if you are staying for more than one semester.

and winter periods, it is advisable to bring warmer clothing including

You can contact some of the larger telephone companies to get a

a warm coat or jacket, as well as waterproof boots or shoes. In the

SIM card and information on how to set up your Danish telephone

summer temperature rises to 1525C.

number.

Computer

Mentor Programme

You might want to bring your own computer, as most homes including

If you are an exchange or full degree student, you can sign up online

the dorm rooms on campus have an internet connection. There is a

for a mentor programme at

wireless network at RUC, which all students can connect to (see the
section on IT).

www.mentor.ruc.dk/

In case you do not own a computer or decide not to bring one, you

The mentor will help to settle in and get an introduction to RUC and

can use the computer facilities on campus.

your new surroundings in Denmark. If you have any questions send

an email to: mentor@ruc.dk

13

Getting Started 2016-2017

What to do
arrival in De

14

A guide for degree and exchange students

upon
enmark
Social security number (CPR number) For more information
After obtaining your residence permit/registration certificate and a

You can only register with your local office. Please find the address of

permanent address in Denmark, you must notify your local munici-

your local Citizen Service Centre (Borgerservice) below:

pality of your arrival within 5 days and register for your Danish CPR
number (social security number) and national health insurance card.

Roskilde area (including Trekroner)

Borgerservice (Citizen Service Center)

The CPR number is used, when dealing with public authorities and will

Rdhusbuen 1

ensure that you can get free medical help, open a bank account, regis-

4000 Roskilde

ter at the tax authorities, use public libraries, salary payment and the

Phone: 4631 3000

like. It usually takes up to 2 weeks before you receive your CPR number.
If you move or relocate after you have been registered in the system,

For personal enquiries the opening hours are as follows:

you are obliged to report this to your (new) municipality. Before leaving

Monday-Thursday: 10-15

Denmark, you must also notify the Citizen Service of your departure.

Friday: 10-14
Saturday-Sunday: Closed

How to register

Frederiksberg
Borgerservice

Go to the nearest Citizen Service Centre bringing the following docu-

Frederiksberg Rdhus, 1st floor

mentation:

Smallegade 1
2000 Frederiksberg

Application form: www.klxml.dk/KLB/Blanket/Gaelder/fr050.pdf

Phone: 3821 2121

Valid residence permit/registration certificate (Nordic citizens

For personal enquiries the opening hours are as follows:

excepted)

Monday and Thursday: 09-17

Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 09-13

Nordic CPR number, if entry from a Nordic country

Saturday-Sunday: Closed

Passport/National ID card with picture (a drivers license is not a

Copenhagen area (including Hje Taastrup)

valid ID)

Borgerservice
Nyropsgade 7

A proof of your address in Denmark (e.g. rental contract or letter

from your landlord/owner)
Marriage certificate and/or childrens birth certificates (if applicable)

1602 Kbenhavn V
Phone: 3366 3366
For personal enquiries the opening hours are as follows:
Monday-Wednesday: 10-17
Thursday: 09-18

The blue EU health insurance card, if you have one

Friday: 10-15
Saturday-Sunday: Closed

15

Getting Started 2016-2017

Upon registering with the

Civil Registration System, you
will receive a national health
insurance card (Sygesikringskort)

If you live in Copenhagen, you can also register with the International
Citizen Service. They also offer assistance with e.g.:
Residence permit for non-EU citizens
Registration certificate for EU citizens
Tax card
Civil registration number (CPR)

Health Insurance: Coverage when

registering with the Danish Civil
Registration System
The Danish healthcare system offers equal and universal access
for all residents. As an international student and resident in Denmark you will have the same access to free medical treatments with
some exceptions, such as dental care and physiotherapy, as Danish
citizens.

Health insurance card

Danish drivers license

Students from outside the EU/EEA

In addition they also offer personal guidance on e.g. student jobs,

If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen and you plan to stay in Denmark for

the Danish tax system, Danish courses, and other useful information

more than 3 months then you must obtain a Danish residence permit

concerning your stay in Denmark. For more information:

and register with the Civil Registration System. Hereafter you are
entitled to free medical treatment in Denmark.

http://icitizen.dk/
Copenhagen area
International Citizen Service East
Gyldenlvesgade 11
1600 Kbenhavn

Students from the EU/EEA or

Switzerland

Phone: 3366 6606

If you are an EU/EEA citizen or a Swiss national and plan to stay in

Email: east@icitizen.dk

Denmark for more than 3 months, and provided you are covered by
the statutory health insurance service in your home country, you enjoy

Opening hours:

full access to the Danish national healthcare system once you have

Monday-Wednesday: 10.00-15.00

registered with the Civil Registration System. To register you must

Thursday: 11.00-15.00

present an E106 form, a S1 Portable Document, or a valid EHIC card

Friday: 10.00-14.00

issued by your statutory health insurance.

Saturday-sunday: Closed

How to register with the Civil

Registration System
When registering with the Civil Registration System you must choose
whether you want to be insured in Group 1 or Group 2.

16

A guide for degree and exchange students

Care offered by General practitioners (GPs) and specialists in Group

1 is free of charge - and you will be asked to choose a GP who will
refer you to a specialist when necessary. If you choose to be insured
in Group 2 you will not be assigned a specific GP but will enjoy access
to any GP or specialist on request initially at your own cost. However, only a part of the costs for treatment in Group 2 is reimbursed.
Roughly 98% of Danish residents are insured in Group 1.

NemID
NemID is your digital signature and the key to digital Denmark.
NemID is a single login for public websites. This applies, for example,
when you: use online banking, change your address, see your tax,
choose a doctor and leave Denmark. NemID consists of: a User ID, a
Password and a code card with codes (one-times codes). For information about NemID go to:

The Danish National Health

Insurance Card

www.nemid.nu/dk-en/

Upon registering with the Civil Registration System, you will receive

e-Boks

a national health insurance card (Sygesikringskort). The card is

your proof that you are entitled to all public healthcare services in

e-Boks is a digital mailbox. You have to register and log on using

Denmark and must be presented at all visits to doctors, hospitals and

your NemID. Then you can choose who you wish to receive mail from.

at pharmacists when collecting prescription drugs.

This may be your bank, insurance company or municipality. For more

information go to:

The card states your name, address and your Civil Personal Registration (CPR) number as well as the name and address of your doctor.

www.e-boks.dk/Default.aspx

It also provides healthcare coverage for up to one month on holiday

trips within the EU/EEA and Switzerland.

Insurance

Digital Post
Digital post is your online mailbox for digital post from the public

We strongly recommend that you take out adequate insurance while

authorities. All individuals above the age of 15 registered with a

studying in Denmark. The following insurance is recommended:

Danish civil registration number (CPR number) receive Digital Post

from public authorities. Digital Post includes any letters from hospital,

Third-party liability insurance (ansvarsforsikring) covering

expenses if you have to pay compensation to another person

pension statements, information about state education support (SU),

changes to housing benefits, letters from the Danish Tax and Customs Administration (SKAT), etc. You can choose to make e-Boks your

Accident insurance (ulykkesforsikring) covering the financial

consequences of an accident

digital mailbox for mail from public authorities. Then you will have all
your mail from public authorities and private companies filed in one
place. You also have the possibility for exemption from using Digital

Home insurance (indboforsikring) for your personal belongings

Post if you fulfil certain criteria. For more information go to:

Car insurance (bilforsikring) If you bring a car with you, please

https://lifeindenmark.borger.dk/Pages/Digital-Post.aspx

make sure it is properly insured. If you decide to take out the insurance in Denmark, try contacting some of the larger insurance
companies. They have websites in English.

17

Getting Started 2016-2017

What to d
arrival at

18

A guide for degree and exchange students

do upon
RUC

E-mail Account
All students need to have a RUC e-mail account. You can get your
username and password at the Service Desk in building 30. The
username is also your email address, so if your username is johndoe,
your address will be johndoe@ruc.dk. It is of great importance that
you check your RUC e-mail regularly, since it is used to remind you to
sign up for exams, renew your student card etc.
Opening hours of the Service Desk are:
Monday-Friday: 8.00-16.00

Student Card
Every student at RUC gets a student card. Go to the photo booth in
building 30 to take your photo and pick up the student card at theService Desk in building 30 afterwards,
The card has several purposes. First and foremost, it serves to identify you as a student at RUC. Secondly, it works as your library card.
Thirdly, it works as an access card to your department at the university, or your house as we call it at RUC. In order to use the card as an
access card, you have to activate it. This can be done at the Service
Desk in building 30.

Course Registration
The different subjects at RUC have different procedures for course
registration. You will receive information from your own subject on
how to register for courses. If you have any doubts or questions about
course registration, you should contact the secretariat at your own
subject.

19

Getting Started 2016-2017

Student life
Roskilde Un
Facilities on campus

Student House
The Student House at RUC is located in Building 13. It is driven by
students on a voluntary basis and works as a gathering place for

Bookshop

both smaller, casual meetings as well as larger events. You will find

You can buy all of your course literature at the bookshop, Academic

opening hours for the caf, opportunities to volunteer or use the

Books, which can be found in building 01. More information at:

house, and more information at:

www.academicbooks.dk/en

http://studenterhusetruc.dk/?lang=en

How to Print, Copy and Scan

University Canteen

There are different types of multi-function machines for printing and

The university canteen, or RUCaf as it is called, is located in building

copying at RUC. The multi-function machines can all print, copy and

01. In the canteen you can buy hot and cold drinks, chocolate, home-

scan to e-mail. For more information on how to print, scan and copy

made bread, cakes and other essentials. From 11 - 13.30 at least

go to (you need your RUC login to access this page):

two hot meals are offered one of which is vegetarian. There is also a
salad bar, sandwiches and smrrebrd (Danish open sandwiches

www.ruc.dk/en/print-kopi-scan

on rye bread).

IT

University Library

All students can connect to the wireless network at RUC, Eduroam.

The Roskilde University library was inaugurated in 2001 and we like

It is available in every building - and even some outdoor areas. This

to pride ourselves of the facilities that among others include a com-

network is also available at other universities participating in the

prehensive reference collection and 100 readers seats with comput-

arrangement. You can bring your own computer to RUC and log on to

ers. At the library you can also read newspapers and journals. Find

Plugn Study with or without a cable. You can find a guide of how to

more information at:

connect to Plugn Study at:

http://rub.ruc.dk/en/
https://intra.ruc.dk/en/employees/services-to-employees/financeit-and-technical-services-fit/it/guides/internet-access/eduroam/
Sports Facilities
RUSIS (Roskilde Universitets Studenter Idrts Sektion) offers exercise
and sports activities for students and employees at RUC. They have
a fully equipped exercise centre and co-ordinate other activities
and sports at RUC, e.g., martial arts, gymnastics and soccer. You are
required to pay a membership fee. More information at:
www.studenterraadet.dk/en/rucsport

20

at
niversity

21

Getting Started 2016-2017

Administration and services

International Team
The International Team is the administrative coordinator of the entire
exchange process. Here you can have guidance and direction. You
can contact the International Team via email exchange@ruc.dk or
phone (+45) 46742144 or stop by the Exchange Service Desk, which
is open Monday- Tuesday 9:30-12:30 and Thursday 12:30-15:30.

Student Counselling Service

The Student Counselling, located in building 01 offers free and
anonymous social, psychological and psychiatric counselling and
guidance to students. You can contact the secretary personally or by
telephone Monday to Thursday from 9.00-12 + 12:30-15 and Friday
from 9.00-13.00, phone 7026 7500. You can also send an e-mail to
ruc@srg.dk
http://www.srg.dk/uk

Student Administration at the Departments

Student Service Centre

Each department offers various kinds of administrative support that

The Student Service Centre, located in building 30 is responsible

concern the programmes offered at the department. This includes

for a large number of formal matters of central importance to the

e.g. planning of examinations, course registration, processing credit

administrative part of your life as a student. This involves e.g. your

transfer applications and introduction to the programmes.

registration at the university, change of study programme, issue of

For more information go to:

diplomas, disenrollment, leave of absence and student cards. Phone:

(+45) 46743461

www.ruc.dk/en/departments/
Opening hours are:
Study and Careers Service

Monday-Wednesday: 9:30-12:30

The Study and Careers Service located in building 30 is the joint

Thursday: 12:30-15:30

student guidance office. They offer guidance regarding admission,

Friday: closed

the study structure, study programmes, choice of degree programme

etc. You can contact them by phone 4674 3092 or write an e-mail to

University Chaplain and Room for Worship

vejledning@ruc.dk. In the following link you can find more information

You can contact the University Chaplain, Ulla Pierri Enevoldsen, if you

about the Study and Careers Service and in addition information

need someone to talk to regardless of your religious beliefs. You can

about the study guidance at the programmes at undergraduate and

contact the chaplain personally or by telephone. If you want to set up

graduate level:

an appointment, you can contact her by phone 4674 2394 or send an

e-mail to pastor@ruc.dk. For more information:

http://www.ruc.dk/en/education/study-and-career-service/
kontakt/the-central-study-and-career-service/

http://pastor.ruc.dk/english/
RUC has also established a room for worship and silent prayer in
building 03. The room is open to everyone regardless of their religious beliefs.

22

A guide for degree and exchange students

Student clubs, associations and

social events

Student Council

Thursday Bar (Torsdagsbar)

of committees and groups are a part of the students council such as

The Thursday Bar (Torsdagsbar) is an event you should not miss,

international students. Students can contact the students council,

if you want to experience a part of typical Danish student life. Here

if they have ideas for activities related to educational policies and

you can socialise with other students after classes and relax with a

social relations. If you have any questions, send an e-mail to student-

beer or a cup of coffee. The Thursday bar is hosted in RUCbar Friday

erraadet@studenterraadet.dk or find more information at:

The student council (Studenterrdet) is the students organisation at

RUC and is run by volunteer students. It represents the students interests regarding educational policy and social relations. A wide range

bar & Caf and is open every Thursday 15.00-20.00 and Friday
14.00-20.00. You can find it in the Student House in building 13, or

https://www.studenterraadet.dk/en

the canteen right next to the RuCaf. Check out upcoming events on
Facebook:

490873380996084/?fref=ts

Language courses for international

students

International Club (IC)

Academic English

The IC is an excellent way to meet other students, both Danish and in-

Courses in academic English are offered at RUC to a limited number

ternational students. It is an opportunity for you to learn about other

of students each year. More information on your possibilities at:

https://www.facebook.com/RUCbars-Fredagsbar-og-Caf-

cultures and participate in many social events, trips etc. Find them on
Facebook:

www.ruc.dk/en/education/efter-og-videreuddannelser/
language-and-intercultural-communication-services-lics/

https://www.facebook.com/International-Club-at-Roskilde-

academic-english/

University-267583426594921/
Danish Courses
RUC Choir

Danish classes are offered by a company called CLAVIS. You can find

The RUC choir is for students and staff from RUC. The choir practices

more information on Danish language training programmes, offered

on Tuesdays from 16-18 in building 13. Anyone can join the choir,

to international students at RUC. Read more here:

which also performs at many festive occasions both at RUC and outside of RUC. If you have any questions, you can find more information

www.ruc.dk/en/education/efter-og-videreuddannelser/

at: http://studenterhusetruc.dk/events/ruc-choir-7/?lang=en

language-and-intercultural-communication-services-lics/
danish-courses/

Social Networks
Besides the International Club at RUC, we encourage students to
meet with Danes and other international people from other social
circles such as InterNations (www.internations.org). Through other
networks, you will be able to learn more about the Danish culture
through arrangements organized by the clubs, etc.

23

Getting Started 2016-2017

Transpo
Directions to RUC

Public transportation

RUC can be easily accessed by train. It can be reached from Copen-

Trains (www.dsb.dk)

hagen Airport within 45 minutes. You have to get off at Trekroner

You can get a train schedule at any DSB (the Danish railways) ticket

Station, from where it takes 10 minutes to reach the University on foot.

office. If you want to go to Roskilde from Trekroner you must buy a

2-zone ticket. To go to Copenhagen from Trekroner you need a 7-zone

The town of Roskilde can be reached by train from Copenhagen Air-

ticket.

port within 50 minutes. It is situated five minutes from RUC.

You can purchase different types of travel cards. Always pay your fare
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, can be reached within 15

before getting on the train. It is very expensive to get caught trying to

minutes from Copenhagen Airport. It is situated 22 minutes by train

cheat your way to a free ride.

from RUC.
Buses (www.movia.dk)
For more information go to:

The buses are very comfortable and cost the same as the trains. It
is regulated the same way with the zones. The buses usually have

http://www.ruc.dk/en/about-the-university/directions-to-ruc/

shorter routes.
Planning your trip
Check out the journey planner www.journeyplanner.dk when you are
going somewhere by public transportation. This website provides

RUC
22 minutes
by train from
Copenhagen

you with the easiest and quickest way to get from one place to another in Denmark and out of Denmark.
Taxis
Taxis are really expensive in Denmark. You should consider waiting
a bit longer for a train or a bus or maybe walk or ride a bicycle. Taxis
run by meter, so you cannot bargain.
Bicycle
A lot of Danish people ride a bicycle for their everyday transportation.
It is possible to buy a second-hand bicycle to save money (see the
section Markedsplads). Supermarkets like Kvickly and Bilka sell new
bicycles at reasonable prices. If you are only here for one semester,
you might want to rent a bicycle. You can find more information at:
http://copenhagenbikes.dk/studens-rentals/
or send an e-mail to info@rentabikecopenhagen.dk if you want to
learn more or order a bike.

24

A guide for degree and exchange students

ortation

25

Getting Started 2016-2017

Experien
Denmark

26

A guide for degree and exchange students

nce

Roskilde and Copenhagen

offer a wide range of
events. You can find a list
of some of the recurring
events below
Spring
April:
CPH:PIX. Copenhagen International Film Festival
www.cphpix.dk
May 1:

Labour Day. You can join many Danes and go to Flledparken in Copenhagen to celebrate this day.

May:

Copenhagen Beer Festival

June:
Distortion. A five-day music festival moving through different parts of Copenhagen.
www.cphdistortion.dk
June:
Copenhagen carnival
www.karneval-kbh.dk
June/July: Roskilde Festival
www.roskilde-festival.dk
July:
Copenhagen Jazz Festival
www.jazz.dk
July:
Trailerpark Festival
www.trailerparkfestival.com

Fall
August: Strm: Electronic Festival
www.stromcph.dk
August: Copenhagen Pride. Gay pride parade festival
www.copenhagenpride.dk
October: Culture night
www.kulturnatten.dk
If you need more inspiration of what to see and do in Denmark, here are some useful websites:
www.visitdenmark.com
www.visitroskilde.com
www.visitcopenhagen.com
www.aok.dk

27

Getting Started 2016-2017

Other useful
Banks and Currency

Markedsplads (Marketplace)

The Danish Krone (DKK) is the currency of Denmark.

You can send an email to markedsplads@ruc.dk if you need to buy or

sell a bicycle, furniture or other things. It is also useful if you are look-

1 USD is approximately DKK 6,7 and 1 EURO around DKK 7.5 (June

ing for a room to rent. It is a digital notice board that many students

2016)

and members of staff subscribe to.

Banks are open Monday to Friday between 9.30 16.00. Most banks
have extended their opening hours on Thursdays to 17.30. In smaller
towns and villages the opening hours might be shorter. The banks

Pharmacy

are closed on weekends.

Medicine and healthcare products can be bought at a pharmacy, in
Most shops accept VISA or MASTER cards; however, to avoid paying a

Danish Apotek. This is where you pick up prescription drugs, plus

fee, it is advisable to open a Danish bank account.

all non-prescription drugs. If you are in urgent need of medicine there

are some 24-hour pharmacies:

If you wish to open a Danish bank account, you need to have a Danish
CPR-number and an address in Denmark. You should contact a bank

Roskilde area

in person, and bring with you a passport or ID-card and documenta-

Roskilde Dom Apotek

ry proof of your address in Denmark. In most cases it is free of charge

Algade 52

to open an account, however, you should ask the bank for advice

4000 Roskilde

about the different options and the costs associated with them.

Tel: 4632 3277

Copenhagen area

Emergency

Kbenhavns Steno Apotek

Vesterbrogade 6C
1620 Kbenhavn V

In case of an emergency dial 112 and ask for an ambulance, the

Tel: 3314 8266

police or the fire department. There is no charge when you call this
number. It is important to remember that you will be asked to inform

Kbenhavns Snderbro Apotek

the authority of the exact location you are calling from.

Amagerbrogade 158
2300 Kbenhavn S

If you need a doctor during weekends, on a public holiday or after

16.00 on weekdays, you must call the emergency doctor service (lgevagten) you can contact the on-call GP Monday to Friday between
16.00-08.00. On weekends and public holidays they are on call day
and night. Copenhagen area: Tel: 1813, Roskilde area: Tel: 7015
0700. Remember to have your Danish health insurance card (sundhedskort) by you when you call this service.
If you need to contact your local police, or the nearest police in Denmark in cases that are not urgent, you can call 114.

28

Tel: 3258 0140

A guide for degree and exchange students

l information
Public holidays
The following days are public holidays:
2016
Christmas Eve (Juleaften) December 24
Christmas Day (Juledag) December 25
Boxing Day (Anden juledag) December 26
2017
New Years Day (Nytrsdag) January 1
Maundy Thursday (Skrtorsdag) April 13
Good Friday (Langfredag) April 14
Easter Day (Pskedag) April 16
Easter Monday (Anden pskedag) April 17
Common Prayer Day (Store bededag) May 12
Ascension Day (Kristi himmelfartsdag) May 25
Whit Sunday (Pinsedag) June 4
Whit Monday and Constitution Day (Anden pinsedag og Grundlovsdag) June 5
RUC will be closed during public holidays and between Christmas
and New Year including December 24th and January 1st. Shops,
banks and offices are usually closed on the above-mentioned public
holidays.

Shopping
Most shops are open Monday to Friday 10.00 18.00, and until 16.00
on Saturdays. Shops are generally closed on Sundays. In smaller
towns and villages the opening hours might be shorter.
Grocery stores are usually open 08.00 21.00 every day. The cheapest supermarket chains are Rema1000, Netto, Fakta and Aldi. These
are discount grocery stores. If you want a bigger variety of brands
and sometimes better quality, you have to pay more in stores like
Super Brugsen, Kvickly and Ftex where apart from food you will also
find clothes and household supplies at a reasonable price.

29

Getting Started 2016-2017

CAMPUS
Roskilde University

30

Full Degree Students

Contac

A guide for degree and exchange students

At the Student Service Centre in Building 30, you can get help with
study-related and practical matters.
Opening hours at the Student Service Centre
Monday Wednesday: 9.30-12.30
Thursday: 12.30-15.30
Friday: Closed
Email: fulldegree@ruc.dk
Phone: (+45) 4674 3461

Exchange Students

At the Exchange Service Desk, exchange students can get help

with practical matters. Exchange students can also fax papers to

their home institution if necessary.
Opening hours in the Exchange Service Desk
Monday Tuesday: 9.30-12.30
Thursday: 12.30-15.30
Wednesday and Friday: Closed
Email: exchange@ruc.dk
Phone: (+45) 4674 2144

31

DENMARK

Aalborg

ROSKILDE UNIVERSITY (RUC)

Aarhus

Copenhagen
Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup
Odense

Rdby

Colophon
Text
International Office
Photos
Bee-line
Jens Larsen
Lisbeth Holten
Poul Erik Nikander Frandsen
Simon Frsig Christensen
Layout
Team Communication
Print
PrinfoParitas
August 2016

Gedser