Increasing Interest in SDU’s Programmes via Quota 2
The figures for this year’s applications to higher education programmes via quota 2 have been published. The University of Southern Denmark has seen a rise in the number of applicants for the third year in a row.
Applications via quota 2 for SDU’s bachelor programmes in 2025 show an increase compared to last year. SDU received 16,804 applications by the deadline of 15 March, marking a 13% rise compared to 2024. The number of first-priority applications is 4,597. This is 237 more than last year, representing an increase of 5%.
The educational environments on SDU’s campuses in Sønderborg, Kolding and especially Esbjerg are witnessing a surge in applications for their programmes. Odense and Kolding both report a 12% increase, while Esbjerg has seen applications soar by 216%. The new bachelor programme in Psychology accounts for much of the increase, with 700 applications.
Overall, applications to natural science programmes at SDU are up 31%, health sciences are up 25%, and social sciences are up 8%. SDU's humanities programmes are experiencing a decline of 2% this year, which is a smaller drop than in 2023–2024.
As in previous years, there is significant interest in SDU’s programmes from prospective international students who have applied for one or more programmes. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the number of Danish applicants this year has increased by 19% compared to 2024.
There is still a long way to go from the current application stage to new students starting their studies in September, as many apply to multiple programmes, and not all applicants meet the admission requirements or accept a student place.
Positive Trend
The increase in applications is a positive trend, which pleases Helle Waagepetersen, Pro-Rector for Education at the University of Southern Denmark.
‘According to SDU’s strategy, we aim to deliver excellent graduates and even more attractive and diverse study environments. I’m delighted by the great interest the University is receiving, with the increasing number of applications, many of which are first priority,’ she says.
‘It’s encouraging that we’re seeing an overall increase again this year despite major changes in the academic world and shrinking youth cohorts. I’m particularly excited about our new Psychology programme in Esbjerg, which will admit students for the first time in 2025. Of the 700 applications the programme has received, 150 are first priorities. We are very pleased with these applications,’ Helle Waagepetersen emphasises.
‘We are now starting the process of selecting the most suitable students who will ultimately be offered a student place at SDU.’
The programme offerings at the master’s level have also seen an increase in the number of applications.
By the 1 March deadline for the first round of applications for SDU’s master’s degree programmes, the University had received 11,490 applications. Overall, the figures are 5% up from last year’s application cycle. For applications to master’s degree programmes, the increase is also largely driven by applications from international students.