Funding and financial support

European Film College operates as a Danish folk high school, which means that we receive substantial support from the Danish Government per student. This funding model allows us to offer a unique and high-quality programme at a relatively low cost compared to many private international film schools.

Because the college is already state-subsidised, our own scholarship opportunities for international students are extremely limited. We therefore strongly encourage all prospective students to investigate and secure their own full financing before applying. 

The most realistic path to securing funding, if you cannot raise the money yourself, is through external sources in your home country or via international foundations. It depends on your country, of course, but here are some general strategies and options you should explore.

Support from your home country

Many countries have national grant programmes or loan options for students wishing to study abroad, especially within artistic and cultural fields such as film production.

You should contact ministries, educational authorities, or national funds in your home country for knowledge about support for studies in Denmark/Europe. For instance, countries like Norway and Sweden offer student aid or student loans to their citizens for studying abroad. It is however, important that you inform the authorities that a folk high school is a non-formal education that does not offer any academic credits. 

International scholarships and organisations

Some international programmes may also be relevant, although they are often aimed at university level education, which a folk high school is not.

Examples of international organisations that might offer limited funding are The Nordic Council, Fulbright, Rotary, and the German Academic Exchange Service. They often have limitations in terms of academic studies etc. but you can look into it.

General advice for grant applications

You should use international online databases that compile grants and scholarships for studying abroad. Try searching for scholarships in film production, visual arts, or creative education.

In many of these applications, it can be a good idea to document your talent and your experience in film and art, if you have any. Although it is not a requirement here at EFC, many foundations weigh this heavily.

And remember, grant applications are often 6-12 months before the start of studies. So it's important that you begin your search and your application process early.