The Danish government has presented a proposal on how to improve the admissions system in higher education and invited the parties of the Parliament to negotiations. The government proposal encompasses four political objectives:

1. A balanced focus on marks and a healthy learning culture;
2. A better match between the applicant and the education programme;
3. Increased social mobility;
4. Several and more transparent ways into higher education.

The purpose of the proposal is to address challenges in the present system such as an unhealthy culture of perfection and increasing scramble for higher marks, a not well-considered choice of education for some applicants, too unequal ways into the higher education system, and a too complex admissions system.

The government proposes four initiatives:

1. More suitable use of marks in quota one*;
2. A more suitable admission through quota two;
3. More homogenous and transparent screening;
4. A more reflective choice of education programmes.

The government substantiates each initiative with specific suggestions on how to fulfil the objectives and improve the admissions system:

• Regarding a more suitable use of marks in quota one, the government proposes a maximum required average mark of ten and that selection on educational programmes with a required average mark of ten or higher is to be based on a subject-specific assessment;
• Proposals for a more suitable admission through quota two include a new common national admission test, five years of relevant work experience as qualifying for higher education, and a minimum of 25 per cent of the student places at all educational programmes offered via quota two;
• For the purpose of more homogenous and transparent screening, the government proposes simplified and homogenous admission requirements, and common criteria;
• Proposals for a more reflective choice of education programme include a strengthened educational guidance and reflection integrated in the application process in the form of questions to encourage reflection and inspire the young people to apply for other education programmes.

*For information on the Danish quota system, please visit: Regulations of Admission (Quota 1 and Quota 2) 

For more information (in Danish): More ways, new opportunities: A new and improved admissions system in higher education.

Source:  Eurydice Unit Denmark