University of Copenhagen reverses policy on late exam certificates

The University of Copenhagen will no longer accept exam certificates submitted in August, a last-minute rule change that could cost students their place on their chosen degree programme this year, DR reports.

Previously, students who fell ill before a critical exam could take a make-up test and submit their results later. Now, those who miss exams due to illness risk losing their admission offer if they cannot provide proof of qualification by the deadline.

Linnea Jensen de Leon of the National Union of Students in Denmark criticised the decision, calling it “incredibly difficult” for affected students. She noted that other universities still allow conditional admission, where applicants can submit exam certificates after the initial deadline.

“Make-up exams are not something you plan for, so it’s often necessary to take them in August,” she said.

The change follows a ruling by the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education, which found that the university had been applying conditional admission rules inconsistently. The agency clarified that such rules must apply equally to all applicants.

Pernille Kindtler, head of admissions at the University of Copenhagen, acknowledged the frustration the change may cause but stated the university must comply with the ruling. “We would have liked to continue accepting late certificates, but unfortunately that’s no longer possible,” she said.

The application deadline for higher education programmes is tomorrow at noon.