All applications to be digital by 2012

– University applications must be done digitally from next year. It is easier and cheaper for the individual applicants who save on postage and paper. The internet is such an integral part of young people's daily lives and I'm convinced the only reason that some people continue with paper applications is out of habit, says Science Minister Charlotte Sahl-Madsen.

This year, 48 per cent of higher education applicants sent in applications digitally. There has been a significant increase in digital applications in recent years. In 2009, there were 20.1 per cent of applications were digital, while in 2005 there were just 2.6 per cent.

In 2012, all applicants who must apply by July 5th will have to do so digitally via www.optagelse.dk. Applicants who have a deadline of March 15th (quota 2 applicants, international students and those with special needs) will continue to apply via a paper application. It is expected that from 2013, these applicants will also apply digitally.

– Universities should be a digital spearhead. It should be possible to do everything digitally – form the first application to the last exam. Therefore, I've set a number of initiatives in motion that look at how we can improve teaching, exams, applications and communication with the aid of digital opportunities. There is enormous potential and it is evident that universities can lead the way, especially as their target audience – young people – already have the necessary competences, says Charlotte Sahl-Madsen.

Science Minister Charlotte Sahl-Madsen can be contacted via press officer Charlotte Holst, tel: +45 2211 0200 or email: chhh@vtu.dk .

Source: UNI-C and the Coordinated Enrolment System's (in Danish: KOT) key figures for 2005-2011.