Learn more about salary in a student job

Each year, IDA sets an indicative minimum wage for its members. This minimum wage is also calculated for students looking for study-relevant work. It can serve as a reference during salary negotiations, but be aware that there is a difference between the private and public sector.

The hourly wage is inclusive of pension and calculated for students in a STEM-relevant job.

IDA’s recommended hourly wage for student assistants is:

• Students pursuing a bachelor’s/diploma in engineering: DKK 196
• Students pursuing a master’s degree: DKK 212

When you land a student job, it’s important to understand what rights you have. Because even if you haven’t graduated yet, you actually have quite a bit!

Your rights depend primarily on your number of hours and the type of work you do, and student jobs often fall under the Civil Service Act (Funktionærloven), which means you have certain minimum requirements.

The rights you have as a student in a student job are often the same as those that apply to full-time employees. These rights include, for example, minimum rules regarding termination, pay during maternity leave for birth parents, and pay during sickness.

For example, you are normally entitled to a notice period if your employer wishes to terminate your employment. But it can vary quite a bit depending on the length of your employment period and the contract. As for the salary, there is no statutory minimum salary for student jobs in Denmark, but IDA recommends that you negotiate the salary with your employer, even if you are “just” a student.

Here again, your rights depend on your contract and employment relationship.

If you are not employed under the Civil Service Act and there are no special provisions for pay during illness in your contract, you are normally only entitled to the sick pay rate for the hours you are on sick leave. Review your contract to determine if you are entitled to sick pay. If it is not mentioned, you can try to negotiate it.

Some employers may offer special terms and conditions in their employment contracts. It is crucial to read and understand your contract and make sure your rights and expectations are clearly defined. Check if the hours are guaranteed and understand the terms and conditions as they apply to you. It is important that you not only get meaningful work experience, but also fair treatment and pay for effort. Finally, do not hesitate to send the contract to us so that we can check it for any errors or omissions. Then you get peace of mind and a good start on the job.

Get help from IDAs legal advisors.

Figures from IDA’s graduate analysis show that your unemployment period is reduced if you have a job relevant to your studies. Newly graduated IDA members who have had study-relevant jobs are, on average, unemployed 1 month less than the rest of the new graduates.

We also know that there is a greater chance of becoming a full-time employee if you have already become familiar with a company. A third of newly graduated IDA members find full employment with a company where they have had a student job, have had an internship with or both. (Graduate trend analysis, 2021)

You are undeniably in a stronger position when you have to apply for your first full-time job if you already have some experience before you finish your studies. IDA has carried out a survey among companies which shows that 73% of the companies surveyed recommend students to find a relevant study job alongside their studies. 41% recommend that you write a project and or thesis with a company. And 34% of companies recommend that you start looking for a full-time job before you finish your studies.

Finding the right balance between study, work, and leisure can be challenging, but it’s crucial for your well-being. Prioritize your studies and plan your time carefully. Set realistic goals and determine how much time you have for a student job. Once you have a job, establish working hours and communicate your needs to your manager. This helps create a good balance and avoid stress.

Integrate social activities into your schedule to boost your energy and reduce stress. Spend time with friends and family, and also ensure you have time alone to relax. Social activities can energize you and improve your well-being. Flexibility and good communication with employers, teachers, and friends are key to handling unforeseen challenges. Give yourself some leeway during busy periods, like exam times. Most people will understand that you need to focus on your studies during these periods.

Remember, it’s okay to take a break and prioritize your mental health. Finding a balance takes time and adjustments, but it’s important for your long-term well-being and success. Make sure to take time for yourself, whether it’s a run, a good book, or something else that brings you peace.

By planning your time and communicating your needs, you can find a balance that works for you. It’s important to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances. Remember, it’s a learning process, and it’s okay to adjust your plan along the way. Your well-being and success depend on your ability to find this balance and take care of yourself.