VET allowance and SVU: economy during an adult basic education course

One of the most common concerns when adults consider FVU is not about the subject matter but about finances: 'Can I even be here if I lose income?' The short answer is that the teaching itself is always free, and there are public support schemes that can cover some of the income loss – but it requires knowing the right terms and applying to the right place.

§Two different schemes — not the same

It is easy to confuse VEU allowance and SVU, because both are about compensating for loss of income during education. But they cover different types of education. VEU allowance is aimed primarily at vocationally oriented adult and further education, including AMU courses. For participants in FVU, however, it is the State Education Grant (SVU) that must be applied for, for the part of the course that constitutes FVU.

§State Adult Education Support (SVU)

SVU is the support scheme created precisely for adults who are doing FVU or dyslexia tuition alongside a job. The support is paid per week and is taxable, like wages. The rates are adjusted annually, and they are highest for the most basic education levels – which reflects that FVU typically targets those with the shortest educations in the first place.

§VET allowance – for AMU and vocational further education

VET allowance is related but is typically used when an employed person participates in an AMU course. From January 1, 2026, the rate is DKK 1,017 per day, equivalent to DKK 137.50 per hour for the hours the employee participates in teaching. The scheme is normally applied for by the employer, who in return can have part of the wage costs covered while the employee is on a course.

§Who should apply, and how?

• 01If you are at work and need to take FVU, it is generally SVU that is relevant.
• 02Application typically occurs through the educational institution or the digital application system for continuing education
• 03If you are unemployed, your unemployment fund or job centre may be the gateway to clarifying what support you can receive.
• 04If your employer sends you to an AMU course, it is typically the employer who applies for VEU compensation.

§Ask before you say no to yourself

Many give up on the idea of FVU because they think it is too expensive to take time off work. In practice, there is often a solution – but you only find it by asking. An advisor at the FVU provider, your a-kasse or your employer's HR department can help clarify which arrangement suits your situation before you decide.

Economy is rarely the actual barrier to getting started with FVU – it is often a lack of knowledge that support exists. With the right clarification in place, most can find a model where both everyday finances and learning go together.