Studying in Austria: Universities, tuition, and requirements

Learn everything about studying in Austria. Explore universities, application requirements, and tuition fees in Austria to prepare for your studies.

Greta

6 minute read

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Updated on 16 Aug 2024

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Studying

Famous for its top-notch education, exciting culture, safety, and affordability, Austria is a fantastic choice for international students. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about studying in Austria for international students, from tuition fees and requirements to finding the perfect Austrian university.

Studying in Austria is more affordable than in other European countries. Students from other EU member countries generally study for free at public universities. Whereas international students should budget between €1,500 - €15,000 annually. If you choose a private university, the total annual budget can reach up to €50,600 or more.

Tuition fees in Austria for international students

Studying in Austria is relatively affordable, especially if you're an EU/EEA or Swiss national. Here's a breakdown of the tuition fees in Austria for international students:

Public universities in Austria:

• EU/EEA or Swiss students: Free of charge
• Non-EU/EEA students: €726 per semester
• All students pay student union membership and student accident insurance fees of €20.20 per semester

Universities of Applied Sciences in Austria:

• EU/EEA or Swiss students: €363 per semester
• Non-EU/EEA students: €727 – €7,500 per semester

Private universities in Austria:

• All students: €1,500 – €17,500 per semester or more

Austrian scholarships for international students

Austria offers various scholarships for international students to support their studies. Some of the best scholarships for international students who want to study in Austria include:

1. Erasmus+ Scholarships: These scholarships are available for students from EU and EEA countries and offer funding for exchange programs and study periods in Austria.

2. OeAD scholarships: The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research (OeAD) provides several scholarships for international students, including the Ernst Mach Grant for studying in Austria and the Joint Excellence in Science and Humanities (JESH) for doctoral students.

3. Institutional scholarships: These scholarships can differ from one university and program to another, so it's essential to check with your chosen university.

4. Austrian government scholarship: This fully-funded scholarship is available for international students at all levels of study in Austria.

5. Austrian development cooperation scholarships: These scholarships are aimed at students from developing countries who wish to pursue higher education in Austria in various fields such as natural sciences, technical sciences, and social sciences.

6. Research grants: If you're pursuing research in Austria, consider applying for research grants from organisations such as the Austrian Science Fund (FWF).

To apply for these scholarships, it's important to research the eligibility criteria, application deadlines and required documents for each scholarship program.

Yes, you can study in English in Austria. Many Austrian universities offer English-taught programs, primarily at the graduate level, to attract international students. While a few also offer undergraduate programs in English, most undergrad courses are in German.

To find English-taught programs, visit university websites or use online databases. Be sure to check specific admission and language requirements for each program.

Austria boasts top-notch universities renowned for their academic excellence and a wide range of programs catering to international students.

Here’s a list of the best universities in Austria, along with their respective rankings in the QS World University Rankings 2025:

The application process for studying in Austria can vary depending on your chosen university and program. To make the process smoother, here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Check the admission requirements for Austrian universities

• The admission criteria can vary and might contain language proficiency, the submission of a portfolio, or even an admission exam, depending on the specific program you opt for.

2. Prepare the following documents to study in Austria

• Proof of identification, such as an ID or passport
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A motivational letter explaining why you’ve chosen the program
• Proof of English or German language proficiency
• Your high school diploma or an equivalent qualification
• Transcript of records that shows the grades from your previous studies
• Proof of payment for the application fee
• In some cases, a recommendation letter from your last professors

Note: Make sure to submit all documents in their original form along with a German translation.

3. Take the required language proficiency test to study in Austria

• Typically, you'll need a minimum B2 level in the language of instruction for the chosen degree program to study in Austria. If your German proficiency falls below the requirements, you can sometimes enrol in a non-degree university preparation program to optimise your language skills.

4. Apply via the university website

Usually, non-EU students should submit their applications by early September for the winter semester and early February for the summer semester.

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, the deadlines typically fall in mid-October for the winter semester and mid-March for the summer semester. But remember to double-check the specific deadlines set by your chosen universities, as they can vary.

6. Pay the application fees for the Austrian university: Once you've submitted your application, promptly pay any required application fees.

7. Interviews and admissions tests: Depending on your chosen program, you need to attend interviews or take admissions tests.

8. Receive and accept an offer: If you receive an offer of admission, carefully review it and follow the instructions to accept your place at the university.

9. Apply for a student visa and residence permit: If you're an international student, you must apply for a student residence permit and Visa D to study in Austria. Be sure to initiate this process as soon as you have your university acceptance letter.

After all that's done you should arrange your accommodation, secure your plane tickets, and address any remaining items on your relocation checklist for Austria.

The average monthly cost of living in Austria for students varies between €995 and €1,480, depending on your choice of accommodation and the Austrian city where you choose to live. Check out our guide to the best cities to live in Austria if you haven't decided where you want to study in Austria yet.

Here's a breakdown of monthly living costs for students in Austria on average:

Higher education structure

Studying in Austria consists of 3 primary cycles: the Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, and Doctorate. Bachelor's programs typically take 3 years, followed by 2 years for a Master's degree. Doctoral studies are research-oriented and vary in duration.

Academic year

The academic year in Austria typically begins in October and runs through to the end of September the following year. It's divided into 2 semesters: the winter semester (from October to January) and the summer semester (from March to June).

Grading system

Austria’s grading system is based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the highest and 5 the lowest. The passing grade is usually 4.

Here's an overview of the Austrian grading system:

Exams and assessments

Assessments in Austrian universities are a mix of written exams, coursework, presentations, and practical projects. Exams are typically held at the end of each semester, while continuous assessment may contribute to final grades.

What are Austrian university classes like?

University classes in Austria often emphasise interactive learning and critical thinking. While lectures are common, many courses include smaller seminars or practical exercises to encourage student engagement. Professors are approachable, and students are encouraged to ask questions and participate actively in discussions. The multicultural environment is enriched by international students, contributing to a vibrant and diverse classroom experience.