Americans Studying Medicine In Austria: Is It Possible?

Americans can study medicine in Europe, and many choose to do so because of the lower tuition fees and living costs compared to the US. European medical schools are also more likely to accept international students. However, if Americans want to practice medicine in the US after graduating from a European medical school, they will need to pass the USMLE.

Visa requirements for Americans studying in Austria

U.S. citizens intending to stay in Austria for longer than 90 days or who plan to work there must obtain an Austrian visa. For periods of study in Austria of less than 90 days, Americans fall under the "visa waiver program" and do not need a visa.

If you are studying in Austria for a period of up to six months, you will need an Austrian National Visa D (residence visa). For longer periods of study, you may need a residence permit, which is different from the Austrian National Visa D.

To obtain an Austrian National Visa D, you must apply no earlier than three months before your departure date and no later than four weeks before. The processing time is generally around 15 calendar days, and the embassy will not answer inquiries during this time. You will need to submit your application in person at the local Embassy of Austria in Washington D.C. or, if you are a resident of another jurisdiction area, at your local Austrian embassy/consular authority.

The following documents are required as part of your application:

• A valid and signed passport or travel document, valid for at least three months after the date of departure from Austria or the Schengen zone, with at least two empty pages, and issued within the previous 10 years.
• A Visa D application form, completed and signed.
• Two recent passport pictures meeting specific size criteria.
• Travel itinerary/ airline reservation showing dates of travel for the entire journey.
• Proof of lodging in Austria, such as a hotel reservation or student accommodations.
• Proof of travel insurance or health/accident insurance providing coverage in the Schengen countries, stating the name of the insurance company, type of coverage, and amount of coverage (minimum USD 50,000).
• A copy of your passport and "Green Card" or US visa.
• Consular fee: payment must be made in US$ per money order (payable to Embassy of Austria) or cash (exact change only). This fee is non-refundable if the Visa application is accepted.
• Proof of financial means (e.g. scholarship, letter of grants, bank statement of the last two months, or other proof of income).
• If not a U.S. citizen, an original U.S. residence permit "Green Card" (notarized copy not accepted) or US visa valid for at least three months after the last day in the Schengen state.
• Visas of countries you intend to visit after your stay in Austria.

If you are participating in a student program lasting less than six months, you will also need:

• An original letter issued by your educational institution.
• Original proof of registration.
• Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g. scholarship letter, bank statement, or other proof of income).
• Proof of lodging in Austria (e.g. lease contract, ownership papers).

Additionally, all applicants applying for a Visa to enter Austria must submit biometric data (ten fingerprints).

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and visa requirements may be subject to change. Always check the Austrian Embassy website for the most up-to-date information.

Entrance exams for American students in Austria

Austria is one of the leading countries in Europe for academics and research, making it an excellent place to take your first steps in your medical career. The country boasts modern facilities and equipment, and its universities welcome foreign students, especially those working in research.

To study medicine in Austria, American students must pass an entrance exam. All Austrian universities hold admission exams to medical faculties at the same time, and applicants can only apply to one university at a time. The exams cover biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and an IQ test.

Requirements for Studying Medicine in Austria

To be admitted to an Austrian university, applicants must provide proof of "General University Entrance Qualification" with one of the following:

• A foreign high school diploma
• Completion of at least three years of post-secondary education in a recognised local or foreign educational institution
• An international baccalaureate diploma obtained according to the "International Regulations"
• Language proficiency certificates in German or English by passing the university admission course
• Proof of registration in a preparatory course at an accredited Austrian institute
• A copy of your passport or birth certificate

Additionally, applicants must have sufficient German knowledge. If necessary, an examination will be taken to test this.

Tuition Fees for Studying Medicine in Austria

The tuition fee for non-European Union citizens studying medicine in Austria is 800 euros per year. European citizens can study medicine for free.

Medical Curriculum in Austria

The medical curriculum in Austria is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics. The 6-year medical program aims to educate students to become doctors in all specialties, covering both theory and application. There is a high value placed on practicing the concepts taught, with an 18-week training program and a 48-week clinical training included in the 6-year study.

Top Medical Schools in Austria

Some of the top medical schools in Austria include:

• Vienna Medical University
• Medical University of Graz
• Medical University of Innsbruck
• Paracelsus Medical University Private, Salzburg

The application process for Americans

Firstly, it is important to note that US citizens are permitted to study medicine in Europe, and many universities will provide their programs entirely in English. Over the last decade, more than 100 European medical schools have started offering their programs in English, making them more accessible to students from the US.

If you are an American considering applying to a medical school in Austria, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:

Step 1: Research and choose your preferred medical schools in Austria

Start by making a list of medical schools in Austria that offer programs in English and are recognized by the World Directory of Medical Schools. You can visit the official websites of these schools to gather information about their admission requirements, application deadlines, and specific programs offered.

Step 2: Prepare the required documents

The required documents for applying to medical schools in Austria may vary, but here is a list of commonly requested documents:

• Completed application form: Fill out the application form provided by the university carefully and accurately.
• High school diploma and transcripts: You will need to submit your high school diploma and transcripts as proof of completing secondary education. If these documents are not in English, you may need to provide translated copies.
• Entrance exam scores (if required): Some medical schools in Austria may require entrance exams such as the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). Check with your chosen universities to see if this is a requirement and what specific exams they accept.
• Letters of recommendation: Most medical schools will require letters of recommendation from teachers or other professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and potential as a medical student.
• Proof of English proficiency: Since you will be studying in English, you may be required to provide test scores from English proficiency exams such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
• Personal statement or essay: This is your chance to tell the admissions committee about your motivations for studying medicine, your career goals, and any unique experiences that make you a strong candidate.

Step 3: Submit your application

Once you have gathered all the required documents, submit your application by the specified deadline. Each university may have its own application process, so be sure to follow the instructions provided by your chosen medical schools.

Step 4: Wait for a response

After submitting your application, exercise patience as the admissions committee reviews your application. The response time may vary depending on the university and the number of applicants. Some schools may also conduct interviews as part of their admissions process.

Step 5: Obtain a student visa

If you are accepted into a medical program in Austria, you will need to apply for a student visa. Contact the Austrian embassy or consulate in your country to inquire about the specific visa requirements and application process. You may be required to provide proof of financial resources to support your stay in Austria, as well as proof of health insurance.

Step 6: Prepare for your move to Austria

Once your visa is approved, start preparing for your move to Austria. This includes arranging accommodation, purchasing travel tickets, and familiarizing yourself with the local culture and customs. You may also want to research the cost of living in Austria and create a budget for your expenses during your studies.

Step 7: Enroll in your chosen medical school

After arriving in Austria, complete the enrollment process at your chosen medical school. This may involve registering for courses, paying tuition fees, and attending orientation sessions for international students.

Step 8: Start your medical studies in Austria!

Congratulations! You have successfully navigated the application process, and now your medical studies in Austria can begin. Remember to stay motivated, work hard, and take advantage of the cultural and academic opportunities that come with studying abroad.

Language requirements for medical school in Austria

Austria is a leading country in the field of academics and research in Europe. It has seven global medical schools that offer courses in medicine. These include the Medical University of Vienna and the Medical University of Innsbruck.

Language Requirements

Austrian medical schools teach in the local language, German. However, the language of instruction at some medical schools is English.

The Medical University of Vienna, for instance, requires proof of German language proficiency at level C1 for admission to German-language studies. International students who are not proficient in German are required to take additional German classes for a year alongside their curriculum.

Other Requirements

Other requirements for admission to Austrian medical schools include:

• Submission of supporting documents, which may vary according to the applicant's nationality and the country that issued their school-leaving certificate.
• Taking an entrance test called "MedAT".
• General and special university entrance qualifications.

Returning to the US to practice medicine after studying in Austria

Yes, Americans can go to Austrian medical schools. However, the challenge of returning to the US to practice medicine is still significant. Students returning from European medical schools must compete with medical students and doctors who have studied at more well-known and respected schools in the US, giving them an advantage over students who studied in Europe.

Firstly, in many cases, medical schools in Europe, especially in Eastern Europe, are perceived as "second world" schools that do not represent the most modern of medical studies. This perception bears significant weight on the mobility and ability of new doctors to practice in leading hospitals and clinics.

Secondly, not all European medical schools are up to standard, making it more challenging to return to the US to practice or transfer to an American medical school. That is why it is recommended to look at European medical schools recognised by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), which examines foreign medical programs under accreditation standards by the US Education Department.

There are several benefits to studying medicine in Austria:

• Tuition fees: Studying medicine in the US is expensive, with doctors carrying their debt throughout their lives. European medical schools are considerably cheaper, which is a crucial consideration for students without the means to pay their way through medical school.
• Medical school requirements and applications: The process of applying to European medical schools is much simpler than in North America. In Europe, you need to pass entrance exams and have a high school diploma, whereas, in North America, you need to pass the MCATs and have endless prerequisites, such as an undergraduate degree and at least two years of relevant coursework.
• Duration of studies: Medical schools in Europe do not require undergraduate degrees, which adds another three to four years to the process in the US. In other words, one could begin studying medicine in Europe straight out of high school.
• Combining studies with travel: Studying overseas allows students to broaden their horizons, see the world, and meet students from around the globe.

Students should be aware that medical studies are very demanding, and it isn't precisely like backpacking through Europe. However, with train systems, low-cost airlines, and the open borders of the EU, many students travel during vacations from school.

Additionally, the reputation of North American medical students in Europe is sometimes that they only studied there because they couldn't get into a US med school. This perception can make it more challenging for students to return to the US to practice medicine or transfer to an American medical school.

Students returning to the US must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examinations. No one who does not match the standard can study medicine, regardless of where they studied.

It is also important to note that, as the world becomes more global and acceptance to medical school in North America becomes more difficult, the tides might be changing. The more doctors return from European medical schools and practice in the US, the more misconceptions about the quality of the studies and the doctors are dispelled.

Frequently asked questions