Study Dentistry In Austria: A Comprehensive Guide

Austria is home to some of the most affordable education institutions in Europe, with degrees at public universities being free for all EU/EEA citizens, and non-EU/EEA students paying fees that are usually under 2,000 EUR per year. The country's universities are regularly ranked among the best on the continent, and Austria is also one of the safest nations in the world, with a high quality of life and top-notch infrastructure and services. The Medical University of Dentistry in Vienna, Austria, is the largest medical research institution in the country and the biggest medical university in all the German-speaking countries. The university offers degree programs in Medicine and Dentistry, with studies lasting 6 years and being free for EU citizens. To study at the university, you need to have a C1 level of German and pass an entrance exam that covers Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math, German, and an IQ test.

University options

Medical University of Vienna

The Medical University of Vienna is the largest medical research institution in Austria and the biggest medical university in all the German-speaking countries. It offers degree programs in Medicine and Dentistry. The Dentistry programme is 12 semesters (362.8 ECTS) long and graduates can immediately work as dentists upon completion. The programme includes a 72-week clinical training at the University Clinic of Dentistry Vienna. The language of instruction is German, with a minimum requirement of a C1 level. The annual tuition fee is 800 euros for non-EU citizens and free for EU citizens.

Danube Private University (DPU)

Danube Private University offers master's degrees in Oral Surgery and Implantology, as well as Aesthetic Reconstructive Dentistry. The university is based in Austria | Krems an der Donau and is ranked 14th in the country for Dentistry.

University of Vienna

The University of Vienna is ranked as the best university in Austria for Dentistry. It is located in the Austrian capital, Vienna, which has been rated as the most liveable city worldwide.

University of Innsbruck

The University of Innsbruck is ranked 3rd in Austria for Dentistry and is based in the city of Innsbruck, which is considered one of the best cities to study Dentistry in the country.

Application requirements

To apply for a dentistry degree in Austria, you must meet the following requirements:

Language Proficiency

Firstly, you need to have a minimum of a C1 level of German. This is because the language of instruction for dentistry degrees in Austria is German. If you do not have a C1 level, you can enrol at the University of Vienna to study German and reach the required level.

Entrance Exam

Secondly, you need to pass an entrance exam. The exam consists of biology, chemistry, physics, maths, passages in the German language, and an IQ test. The entrance exam date for the faculty of medicine and dentistry is at the beginning of July every year.

Application Form

Once you have met the language and exam requirements, you can apply by completing an online application form.

Fees

Finally, you will need to pay tuition fees. The fees are 800 euros per year for non-EU citizens and free for EU citizens. Additionally, you should budget between 600 and 700 euros per month for accommodation and food.

Course structure

The Dentistry programme at the Medical University of Vienna is a 12-semester degree programme that serves to provide the academic qualification that is necessary for the profession of a dentist. The programme is structured into three study phases, with an overall minimum duration of 12 semesters, after which graduates can practice as dentists independently.

The first two years of the programme follow the Medicine curriculum, with a few exceptions. The third year consists of dentistry-oriented courses, with general medicine content limited to frequent problems that dentists may encounter in practice. The course "Dental Propaedeutic Training 2" prepares students for clinical work in dentistry through theoretical and practical training, with a special emphasis on the development of appropriate manual skills.

The instruction takes place in thematic blocks that are structured in time and content and build upon each other in all three study phases. These blocks are accompanied by courses that last for the entire semester and create connections to clinical work. In these courses, the corresponding clinical skills are also trained. Starting with the third term, studying will also take place in small groups dealing with precise problems.

A key component of the programme is a 72-week clinical training period at the University Clinic of Dentistry Vienna or selected dental teaching practices. This extensive clinical training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work as dentists upon completion of the programme.

Career prospects

The career prospects for dentistry graduates in Austria are promising. The country boasts some of the most affordable education institutions in Europe, with degrees at public universities being free for all EU/EEA citizens and low fees for non-EU/EEA students. This makes Austria an attractive destination for those seeking a high-quality education without sacrificing financial accessibility.

Upon completion of a dentistry degree in Austria, graduates are immediately qualified to work as dentists. The academic qualification and practical skills acquired during the programme, such as the 72-week clinical training at the University Clinic of Dentistry Vienna, equip graduates with the necessary tools to enter the profession confidently.

The Medical University of Vienna, one of the top-ranked dental schools in Austria, offers a comprehensive dentistry programme that prepares students for a range of specialisations within the field. The curriculum covers the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of anomalies and diseases related to teeth, the mouth, and the jaw, as well as attendant tissue. Graduates from this programme obtain their professional licence and the right to set up their own practice.

Additionally, Austria's strong reputation in the field of dentistry means that graduates can expect to find employment opportunities not only within the country but also internationally. With a high standard of living, a rich cultural history, and a focus on academic excellence, Austria provides a well-rounded educational experience that can enhance one's career prospects in the field of dentistry.

Overall, pursuing a dentistry degree in Austria offers a wealth of opportunities for career development and specialisation. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the challenges and responsibilities of working as a dentist, either in independent practice or within a larger organisation. The combination of academic knowledge and practical skills gained during their studies positions them favourably for a successful career in the field.

Living in Austria

Austria is known for its high quality of life, excellent working conditions, and low unemployment rates. It is also one of the safest countries in the world, with a rich cultural and intellectual history.

Leisure Activities

In your free time, you can explore the country's architectural monuments, such as St. Stephen's Cathedral or the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. For a more laid-back experience, you can visit Graz, a city known for its buzzing nightlife, offering a mix of clubs, restaurants, and bars to suit all tastes.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you can take advantage of Austria's seasonal activities, such as lake swimming and biking in the summer, and skiing in the winter. Basketball, ice hockey, and football are also popular sports in the country.

Food

Austrian cuisine varies with the seasons. In the spring, you'll find asparagus on the markets, followed by strawberries in the summer, and apples and pumpkins in the autumn. Local produce is abundant and affordable, with most of it grown organically. Traditional Austrian dishes include Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel, which can be enjoyed as both sweet and savoury options.

Travel

Austria's central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring neighbouring countries. Travelling by train is a cheaper alternative to air travel when exploring nearby European destinations.

Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Austria can be challenging, especially if you're unable to visit the place in person or sign a lease due to agency requirements. Temporary arrangements or contacting your university's international office for assistance are good options to consider.

Your long-term options primarily include dedicated student housing or private rentals. Student housing is managed by the OeAD Housing Office and is in high demand, so early applications are recommended. Private rentals can be expensive, and you may need to pay an estate agent's fee, which is typically equivalent to two to three months' rent, in addition to a deposit.

Student Life

Universities in Austria offer a range of services to help international students settle in, including 'buddy' programmes that pair new students with more experienced ones.

The Austrian government recommends that international students have a total budget of €1,000 per month, excluding rent. Food costs are estimated at around €350 per month, and you should budget approximately €400 for transport, study materials, and recreational activities.

Work Permits

If you're an international student, you can work while studying in Austria, but the number of hours and the permits required will depend on your nationality and visa status. Students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can work freely without a permit, but it's advisable to control your working hours to ensure timely completion of your degree.

Students from other countries will need to apply for a work permit, which their prospective employer will obtain on their behalf. As a master's student, you can work for up to 20 hours per week. Additionally, internships and placements as part of your course can be completed without a work permit and won't count against your maximum working hours.

Frequently asked questions