Studying In Austria: A Guide To University Education

Austria is a small country in the heart of Europe with a lot to offer in terms of higher education. It is known for its multicultural environment, high quality of life, and diverse student population. The country is home to over 50 higher educational institutions, including public universities, universities of applied sciences, and private universities. The University of Vienna is the largest and oldest university in Austria, with a rich history and strong academic reputation. The University of Graz and the University of Innsbruck are also popular choices for international students. The standard of living in Austria is among the highest in Europe, and students can take advantage of discounts on travel, entrance fees, and sports activities. The application process for Austrian universities typically involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency, as most courses are taught in German.

Application and entry requirements

To apply to study at an Austrian university, you must do so directly to the institution. Your secondary qualifications must be considered equivalent to those offered in Austria and must be sufficient to gain entry to a similar programme in the country where they were earned.

For undergraduate courses, the majority of programmes are taught in German, so you will need to prove sufficient German language proficiency. If you are applying to a university of the arts, you will be asked to sit an entrance examination.

If you are a citizen of a country in the EU or EEA, you do not need a visa to study in Austria. However, if you plan to stay for longer than six months, you will need to apply for a residence permit.

Students from non-EU/EEA countries need to apply for a Visa Type D. The required documents for this are:

• Visa D application form
• Two passport photographs
• Passport (must be valid for at least three months after your intended stay)
• Letter of admission issued by your Austrian university
• Proof of accommodation arrangements
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement and/or confirmation issued by a future employer)
• Notarised letter signed by one or both parents declaring financial responsibility (not required if you can financially support yourself)
• Copy of your itinerary or round-trip ticket
• Biometric data (10 fingerprints) – schedule an appointment at the Austrian Embassy in your country to provide this

For matriculation as a regular student in an Austrian university degree programme, the following requirements must be fulfilled:

• A place must be available at the university for the desired course of study
• The applicant must have an A-level or high school diploma, that can be considered equivalent to an Austrian Matura examination certification (either regulated by an agreement or in individual cases decided by the vice-chancellor, possibly with certain requirements) or furnish proof of completion of a three-year (minimum) study at another certified post-secondary educational institution
• The certification must be sufficient for acceptance to the desired course of study at a university in the country in which it was acquired. Any study-related requirements (e.g. entrance examination) must be fulfilled in the country in which the A-level or high school diploma was issued
• If the desired course of study in Austria is not offered in the home country, then this proof is to be furnished regarding the most similar course of study. Only if the country does not have a university, this proof does not have to be submitted
• In addition, the applicant must have sufficient German knowledge. If necessary, an examination is to be taken

Tuition Fees

At public universities in Austria, students from EU and EEA countries study free of charge. Non-EU/EEA students pay around 1,500 EUR per academic year.

At universities of applied sciences (UAS), EU/EEA students pay 363 EUR per semester, while non-EU/EEA students pay between 727 and 7,500 EUR per semester.

Private universities set their own tuition fees, which can be considerably higher than public universities. Costs usually vary between 3,000 and 23,000 EUR per year, with some Business programmes costing over 35,000 EUR per year.

Tuition fees and costs of living

Austria is a popular destination for international students due to its high living standards, low crime rate, and excellent educational institutions. The country offers a diverse range of study options, from the vibrant cities of Vienna and Graz to the winter sports destinations of the Arlberg region and Innsbruck.

Tuition Fees:

Tuition fees in Austria vary depending on the type of university and the student's nationality. Public universities are free for citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Union (EU), while non-EEA/EU students pay approximately €726.72 per semester. Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) charge around €363 per semester for EEA/EU students, while non-EEA/EU students pay between €727 and €7,500. Private universities have higher tuition fees, ranging from €3,000 to €23,000 annually, and some advanced programs can cost up to €35,000 per year.

Cost of Living:

The cost of living in Austria is moderate, but the standard of living is among the highest in Europe. Here are some average monthly expenses for students:

• Rent: €200-500. In cities like Vienna, expect higher rents.
• Student accommodation: €260.
• Shared accommodation: €370.
• Utilities: €100-200.
• Books and study resources: €300.
• Public transportation: A single bus or metro ride costs around €2, and a monthly pass costs between €30 and €50. Student discounts are often available.

Additional Benefits:

Students in Austria can benefit from discounts on travel, entrance fees, and sports activities. The country offers a rich cultural experience with museums, musical venues, and theatres. Additionally, the Alps provide easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Overall, Austria offers a high quality of life and a blend of educational and cultural experiences, making it a valuable destination for international students.

Student visas and residence permits

If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country, you do not need a visa to study in Austria. However, if you plan to stay in Austria for more than six months, you must apply for a residence permit. You should submit your application and wait for approval before travelling to Austria. Contact your local Austrian Embassy for more information.

Students from non-EU/EEA countries need to apply for a Visa Type D. The following documents are required for this type of visa:

• Visa D application form
• Two passport photographs
• Passport (valid for at least three months after your intended stay)
• Letter of admission from your Austrian university
• Proof of accommodation arrangements
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement and/or confirmation from a future employer)
• Notarised letter signed by one or both parents declaring financial responsibility (not required if you can financially support yourself)
• Copy of your itinerary or round-trip ticket
• Biometric data (10 fingerprints) – schedule an appointment at the Austrian Embassy in your country to provide this

If you are a student from Austria or an EU/EEA country, you do not have to pay tuition fees as higher education in Austria is free. If you take more than two semesters longer than the standard amount of time to complete your course, you will have to pay fees of around €363.36 per semester.

If you are from a non-EU country, the tuition fees are €726.72 per semester. The student union membership fee is €17.50 per semester and is mandatory for all students. Scholarships may also be available for international students.

Academic culture and expectations

Austria is home to over 50 higher educational institutions, including 22 public universities, 21 universities of applied sciences, and 13 private universities. The University of Vienna is the oldest university in the German-speaking world, founded in 1365, and is perfectly placed in a town famous for its culture and nightlife. The University of Vienna is also the largest university in Austria, with around 94,000 students enrolled.

The main language of instruction at Austrian universities and UAS is German, with only a few programmes taught in English. However, the general atmosphere in an Austrian university is quite relaxed, and professors are always willing to help students, answer their questions, and ensure they understand the material. Students work in small teams during seminars and team projects, which helps them understand new information more easily and quickly. Additionally, students can engage in active discussions and present their own points of view. International offices within the universities often organise trips to nearby cities and surroundings, helping international students adjust to a new country and culture.

To enrol in a master's degree at a university in Austria, you will need an internationally recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent. You will also need to meet the language requirements, proving your skills in English or German before enrolling.

Social life and extracurricular activities

The social life and extracurricular activities available to students in Austrian universities are diverse and enriching. The relaxed nature of the Austrian university system means students can take their time with their degrees, fostering a low-pressure environment that encourages creativity and experimentation. This atmosphere extends to socialising, where binge drinking is uncommon, and the focus is on enjoying time with friends.

Austrian universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that allow students to gain experience, get involved, and shape their individual profiles. These include student initiatives, such as the International Student Congress, the Austrian Medical Students' Association, and the Teddy Bear Hospital. Music-loving students can join the big band, choir, and orchestra of the Austrian National Union of Students (ÖH) Med Graz and the Med Uni Graz. Additionally, all students, staff, and graduates are invited to participate in the Graz University Sports USI.

The Erasmus scheme also provides a great platform for socialising and making friends through organised events and Facebook pages. The multicultural nature of Austrian universities, particularly in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, offers a chance to meet people from all over the world and embrace different cultures.

Outside of university life, Austrians love the great outdoors, with hiking and cycling being popular activities. The country's location also provides easy access to the rest of Europe, making it ideal for exploring nearby countries and cities, such as Prague, Budapest, and Munich.

Frequently asked questions