Pursuing A Phd In Austria: Free Education For International Students?

Austria is a popular destination for international students due to its strong cultural scene, natural beauty, and low living expenses. The country boasts over 50 institutions of higher education, including 22 public universities, 21 Universities of Applied Sciences, and 17 accredited private universities. While the fees for pursuing a PhD in Austria depend on one's nationality, the type of university attended, and the duration of the study, EU/EEA students are generally exempt from tuition fees at public universities if they complete their degrees within eight semesters (four years). International students at public universities are subject to tuition fees, but the Austrian Government has set a maximum limit per semester. Private universities, on the other hand, charge tuition fees to all students, with costs averaging around €7,500 per semester.

PhD fees in Austria

Austria is home to over 50 institutions of higher education, including 22 public universities, 21 Universities of Applied Sciences, and 17 accredited private universities. The country's higher education system is highly progressive and values its PhD researchers, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking to pursue their PhDs.

PhD Fees:

• EU and EEA students: EU and EEA students can study at public universities in Austria for free, provided they complete their programmes within eight semesters (four years). Any additional study will incur fees of €363.36 per semester.
• International students: International students at public universities are subject to tuition fees, but the Austrian Government has set a maximum limit of €726.72 per semester. Exceptions may apply for students from specific developing countries or non-EU countries in Eastern and Central Europe.
• Private universities: Private universities charge tuition fees to all students, with the average cost being around €7,500 per semester.
• Universities of Applied Sciences: These institutions may impose fees for their PhD programmes, but the costs differ, and not all offer such programmes.
• Other fees: In addition to tuition fees, students must pay a mandatory fee to the Austrian Students' Association (OH) of €20.20 per semester.

Funding Opportunities:

Austria does not have a centralised national scholarship scheme for students. Instead, funding is typically offered by individual universities, research institutions, and various organisations. While full PhD scholarships are rare, various forms of funding are available, including academic scholarships, graduate teaching fellowships, and employment contracts or fellowships.

Cost of Living:

The Austrian Government recommends that students have access to at least €950 per month to cover living expenses.

Visa Requirements:

Students from non-EU/EEA countries will need to apply for a residence visa (Aufenthaltsvisum D) and a Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Studierender) to study in Austria. EU/EEA students only need to register with the local authorities within three months of their arrival and do not require a visa.

PhD scholarships in Austria

Austria is an attractive country for international PhD students due to its strong cultural scene, natural beauty, and low living expenses. The country boasts over 50 institutions of higher education, including 22 public universities, 21 universities of applied sciences, and 17 accredited private universities.

Scholarships

While Austria does not have a centralized national scholarship scheme, funding opportunities for PhD students are typically offered by individual universities, research institutions, and various organizations. Here are some notable scholarships for international students pursuing a PhD in Austria:

• Momeni Iranian Financial Assistance Scholarships: Offers partial funding for international students of Iranian descent pursuing a PhD in any subject.
• Croucher Scholarships for Doctoral Study: Provides full funding for PhD students from Hong Kong studying natural sciences, medicine, or technology.
• Kate Neal Kinley Memorial Fellowships: Offers partial funding for students of any nationality pursuing a PhD in art, architecture, dance, landscape architecture, music, theatre, or urban and regional planning.
• Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds MD Fellowships: Provides partial funding for German nationals pursuing a PhD in biomedicine.
• Horowitz Foundation Grants: Offers partial funding for students of any nationality pursuing a PhD in social policy.
• Overseas Postgraduate Scholarships at Singapore Management University: Provides full funding for Singaporean citizens pursuing a PhD in a selected list of subjects.
• University of Graz International Merit Scholarships: Offers scholarships for the academic session 2024/2025 to highly qualified international students.
• Thesis/Dissertation Scholarships: The University of Graz offers scholarships to support Master's and Doctoral students in completing their theses. Eligible applicants include regular students with Austrian citizenship or equivalent status.
• Women's International Fellowships: The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime offers this fellowship to empower women leaders working on projects addressing the gendered impacts of environmental crime.
• ISTA Fully Funded PhD Positions: The Institute of Science and Technology Austria offers fully funded PhD positions in a wide range of disciplines, including astronomy, biology, and neuroscience.
• TU Wien PhD Positions: The Vienna University of Technology offers PhD positions in various fields, such as microelectronics, electrical engineering, and physics.
• International PhD Student Position in Deep Learning/Computer Vision/Computational Biology for Bioimage Analysis: The Austrian Science Fund FWF invites international PhD students to apply for this position at the St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute.
• Anne Cutler PhD Research Scholarship in Language Sciences: The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development offers this scholarship to a highly motivated PhD candidate to undertake a project in language sciences.

Tuition Fees and Living Costs

Public universities in Austria are free for EU and EEA citizens, while international students pay around €1,452 per year. Universities of Applied Sciences have different fee structures, with EU/EEA students paying €363 per semester and non-EU/EEA students paying between €727 and €7,500 per semester. Private universities set their own tuition fees, which can range from €3,000 to €23,000 per year.

In addition to tuition fees, students must pay a mandatory fee of €20.20 per semester to the Austrian Students' Association (OH). The Austrian Government recommends students have access to at least €950 per month to cover living expenses.

PhD application process in Austria

Austria is home to over 50 institutions of higher education, including 22 public universities, 21 Universities of Applied Sciences, and 17 accredited private universities. The application process for a PhD in Austria is different from that of other countries. Typically, applicants are not expected to work on an advertised project or submit a proposal for their own PhD topic. Instead, they are required to gain admission to a PhD programme that aligns with their subject area and research interests.

Application Requirements:

• Academic Transcripts: Official documents confirming previous qualifications and providing detailed information about the courses completed. If the transcripts are not in German, they may need to be translated and approved by a lawyer. For students who have previously studied in the European Higher Education Area, a Diploma Supplement may be accepted instead of a transcript.
• Statement of Purpose: A personal statement demonstrating how the applicant's existing experiences, interests, and aspirations align with the specific PhD programme. This should include information on why you want to do a PhD and what attracts you to the particular programme.
• References: Up to three references from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic work and character.
• Language Proficiency: If German is not your first language and you do not have prior experience studying in German, you will need to submit a German language proficiency score. For programmes conducted in English, international applicants may need to submit scores from English language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Entrance Examinations: Some PhD programmes may require entrance examinations, particularly structured programmes or those offering employment contracts to doctoral students. These examinations ensure that applicants have the necessary skills and experience for the specific research area and any associated teaching responsibilities.
• Master's Degree: A Master's degree in a relevant field with 180 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) or its equivalent is typically required. In certain cases, it may be possible to transition directly from a Bachelor's to a PhD programme, but this will likely extend the duration of the PhD and may require additional coursework.

Application Process:

• Contact a Supervisor: It is recommended to initiate contact with a supervisor affiliated with the desired programme to ensure it aligns with your interests and to understand its specific admissions process.
• Submit Application: Most universities accept online applications, but it is advisable to check with the university as some may require additional documents to be sent by post.
• Interviews and Examinations: Universities may conduct interviews remotely via video conferencing tools, but entrance examinations typically require travelling to Austria. Specific visas are available for non-EU/EEA students to facilitate this process.

Deadlines:

Application deadlines are set by individual institutions and can be quite far in advance. For example, applications for a September start may be due by the previous December or January. Therefore, early planning and prompt submission of applications are recommended.

Visa Requirements:

Visa and immigration requirements for PhD study in Austria depend on the applicant's nationality.

• EU/EEA Students: No visa is required, but registration with the local authorities within three months of arrival is mandatory. Proof of admission, financial resources, and health insurance is also necessary.
• Non-EU/EEA Students: A residence visa D (Aufenthaltsvisum D) must be obtained from an Austrian embassy, allowing a stay of up to six months. During this period, a Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Studierender) must be applied for. Along with a completed application form, the following documents are required:
• A valid passport and additional passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of admission to the university.
• Proof of accommodation arrangement in Austria.
• Proof of financial resources and health insurance.
• Payment of a processing fee.

Additional Information:

• Translations: Translations of application documents may be required, and it is advisable to check with the university for any specifications.
• Fees: While EU and EEA students typically do not pay PhD fees at public universities, international students are subject to tuition fees, with the maximum amount capped by the Austrian Government.
• Funding: Funding opportunities are available through universities, research institutions, and various organisations. These may include academic scholarships, graduate teaching fellowships, or employment contracts.
• Scholarships: International students can explore scholarship opportunities through the Austrian Exchange Service (OeAD), which provides an overview of funding options for PhDs in Austria.

Overall, the PhD application process in Austria involves meeting specific academic requirements, submitting necessary documents, and adhering to visa regulations. Applicants should carefully review the requirements of their chosen universities and plan their applications accordingly.

PhD student life in Austria

Austria is an attractive country for international PhD students due to its strong cultural scene, natural beauty, and low living expenses. The country boasts a unique charm, with fairy-tale-like cities and villages, majestic Alpine peaks, serene lakes, and lush meadows, and rich cultural heritage.

Education System

Austria has over 50 institutions of higher education, including 22 public universities, 21 Universities of Applied Sciences, and 17 accredited private universities. The country's higher education system is steeped in history, stretching back over 600 years, and has produced some of the world's greatest artists and thinkers, including Mozart and Freud.

Austrian universities offer innovative and interdisciplinary doctoral programmes, making the country a vibrant hub for modern PhD research. The academic year in Austria is divided into two semesters: the winter semester (October to January) and the summer semester (March to September).

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Austria is comparable to other Western European countries. Students are recommended to have at least €1,200 per month, including €400 for accommodation, €350 for food, and €400 for study expenses and recreational activities. The average cost of accommodation is approximately €450 per month, and students typically rent property in the city.

Transportation

Austria has a well-developed transportation system, including a national railway network, several international airports, and metropolitan transport options in major cities. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with cycle lanes available in most cities.

Culture and Leisure Activities

Austria offers a plethora of cultural experiences, from art exhibitions and concerts to theatre performances and the famous balls. The country is also known for its culinary delights, with Viennese cuisine, such as Apfelstrudel and Gulasch, being particularly famous.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Austria is a haven for sports and recreational activities. The Austrian Alps provide the perfect setting for skiing, hiking, and climbing, while the Danube River offers spectacular views for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

Work Opportunities

Austrian PhD programmes may offer employment contracts or fellowships to their students, providing a salary and other benefits in exchange for teaching and administrative responsibilities. EU and EEA students can work without permits or restrictions, while other international students may work up to 20 hours per week with a contract.

Visa Requirements

Students from EU/EEA countries do not need a visa to study in Austria but must register with the local authorities within three months of arrival. Students from non-EU/EEA countries will need to apply for a Residence Visa D and a Residence Permit during their initial six months in the country.

Overall Quality of Life

Austria consistently ranks highly on global quality of life indices due to its commitment to providing a high standard of living, excellent public services, and a safe and nurturing environment. The country is also known for its open-minded learning atmosphere, with Austrian universities embracing multiculturalism and offering programmes in multiple languages.

In conclusion, Austria offers a holistic experience for international PhD students, combining academic excellence with a rich cultural and natural environment. The country's high quality of life, reasonable cost of living, and abundant recreational opportunities make it an ideal destination for those seeking both intellectual stimulation and a life-changing adventure.

PhD qualifications in Austria

Austria is an attractive country for international PhD students, with over 50 institutions of higher education. The country boasts a strong cultural scene, natural beauty, and low living expenses. Austrian universities offer PhD programmes in specific areas, and students can expect to take courses related to their topic and methodology, as well as perform original research under the supervision of a faculty member.

Austrian universities differentiate between doctorates (Doktorate) and PhDs. PhD programmes are often targeted at a university's own research associates, while doctorate programmes are open to students who are not employed at the university. Here are some common PhD qualifications in Austria:

• Doctor of Economic Sciences
• Doctor of Medical Science
• Doctor of Natural Sciences
• Doctor of Psychotherapy Science
• Doctor of Technical Sciences
• Doctor of Arts (Dr. artium.)
• Doctor of Economic Sciences (Dr. rer. oec.)
• Doctor of Medical Science (Dr. scient. med.)
• Doctor of Natural Sciences (Dr. rer. nat.)
• Doctor of Psychotherapy Science (Dr. scient. pth.)
• Doctor of Technical Sciences (Dr. techn.)

Application Requirements

To apply for a PhD programme in Austria, you will typically need to submit a completed application form, official transcripts of past qualifications, degree certificates, reference letters, and a personal statement. Most universities accept online applications, but it is recommended to check with your chosen university as some documents may need to be submitted by post.

A master's degree in a relevant field with 180 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) or an equivalent qualification is usually required for admission to a PhD programme in Austria. In some cases, it may be possible to enrol in a PhD programme with just a bachelor's degree, but this will likely result in a longer duration and additional coursework.

Language Requirements

German is the primary language in Austria, and most academic programmes, including PhD qualifications, are taught in German. If you are not a native German speaker, you may need to submit a German language proficiency score as part of your application. However, some specialised programmes may be conducted in English, in which case demonstrating German proficiency may not be necessary.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Public universities in Austria are free for EU and EEA citizens, provided they complete their programmes within eight semesters (four years). International students at public universities are subject to tuition fees, with a maximum limit of €726.72 per semester set by the Austrian Government. Private universities charge tuition fees to all students, with an average cost of €7,500 per semester.

Scholarships are available for international students pursuing PhD programmes in Austria, but full PhD scholarships are rare due to the low or non-existent fees. Funding opportunities include academic scholarships, graduate teaching fellowships, and employment contracts or fellowships, which provide a salary and other benefits in exchange for teaching or administrative responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions