Ruqayyah Snyder
Studying abroad in Austria is an excellent opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. With its central location in Europe, Austria offers easy access to neighbouring countries, providing a unique chance to explore diverse destinations. Known for its impressive mountains, winter sports, and vibrant cities like Vienna and Graz, Austria is an ideal place for those seeking academic excellence, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventures. The country's higher education system, including renowned universities like the University of Vienna, attracts international students with its diverse programmes, high-quality teaching, and a blend of traditional and innovative approaches.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country Population | 8.7 million |
| Location | Central Europe |
| Bordering Countries | Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein |
| Cities | Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Linz, Salzburg |
| Quality of Living | Ranked #1 in Mercer's Quality of Living survey for the 10th year running |
| Student Population | Over 130,000 students in Vienna, 30,000 in Graz, 60,000 international students in the country |
| University Options | 22 public universities, 16 private universities, 21 universities of Applied Sciences, 3 Medical Universities, 3 Technical Universities |
| Courses | Nearly 200 different degree programmes at the University of Vienna, many taught in English |
| Student Cities | Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its art, culture, and outdoor activities |
| Culture | Rich history, art, music, and culinary delights |
| Student Activities | Skiing, hiking, visiting museums, theatres, and galleries |
| Student Discounts | Discounts available for travel, entrance fees, and sports activities |
| Tuition Fees | €363.36 per semester for regular students with EU/EEA citizenship, €726.72 per semester for students from third countries |
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What You'll Learn
Skiing and winter sports
Austria's winter sports regions offer 22,000 km of pistes, with ski areas like the one in St. Anton, which offers 270 km of pistes, being one of the largest in the world. The variety of facilities and attractions at the ski resorts cater to different preferences and budgets. From family-friendly and luxurious options to spartan cabins, there is something for everyone.
The ski resorts also offer a range of activities beyond just skiing. You can enjoy peaceful snowshoe walks through quiet, snowy forests, leading to breathtaking views. Fast toboggan runs and cross-country skiing through calm valleys and open fields are other popular choices. For those seeking more fast-paced and adventurous sports, snowkiting, airboarding, and snow tubing are available, with Tirol being a popular destination for these activities.
Austria also has a strong après-ski culture, with legendary after-ski parties and venues like the Krazy Kanguruh and the Mooserwirt in St. Anton. International DJs and entertainers regularly perform at these resorts, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Ski touring is another growing trend in Austria, allowing skiers to explore unspoiled areas in the mountains and experience the beauty of nature. The Obertauern region, located in the state of Salzburg, is known for its abundant snow and well-developed tourist infrastructure, making it a popular choice for ski touring.
Overall, Austria's skiing and winter sports scene offers a unique blend of world-class skiing, charming alpine atmospheres, and diverse entertainment options, providing an unforgettable experience for students studying abroad in the country.
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Music, theatre, and museums
Studying abroad in Austria is a great opportunity for students to experience the country's rich musical history and culture. Vienna, the capital city of Austria, has been known as the ""City of Dreams"" and the "City of Music", with famous composers like Mozart, Strauss, Schubert, Beethoven, and Haydn creating masterpieces in the city. The city's concert halls, cafes, and ancient squares echo with the sounds of classical music and opera.
For those interested in music studies, Austria offers a range of options, from enrolling in a music university or conservatory to taking part in short-term programs, private lessons, and intensive courses. The Austrian University of Music, for instance, offers full-fledged music study abroad programs that require language levels ranging from A2 to B1. Salzburg, another Austrian city, also offers opera and classical music experiences at affordable student prices.
In addition to music, Austria boasts a vibrant theatre scene. The Felsenreitschule in Salzburg, known for its appearance in the film 'The Sound of Music', is one such example. The country's universities also provide opportunities to get involved in performing arts groups and bands, allowing students to pursue their passions and make friends with similar interests.
Austria is home to numerous museums that showcase the country's artistic and educational history. The University of Vienna, the oldest university in the German-speaking world and one of the largest in Central Europe, offers over 180 courses to its 91,000 students. The city of Linz, home to Johannes-Keplar University, is also just a short tram ride away from downtown museums, cafes, and shopping destinations.
For those interested in studying the German language, Austria provides an immersive environment. While lectures at universities are often taught in English, especially at the master's level, the surrounding culture and daily life offer ample opportunity to practice and improve language skills.
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Cost of living and student discounts
Austria is counted among the richest countries in the world, however, the general cost of living in the country is not very high compared to other European countries. The cost of living depends on the city and your lifestyle choices. For instance, the capital city of Vienna is more expensive than smaller towns.
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation. For instance, OeAD Student Housing offers accommodation to 12,000 students in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Linz, Salzburg, Leoben, and Klagenfurt. It is a budget-friendly option with fully furnished accommodation. The rent is expected to be between 250 to 450 EUR per month. Living in a shared flat or 'Wohngemeinschaften' (WG) is another popular option, where you can have your own room and share the bills, rents, and common areas with your roommates. Living in a hall of residence or dormitory is also an option for international students.
Utilities
If you live in a privately rented flat, you will have to pay for utilities, which can cost around 100-200 EUR/month.
Food
Austria has many discount supermarkets, such as Hofer, Zielpunkt, Spar, and Billa, which offer food at reasonable prices. Additionally, many universities have self-service student cafeterias (Mensa) where you can get a good meal at a good price. In tourist areas, a main meal can cost around 12 to 18 EUR, with a drink costing around 6 EUR. A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs between 20 to 30 EUR per person. On average, you can expect to spend around 200-250 EUR/month on groceries.
Transportation
Public transportation is the most convenient and affordable way to travel in Austria, with a single metro or bus ticket costing around 2 EUR, and monthly transport passes ranging from 30 to 50 EUR. You can also use your student card to get discounts on public transportation. Additionally, Austria has an efficient and well-connected rail network, making it easy to travel to neighbouring countries.
Health Insurance
Non-EU/EEA citizens have to pay for health insurance. If they qualify for student insurance, they pay around 60 EUR/month. If they don’t qualify, they can still apply for insurance from a public Austrian insurance provider, but it costs 427 EUR/month.
Study Materials and Leisure Activities
Study materials and leisure activities, such as books, culture, and recreation, can cost around 300 EUR.
Student Discounts
Student discounts are available on public transportation with a valid student card. Additionally, cheap student tickets are available for operas and classical music recitals.
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Student cities and universities
Austria is a small country in the heart of Europe, with a population of around 9 million people. It is known for its mountainous landscape and its rich history, culture, and music. The country is home to several well-respected universities and higher education institutions, making it a popular destination for international students.
Vienna
The capital city of Vienna is Austria's oldest and most famous university city. It has been a hub of musical activity for centuries, with famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn having created masterpieces in the city. Vienna is also known for its impressive architecture, including many baroque castles, palaces, and gardens. The University of Vienna is the oldest university in the German-speaking world, with over 91,000 students enrolled in more than 180 courses. The city has been ranked highly for its quality of living, considering factors such as standards of schools, safety, recreation options, and climate.
Graz
Graz is another student city in Austria, known for its cultural offerings. It was named the 2003 Culture Capital of Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers attractions such as the Kunsthaus art museum and the Schlossberg hiking trail. Graz is home to the University of Graz, with over 30,000 students, and the Technical University Graz, with more than 8,000 students.
Salzburg
Salzburg, known for its opera and impressive Baroque cathedrals, is another Austrian city with a rich cultural history. The Old Town in Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city also offers cheap student tickets to various cultural experiences, making it an affordable option for students.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck is a city in the foothills of the Alps, known for its winter sports scene and as the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing. It is surrounded by spectacular Alpine views and is easily accessible from other European countries.
Linz
Linz is another Austrian city with a vibrant culture and rich history. It is home to several well-respected universities and higher education institutions.
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Language and culture
Austria is a German-speaking country, and German is the primary language of instruction at Austrian universities. However, English is widely spoken, and many universities offer courses taught in English, especially at the master's level. International students make up a large percentage of those enrolled at universities in Austria, so it is common for courses to be taught in English.
If you are interested in learning German, Austria is a great place to do so. You can take German as a Foreign Language courses at universities like the University of Graz, or simply take advantage of the opportunity to practise speaking German with native speakers in your daily life.
Austria is famous for its rich culture, including its music, art, architecture, and history. Vienna, the capital, is known as the "City of Music" and has been a hub of musical activity for centuries, with famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn. The country's impressive Baroque castles, palaces, and gardens, as well as its beautiful landscapes, are also a big draw for students.
Austria's unique culture extends beyond the arts and into the realm of intellectual history and philosophy, with the philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein calling the country home. The country's cafes, especially those in Vienna, are iconic and provide the perfect setting to relax and listen to the musical greats.
Outside of the classroom, there are many opportunities to get involved in social circles and explore Austrian culture. Whether you're interested in Alpine skiing, music, or other activities, you can find a group of students with similar interests and make friends. Austria's convenient location in Central Europe also makes it easy to explore neighbouring countries and experience their cultures.
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Frequently asked questions
Studying abroad in Austria offers students a chance to experience a new culture and broaden their horizons. The country has a rich history in politics, art, music, and education. It is also a great opportunity to experience the outdoors, with the Alps and skiing right on your doorstep. The standard of living is among the highest in Europe, and students often receive discounts for travel, entrance fees, and sports activities.
Austria has a thriving music scene, with many theatres, museums, and musical venues. It is also known for its winter sports, particularly in the Arlberg region, the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing. The country is mostly mountainous, offering stunning scenery and endless walking possibilities throughout the year.
Austrian universities offer many opportunities to get involved in social circles outside of the classroom. There are various student groups and activities to join, from Alpine skiing to big bass bands. International students make up a large percentage of those enrolled, so you will find yourself in a diverse and multicultural study environment.
