Austria: A Smart Choice For International Students

why chosse austria for studies rather then other english countries

Austria is a popular choice for international students, with over 60,000 choosing to study in the country, attracted by its art, culture, history, architecture, and landscapes. Austria's universities are well-respected worldwide, and the country offers a broad spectrum of educational opportunities, with a variety of disciplines and specialisations. The country is also ranked highly for safety, security, education, natural environment, living conditions, and personal freedom. English-speaking students have several options for English-taught programmes, particularly at the postgraduate level, and can take German language courses alongside their studies.

Characteristics Values
Number of higher educational institutions 50+
Types of higher educational institutions 22 public universities, 6 universities of the arts, 3 medical universities, 3 technical universities, 16 private universities, 21 universities of applied sciences, 14 university colleges of teacher education
Language of instruction German, English
Tuition fees for EU/EEA students at public universities Free
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students at public universities 1,452 EUR per year
Tuition fees for students from third countries 726.72 EUR per semester
Tuition fees at private universities 3,000-23,000 EUR per year
Student population 130,000+ in Vienna, 26% international
Academic tradition Open-minded atmosphere, creativity, innovation
Landscape Mountains, lakes, forests, Alpine views
Culture Art, music, architecture, history, nightlife
Industry Thriving industry base, high employment ratio
Location Central Europe, eight neighbouring countries
Quality of living High
Academic atmosphere Relaxed

shunculture

Quality of education

Austria has a diverse range of higher education institutions, including 22 public universities, 6 universities of the arts, 3 medical universities, 3 technical universities, 16 private universities, 21 universities of applied sciences, and 14 university colleges of teacher education. The country's education system ranks 9th among 63 countries worldwide for talent competitiveness, according to the 2023 Institute for Management Development (IMD) World Talent Report. The report also ranks Austria 1st in prioritizing employee training and 3rd in implementing apprenticeships.

The Austrian government strongly invests in its education system and professional development, which is one of the highest among OECD countries. The country's education system has a broad spectrum of educational opportunities. The main language of instruction at Austrian universities is German, but there are several programs taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level. International students make up 26% of the country's student population, with over 60,000 international students choosing Austria as their study destination.

The general atmosphere in Austrian universities is quite relaxed, and professors are always willing to help students 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 actively discuss and present their viewpoints. International offices within universities often organize trips to nearby cities and surroundings, helping international students adjust to a new country and culture.

Universities of Applied Sciences offer their students professional-oriented higher education, with curricula that include mandatory career-oriented practical training or internships. The Austrian University Colleges of Teacher Education offer a three-year Bachelor of Education degree in combination with a teaching qualification for primary, secondary, or special needs schools.

Overall, Austria offers a high-quality education system with a variety of educational institutions, a relaxed and supportive atmosphere, and a strong focus on professional development and lifelong learning. The country's investment in its education system and the diverse range of programs make it an attractive destination for international students seeking a unique and enriching study experience.

shunculture

Cost of living

Austria is one of the safest countries in the world, with a high standard of living and social security. It is also one of the richest countries in the world, but the living costs in Austria are not high compared to other European countries. The cost of living in Austria is estimated at around €1,100 per month for students, which is slightly above that of Germany, but 32% cheaper than Australia.

The cost of living significantly depends on your lifestyle and the city in which you choose to live. For example, in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, the monthly budget ranges from €900 to €1,300 to cover all personal expenses (accommodation, food, social activities, and public transport). In other cities, such as Linz or Graz, the costs of living range between €900 and €1,000 per month. Prices are also higher if you live in the city centre or very close to it. On average, students who live alone pay about €356 per month, while those in student housing pay around €260 per month. The average room rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around €862.51.

The average price of meals is between €5 and €7, while in tourist areas, prices range from €11 to €18 for a main meal. A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant would cost between €15 and €35 per person. The supermarkets have very reasonable prices, with monthly groceries costing between €165 and €250 per month. The cheapest supermarket chains are Hofer, Spar, and Billa.

Students under 26 can get a discount card that allows them to travel all over Austria for half the normal tariff. Utilities are often not included in rent costs and are charged separately, so it is important to keep this in mind when budgeting.

shunculture

Job prospects

Austria offers a plethora of job opportunities for international students, making it an attractive destination for those seeking employment alongside their studies. Here are some key reasons why Austria stands out as a preferred choice for students considering job prospects:

High Demand for Qualified Professionals: Austria has a strong economy with a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy. The country experiences a high demand for qualified professionals, especially in STEM fields, business, and finance. This creates numerous job opportunities for graduates with relevant skills and knowledge.

English-Speaking Jobs: Austria's business language is primarily German, but English is widely spoken, especially in international companies and organizations. Many Austrian firms seek graduates with strong English communication skills, making it advantageous for English-speaking international students to find employment.

Strong Industry Connections: Austrian universities often have close ties with local industries, providing students with valuable networking opportunities. These connections can lead to internships, apprenticeships, and potential job offers upon graduation. The universities also provide career services and job placement assistance, helping students transition smoothly into the Austrian job market.

Start-up Culture and Innovation: Austria, particularly Vienna, has a thriving start-up culture, with many new businesses emerging in the tech, sustainability, and creative sectors. This environment offers exciting job prospects for students, allowing them to be part of innovative ventures and contribute to Austria's growing start-up ecosystem.

Austrian Work Visa: The country offers a Red-White-Red Card, a work visa that allows skilled graduates from non-EU/EEA countries to live and work in Austria. This visa provides an opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience and establish their careers in the country.

By choosing Austria for their studies, students can benefit from the country's diverse economy, strong industry connections, and supportive work visa policies. The availability of English-speaking jobs and the high demand for qualified professionals make Austria an attractive destination for those seeking to pursue both academic excellence and rewarding career opportunities.

shunculture

Cultural experience

Austria is a great choice for students who want to experience a new culture. Firstly, Austria is a small country in the heart of Europe, with eight neighbouring countries: Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This makes it a great choice for students who want to explore other parts of Europe during their studies.

Austria is also a very safe country with a high quality of life. The country is known for its incredible culture and history, which can be experienced through its diverse social events, museums, musical venues, theatres, food and architecture. The capital city of Vienna is known as the world's capital of classical music, and the country is also famous for its opera, art and historical landmarks.

The Austrian landscape is also a huge draw for students. The country is known as the 'Alpine Republic', with around 60% of its landmass being mountainous or part of the Alps. There are also many lakes and forests, offering countless sports opportunities, such as hiking, skiing and snowboarding.

In terms of the student experience, Austria offers a more traditional and centrally-located experience compared to other countries. The academic year in Austria runs from 1 October to 30 September the following year and is divided into two semesters. Degree programs typically take three to five years to complete, but there is no limit to how long you can take, which means students are generally less stressed than in other countries. Course fees are also very reasonable, especially for EU students, who can study for free.

Overall, Austria offers a unique cultural experience for students, with a blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant student life.

shunculture

Language barrier

Austria is a popular choice for international students, with over 60,000 choosing to study in the country. The country's universities offer a wide range of courses, with something to suit everyone. The main language of instruction at Austrian universities is German, and for this reason, students may need to prove their proficiency in the language. However, there are a number of courses taught in English, particularly at the postgraduate level.

For students who do not speak German, the language barrier can be a challenge when studying in Austria. While English is widely spoken, especially in cities, and universities offer courses in English, the majority of programmes are taught in German. This can make it difficult for students who do not speak the language to fully participate in their chosen course and engage with their classmates.

To overcome this barrier, some universities offer German language courses as part of their University Preparation Programmes. These courses can help students develop the language skills needed to succeed in their chosen degree programme. Additionally, students can take advantage of the opportunity to learn German during their studies, which can be a valuable skill in itself.

However, for those who do not wish to learn German, the limited number of English-taught programmes may be a disadvantage. In this case, other English-speaking countries may be a more suitable option. It is important for students to carefully consider their language proficiency and their desired field of study when deciding where to pursue their education.

Despite the language barrier, Austria's universities offer a relaxed and open-minded atmosphere, with a strong focus on creativity and innovation. The country's central location in Europe also makes it an attractive option for students who wish to explore the continent during their studies.

Frequently asked questions

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment