Education in Austria: how to become a student in Austria in 2025?

You'll be surprised, but education in Austria is very affordable!. And students are also free to choose their courses, professors, and even exam dates. In this article, we break down how the Austrian education system works, and how to choose your university and major if you’re planning to relocate.

Why Study in Austria?

• Austrian universities rank in the global Top 150.
• Tuition fees are no more than €750 per semester.
• Language requirements are achievable: C1 in German for bachelor’s programs, and only A2 for preparatory courses.
• Students can legally work up to 20 hours/week.
• Austria is one of the safest countries in Europe.
• High quality of life: according to Numbeo, Austria ranks above France and the UK.
• A student residence permit allows visa-free travel in the Schengen zone.
• Many international graduates stay and work in Austria after studies, often leading to permanent residency or citizenship.

Types of Universities in Austria

Let's start with basics. Which kind of education after school can you get?

Universities (Universitäten)
These focus on theoretical knowledge. Practical experience is typically gained through internships and real-world employment. Austria's university system is based on academic freedom, allowing students to choose subjects, project topics, and exam schedules. Universities offer a broad spectrum of disciplines, from humanities and sociology to physics and engineering. Many of these are higher education institutions that lead to tertiary education degrees.

Colleges (Akademien des nicht-universitären Bereichs)
These institutions train professionals in social services, elementary education, and middle-level healthcare. Most programs last 3 years. These are often part of the adult education system or specialized secondary education.

Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)
Fachhochschule programs are practice-oriented and span 6 to 8 semesters. Think of them as higher professional education institutions. Austrian employers highly value graduates of Fachhochschulen. They offer strong programs in areas like business administration, engineering, and media. These universities of applied sciences are a key part of Austria's tertiary education landscape.

Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost?

Education in Austria is famously affordable.

• For Austrian citizens: Education is free for life.
• For EU/EEA and Swiss citizens: Public university education is also free.
• For non-EU/EEA citizens ("third countries"): Tuition is approximately €750 per semester, plus a mandatory around €25 ÖH student union fee.

Let’s take two examples:

• University of Vienna: One of Austria’s top universities, offering broad humanities, sciences, and law programs.
• FH Joanneum (University of Applied Sciences): Located in Graz, it focuses on practical fields like health sciences, media, and technology. Tuition for non-EU students here is also around €750/semester.

What Language Is Used for Teaching?

German is Austria’s official language and the primary language of instruction.

• Bachelor’s programs: almost exclusively taught in German.
• Master’s programs: some are offered in English, but it depends on the university and field.

To enroll in a German-taught bachelor’s program, you must have C1-level German and pass a language exam.

However, if your German isn’t strong enough yet, don’t worry. Most universities offer preparatory programs for international applicants. These usually last 1–2 years, and include intensive German language training and subject-specific courses. Enrolling in such a program also qualifies you for a student residence permit, and the courses cost only €378 per semester. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that satisfies university language requirements.

How Does the Admission Process Work?

Admission to Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)

At the master's level, many Fachhochschulen do not require written entrance exams. Instead, the focus is often on:

• Relevant professional experience
• Portfolio submissions
• Online interviews or presentations

Because of their practical orientation and growing popularity, master’s programs in English can be competitive. Bachelor's admission is usually easier, as are applications for language preparatory programs. Fachhochschulen also emphasize the successful completion of prior relevant studies.

Admission to Preparatory Language Programs

If your German is not yet at the C1 level required for bachelor’s admission, you can apply to language preparatory programs. These programs are widely available and generally accept all applicants who meet the minimum requirement of A2-level German. During the program, students improve their language skills and take foundational academic courses. After successful completion, students transition into bachelor’s programs in their chosen field.

Can International Students Work in Austria?

Yes, international students in Austria are allowed to work, but there are certain rules. The most important is to check the details printed on your student residence permit ID card — it will state whether you’re eligible to work.

In general, students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the school year. This part-time allowance helps many students cover their expenses for tuition, rent, or dormitory accommodation. Employers in Austria are usually supportive of student employees and understand the need for schedule flexibility. In fact, students are often treated with respect and considered reliable team members.

If you manage your time wisely, working part-time can not only support your life in Austria but also enhance your local language skills and give you valuable professional experience.

Is It Possible to Apply Without an Agency?

Yes — absolutely! Applying to study in Austria without the help of an agency is realistic and entirely doable. All the necessary information, application forms, and requirements are openly published on university websites. Most Austrian institutions provide clear, step-by-step instructions in both German and English.

You’ll need to be organized and prepared to navigate the paperwork — including translations, certifications, and visa applications — but thousands of students do this successfully every year. Some universities also offer virtual open days or dedicated email support to guide international applicants through the process.

If you’re motivated, detail-oriented, and patient, applying independently is not only possible — it’s often more cost-effective and empowering. You learn the system from the inside out, which will serve you well once you begin your studies.

Top 10 Affordable Public Universities in Austria

Here are ten respected and budget-friendly Austrian public universities:

1. University of Vienna (Vienna) – Humanities, Law, Economics, Natural Sciences
2. TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) (Vienna) – Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture
3. University of Graz (Graz) – Philosophy, Linguistics, Environmental Studies
4. University of Innsbruck (Innsbruck) – Geology, Medicine, Psychology
5. Johannes Kepler University Linz (Linz) – Business, Law, Social Sciences
6. University of Klagenfurt (Klagenfurt) – Education, Management, Media Studies
7. University of Salzburg (Salzburg) – Theology, Music, Communication Science
8. Montanuniversität Leoben (Leoben) – Mining, Metallurgy, Materials Science
9. BOKU (University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences) (Vienna) – Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental Engineering
10. FH Joanneum (Graz, Kapfenberg, Bad Gleichenberg) – Health Studies, Applied Science, Design & Media

All these institutions offer programs in German, with some Master’s programs in English.

Final Thoughts

Austria’s education system is built around flexibility, freedom of academic choice, and practical application. From primary schools to secondary schools and higher education institutions, the system supports lifelong learning and academic progression. With years of compulsory education, a clear distinction between primary and secondary levels, and a structured path through secondary education into tertiary education, Austria maintains a comprehensive and high-quality framework.

Whether you're considering a grammar school, a technical university, a höhere Schule, or a degree in business administration, Austria has a pathway for you. The country offers diverse academic years, free or low-cost education, and support for both youth and adult education.

Compared to the United States, where tuition fees are often prohibitively high and student debt is a common concern, Austria presents an attractive alternative: affordable, flexible, and internationally respected. With school attendance deeply integrated into its culture and the school year well-organized, Austria continues to attract students from around the globe seeking a world-class education.

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