Studying in Austria
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Austria has over 365,000 degree students across 23 public universities, 21 universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), 17 private universities, two private colleges and 14 university colleges of teacher education. Public tuition is €726.72 per semester for non-EU students, while EU/EEA students pay €0 when they finish on time. Entry typically requires a Matura or equivalent secondary qualification, and German-language programmes expect B2 or C1 proficiency. English-taught masters are widely available at both public and private institutions.
How Does Higher Education Work in Austria?
The Austrian higher education system follows the Bologna structure (Bachelor, Master, PhD) and splits into four main institution types, each with a distinct role and funding model.
- Public universities (Universitäten): 23 state-funded universities, 22 under the Universitätsgesetz 2002 plus IT:U Linz, including Uni Wien, TU Wien, and Uni Graz. Broad subject coverage and the lowest tuition.
- Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen / FH): 21 vocationally focused institutions with practical, industry-aligned Bachelor and Master programmes. Fixed curriculum, mandatory internship.
- Private universities: 17 institutions accredited by the Austrian Agency for Quality Assurance (AQ Austria), plus two private colleges. Unregulated tuition, smaller cohorts, often English-taught.
- Pedagogical universities (Pädagogische Hochschulen): 14 colleges that train primary and secondary school teachers. German language skills are typically required.
The BMFWF, the federal science ministry, counts over 365,000 degree students and about 410,000 including non-degree students across the four sectors, with most at a public university. Which sector suits you depends more on your passport and residence title than on your subject: our study route table maps seven common situations to the cheapest workable route.
What Are the Tuition Fees in Austria?
| Institution Type | Tuition (per semester) | Language | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public university (EU/EEA) | €0 (on-time) or €363.36 | German, some English | BA 3 yrs, MA 2 yrs |
| Public university (non-EU) | €726.72 (non-EU standard) | German, some English | BA 3 yrs, MA 2 yrs |
| Fachhochschule (FH) | Up to €363.36; up to cost-covering for non-EU on a student permit | German, many English MA | BA 3 yrs, MA 2 yrs |
| Private university | €14,000 to €28,358 per year (MODUL, Webster Vienna, SFU) | English or German | BA 3 yrs, MA 1 to 2 yrs |
| Pädagogische Hochschule | €0 (EU) or €363.36 | German | BA 4 yrs, MA 1 to 2 yrs |
Tuition depends on the type of institution and on whether you are from the EU/EEA or a third country. All students also pay the ÖH student union fee of €26.20 per semester for WS 2026/27. A Fachhochschule may charge up to €363.36, or up to cost-covering fees for third-country students on a § 64 NAG student permit, so compare each FH's fee regulation. Nine grounds, from childcare to disability, can waive public-university tuition; see the tuition waiver table and the OeAD scholarship table.
Fees as of October 2026. EU/EEA students at public universities pay €0 if they complete within the standard duration plus 2 tolerance semesters; otherwise €363.36 per semester.
How Do You Apply as an International Student?
The application process varies by institution, but the core steps are similar across public universities, Fachhochschulen, and private universities.
- Secondary qualification: Austrian Matura, A-levels, IB, or an equivalent school-leaving certificate giving access to higher education in your home country.
- Language proof: B2 or C1 German for German-taught programmes (ÖSD, Goethe, TestDaF) or IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 88+ for English-taught ones.
- Document translation and legalisation: Non-EU diplomas usually need an apostille or legalisation plus certified German translation.
- Student visa: Non-EU students need a student residence permit, plus proof of funds (around €1,350 per month) and health insurance.
- Blocked account or proof of funds: Many consulates accept an Austrian blocked account or a sponsor declaration.
Explore Study Options
Best Public Universities
Ranked guide to Austria's top public universities, including Uni Wien, TU Wien, and WU.
Best Private Universities
Private universities and Fachhochschulen with strong English-language programmes.
Fachhochschulen in Austria: All 21 Universities of Applied Sciences
Fachhochschulen charge EU students at most €363.36 a semester. For third-country students each FH sets its own fee, up to €9,500 at IMC Krems. Every bachelor includes a mandatory internship.