Studying in Austria
Jules de Bruin
Expat in Vienna
Updated: April 24 2026
Updated April 2026 — Austria hosts approximately 340,000 university students across 22 public universities, 21 universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), and several private universities. Public tuition is €363.36 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): 22 state-funded research universities 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: Accredited by the Austrian Agency for Quality Assurance (AQ Austria). Higher tuition, smaller cohorts, often English-taught.
- Pedagogical universities (Pädagogische Hochschulen): Train primary and secondary school teachers. German language skills are typically required.
What Are the Tuition Fees in Austria?
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 around €22.70 per semester.
| 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) | €363.36 to €726.72 | German, some English | BA 3 yrs, MA 2 yrs |
| Fachhochschule (FH) | €363.36 to €727 | German, many English MA | BA 3 yrs, MA 2 yrs |
| Private university | €5,000 to €15,000+ | 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 |
Fees as of April 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.