Austria stands out as a top education hub in Europe, offering international students the perfect blend of historic charm and cutting-edge research. With affordable tuition fees and high-quality academic programs, it’s an ideal destination for those pursuing fields such as software engineering, business, and healthcare. Here’s a complete guide to studying in Austria, including universities, popular programs, and more.
Top Universities in Austria
Austria’s universities offer globally recognized degrees, strong research, and an international culture. Here are the leading public universities for aspiring students:
- University of Vienna
- Technische Universität Wien
- Universität Innsbruck
- Graz University of Technology
- Johannes Kepler University Linz
Best Fields & Popular Programs
Many courses increasingly offer English-language options, especially at the graduate level, making Austria accessible for students from around the world. Austria is a global favorite for software engineering—thanks to its tech-focused universities and industry links. Other top programs for international students include:
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Finance and Accounting
- Healthcare
- Marketing
Read More: How to Apply for German Public University
Tuition Fees & Cost of Living
Tuition in Austria is very affordable compared to most other study abroad destinations. Fees for international students average €750–€1,500/year, slightly higher than in Germany but still much lower than in countries like the UK, US, or Australia.
Living costs in Austria are generally lower than in Germany, apart from Vienna, where rent and daily expenses can be higher. Expect to budget about €850–€1,000/month for housing, food, and transport in student-friendly cities like Linz, Graz, or Innsbruck.
Working During Study
International students in Austria can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during term time, providing useful income to supplement living costs and valuable professional experience. Bachelor’s students need a work permit, which the employer applies for, and should stick to the legal hourly limit to avoid visa issues.
Language Barrier
German is the main language in Austria, spoken by more than 90% of the population. While many universities now offer English-taught programs, students may face challenges navigating daily life, especially when accessing services or finding off-campus jobs. Limited German proficiency can affect social integration and employment options; however, language support is available through most institutions, and immersion helps speed up learning.
Post-Study Work Rights (PSW)
Graduates from Austrian universities can apply for a 12-month post-study work visa to seek jobs related to their field, making it easier to begin a professional career in Austria after graduation.
Read More: Top 5 Cheapest German Universities to Study in 2026
Scholarships
Austria offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their funding. These scholarships cover tuition and/or living costs and are highly competitive.
- Future International Scholarship
- Austria Government Scholarship
- Erasmus+
- OeAD Scholarship
Blocked Account Requirement
Students must show access to a minimum of €12,000 in funds (“blocked account”) to get their visa, ensuring they can support themselves during their studies.
Key Advantages
- Low tuition fees compared to other Western countries
- High wages for part-time student work
- Safe and welcoming environment for global students
- Excellent healthcare system for all residents
Conclusion:
So, study in Austria as it offers a winning mix of affordability, safety, and strong academic programs, making it an ideal choice for international students focused on careers in technology, business, or healthcare. From historic Vienna to modern Linz, students benefit from dynamic cities, friendly locals, and lifelong learning opportunities.
