Austria

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Austria is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international students. Known for its world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and rich cultural heritage, Austria offers a perfect balance of academic excellence and high quality of life. Whether you’re interested in science, arts, technology, or humanities, studying in Austria opens the door to global opportunities.

Trust us to guide you every step of the way with professionalism and care.

Why Study In The Austria?

Austria has become one of Europe’s top destinations for international students. Here’s why choosing Austria can be a life-changing decision:
🎓 High-Quality Education – Home to prestigious universities such as the University of Vienna and TU Wien, offering globally recognized degrees.
💶 Affordable Tuition Fees – Public universities charge comparatively low tuition fees, making Austria a budget-friendly study destination.
🌐 Programs in English & German – Wide choice of degree programs available in both languages to suit international students.
🏔 Beautiful Location – Live and study in the heart of Europe, surrounded by the Alps, historic cities, and a rich cultural heritage.
👩‍🎓 International Student Community – Thousands of students from around the world create a diverse and welcoming environment.
💼 Work & Post-Study Opportunities – Students can work part-time during studies and apply for a post-study work permit after graduation.
✈️ Central European Hub – Easy travel to neighboring countries like Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Hungary.

Admission Requirements In Austria

International students must meet certain academic and language requirements to secure admission into Austrian universities. Requirements vary depending on the program (Bachelor, Master, or PhD), but the general criteria include:

🎓 For Bachelor’s Programs

  • Completed secondary education / high school diploma (equivalent to Austrian Matura).

  • Proof of eligibility to study in your home country (e.g., admission letter from a university in your country).

  • Language proficiency:

    • German: ÖSD, TestDaF, DSH (if applying to German-taught programs).

    • English: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, or Medium of Instruction (MOI) for English-taught programs.

  • Passport, CV, and motivation letter.

🎓 For Master’s Programs

  • Recognized Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

  • Transcript of records from previous studies.

  • Proof of English or German language proficiency (depending on program).

  • CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters (sometimes required).

🎓 For Doctorate / PhD Programs

  • Recognized Master’s degree in a relevant field.

  • Research proposal (in some cases).

  • Proof of supervisor acceptance (university may require confirmation from a professor).

  • Language proficiency certificate (English or German).

Application Documents

  • Completed application form (online or paper-based).

  • Valid passport.

  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.

  • Proof of language proficiency.

  • Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose.

  • CV/Resume.

  • Proof of financial means (for visa).

Scholarships For International Students In Austria

Austria offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. These scholarships are funded by the Austrian government, universities, and various organizations to support talented students from around the world.

🏛 Government & National Scholarships

  • OeAD Scholarships (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research):
    Offers scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students, including short-term research grants.

  • Erasmus+ Program:
    For exchange students from EU and partner countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants.

  • Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) Scholarships:
    Supports students from developing countries with full or partial funding.

Student Visa Requirements In Austria

1) Which permission do you need?

  • Stay ≤ 6 months:

    • Visa C (up to 90 days) or Visa D (91 days–6 months). Apply at the Austrian embassy/consulate in your country. These are typically free for students

  • Stay > 6 months (most degree programs):

    • Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Student). First-time applicants generally apply from abroad and may also need a Visa D to enter and collect the card in Austria. 


2) Core document checklist (Residence Permit – Student)

  • Valid passport + biometric photo (ICAO). 

  • Letter of admission from an Austrian university/HEI. 

  • Proof of sufficient funds (as of 2025):

    • Under 24: €703.58/month

    • 24 and above: €1,273.99/month

    • If rent > €376.27/month, show extra funds for the difference. Funds must be accessible from Austria and in the applicant’s name. 

  • Proof of accommodation (rental agreement, housing letter). 

  • Health insurance covering all risks:

    • Before entry: travel insurance for at least 1 month, €30,000 minimum coverage incl. repatriation.

    • After enrolment: switch to an accepted Austrian student policy (ÖGK/other)

  • Proof of means of subsistence (bank statements/savings book/guarantee). 

  • Completed application form; the embassy may request Visa D checklist items if you need an entry visa. 

⚠️ Embassies/consulates can ask for additional documents (e.g., police clearance, travel itinerary). Always check the local mission’s list.

Post-Study Work Opportunities

  • 🎓 12-Month Job Search Permit – After graduation, international students can extend their residence permit for up to 12 months to look for a qualified job or start a business.

  • 💼 Red-White-Red Card for Graduates – Once you receive a relevant job offer, you can apply for this card. It is valid for up to 24 months and allows you to work with that employer.

  • 🔑 Red-White-Red Plus Card – After 2 years of working and living in Austria, you can upgrade to this permit, which gives free access to the Austrian job market (any employer, any field).

  • 🌍 EU Blue Card – An alternative for highly qualified graduates who secure a higher-paying job (with a minimum salary requirement). It provides additional benefits for mobility within the EU.

  • 🕒 Part-Time Work – During the job-search period, you may be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week with employer approval.

Schedule A Meeting With Us To Discuss Your Academic Endeavors

However, if you’re overwhelmed by your academic journey’s complexities, Destiny Globals can be your guiding light. In addition, please schedule a consultation with our experienced advisors to discuss your educational goals, from selecting the perfect program to crafting a winning application. Whether you seek undergraduate studies, postgraduate pursuits, or exam preparation guidance, Destiny Globals offers personalized support to help you unlock your academic potential. Lastly, don’t hesitate to take the first step towards success—book your consultation today!

Set up a meeting with us now, and we’ll work with you to make your study abroad ambitions a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need IELTS/TOEFL to study in Austria?

Not always. If your chosen program is in English, universities may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, or accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. For German-taught programs, you will need German proficiency (ÖSD, TestDaF, or DSH).

  • Public universities: around €600 to €1,500 per year for non-EU students.

  • Private universities: between €5,000 – €20,000 per year.

  • Living costs: around €300 – €1,200 per month (accommodation, food, transport, insurance).

Yes ✅. Students can work up to 20 hours per week with a valid work permit. Your studies must remain your main purpose for residence.

Austria offers government-funded scholarships (OeAD, Austrian Development Cooperation, Erasmus+), as well as university-specific scholarships. These can cover tuition, living costs, or provide monthly stipends.

Not necessarily. Many universities offer English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s level. However, learning German is highly recommended for daily life and job opportunities.

Non-EU students need a Residence Permit – Student, which requires:

  • Admission letter

  • Proof of funds (€703–€1,273 per month, depending on age)

  • Health insurance

  • Accommodation proof

  • Valid passport

Yes. After graduation, you can extend your stay for 12 months to find a job. Once employed, you may apply for a Red-White-Red Card for Graduates, and later upgrade to a Red-White-Red Plus Card for long-term work and residence.

Most universities have two intakes:

 

  • Winter Semester (October start) – applications usually open in spring/summer.

  • Summer Semester (March start) – applications open in late fall.

Yes ✅. Austria is one of the safest and most peaceful countries in Europe, with a high quality of life and excellent healthcare.

Yes. With an Austrian residence permit, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area (29 countries) for short stays.