STUDY IN AUSTRIA
Why Austria?
Austria is emerging as a strategic destination for International students seeking affordable European education with an exceptional quality of life. The country offers a unique combination of world-class universities, low tuition fees, and safety that makes it particularly attractive for international students.
Top-Ranked Universities and Global Recognition
Austria consistently demonstrates strong performance in international university rankings, with multiple institutions achieving global recognition.
Leading Austrian Universities (2026 Rankings)
| University | QS 2026 Rank | THE 2026 Rank | Specialization |
| University of Vienna | 152 | 95 | Social Sciences, Humanities, Medicine |
| TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) | 197 | 301 | Engineering, Technology, Computer Science |
| University of Innsbruck | 350 | 301 | Natural Sciences, Medicine |
| Graz University of Technology | 427 | 601 | Engineering, Technology |
| Johannes Kepler University Linz | 473 | 401 | Business, Engineering, Sciences |
Famous Programs and Fields
International students are increasingly drawn to specific programs where Austria excels, particularly following the TU Austria – Focus India partnership. These are the most popular options for international students-
- Engineering and Technology
- Computer Science and AI
- Sustainable Technologies and Circular Engineering
- Business and Management
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
Affordable Education and Scholarship Options
Austria offers remarkably affordable public education combined with extensive scholarship opportunities for international students.
Scholarship Opportunities
There are numerous scholarship opportunities open for international students-
- OeAD Scholarships: Austria’s primary scholarship agency offers multiple programs for international students:
- Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide: For PhD students, postgraduates, postdocs, and young lecturers from all fields
- Ernst Mach Grant for Universities of Applied Sciences: Enables non-European undergraduates and graduates to complete study visits
- Full or partial funding available, depending on the program
- Austrian Government Scholarships: Comprehensive support including tuition coverage, monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Most Austrian universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students, often covering partial or full tuition fees.
- TU Austria – Focus India Benefits: The new initiative offers subsidized tuition, streamlined visa processing, and clear post-study employment pathways specifically for Indian engineering students.
Total Funds Required
Tuition Fees Structure
Public Universities:
- EU/EEA Students: Often tuition-free or minimal fees after tolerance semesters
- Non-EU Students: €726.72 per semester (≈₹65,000)
- Annual Cost: €1,453.44 (≈₹1.3 lakhs) per year
Private Universities: up to €23,000 per year (≈₹2.7-20.3 lakhs)
Living Expenses Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the living expenses for International students in Austria-
- Monthly Living Costs: €1,200-€1,270 for students
- Accommodation- 450-900
- Food & Groceries- 350-380
- Health Insurance- 75
- Transportation- 75/semester
- Entertainment- 100-200
- Books & Supplies- 75-150/semester
Stay Back Options (Part-time Work and PSW)
Austria provides structured opportunities for international students during and after studies.
During Studies Work Rights
- Part-time work: Up to 20 hours per week during semesters
- Full-time work during semester breaks and holidays
- Work authorization obtained through employers
Post-Graduation Stay Back Options
After graduation, international students can apply for a residence permit extension of up to 12 months specifically for job searching.
Austrian university graduates can apply for the Red-White-Red Card, a combined residence and work permit:
- Valid for up to 2 years initially
- Bound to a specific employer initially, then free labor market access after 21 months.
- Family reunification is possible for spouses and children.
- Clear pathway to permanent residence after long-term stay.
TU Austria – Focus India Benefits: The new partnership specifically includes post-study visa extensions and clear employment pathways for Indian engineering graduates.
Bachelor’s in Austria – Entry Requirements/Tuition Fees
Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications:
- Higher Secondary Certificate (12th grade) from a recognized Indian board
- Certificate must be equivalent to the Austrian Matura examination
- Must be sufficient for university admission in the home country (India)
Language Proficiency:
- German Programs: Proof of German proficiency through certificates like DSH, TestDaF, or OSD
- English Programs: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or C1 Advanced certificates
- Minimum scores vary by university and program
Documentation Required:
- Valid passport and passport-sized photographs
- Secondary school leaving certificate (legalized and translated)
- Academic transcripts
- Language proficiency certificates
- Proof of financial means (minimum ₹9 lakhs for first year for under 24 years and ₹15 lakhs for above 24 years of age)
- Health insurance coverage
Tuition Fees for Bachelor’s Programs
Public Universities:
- Standard Fee: €726.72 per semester for non-EU students
- Annual Cost: €1,453.44 (≈₹1.3 lakhs)
- Additional Fees: ÖH (Student Union) fee of €25.20 per semester
Private Universities:
- Range: €8,000-€23,830 per year
- Example: Webster University charges €23,830 annually for full-time undergraduate programs
Master’s in Austria – Entry Requirements/Tuition Fees
Entry Requirements
Academic Prerequisites:
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3 years ‘ duration (180 ECTS credits)
- Minimum 60% aggregate in an undergraduate degree
- Field relevance: The Degree should be related to the chosen Master’s program
Specific Requirements for Indian Students:
- Three-year Indian bachelor’s degrees are generally accepted from recognized institutions
- Grade requirement: Minimum 60% of maximum points
- The institution must be recognized academically
- Program relevance to previous studies is essential
Language Requirements:
- English Programs: IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+, or equivalent
- German Programs: DSH, TestDaF certificates required
- Test scores should not be older than 1-2 years
Documentation Checklist:
- Completed application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts (legalized and translated)
- Language proficiency certificates
- CV highlighting relevant experience
- Statement of purpose/Letter of intent
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
- Valid passport copy
- Proof of financial resources
Tuition Fees for Master’s Programs
Public Universities:
- Standard Fee: €726.72 per semester for non-EU students
- Annual Cost: €1,453.44 (≈₹1.3 lakhs) for most programs
- TU Austria Programs: Same affordable rate for Indian students in the Focus India initiative
Private Universities:
- Range: €6,000-€10,500 per semester
- MBA Programs: €10,500 per semester (3 semesters)
- Regular Master’s: €6,000 per semester (4 semesters)
Additional Costs:
- Application fees: €50-200
- Student Union fee: €25.20 per semester
- Health insurance: €75 per month
