Austrian universities have the best educational services you can think of and applying to any of them is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Austria is more than just the land of Mozart, the Alps, and mouth-watering pastries it’s also home to some of the world’s best universities, attracting over 87,000 international students every year. With low tuition fees, a high standard of living, and a rich cultural scene, Austria is one of Europe’s top destinations for higher education.
Whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, this step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to apply to Austrian universities in 2025.
Table of Contents
Why Study in Austria?
Before diving into the application process, here are some compelling reasons to choose Austria for your next study plans.
- High-quality education: Austrian universities rank among the top in the world.
- Affordable tuition: Public Austrian Universities charge low or no tuition fees for EU/EEA students, and reasonable fees for non-EU/EEA students.
- Cultural diversity — Around 15% of students in Austria are international.
- Work opportunities — International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during their studies.
- Safe and vibrant lifestyle — Affordable living costs compared to other Western European countries.
Step by Step Guide on How to Apply to Austrian Universities
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to apply successfully to Austrian universities.
Step 1: Choose Your University and Study Program
Austria has 14 globally ranked universities and many specialized institutions. You possibly cannot apply to all the 14 institutions, hence, start by shortlisting programs based on:
Your career goals and academic background
- Language of instruction (many Bachelor’s programs are in German; more Master’s programs are available in English)
- University rankings and tuition fees (Scholarship applicable)
- Location and cost of living
Popular universities in Austria include:
- University of Vienna
- Vienna University of Economics and Business – WU (Vienna University of Economics and Business)
- University of Innsbruck – Universität Innsbruck
- Central European University
- FH OÖ University of Applied Science Upper Austria
Tip: If you’re aiming for a bachelor’s program, German proficiency will give you far more options.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Each university has its own criteria, but here are the most common requirements:
- Proof of eligibility to study in the same program in your home country.
- Language proficiency: For German-taught programs: TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat (minimum CEFR A2–B2 depending on program). For English-taught programs: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge Certificate.
- Academic documents (high school diploma for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s diploma for Master’s).
- Specialization restrictions — Non-EU/EEA students may only apply for the same or closely related field as their previous degree.
- Entrance exams — Common in creative arts, medicine, and some competitive programs.
- Work experience — Required for certain Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) graduate programs.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
The exact list varies, but you may need:
Mandatory Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Diploma or degree certificate
- Official transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency
- Certificate of special university qualification (Nachweis der besonderen
Universitätsreife) for non-EU/EEA students - Completed university application form
Optional (but recommended) Documents
- Letter of recommendation
- CV/resume
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Portfolio or work samples (for creative programs)
Translation & Legalization: If your documents aren’t in German or English, you’ll need certified translations. Some may require legalization or an apostille.
Step 4: Fill Out and Submit the Application
- Where to apply: Directly via the university’s online portal or in some cases by post/email.
- Application fees: Many Austrian public universities don’t charge an application fee, but private universities usually do.
- Submission methods: Upload via the portal, send via email, or mail hard copies — follow the university’s exact instructions.
Step 5: Know the Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary by semester and nationality.
For Non-EU/EEA students:
- Winter semester: Start of September
- Summer semester: Start of February
For Austrian/EU/EEA/Swiss students:
- Winter semester: Mid-October
- Summer semester: Mid-March
Additional late application periods may be available if spots remain open:
- Winter: End of November
- Summer: End of April
- No extensions — Austria is strict with deadlines.
Step 6: Wait for the Admission Decision
Austrian Universities will send your acceptance or rejection via email or post. If accepted, you’ll receive a letter of admission — essential for your student visa or residence permit application.
Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa or Residence Permit
EU/EEA/Swiss students — No visa required but must register with local authorities within 3 months of arrival.
Non-EU/EEA students — Apply for a residence permit in person at the Austrian embassy/consulate in your home country. You’ll need:
● Proof of enrolment
● Proof of sufficient funds (around €12,000/year)
● Police clearance certificate
● Proof of accommodation
● Health insurance coverage
● Residence permit fee payment (€120)
Step 8: Plan Your Move to Austria
Once your visa is approved:
● Pay tuition/student union fees (€20–30/semester)
● Arrange accommodation (approx. €450/month for student housing)
● Register for classes
● Explore work opportunities
Costs of Studying in Austria
| Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU/EEA Students |
| Public university tuition | Free (plus €20–30 student union fee) | ~€726/semester |
| Private university tuition | €6,000–€23,000/year | €6,000–€23,000/year |
| Average living costs | €1,000–€1,200/month | €1,000–€1,200/month |
Final Tips for Success
- Start early: Some programs have entrance exams months before the semester begins.
- Learn basic German: Even for English programs, it helps with daily life.
- Budget wisely: Include rent, food, health insurance, and leisure in your plan.
- Stay organized: Keep all documents scanned, translated, and ready.
“Learn more in our Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to Austrian Universities”
