Study in Salzburg, Austria
by Tanathip Rattanatum
| Salzburg, Austria | |
|---|---|
| Population: | 150,000 |
| Listed universities: | 2 |
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Largest universities:
University of Salzburg |
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Famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for The Sound of Music, Salzburg is much more than just postcard views. This laid-back Austrian city sits right by the Alps, offering a mix of culture, nature, and a student life that’s hard to beat.
It’s not a big, bustling metropolis - and that’s part of the appeal! Everything’s easy to get to, the vibe is relaxed, and the mountains are basically your backyard. If you’re after a city that’s beautiful, student-friendly, and full of character, Salzburg might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Study in Salzburg: Find Bachelors and Masters
Life in Salzburg is the right mix between cozy cafés, stunning views, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Since it’s a smaller city, everything feels close-knit and easy to explore - whether you’re hitting up a concert, grabbing a coffee, or heading out for a hike in the nearby mountains.
Rent tends to be a bit cheaper than in Vienna or Innsbruck, but since Salzburg is popular with tourists, it’s smart to start apartment hunting early. You’ll find a good range of student housing options, from shared flats to dorms run by the universities.
The city has a great public transport system, but with so much close by, many students prefer to bike or just walk around. Plus, Salzburg is very safe and friendly, so it's perfect if you’re studying abroad for the first time.
Salzburg may be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to higher education. Here are some of the top institutions in the city:
These institutions attract a mix of local and international students, and many of their degrees are available in English (especially at the Master’s level).
Finding a part-time job in Salzburg as a student is definitely possible, especially if you speak some German. The city has a strong local economy, and students often work in hospitality, retail, or at the universities themselves as research or teaching assistants.
EU/EEA students can work freely without needing a special permit in Austria. If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need a work permit, but universities and employers are usually familiar with the process.
While wages aren’t sky-high, they’re enough to help cover your monthly expenses, especially if you land a job with flexible hours that fits around your class schedule. Plus, student jobs are a great way to improve your language skills and meet locals.
Salzburg is well-connected and easy to navigate. Most international students arrive via Salzburg Airport, which has regular flights to major European hubs. For even more connections, Vienna and Munich airports are just a train ride away.
Once you’re in the city, getting around is simple. Salzburg’s public transport system includes buses and trolleybuses that run frequently and are reliable. Students can get discounted monthly passes, which make it easy (and affordable) to move around.
That said, Salzburg is also a very walkable city and many universities, cafes, and cultural spots are within walking or biking distance. So, whether you prefer cycling along the Salzach river or hopping on a bus to class, commuting here is stress-free.
