Applying for a Bachelor’s degree in Austria (2026)
The center of excellence
by Chris Brown, , modified
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| 25 | universities offer Bachelors in Austria in English |
| 57 | Bachelors are available |
If you’re looking for a European study destination that combines culture, nature, and solid academics (without breaking the bank), Austria is definitely worth considering.
While most programmes are taught in German, there’s a growing number of English-taught Bachelors in Austria; especially in fields like business, tech, and international relations.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Vienna, the mountain views in Innsbruck, or the student vibe in Graz, Austria offers a mix of excellent education, affordable tuition fees, and a great quality of life.
More and more Bachelor’s programmes in Austria are now being offered entirely in English.
Austria is known for offering high-quality education at a surprisingly affordable cost, especially compared to countries like the US or UK. But what you’ll pay depends on your nationality and the type of institution you choose.
If you’re from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you’re in luck: you can study at public universities in Austria almost for free. You’ll only need to pay a small student union fee (), which is around €25 per semester. This is true during the standard length of your Bachelor’s degree, plus two additional “tolerance” semesters (so up to 8 semesters in most cases).
For students from outside the EU/EEA, tuition fees at public universities are still very reasonable, usually around €726 per semester, plus the same small student union fee. That adds up to roughly €1,500 per year.
At universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), the rules are a bit different. These institutions can charge tuition to all students, including EU citizens. Fees are typically around €363 to €726 per semester, depending on the programme and institution.
If you’re considering a private university, the tuition fees will be significantly higher. These institutions set their own rates, which can range from €5,000 to over €20,000 per year.
In general, tuition fees are fairly similar across most fields of study, especially at public universities. But if you’re aiming for medicine or dentistry, be prepared: these programmes are highly competitive, mostly taught in German, and have a separate application process.
Unlike in some other countries, there’s no centralised application system for Bachelor’s degrees in Austria. Instead, the application process depends on the university and programme, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of each institution you’re interested in.
For most public universities, you apply directly through the university’s own application portal. The process can vary slightly from one university to another, especially between traditional universities and universities of applied sciences.
You’ll usually need to submit:
You may also need to complete an entrance exam, submit a letter of recommendation, or attend an interview, especially for competitive programmes.
Austria might have a relaxed vibe, but applying late is not an option, especially if you’re coming from outside the EU. Most universities have strict deadlines, and in some cases (especially for visa-requiring students), you’ll need to apply months in advance.
For public universities, deadlines depend mainly your nationality. If you’re applying for the winter semester, which starts in October, non-EU applicants generally need to apply as early as February or March. EU and EEA students usually have a bit more time, with deadlines typically around June or July.
Private universities might offer more flexibility in terms of start dates or intakes, but not necessarily when it comes to deadlines. Central European University (CEU), for instance, recommends that students from visa-sensitive countries apply nine to twelve months in advance. EU applicants have more time, with a deadline around July.
50業子 Tip: Set yourself a personal deadline that’s even earlier than required. That way, you’ll have enough time to gather documents, arrange housing, and deal with your visa without last-minute stress.
Financing your studies in Austria is definitely possible thanks to a range of scholarships and support services. The main place to start your search is the , the Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalisation, which serves as the country’s central scholarship portal for international students. They provide information on scholarships available from the government, universities, and other organisations.
Many universities also offer their own scholarships, often based on merit or specific criteria that can cover up to 50% of tuition fees.
Beyond scholarships, the is a helpful public service dedicated to processing applications for various study grants, providing financial aid to students who meet certain conditions.
Working part-time while studying is another way to support yourself. If you’re an EU or EEA student, you can work without restrictions. For non-EU students, part-time work is allowed but limited to 20 hours per week, and you’ll need a valid work permit. Balancing work and study can be challenging, but many students find it a great way to gain experience and manage living costs.
Once you’ve decided to study in Austria and received the confirmation from your university, finding a place to live is a key next step.
Many students opt for student dormitories, which are often managed by the OeAD Housing Service or other local providers. These dorms tend to be affordable and located close to campuses.
Another common option is the private rental market, where shared flats (known locally as “WGs”) are very popular among students. Living in a WG not only helps keep costs down but also offers a great way to meet people and get to know Austrian student life.
Rent prices vary depending on the city and type of accommodation. You can expect to pay roughly €250 to €400 per month for a spot in a student hall, while shared flats or studios typically range between €350 and €600 per month. Keep in mind that demand is especially high in cities like Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg, so it’s a good idea to start your housing search early.
If you’re coming from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland you don’t need a visa to study in Austria. However, you must register with the local authorities within four months of your arrival to get your residence registration completed.
For students from outside the EU/EEA, obtaining a student visa or a residence permit is mandatory before you arrive. The most common permit is called the “Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Student” (Residence Permit for Students). You’ll need to apply for it at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country well in advance, since processing times can take up to 90 days.
The application requires several key documents:
Proof of financial means is especially important. If you’re 23 years old or younger, you need to show about €7,358 in your bank account to cover living costs for 12 months. For students aged 24 or older, this amount roughly doubles to around €13,203, reflecting a monthly requirement of about €1,110. In 2025, if the costs for accommodation is higher than €376.27/month, you will have to prove additional funds.
If you can, try to plan your arrival in Austria about two to three weeks before your semester begins. This gives you enough time to settle in and attend the orientation weeks that most universities offer to help new students get started.
Keep in mind the weather: summers are generally mild and pleasant, but winters can be quite cold with snow in most parts of the country. Packing warm clothes is definitely a smart move if you’re arriving in autumn or winter.
Vienna’s airport is the main international hub and is very well connected to cities all over Europe and beyond, making it the easiest entry point. From the capital, you can then easily get to your university city by train or bus. Austria has a good and reliable train system that connects most places quickly (and the views are great!).
Most Bachelors in Austria usually take 3 years to complete, with a few programmes at private institutions that last 4 years.
Tuition fees for Bachelors in Austria in English are generally free for EU students, while non-EU students pay around 1,500 per year. Meanwhile, universities of applied sciences and private institutions usually charge tuition fees for all students regardless of nationality.
Ready to study in Austria?
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