Studying in Austria: FAQ

For EU or EEA nationals, Masters study is free as long as you complete your degree on time! Non-EU/EEA students usually pay around €726 per semester, totalling approximately €2,904 for a two-year programme. Some Science courses at Fachhochschule institutions may be more expensive. All students must also pay a Students' Union fee of about €20 per semester, which includes compulsory accident insurance.

Yes. Scholarships are available from Austrian universities (merit- or needs-based), the Austrian government, the European Commission’s Erasmus Programme, and the Council on International Education Exchange (for American students). These can help with living costs and, in some cases, tuition fees.

You can study at public universities, private universities, or universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule). If you want to train as a teacher, you can attend a specialist university college of teacher education (Pädagogische Hochschulen).

Masters programmes in Austria typically last between one and two years, depending on your subject and university.

Austria follows the Bologna Process, offering degrees such as MA (Master of Arts) and MSc (Master of Science). Some institutions also have Diploma programmes that combine undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Austrian Masters courses use the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).. Two-year courses are worth 120–150 ECTS credits, while one-year Fachhochschule courses are usually worth 60. You’ll be assessed on individual units and your dissertation, which together determine your final grade.

You’ll usually need a Bachelor’s degree worth at least 180 ECTS credits (a three-year European degree) in a related field. Some selective courses may require additional exams or test scores such as the GMAT or GRE.

Most students live in student housing or private rentals. One-year students often choose student accommodation, while those studying longer may prefer private rentals, sometimes shared with friends.

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can stay in Austria for up to three months before registering for Confirmation of Registration. Non-EU/EEA students need an entry visa and a Student Residence Permit, which must be obtained before arrival. All students must also register locally after moving in.

Yes. EU/EEA students are covered by their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Students from Bosnia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, or Turkey have reciprocal agreements and must exchange an A3 form for an Austrian Krankenkassenschecks. Others must obtain private insurance or join a local public health provider (Gebietskrankenkassen).

Yes. EU, EEA, and Swiss students can work freely. Others need a work permit and can work up to 20 hours per week. Internships that are part of your degree don’t require a permit and aren’t counted in these hours.

EU and EEA graduates can work freely in Austria. Non-EU/EEA graduates can apply for a Red-White-Red Card, valid for up to 24 months, which allows them to live and work in Austria if they meet income, health insurance, and accommodation requirements.