Study in Austria – Everything You Need to Know

Before we dive into the details of studying in Austria, here is a compact checklist covering the key steps for starting your journey:

✅ Find your study programme & choose the right University of Applied Sciences
✅ Check application deadlines & entry requirements – prepare your documents in good time
✅ Prove or improve your language skills – e.g. with German courses or certificates
✅ Plan your finances & check for scholarships, grants or part-time jobs
✅ Arrange health insurance – essential for your visa and enrolment
✅ Apply for your visa & residence permit (if required)
✅ Make use of exchange & support services – for example, through the International Admissions Team at FHWN (Study Abroad in Austria) or the International Office at FHWN (Semester Abroad)
✅ Look for accommodation – whether in student halls, shared flats or private apartments
✅ Settle in & get started – enjoy your student life while studying in Austria!

Sounds good? Then let’s take a closer look at each step – with helpful tips, links and everything you need to know about how to study in Austria.

Higher Education System in Austria: Your Study Options

In Austria, you can choose between different types of higher education institutions – depending on your goals, learning preferences and financial situation:

• Universities: Academic institutions with a strong focus on research and theory.
• Universities of Applied Sciences: Practice-oriented study programmes with close links to business and industry – for example, at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt.
• University Colleges of Teacher Education: Specialising in teacher training and the education of future educators.
• Private Universities: Offering individual study programmes with personalised support – often with higher tuition fees.

Study in Austria: Find Your Perfect Study programme

Are you passionate about engineering, business, health sciences or arts? In Austria, a vibrant and diverse higher education landscape is waiting for you! Here are some of the most popular study fields right now:

• Engineering study programmes: such as Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics
• Business & Management: such as Business Administration, International Management
• Health Sciences: such as Medicine, Physiotherapy
• Creative disciplines: such as Architecture, Design, Film Studies

🔗 Explore all study options in Austria

At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, you can embark on a practical and future-focused academic journey. Choose from a wide selection of Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Business, Engineering, Health, Sport and Security – all designed with a strong link to professional practice and excellent career opportunities.

🔎 Ready to find your perfect study programme? 👉

🧐 Did you know? Students from over 80 countries have already chosen to study in Austria with us! Thanks to special programmes and English-taught study programmes, international students benefit from an inspiring, globally oriented learning environment and outstanding preparation for the international job market.

Entry Requirements and Admission: Your Path to Study in Austria

Your dream of studying in Austria is closer than you think! To start your journey, you should be familiar with the key entry requirements – these can vary depending on the university and study programme:

• A recognised secondary school leaving certificate (e.g., Matura, Abitur, or an international qualification) or an alternative proof of eligibility to study
• Proof of German language skills at B2 or C1 level – or, for English-taught programmes, a valid TOEFL, IELTS or similar certificate
• Depending on the study programme: an entrance examination, aptitude test (e.g., MedAT) or a creative portfolio (e.g., for arts-related programmes)

At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, the application process is clearly organised and transparent. Everything you need to know about deadlines, requirements and how to apply can be found online.

🔗 Find out more: Apply to the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt

💡 Tip: Submit your application at least six months before your course starts – especially if you need a visa or official document recognition. Planning ahead will save you time, reduce stress and help you settle into your studies with confidence!

🧐 Did you know? You can still study in Austria even without a traditional school-leaving certificate! Options such as an entrance qualification examination or a recognised professional qualification can open the door to your chosen study programme. 👉 Read more in our blog post: Study in Austria Without Matura – How It Works in 2025!

Boost Your German Skills While You Study in Austria

Ready to take your German to the next level while studying in Austria? Whether you prefer face-to-face classes or the flexibility of online learning, there are plenty of ways to strengthen your language skills:

• University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt: FHWN German courses offered alongside your studies, right on campus
• Adult Education Centres: Affordable and accessible German courses across Austria
• Online platforms: Learn German anytime, anywhere with sprachportal.at

No matter your schedule or learning style, you’ll find the perfect course to help you feel at home in Austria – and succeed in your studies! 😊

Funding Your Studies in Austria: Tuition Fees, Scholarships & Part-Time Jobs

Studying in Austria doesn’t have to be expensive – especially for EU/EEA citizens. Many study programmes at public universities are free of charge (apart from the mandatory student union fee).

Students from non-EU countries are usually required to pay tuition fees of around €726 per semester. Universities of Applied Sciences – such as the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt – charge between €363 and €726 per semester, depending on the study programme.

To help you plan your studies financially, there are several support options available:

• Scholarships: The Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalisation (OeAD) offers a comprehensive overview of scholarships for international students. Take advantage of funding opportunities and make your start in Austria easier!
  🔗 OeAD Scholarship Database
• Study Grants & Loans: Depending on your place of residence and residence status, you may be eligible for study grants or education loans.
  🔗 Information on Study Grants – stipendium.at
• Part-Time Jobs: Many international students work alongside their studies – either to finance their everyday expenses or to gain valuable work experience. EU/EEA citizens have no work restrictions. Students from non-EU countries generally need a work permit but are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.
  🔗 Working While Studying – oead.at

🔗 How Much Does Studying at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt Cost?

Health Insurance for International Students in Austria

If you want to study in Austria, you must have valid health insurance – this applies to all students.

• Students from EU/EEA countries can usually use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, be aware: not all costs may be covered, depending on your insurance provider. For example, there might be additional charges for hospital stays. Tip: Make sure to check with your insurance provider in advance to see which services are covered – and consider whether additional student insurance might be a smart investment.
• Students from non-EU countries are required to have private or student health insurance. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) offers special, affordable insurance rates for students.

💡 Important: Proof of health insurance is often a mandatory requirement for your residence permit or visa application.

Visa and Residence Permit for Your Studies in Austria

If you come from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need a visa or residence permit to study in Austria. In many cases, you must apply at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country.

💡 Important: Some nationals from third countries are allowed to enter Austria without a visa. In these cases, you can apply for your residence permit directly in Austria. You can find out whether this applies to you by checking the official OeAD country list for "Visa-Free Entry".

To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you prepare the following documents:

• Confirmation of admission to your study programme
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of accommodation in Austria
• Proof of valid health insurance

🔗 Find answers to all your visa-related questions at studyinaustria.at.

💡 Tip: Start your preparations early – processing times can take several weeks! Keep all required documents ready and regularly check for any updates on requirements.

Exchange, Advice & Support for Your Study Adventure in Austria

You are not alone! On platforms such as the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Austria, you can connect with other international students and gain real insights into everyday student life in Austria.

At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, you’ll receive excellent support: Planning a semester abroad? The International Office at FHWN is your go-to contact. Starting a full study programme in Austria? The International Admissions Team will support you with everything from visa questions to accommodation and getting settled into your studies.

A real highlight: the FHWN Buddy Network for exchange students! Your Buddy will help you settle in, show you around the campus and share valuable tips for everyday life as a student in Austria.

Living and Studying in Austria: Accommodation, Leisure & Culture

Studying in Austria means more than just hitting the books – it’s also a time to experience life! New perspectives await you – academically, personally and culturally. Austria offers a high quality of life, safe cities, excellent public transport and a vibrant cultural scene.

Accommodation for Students

To make your start as smooth as possible, it’s important to arrange your accommodation early – whether you prefer a student hall, a shared flat (WG) or your own apartment.

Accommodation options at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt campuses:

• Wiener Neustadt
• Wieselburg
• Tulln

Finding a Place to Stay Made Easy:

• STUWO – Student housing across Austria
• OeAD – Accommodation services for students

Experience Leisure and Culture While Studying in Austria

Whether it’s skiing in the Alps, hiking, cycling, attending concerts or visiting museums – Austria has something for everyone. Popular highlights include vibrant nightlife in the cities, charming cafés, cultural events and international festivals.

Top 5 Leisure Activities for Students in Austria:

🎿 Skiing & Snowboarding in the Alps
In winter, the Austrian Alps offer perfect conditions for winter sports. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding or tobogganing – everything is possible.
With your student ID, you often get discounted lift passes!

🎭 Experience Culture Up Close
From classical concerts to modern art exhibitions – in cultural cities like Vienna, Graz and Salzburg, you’ll find theatres, museums, cinemas and festivals.
Reduced admission fees are available almost everywhere with your student ID.

🚴 Enjoy Nature & the Outdoors
Austria is ideal for anyone who loves to be active outdoors. Hiking, cycling, climbing or swimming in lakes – endless opportunities are right at your doorstep.
Studying and relaxing? In Austria, the two go hand in hand!

☕ Discover the Coffeehouse Culture
Coffeehouses are much more than places to drink coffee – they are meeting points, study spaces and peaceful retreats. Especially in Vienna, you can experience the famous coffeehouse culture, recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Perfect for study sessions with fellow students!

🎉 Nightlife & Events for Every Taste
Whether you prefer a relaxed bar, a trendy club or an open-air concert – the student nightlife in Austria’s cities is diverse and affordable.
Don’t miss out: Many venues offer special student deals and free entry to student parties!

Start Your Study Adventure in Austria Today!

Ready to take the next step? Discover the wide range of study programmes at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt and find the course that’s truly right for you!

✨ Take the first step – your future starts right here!