Österreich

Higher education in Austria consists of three main types of institution: state universities, universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule – FH) and private universities; our partner sources state that there are more than 70 higher education institutions in the country. Bachelor's programmes last 3–4 years and comprise 180–240 ECTS credits; master's programmes are planned as 1–2 years and 60–120 ECTS. At bachelor's level the language of instruction is mostly German, while at master's level the number of English-taught options increases markedly. The academic year is divided into the winter semester starting in October and the summer semester starting in March. While fees at state universities are kept relatively low, fees at private universities vary considerably by programme. Entrance exams or aptitude assessments are applied in some fields such as medicine, psychology and the arts. For bachelor's applications from Turkey, the source reports that a YKS placement certificate showing placement in the same department is required; master's applicants are expected to have a bachelor's degree in the relevant field and a language certificate matching the programme language.

Why Austria?

• It offers the opportunity to study in the heart of Europe with a diploma recognised within the European Union.
• The source states that the semester fee for non-EU students at state universities averages around 726 €.
• Alongside German-taught programmes, there is a wide choice of English-taught programmes, especially at master's level.
• According to our partner sources, students can work up to 20 hours a week.
• The source reports that graduates are granted residence for up to 12 months to look for work, and that there is a long-term stay option via the Red-White-Red Card.
• There are student cities with a high quality of life, such as Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Linz and Innsbruck.
• Being a German-speaking country also opens the door to career opportunities in Germany and Switzerland.

Fees and living costs

At state universities, non-EU students pay a semester fee and a small student union contribution; private universities are much more expensive. Accommodation is the largest item in the monthly living budget; according to the source, expenses in Vienna may be higher than in other cities. Amounts are given as stated in the source and may change.

Application steps

1. Choose the type of university (state, FH, private) and the programme according to your bachelor's or master's goal.
2. Find out whether the programme is taught in German or English and plan the required language certificate.
3. Prepare your application file, including the YKS placement certificate for a bachelor's degree; have your diplomas and transcripts translated.
4. Submit your application according to the programme timeline via the university's online application system (e.g. u:space at the University of Vienna).
5. For departments requiring an entrance exam or assessment (medicine, arts, some social science programmes), follow the exam schedule separately.
6. After admission, complete the student visa/residence permit, insurance and accommodation procedures.

Required documents

• High school diploma (bachelor's) or bachelor's diploma (master's)
• Transcript of records
• YKS placement certificate (for bachelor's applications)
• German or English language certificate
• Motivation letter
• CV (especially for master's)
• Reference letters (for some programmes)
• Passport

Academic calendar and application periods

• Winter semester (starting in October) – applications generally March–July (given in the source as the 2026 timeline)
• Summer semester (starting in March) – applications generally October–January
• Medicine and arts programmes may have special exam and date arrangements; universities set their own calendars

Language requirements

• German-taught bachelor's programmes: generally B2–C1; the University of Vienna expects C1 for most programmes (TestDaF, ÖSD or equivalent)
• English-taught bachelor's programmes: IELTS / TOEFL (generally around IELTS 6.0–6.5 / TOEFL 80–90 for WU Wien)
• English-taught master's programmes: at least B2; IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+ is recommended for most programmes
• Some master's programmes may require the GMAT/GRE

Frequently asked questions

How much are state university fees in Austria?

The source states a fee of approximately 726 € per semester at state universities for non-EU students, plus a student union contribution of 20–25 €. For private universities, a range of 5,000 € – 20,000 € per year is mentioned.

Is the YKS required for a bachelor's degree in Austria?

In our partner sources, the bachelor's application requirements include a YKS placement certificate showing placement in the same department in Turkey. Current requirements are set by each university's admissions office.

Can I study in Austria without knowing German?

English-taught programmes are quite common at master's level. At bachelor's level, however, most programmes are in German and generally require B2–C1 level; English-taught bachelor's options are more limited.

How much should I budget per month?

The source gives total monthly living costs of 800 – 1,200 €, of which 350 – 700 € goes on accommodation. It is stated that expenses in Vienna may be higher than in other cities.

Is it possible to work while a student?

According to our partner sources, students can work up to 20 hours a week.

Can I stay in Austria after graduation?

The source states that graduates are granted residence for up to 12 months to look for work, and that a long-term stay may be possible via the Red-White-Red Card. Conditions are set by the official authorities and may change.

When are applications made?

In the general timeline, March–July for the winter semester and October–January for the summer semester are the main periods. However, universities may apply different dates; for example, TU Wien's 2025/26 calendar states that non-EU applicants must complete their applications between 16 January 2025 and 15 July 2025.