Top Universities in Austria: Rankings, Courses, and Admissions

Last Updated on August 29, 2024

With its breathtaking landscapes, Austria is a study destination that’s hard for international students to resist. Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and academic excellence. Its rich history is brought to life in its magnificent castles, such as the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace.  

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Austria’s main highlight is its university and education system. Graduates from leading Universities in Austria are highly valued by employers all over the globe. For example, a Computer Science Engineer can earn an average yearly salary ranging from INR 48L to INR 61L, while doctors could make as high as INR 50L -76L per year. These salaries are only expected to rise with experience.

It may be a shock, but over 97.1 thousand international students will study in Austria’s best universities by 2025 for higher studies. This number has consistently grown from previous years.

Are you feeling excited about studying at Austria’s top universities? This guide will assist you by providing all the necessary details. Keep reading if you want to know all about Studying in Austria as an international student. 

Study in Austria: Key Highlights

Here’s an overview of everything you need to know about studying in Austria

Why Study at Top Universities in Austria?

Austria is much more than just historic castles and scenic beauty. This country offers a world-class education system that equips bright students with the knowledge and skills the world demands. Below are some reasons why you should study in Austria.

• Suitable Location: Austria’s excellent location allows students to visit Eastern and Central Europe easily. The country shares borders with eight nations, including Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Lichtenstein; this extensive railway and bus system makes travelling around the region very convenient.

• Affordable Education: The Education system in Austria is known for its affordability, with yearly costs of only 1.3L (Lakh) compared to other countries. The USA has a tuition fee range of INR 27L to INR 50L, the UK ranges from INR 11L to INR 32L, and Australia’s fees are from INR 8L up to INR 30 L per year. The curriculum is easy-going and comfortable, letting you concentrate on your studies without too much stress.

• Opportunity to Learn German: Most of the best universities in Austria have included German language classes as part of their studies. Knowing German can help you with work possibilities in Austria and Germany later.

• English-Taught Programs: The finest universities in Austria also provide numerous programs taught entirely in English, which aids international students with their academic transition.

• Cultural Riches: Austria, recognised worldwide for its classical music, holds 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is home to many historical landmarks and has a lively arts scene that provides an inspiring setting for students.

5 Top Universities in Austria for Indian Students

The Top 5 Universities in Austria for Indian students include:

Let us now discuss the top universities suitable for studying in Austria.

1. University of Vienna

Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is one of Central Europe’s most prominent and oldest universities. It has over 46,000 students taking classes in around 179 different programs and is one of the best universities in Vienna. But that’s not all; the university also offers extra training opportunities to students who want to keep learning. 

The University of Vienna is Austria’s most significant educator and researcher and the best public university in Austria, with over 8,000 teachers. The university offers many classes and focuses on the future by exploring new research areas and building connections between different subjects.

Popular Courses Offered at the University of Vienna to Study in Austria

• MS
• M.Sc.
• MBA/PGDM

English Requirement to Study in Austria

Notable Alumni

• Erwin Schrödinger
• Sigmund Freud

2. Technische Universität Wien

Technische Universität Wien, or TU Wien, was founded in 1815 and started as the Imperial-Royal Polytechnical Institute. It is also the first University of Technology in the German-speaking world. 

Over the years, the university gained recognition for its teaching and research within Austria and internationally. People view it as one of Vienna’s finest universities, a favourable option for innovation companies.

TU Wien possesses eight faculties which encompass various key engineering disciplines. While the university primarily emphasises profound research, it also conducts applied investigation for problem-solving purposes.

Popular Courses Offered at Technische Universität Wien to study in Austria

• BA
• B.Sc
• M.Sc
• MA

English Requirement to Study in Austria

Notable Alumni

• Fritz Lang
• Wilhelm Steinitz 

3. Universität Innsbruck

The University of Innsbruck is one of Austria’s oldest universities, with roots dating back to a Jesuit college in 1562. Today, it has a bustling campus with 16 different faculties. It also has several areas dedicated to research, where professors and students from various fields can work together. 

The University of Innsbruck has around 30,000 students and aims to be a leader in research, teaching, and classes that help people excel in their careers. The university is also working on strengthening its reputation in Europe and throughout Austria. 

Popular Courses Offered at the University of Innsbruck to study in Austria:

• MA
• M.Sc
• Diploma in Maths

English Requirement to Study in Austria 

Notable Alumni

• Alexander Van der Bellen

4. Graz University of Technology

Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) has been an educational centre for science and technology in Austria since 1811. It’s among the oldest universities in the country, with three campuses: two downtown and one on the southeast side.

TU Graz has a solid mechanical engineering reputation and welcomes over 14,000 students to its seven faculties.

The programs at TU Graz vary, ranging from Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in all fields of science and technology to Doctoral studies. Every year, more than 16000 students participate in these programs, along with approximately 1.8000 graduates, making it an active hub for education and creativity.

Popular Courses Offered at TU Graz to Study in Austria

• BA
• B.Sc/B.E.
• M.Sc

English Requirement at TU Graz to study in Austria

Notable Alumni

• Nikola Tesla
• Karl von Terzaghi

5. Johannes Kepler University Linz

The Johannes Kepler University (JKU) in Linz was established in 1966. It is a familiar university but has become a leader in science, business, and social sciences. The teachings offered by faculty members here are focused on future aspects.

The campus is very nice, with grounds similar to a park! The university has four main faculties: Social Sciences, Law, Engineering and Natural Sciences, and Medicine. JKU welcomes many international students every year. According to statistics, one out of 9 students are from a different country. It was even the first university in Austria to offer electronic student IDs.

Popular Courses Offered at Johannes Kepler University Linz to study in Austria

• BA
• BBA
• B.Sc
• MA
• M.Sc
• MBA

English Requirement at Johannes Kepler University Linz to study in Austria

Notable Alumni

• Volker Türk
• Reinhold Mitterlehner

Intakes at the Top Universities in Austria in 2024

Universities in Austria offer two significant intakes each year. The table below will help you take a quick look at the same:

Austria Student Visa: Types and Fees

The excellent news is Austria has a high student visa acceptance rate of 86%. As an international student, you must apply before arriving to study at one of the top universities in Austria.  

There are two types of student visas to study at top universities in Austria.

Eligibility Criteria to apply for Austria Visa 

• Admission letters from top universities in Austria
• Financial proof
• Must demonstrate English language proficiency
• An international travel medical insurance of a minimum of INR 27 L

Required Documents

• Application Form
• Passport
• Two photographs 
• Travel medical insurance
• Austrian university admission letter
• Tuition fee payment receipt
• Proof of sufficient funds (minimum INR 9L)
• Statement of Purpose 
• Letter of Recommendation
• Flight details
• Accommodation details 

Scholarships to Study at Top Universities in Austria 

Scholarships in Austria are offered to international students by government or private organisations or the university itself.

OeAD Scholarships

The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research, called OeAD, provides many scholarships mainly intended for students from around the globe, including India. These scholarships provide a significant source of financial aid to support your studies in Austria by covering tuition fees, living costs, and even travel expenses.

University-Specific Scholarships

Moreover, Austria’s best universities have financial aid programs and scholarships for international students. For example, the University of Vienna provides numerous opportunities to help fund your studies there.

The possible criteria for these awards might be your grade point average, financial situation, or the specific area of study you have chosen.

It suggests that you have even more chances to discover scholarships that can assist in funding your education in Austria.

Cost of Living in Austria as an International Student

Look at the table below to learn about the cost of living in Austria as an International student.

Career Opportunities in Austria

Below is a list of high-paying jobs you can do after studying at top universities in Austria

Conclusion

Austria, known for its rich history and alpine beauty, might perfectly suit your European higher education aspirations. Austria offers top-notch education, and its strong job market makes it suitable for Indian students. 

While the cost of living while studying at top universities in Austria seems expensive, Austria’s job market offers the potential to recover those costs within a year or two of graduation. Apart from academic excellence, Austria has a vibrant cultural scene and an exciting student life, making it an attractive destination. 

The cost of living while studying at top universities in Austria might appear costly. However, Austria’s job market can balance out these expenses within a year or two after a student graduates. Additionally, Austria is known for its lively culture and thrilling student life, which can also draw interest from those seeking an overseas experience.

So, choosing to study in Austria might be the best decision for your career.

If you have finally decided to study in Austria, contact Admissify ASAP. We will help you through each step of your journey. We will take care of everything while you sit back and see your career take off!

FAQs

Do I need to learn German to study in Austria?

Not necessarily. Many postgraduate programs are offered in English. However, learning essential German can enhance your experience.

What are the tuition fees at top universities in Austria?

EU/EEA students generally study for free at public universities. Non-EU students pay about €1,500 per semester. Private universities have higher fees.

Can work while studying at top universities in Austria as an international student?

EU/EEA students can work without restrictions. Non-EU students can work part-time (20 hours/week) during semesters and full-time during breaks.

How do I apply for a student visa to study in Austria?

After university admission, non-EU students must apply for a residence permit at the Austrian embassy in their home country.

What living costs should I expect while studying in Austria?

Budget around INR 72,857.60 – INR91,072.00 per month for accommodation, food, and other expenses, depending on the city.

Gaurav Kandari

Gaurav Kandari is a seasoned study abroad consultant with over 5 years of experience, specializing in guiding students to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. An avid traveler, he draws on his global adventures to enrich his consulting, providing invaluable insights to aspiring scholars.