Education takes you places you can’t imagine, and imagination can take you anywhere. When planning to study abroad, choosing the best universities in Austria ensures a world-class experience.
Austria, the land of Sigmund Freud, Gregor Mendel, and Mozart, offers exceptional education opportunities along with affordability that makes it ideal for international students.
Table Of Content
1Are Universities in Austria Free for International Students?2Best Universities in Austria3Universities in Austria for International Students in English4Austria University Admission for International Students5Conclusion9Frequently Asked Questions
Are Universities in Austria Free for International Students?
No, universities in Austria are not completely free for international students.
Public universities are highly affordable, with tuition fees typically around €726 per semester, which is an impressive value considering the quality of education they offer.
Private universities and universities of applied sciences have different fee structures depending on the course and institution.
Best Universities in Austria
The best universities in Austria for international students include:
- University of Vienna
- Vienna University of Technology
- University of Innsbruck
- Graz University of Technology
- Johannes Kepler University Linz
- University of Graz
- Vienna University of Economics and Business
- Medical University of Vienna
- University of Salzburg
- University of Klagenfurt
Now let’s take a closer look at the best Universities in Austria:
1. University of Vienna
Location: Vienna, Austria
The University of Vienna is the largest university in Austria, with more than 90,000 students, and was founded in 1365, making it one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. It is known for its strong research, diverse programs, and vibrant international student community.
University of Vienna Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 150–200 globally
- Times Higher Education (THE): Around Top 120–150 worldwide
- U.S. News Global Rankings: Around Top 200 globally
Popular Courses at University of Vienna
- Business Administration
- Economics
- International Relations
- Data Science
- Psychology
- Environmental Sciences
University of Vienna Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 70–75% (approx. GPA 2.5 German scale)
- Degree: Relevant bachelor’s degree
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 88+
- Subject Match: Strong alignment with the chosen program
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, SOP, passport, LORs (if required)
University of Vienna Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the University of Vienna are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20–€25 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €750
University of Vienna Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Vienna is estimated to be around 25–35%, making it moderately competitive for international students, depending on the program and admission requirements.
2. Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
Location: Vienna, Austria
The Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) was founded in 1815 and is one of Austria’s leading technical universities, globally renowned for its excellence in engineering, natural sciences, and technology programs. The university has students from over 100 countries and maintains strong collaborations with industry and research institutions worldwide.
Vienna University of Technology Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 250–300 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 200–250 worldwide
- Subject Ranking (Engineering): Top 200 globally
Popular Courses at Vienna University of Technology
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering
- Information Technology
Vienna University of Technology Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 70%+ in relevant subjects
- Degree: Relevant bachelor’s degree in a technical field
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90+
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, SOP, passport
Vienna University of Technology Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the Vienna University of Technology are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €22 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €748
Vienna University of Technology Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the Vienna University of Technology is estimated to be around 30–40%, making it moderately competitive for international students, depending on the program and level of study.
3. University of Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck, Austria
The University of Innsbruck was founded in 1669 and is among the oldest and largest universities in the German-speaking world. Magnificently overlooking the Alps, it offers a unique study environment with a wide range of programs in science, humanities, social sciences, and law, and is considered one of the best universities in Austria.
University of Innsbruck Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 350–400 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 200–300 worldwide
Popular Courses at University of Innsbruck
- Law
- Business Administration
- Physics
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Environmental Engineering
University of Innsbruck Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 65–70%
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80+
- Documents: Transcripts, passport, SOP, CV
University of Innsbruck Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the University of Innsbruck are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €746
University of Innsbruck Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Innsbruck is estimated to be around 35–45%, making it relatively accessible to students from around the world.
4. Graz University of Technology
Location: Graz, Austria
The Graz University of Technology is a powerhouse of technical learning and one of the best universities in Austria, particularly known for technical sciences, engineering, and natural sciences. Additionally, it has strong research ties with industry and offers numerous English-taught master’s programs.
Graz University of Technology Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 400–500 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 300–400 worldwide
- Subject Ranking (Engineering): Top 300 globally
Popular Courses at Graz University of Technology
- Electrical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Architecture
- Industrial Engineering
- Environmental Science
Graz University of Technology Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 65–70% in technical subjects
- Degree: Relevant bachelor’s in science or engineering
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80+
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, SOP, passport
Graz University of Technology Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the Graz University of Technology are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €22 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €748
Graz University of Technology Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the Graz University of Technology is estimated to be around 35–45% for international applicants.
6. University of Graz
Location: Graz, Austria
The University of Graz was established in 1585 and is Austria’s second-oldest and second-largest university. It offers a broad array of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, theology, law, and environmental studies. Impressively, the university has a strong international presence and is considered one of the best universities in Austria.
University of Graz Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 400–500 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 300–400 worldwide
Popular Courses at University of Graz
- Law
- Economics
- Biology
- Environmental Sciences
- Humanities
- Theology
University of Graz Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 65–70%
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80+
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, SOP, passport
University of Graz Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the University of Graz are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20–€22 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €748
University of Graz Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Graz is estimated to be around 35–45%, which is moderately competitive.
7. Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna)
Location: Vienna, Austria
The Vienna University of Economics and Business is one of the largest business universities in Europe, with over 23,000 students. Furthermore, it holds prestigious international accreditations, including AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. For this reason, it belongs to a rare group of Triple Crown-accredited institutions. In addition, it is a gem of the Austrian education system, known for economics, business law, and social sciences.
Vienna University of Economics and Business Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 400–500 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 300–500 worldwide
- FT European Business Schools: Top 40 in Europe
Popular Courses at Vienna University of Economics and Business
- International Business
- Finance
- Business Law
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Economics
Vienna University of Economics and Business Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 70–75%
- Degree: Bachelor’s in a relevant business or economics field
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90+
- Other: GMAT/GRE may be required for some programs
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, motivation letter, passport
Vienna University of Economics and Business Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the Vienna University of Economics and Business are around €726 per semester (public programs) for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20–€22 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €748
Vienna University of Economics and Business Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the Vienna University of Economics and Business is estimated to be around 25–35% for international students, particularly for English-taught master’s programs.
8. Medical University of Vienna
Location: Vienna, Austria
The Medical University of Vienna is the largest medical school in the German-speaking world and one of the most significant medical research institutions in Europe. It has a rich history dating back to 1365, when it was part of the University of Vienna, and became an independent institution in 2004. Not to mention, it is highly regarded for clinical medicine, biomedical research, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Medical University of Vienna Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 150–200 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 150 worldwide for Clinical & Health
- Subject Ranking (Medicine): Top 100 globally
Popular Courses at Medical University of Vienna
- Human Medicine (MD)
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Biomedical Sciences
- Clinical Research
- Neuroscience
Medical University of Vienna Admission Requirements for International Students
- Entrance Exam: Medical University Entrance Exam (MedAT) required for medicine programs
- German Proficiency: B2–C1 level (for German-taught programs)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100+ (for English programs)
- Documents: Transcripts, passport, CV, entrance exam results
Medical University of Vienna Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the Medical University of Vienna are around €726 per semester for most international students.
- Additional Fees: Approximately €20–€30 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €756
Medical University of Vienna Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the Medical University of Vienna is estimated to be around 10–20%, making it highly competitive, as its medicine programs require entrance examinations.
9. University of Salzburg
Location: Salzburg, Austria
The University of Salzburg was founded in 1622 and is one of the most eye-catching universities in Europe. Notably, it is located in the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a city of deep historical significance. Apart from this, it offers a wide range of programs in humanities, cultural studies, natural sciences, and law.
University of Salzburg Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 500–600 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 400–500 worldwide
Popular Courses at University of Salzburg
- Law
- Humanities
- Cultural Studies
- Natural Sciences
- Communication Studies
- Sports Science
University of Salzburg Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 60–65%
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80+
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, motivation letter, passport
University of Salzburg Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the University of Salzburga are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €746
University of Salzburg Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Salzburg is estimated to be around 40–50%, making it one of the more accessible public universities in Austria.
10. University of Klagenfurt
Location: Klagenfurt, Austria
The University of Klagenfurt is a young and dynamic university founded in 1970. Remarkably, it is located at the crossroads of Austria, Slovenia, and Italy. Additionally, it is known for its interdisciplinary approach and expertise in education, social sciences, economics, and information technology.
University of Klagenfurt Ranking
- QS World University Rankings: Top 700–800 globally
- THE Rankings: Top 500–600 worldwide
Popular Courses at University of Klagenfurt
- Information Technology
- Education Sciences
- Economics
- Social Sciences
- English and American Studies
- Applied Informatics
University of Klagenfurt Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Score: 60–65%
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80+
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, motivation letter, passport
University of Klagenfurt Tuition Fees for International Students
On average, tuition fees at the University of Klagenfurt are around €726 per semester for international students.
- Student Union Fee: Approximately €20 per semester
- Overall Total Cost per Semester: Around €746
University of Klagenfurt Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Salzburg is estimated to be between 45% and 55%, giving international applicants a strong chance of admission and cementing its place as one of Austria’s most welcoming universities.
Universities in Austria for International Students in English
Here is a list of universities in Austria that offer English-taught programs for international students:
1. University of Vienna
2. Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
3. Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna)
4. University of Graz
5. University of Salzburg
6. University of Innsbruck
7. Johannes Kepler University Linz
8. Graz University of Technology
9. University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU)
10 Central European University
11. MODUL University Vienna
12. IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems
13. MCI Management Center Innsbruck
14. Salzburg University of Applied Sciences
15. Upper Austria University of Applied Sciences
Austria University Admission for International Students
Follow these simple steps to apply for Austria university admission as an international student:
1. Choose a Program
Pick a university and course based on your academic background and career goals.
2. Check Eligibility
Ensure to meet the academic requirements for the chosen program.
3. Language Requirement
Provide proof of English or German language proficiency, depending on the program.
4. Prepare Documents
Submit academic transcripts, a copy of your passport, language test scores, and other required documents.
5. Submit Application
Apply through the university’s official application portal.
6. Receive Admission Letter
Upon selection, the university will issue an admission letter.
7. Apply for Visa
After admission, you can apply for an Austrian student visa or residence permit.
Conclusion
The Austria Education System is without a doubt an outstanding destination for international students seeking top-tier education at an affordable cost. Whatever you hope to study or become, Austria has precisely the right path for you. From the historic University of Vienna to the cradle of innovation that is TU Wien and the business powerhouse which is WU Vienna, Austria has the academic rigour and diversity to turn your imagination into reality. In conclusion, with an intense goal to seize it, austria education for international students is an opportunity that could open doors you never imagined possible.
If Austria sounds like the right fit for you, the official university portal is your perfect study in Austria starting point: www.studienwahl.at
