Are you contemplating completing a master’s degree in Europe but worried about investing ₹50 lakhs or even more for just the tuition fees? The majority of students in India are unaware that Austria provides international students with European standards of higher education for a fraction of the costs you would pay in the UK, USA or even Germany.
If you’re seeking an English-speaking master’s programme that doesn’t deplete your funds, Austrian universities may be the ideal fit for you.
This guide will help present and discuss every aspect of studying in Austria: visa regulations, all leading Austrian universities, opportunities for financial assistance and other relevant information related to your studies..
Key Highlights:
- Tuition Fee: Tuition fees at the public universities cost around EUR 727 (~₹67,832) per semester. So for an annual tuition fee of around INR 1,60,012.
- English Programs: There are over 350 Master’s courses available in English only.
- Work Rights: Master students can work a maximum of twenty hours per week during the semester.
- Post-Study Work: After completion of their studies, a student is entitled to apply for a six-month visa to search for employment.
- Safety: Vienna is frequently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world.
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Why Study in Austria?
If you’re wondering whether Austria is right for you, the following are the aspects that make it unique for students from India specifically.
Affordable Fees to Study in Austria for Indian Students
Austria is one of Europe’s most affordable study destinations. Private universities cost more; however, even when attending a private Austrian university, the cost is significantly lower than one semester at most private universities in the UK or the USA. For example, the annual tuition of Webster Vienna Private University is EUR 23,830 (~₹24,53,418) while the annual tuition of Harvard University in the USA is $59,320 (~₹52,37,178).
Quality of Life & Student-Friendly Cities
As the most livable city in the world, Vienna is a huge benefit for Indian students with its diverse cultural scene. For example, nearly fifty per cent of students at the University of Innsbruck are international students (Study in Austria). You will easily make friends from Canada, India, China, etc. in global student communities, which will help you adjust even better.
In addition, for safety-conscious parents with finicky quality of life standards, Austria is one of the safest countries to live in Europe.
Work Opportunities
As a student, you may work upwards of twenty hours a week during the semester. You may work full-time upwards of forty hours a week during semester recess periods and holidays, as permitted in Austrian migration law.
Part-time jobs in Austria can assist you in meeting your living expenses and provide you with experience and skills, as well as an opportunity to develop them while studying or searching for employment.
Some of the most typical on-campus jobs include:
- Library assistants
- Student centre coordinators
- IT help desk staff
- Research assistants
For parents concerned about return on investment, it is worth noting that many Indian students who study in Austria find work throughout Europe due to the recognition of their EU degree. Austria's nearness is likewise a plus, as you will be close to Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and other valuable economic centres with quality jobs. In fact, several international companies, such as Red Bull, Erste Group Bank, and Raiffeisen Bank International, have a regional hub in Vienna.
Top Universities in Austria for Indian Students
Universities such as the University of Vienna have given rise to Nobel Prize winners and have stringent research standards. These Austrian universities offer world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and rigorous academic programs at a cost much less than you'd pay for at universities in the UK or USA.
University of Vienna
Location: Vienna
Tuition Fees: €751.92 (~₹77,414) per semester
Best Courses: Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Law, Computer Science, Economics
The QS World University Rankings (2026) has the University of Vienna listed at 152nd amongst universities. The University of Vienna is well-established as a quality university of excellence offering more than 186 degree programmes across a broad spectrum of humanities, sciences, business and law. Notable alumni of the university include Sigmund Freud and Erwin Schrödinger, an Austrian physicist and Nobel Prize winner.
TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)
Location: Vienna
Tuition Fees: €726.72 (~₹74,819) per semester
Best Courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Mathematics, Physics
TU Wien focuses on engineering and technology and is highly recommended for Indian B.Tech students wishing to pursue an MS program in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or any other engineering field. The university's industry partnership with a technology and STEM focus is of great value.
University of Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Tuition Fees: €726.72 (~₹74,819) per semester
Best Courses: Natural Sciences, Sports Science, Physics, Computer Science, Law
The University of Innsbruck has approximately 28,000 students (Study in Austria). Situated in the Austrian Alps, the university has a mix of new and traditional forms of learning with a major focus on regionally-focused special research projects. Around 50% of the students are international students, adding to a cosmopolitan academic environment. Innsbruck is also ideal if you are willing to do mountain sports as an additional activity along with your academics.
Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Wien)
Location: Vienna
Tuition Fees: €726.72 (~₹74,819) per semester
Best Courses: Business Administration, Economics, International Business, Marketing, Finance
Consistently recognised in the upper echelon of European business schools, Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Wien) should be on your consideration list. If you are completing your BBA or BCom in India and are thinking about doing an MBA or a specialised Master’s in finance, WU Wien has excellent programs with good placement.
University of Graz
Location: Graz
Tuition Fees: €726.72 (~₹74,819) per semester
Best Courses: Environmental Sciences, Law, Humanities, Natural Sciences, Business and Economics
The University of Graz excels in research-intensive programmes across multiple fields. It offers numerous English-taught Master’s programmes suitable for Indian students, with low tuition fees.
Disclaimer: Fees and INR exchange rate are approximate and may change.
Requirements for Indian Students to Study in Austria
Wondering if you’re eligible? The good news is that Austrian university requirements are straightforward. Let’s break down exactly what you need.
Academic Requirements for Indian Students to Study in Austria
| Programme Level | Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | Class 12 certificate from CBSE, ISC, or any recognised Indian state board |
| Good passing grades | |
| Some competitive programmes may require entrance exams | |
| Master’s | Bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian university |
| Degree equivalent to at least 180 ECTS credits (a standard 3-year programme) | |
| University must be UGC-recognised | |
| PhD | Master’s degree in a relevant field |
| A research proposal | |
| Confirmation of acceptance from a faculty supervisor |
Language Requirements for Indian Students to Study in Austria
If you have a Bachelor’s degree in English, studying in Austria is quite easy for Indian students without knowing German; it’s because there are over 350 Master’s programmes available fully taught in English (according to the Study in Austria's official database).
Generally, for an English-taught programme, you will need:
If you've studied your Bachelor's degree in English (which is usual, particularly for Indian engineering or business students), universities may waive your requirement to sit an English language test. You will need to submit a Medium of Instruction Certificate issued by your Indian university attesting that your degree was conducted in English.
Cost of Studying in Austria for Indian Students
For comparison, UK universities cost between GBP 20,000 to 30,000 (~₹23,52,900 to ~₹35,29,350) annually for education alone, which explains why Austria is a cost-effective option. Following is a comprehensive cost structure to study in Austria as an Indian student.
Tuition Fees
Public universities in Austria frequently provide free education or even scholarships to their students. Public Universities in Austria usually charge:
- Student accident insurance fees: €24.70 (~₹2,543) per semester
- Indian students (non-EU): Approximately €727 per semester (~₹74,858)
- Annual tuition: Around €1,554 (~₹1,60,014) for both semesters
Universities of Applied Sciences differ slightly in cost. Please contact individual institutions for updated fees, as some have tuition-free courses while others charge slightly different fees.
Living Expenses
You will require around €900 - €1,300 per month towards living costs (~₹92,672 - ~₹1,33,860). This differs across cities, with Vienna being costlier than smaller university cities.
Here’s a realistic monthly budget for an Indian student, excluding health insurance:
| Expense | Monthly Cost Approx. (EUR/INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €450 (~₹46,336) |
| Food & Groceries | €350 (~₹36,039) |
| Books, Personal Expenses and Public Transport | €400 (~₹41,188) |
| Total Monthly | €1200 (~₹1,23,563) |
Health Insurance
Health insurance coverage is required, there is no opting out. Non-EU students need health insurance in Austria.
If you are a student at a university in Austria and under the age of 26, it is likely that you will have access to student insurance. If you are over the age of 26 or do not meet the requirements for student insurance, you will need to purchase regular health insurance, and it will cost much more.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Austria in 2026
Scholarships in Austria are limited but available. However, several funding options exist.
OeAD and Government Scholarships
The OeAD (The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research) runs several scholarship programmes. In general, these scholarships provide grantees with a monthly stipend and may also arrange accident and health insurance for grantees.
Finding Scholarships
Grants.at is your best resource. This official Austrian database lists over 1,200 scholarship opportunities. You can search by:
- Country of origin (select India)
- Field of study
- Degree level (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD)
- Type of funding
Erasmus Mundus Programs
Erasmus Mundus scholarships reimburse tuition fees, living expenses and travel for the study of joint Master’s programmes. These programmes require students to study at multiple universities across Europe, typically including at least one institution in Austria.
Erasmus scholarships are competitive but available to Indian students. Applications usually open six to nine months before programme start dates.
Indian Scholarship Options
Don't overlook Indian funding sources. Indian students can also explore several homegrown funding opportunities that support higher education abroad. Here are some of the most reliable options:
| Funding Source | Key Benefits | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Up to $1,00,000 (~₹88,28,690) for postgraduate or doctoral studies abroad | Exceptional academic record and admission to a top global institution |
| JN Tata Endowment | Up to INR 10 lakhs; repayment begins after completing studies and gaining employment | Indian nationals pursuing higher studies abroad |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | Financial support for tuition and living costs | Indian students under 30 years with strong academic merit and admission to top universities |
University-Specific Aid
Some Austrian universities, such as the University of Vienna and TU Wien, have limited merit scholarships available for top international students. These are not common, but are something to look into. Check the international office webpage of the universities you are applying to, or contact them directly to ask about financial assistance for Indian students.
Realistic expectation: Very few Indian students pursuing studies in Austria are given full scholarships. But a little scholarship and a part-time job, along with family help, make higher study in Austria manageable.
Visa Requirements for Indian Students to Study in Austria
Getting your student visa is straightforward if you follow the process carefully. Start early — visa processing can take three to six months.
Types of Visas
If you are studying for a degree lasting longer than six months, you will need a Residence Permit – Student. Other visa types include:
- Visa C (Schengen Visa): Valid for stays of up to 90 days; useful if you are taking entrance examinations in Austria.
- Visa D (National Visa): For stays between 91 days and six months.
Most Indian students attending full degree programmes will require the Residence Permit – Student.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Indian Students
To study in Austria, it is important to get your admission letter from the university, along with other important documents, before applying for your student visa. Here is a step-by-step process on how to get your student visa.
Step 1: Get Your Admission Letter
You must first receive an official admission letter from your Austrian university. You cannot apply for a visa without this. Some universities issue conditional admission letters for visa purposes while final processing continues.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- A valid passport (must remain valid for your entire study period)
- A completed visa application form (downloadable from the Austrian Embassy website)
- University admission letter
- Proof of accommodation in Austria (dormitory confirmation or rental agreement)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (details below)
- Health insurance covering your stay in Austria
- Birth certificate
- All academic certificates and transcripts
- Police clearance certificate from your local police station
- Passport-sized photographs (check embassy website for specifications)
All documents must be in English or German. If your birth certificate or academic documents are in Hindi or another regional language, obtain certified English translations.
Step 3: Gather Financial Proof
This is crucial. You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself in Austria. According to Austrian regulations, the required amount depends on your age:
- Students under 24 years: Need to show approximately €513.30 monthly (~₹52,854)
- Students over 24 years: Need to show approximately €933 monthly (~₹96,070)
You can prove this through:
- Bank statements from your parents showing the required funds
- Fixed deposits in your or your parents’ names
- A letter of sponsorship from parents
- Scholarship award letters (if applicable)
Important: The account must show that these funds are readily available. Do not show property valuations, only actual cash or deposit balances.
Step 4: Apply at the Austrian Embassy
You must hand in your application for a residence permit in person at the Austrian Embassy in New Delhi. Make sure to schedule an appointment in advance via the embassy website since slots fill up quickly in the peak season (May–July).
After applying, the embassy will send the application package to the designated authorities in Austria to process your application. Processing time is generally three to six months; therefore, if your course begins in August, you should plan to apply four months before your course begins.
Step 5: Receive Decision and Travel
Once your application has been approved, the embassy will issue you a Visa D, which permits you to enter Austria. After arriving, you may collect your residence permit card at the immigration office in your area.
The residence permit is typically issued initially for a period of 12 months, and can be renewed in Austria if you continue your studies.
Your Pathway to Studying in Austria
If you’re an Indian student seeking a high-quality European education at affordable prices, look no further than Austria. You’ll earn degrees that are recognised globally, enjoy a safe environment, have the right to work, and get the opportunity to travel across Europe, all for less than half the cost of studying in the UK or the USA.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the application process, document preparation, or visa processes? That is completely normal, and most students feel that way at the start of their education journey. Our educational consultants speak to students every day and assist you with every part of the education journey, from choosing a university to receiving your visa acceptance.
Leap Scholar can help you find programs that are the best fit for your profile, help you write strong applications and avoid the common mistakes that lead to rejection. Take the first step towards studying in Austria today. Thousands of Indian students have already made this decision, and with the right guidance, so can you. Start your journey now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Is Austria affordable for study?
Yes, Austria is among the most economical study destinations in Europe for Indian students. Public universities charge around EUR 727 per semester (~₹74,858) -per semester, which comes to about ~₹1,49,716 per year. Hence, your total cost for a two-year Master’s degree, including tuition and living expenses, will be approximately ₹23 – 40 lakhs, less than the cost of one year in the UK or the USA.
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Is it easy to get admission in Austria?
Compared to universities in the UK or the US, the admission procedure in Austria is straightforward. You apply directly through each university’s website, and most programmes have clearly defined eligibility criteria. You may need to take an entrance examination if you are applying for highly competitive programmes such as medicine or psychology. However, in most cases, if you meet the academic and language requirements, you should have a fair chance of securing admission.
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How much bank balance is required for an Austria student visa?
You are required to show sufficient funds for your living expenses. Under Austrian regulations, students who are under-24 require about 513.30 EUR (~₹52,854) each month, while students over-24 require around 933 EUR (~₹96,070) each month.
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Can I study in Austria without IELTS?
Some universities waive English language tests if your Bachelor’s degree was taught entirely in English (which applies to most Indian engineering and business students). You will need a Medium of Instruction Certificate from your Indian university. However, most programmes still require IELTS (overall band 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (score of 90 or above). Always check the specific language requirements of the universities you are applying to.
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What are the admission requirements for international students?
For Master’s programmes, you will need a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian university, proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90), a Statement of Purpose, two recommendation letters, academic transcripts, a valid passport, and proof of financial means. According to the Study in Austria admission guidelines, your degree should correspond to at least 180 ECTS credits, equivalent to a standard three-year Indian Bachelor’s degree. Specific requirements may vary depending on the university and programme.
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