Austria is a beautiful European nation renowned for its stunning Alpine landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As of 2024, there are 6 universities ranked in QS Top 500. It has emerged as an attractive destination for Indian students who wish to study in Austria. With its world-class universities, such as The University of Vienna, TU Wien and The University of Innsbruck, affordable tuition fees, and a welcoming environment for international students, Austria offers a unique and enriching study experience.
In recent years, the number of Indian students choosing to pursue their academic dreams in Austria has witnessed a significant increase. As of 2024, there are over 5,000 Indian students studying in this country, reflecting the growing appeal of Austrian universities among Indian students.
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Key Highlights:
Here’s a rundown of everything you can expect to read in this comprehensive blog post.
| Topic | Important Points |
| Austrian Universities for International students | 6 universities ranked in QS Top 500 (2024). |
| Top 3 Universities in Austria | The University of Vienna TU Wien The University of Innsbruck |
| Post-Study Opportunities | 1-year post-study work visa Part-time work allowance (up to 20 hours/week) Average starting salary: INR 35L/year |
| Visa Requirements | Student visa fee: INR 12,000 Proof of funds: INR 9L/year |
| Scholarships & Financial Aid | OeAD Scholarships (up to 100% tuition coverage) University-specific scholarships |
| Intakes in Austria in 2024 | Summer Intake (Session starts in March) Winter Intake (Session starts in October) |
| Average Tuition Fees for Bachelors Courses | Approx INR 1L-8L per year. |
| Average Tuition Fees for Masters Courses | Approx INR 1L-10L per year. |
Why Study in Austria?
Austria’s higher education system is renowned for its excellence, offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With its world-class universities, diverse program offerings, and a multilingual environment, Austria provides an ideal setting for Indian students to broaden their horizons and gain a competitive edge in the global job market. Here are some compelling reasons to consider studying in Austria.
Affordable Tuition Fees
Public universities in Austria charge relatively low tuition fees compared to many other European countries such as Switzerland (where the average tuition fees for Bachelor’s courses is approx.( INR 8L per year). This makes higher education more accessible and affordable for Indian students. The average tuition fees for Bachelor’s courses is approx. (INR 1L – INR 2L per year).
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Austrian Higher Education System
Austria’s higher education system is highly respected and follows the Bologna Process, ensuring compatibility with European standards and facilitating student mobility. Here’s an overview of the system. There are 3 types of universities in Austria.
- Public Universities: Public universities offer bachelor’s and master’s programs in Austria across various disciplines, including medicine, engineering, business, and more. Notable public universities include the University of Vienna, TU Wien, and the University of Innsbruck.
- Private Universities: Private universities in Austria are relatively small but offer specialised programs in business, management, and applied sciences. Notable private universities include Danube Private University, Johannes Kepler University Linz, and Salzburg University of Applied Sciences.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen): These institutions focus on providing vocationally oriented programs, combining theoretical knowledge with practical training and industry collaboration. Some notable universities include the University of Applied Sciences Technikum, Vienna, Lauder Business School, Vienna, and the University of Applied Sciences, Upper Austria.
Quality Education and Research
Austria boasts a strong commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
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Rich Cultural Heritage
From the captivating architecture of Vienna to the stunning Alpine landscapes, Austria offers a unique cultural experience that combines history, art, music, and natural beauty, providing an enriching environment for personal growth and exploration.
Safe and Welcoming Environment
Austria is renowned for its safety, political stability, and welcoming attitude towards international students, creating a comfortable and supportive environment for Indian students to thrive academically and socially.
Top 5 Universities to Study in Austria for Indian Students
Austria rocks subject-wise studies as well. Don’t believe us? Then, here are some eye-opening stats, as presented by subject-wise QS Ranking in 2024, for you. 3 universities fall under the top 200 universities for pursuing medicine, engineering and humanities.
- The Department of Arts and Humanities at the University of Vienna has a QS world rank of 58.
- TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) has a QS world rank of 126 in the Department of Engineering and Technology.
- Medical College of Vienna has a QS world university rank of 98.
Here are the top 5 universities in Austria to pursue your higher education.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 | Average Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| The University of Vienna | 130 | INR 1L – INR 13L |
| TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) | 184 | INR 1L – INR 13L |
| The University of Innsbruck | 362 | INR 1L – INR 13L |
| Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) | 57 | INR 1L – INR 13L |
| The University of Graz | 661 | INR 1L – INR 13L |
1. The University of Vienna
Established in 1365, the University of Vienna is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Austria. Ranked among the top 150 universities globally by the QS World University Rankings 2024, it offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and more.
The university’s main campus is located in the heart of Vienna, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant student life.
Courses Offered
The University of Vienna offers a wide array of courses spanning various fields, including the following.
- Philosophy
- History
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Law
- Psychology
2. TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)
Founded in 1815, TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) is a public research university in Vienna, Austria. Renowned for its focus on “Technology for People,” it’s Austria’s largest institution for research and education in technology and natural sciences. The university boasts over 28,000 students, eight faculties, and roughly 5,000 staff members.
Courses Offered
TU Wien offers a comprehensive range of programs in engineering, computer science, natural sciences, and mathematics. Some of their areas of expertise include the following.
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering (including Construction Engineering and Water Resource Management)
- Electrical Engineering (including Automation, Energy Technology, and Information and Communication Technology)
- Mechanical Engineering (including Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Production Engineering)
- Computer Science (including Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, and Scientific Computing)
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biotechnology
3. The University of Innsbruck
Founded in 1669, the University of Innsbruck is one of Austria’s oldest universities, renowned for its academic excellence and picturesque Alpine setting. Situated in the heart of Innsbruck, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, the university offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. With a strong focus on research and interdisciplinary collaboration, it attracts students and scholars from around the globe.
Courses Offered
The University of Innsbruck offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including the following.
- Medicine
- Law
- Economics
- Natural Sciences
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Engineering
- Education
- Sports Science
4. Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU)
Established in 1898, the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) is one of Europe’s leading business universities, renowned for its excellence in research and education in the fields of economics, business administration, and business law.
Courses Offered
WU offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in various disciplines, including the following.
- Business Administration
- Economics
- International Business
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Business Law
5. The University of Graz
Founded in 1585, the University of Graz is one of Austria’s oldest universities, renowned for its comprehensive academic offerings and vibrant research environment. Situated in the historic city of Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the university provides students with a rich cultural experience alongside top-notch education. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, the University of Graz prepares students for success in diverse fields.
Courses Offered
The University of Graz offers a diverse array of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including the following.
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Law
- Business and Economics
- Education
- Environmental Studies
- Medicine and Health Sciences
General Entry Requirements for Austrian Universities
Entry requirements vary depending on the program level.
- For undergraduate programs, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent is typically required
- For master’s programs, a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or equivalent is generally required, along with a relevant bachelor’s degree and other program-specific prerequisites
- For doctoral programs, additional requirements such as a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and relevant academic or professional experience may be necessary
Please Note: Non-EU/EEA Students are not the citizens of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
To study in Austria as an Indian student, you’ll need to meet certain academic and language requirements. The application process involves submitting various documents and following specific deadlines. Here’s an overview.
Academic Requirements to Study in Austria for Indian Students
- For bachelor’s programs in Austria
- Higher Secondary School Certificate (10+2) from an accredited Indian board or its equivalent to A levels, with a minimum GPA score of 3
- Entrance exam scores (if applicable)
- For master’s programs in Austria
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited university
- Minimum GPA or percentage requirements (varies by university)
Language Proficiency Requirements to Study in Austria for Indian Students
Most programs in Austria require proficiency in either English or German. The common language requirements include the following.
| Language-Proficiency Exam | Minimum Score Required |
| IELTS (International English Language Testing System) | 6.0-6.5 (depending on the program) |
| TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) | 80-92 (depending on the program) |
Study in Austria without IELTS
Many universities in Austria allow international students to pursue their studies without having to pass the IELTS exam. For admission, you need to provide the following documents.
- A decent academic record
- An appropriate academic degree or course
- Demonstrate English language proficiency through alternate tests like the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or the C1 Advanced Exam
This flexibility in language proficiency requirements makes Austria an attractive destination for Indian students.
Some of the prominent Austrian universities that accept alternative English language tests instead of IELTS include the following.
| University | Approx. Annual Tuition Fee |
| Modul University Vienna | INR 1L |
| University of Vienna | INR 1L |
| Technical University of Graz | INR 1L |
| University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien: | INR 1L |
| Vienna University of Economics and Business | INR 1L |
| Johannes Kepler University | INR 1L |
| University of Salzburg | INR 1L |
| The University of Innsbruck | INR 1L |
Application Deadlines and Process to Study in Austria
Application deadlines for Austrian universities typically fall between September and February for programs starting in the summer semester (March/September). However, it’s essential to check the specific deadlines for your chosen program and university.
The application process generally involves submitting the following documents.
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Language proficiency test scores
- Statement of purpose/motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Passport copy
- Application fee (if applicable)
- 2 photographs
- Other filled-out forms, such as
- Application form for admission
- Registration form
- Form for statistics
- Student document of identification with photograph attached
- Form for continuation
It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance and ensure that all required documents are prepared and submitted before the deadlines.
Intakes in Austria in 2024
In Austria, universities typically follow a two-semester system: the winter semester (Wintersemester) and the summer semester (Sommersemester). The specific intake periods may vary slightly depending on the institution and the program. Here’s an overview of the typical intakes for international students in Austria in 2024.
| Semester | Application Period | Semester Start |
| Winter Semester | May/June – September/October | October/November |
| Summer Semester | November/December – February/March | March/April |
Top Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs from Austrian Universities
Austrian universities offer a wide range of high-quality bachelor’s and master’s programs, catering to diverse academic interests and career aspirations. With a focus on academic excellence and practical relevance, these programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in their chosen fields.
Top Bachelor’s Programs in Austria
Bachelor’s programs in Austria typically have a duration of three to four years and cover various disciplines, including engineering, business, sciences, arts, and humanities. Here are some popular bachelor’s programs and their approximate annual tuition fees.
| Program | Average Annual Tuition Fees (in INR) |
| Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 5L – 8L |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | 6L – 10L |
| Bachelor of Computer Science | 5L – 9L |
| Bachelor of Arts in Psychology | 4L – 7L |
| Bachelor of Fine Arts | 6L – 11L |
Top Master’s Programs in Austria
Master’s programs in Austria are highly regarded for their rigorous curricula, research opportunities, and industry collaborations. These programs typically last one to two years and often lead to exciting career prospects. Here are some popular master’s programs and their approximate annual tuition fees.
| Program | Average Annual Tuition Fees (in INR) |
| Master of Science in Engineering Management | 7L – 11L |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 8L – 13L |
| Master of Science in Data Science | 6L – 10L |
| Master of Arts in Graphic Design | 5L – 9L |
| Master of Science in Environmental Sciences | 6L – 10L |
Cost of Living in Austria for Indian Students
The cost of living in Austria can vary based on the city and individual lifestyle, but on average, students should budget around INR 9L to INR 12L per year for expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other living costs.
Living Costs to Study in Austria
Here’s an overview of the estimated cost of studying in Austria.
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation | INR 3L – INR 5L |
| Food | INR 2L – INR 3L |
| Transportation | INR 50,000 |
| Other Expenses (Utilities, Books, etc.) | INR 2L |
| Total | INR 9L – INR 12L |
Student Visa Application Requirements to Study in Austria
Did you know that the visa acceptance rate in Austria is over 85%? In order to fall in this category, you need to know about the specific requirements, especially if you are a non-EU/EEA student.
Non-EU/EEA students, including Indian students, need to apply for a student visa (Residency Permit for Students) to study in Austria. The process involves submitting various documents to the Austrian embassy or consulate in India. The requirements generally include the following.
- A valid passport
- Admission letter from an Austrian university
- Proof of sufficient financial means (minimum of INR 9L for the first year as of 2023)
- Health insurance coverage (Approx. INR 27 L for the entire duration of stay)
- Proof of accommodation in Austria
- Police clearance certificate
- Student visa application fee (INR 12,000 as of 2023)
It’s crucial to initiate the visa application process well in advance, as the processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications.
Also Read: Austria Job-Seeker Visa for International Citizens
Top Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Austria
Studying in Austria can be an affordable option for Indian students, thanks to the relatively low tuition fees at public universities. However, additional financial support in the form of scholarships and grants can further ease the financial burden. The scholarships range from approx. INR 4L – INR 12L per year. Here are some popular scholarship options for Indian students.
OeAD Scholarships
The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research (OeAD) offers various scholarship programs for international students, including Indian students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. Some notable OeAD scholarships include the following.
| Scholarship | Amount Offered |
| OeAD Scholarships for Master’s and PhD Programs | Up to INR 12L per year |
| OeAD Scholarships for Artists, Musicians, and Filmmakers | Up to INR 12L per year |
| OeAD Regional Partnerships Scholarships | Up to INR 12L per year |
1. OeAD Scholarships for Master’s and PhD Programs
This scholarship by the OeAD (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research) offers comprehensive financial support for Indian students pursuing master’s or PhD programs in Austria.
- Application Deadline: 1st February, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Covers up to 100% of tuition fees
- Provides accommodation costs (up to INR 12L per year)
- Granted to outstanding students admitted to an Austrian university
- Specific eligibility criteria may vary by program
2. OeAD Scholarships for Artists, Musicians, and Filmmakers
The OeAD (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research) offers this scholarship to support Indian students pursuing artistic disciplines in Austria.
- Application Deadline: 1st February, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Covers tuition fees
- Provides a monthly allowance for living expenses
- Includes travel costs (up to INR 12L per year)
- Requires submission of a portfolio demonstrating artistic talent
- Granted to students admitted to an Austrian arts institution
3. OeAD Regional Partnerships Scholarships
This scholarship by the OeAD (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research) is designed for students from specific regions or partner countries, including India.
- Application Deadline: 1st February, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Covers tuition fees
- Provides a monthly allowance for living expenses
- Includes travel costs (up to INR 12L per year)
- Open to students from specific regions or partner countries, including India
- Granted to students admitted to an Austrian university
University Specific Scholarships
Many Austrian universities offer scholarships and financial aid programs specifically for international students. These may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. Some examples include the following.
| Scholarship | Amount Offered |
| University of Vienna Scholarships | Up to INR 11L per year |
| Bertha von Suttner Scholarships | Up to INR 4L per year |
| Ernst Mach Grant | Up to INR 90,000 per month |
1. University of Vienna Scholarships
The University of Vienna offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including Indian students.
- Application Deadline: 29th February, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Covers tuition fees (up to full coverage)
- Provides a living allowance (up to INR 11L per year)
- Awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and specific program requirements
- Open to international students admitted to the University of Vienna
2. Bertha von Suttner Scholarships
This scholarship is offered by various Austrian universities to support female students from developing countries, including India.
- Application Deadline: 31st July, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Covers tuition fees
- Provides a monthly allowance for living expenses (up to INR 4L)
- Granted to outstanding female students from developing countries
- Open to students admitted to participating Austrian universities
3. Ernst Mach Grant
The Ernst Mach Grant is a scholarship offered by Austrian universities to support international students enrolled in doctoral programs.
- Application Deadline: 29th February, 2024
Scholarship Details
- Provides a monthly allowance for living expenses (up to INR 90,000 per month)
- Open to international students enrolled in doctoral programs at Austrian universities
- Specific eligibility criteria may vary by university.
Work and Career Opportunities
Studying in Austria can open doors to exciting career opportunities, both within the country and internationally. Many multinational companies such as Erste Group, Voestalpine, Red Bull, Swarovski, and Mondi have operations in Austria.
Austria offers diverse job prospects across various sectors, including technology, finance, tourism, and more. The cost of living index of Austria is 66.45, which indicates a strong economy of the country.
Here are the top 5 Jobs for Graduates in Austria.
Post-Study Work Visa
After completing your studies from Austrian universities, you are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa, which allows you to stay and work in Austria for up to one year. This provides valuable opportunities to gain professional experience and explore career options within the Austrian job market. The following documents are required to obtain a post-study work visa in Austria for Indian students.
- Hold a degree from an Austrian university
- Have a valid passport and residence permit
- Provide proof of comprehensive health insurance (Approx. INR 27 L for the entire duration of stay)
- Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself (Approx. INR 10L)
- Pay the application fee (approx. INR 13k)
Indian students should also be prepared to learn the German language, as proficiency in German can significantly improve their job prospects and integration into the Austrian workforce.
Conclusion
Studying in Austria offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and affordability for Indian students. With 5 universities ranked among the QS World University Rankings Top 500 in 2024, Austria delivers globally recognised degrees from prestigious institutions like the University of Vienna and Vienna University of Technology.
Moreover, Austria offers affordability with relatively low tuition fees at public universities, ranging from approx. INR 67,000 to INR 2L. Indian students can further ease the financial burden through scholarships like the OeAD Scholarships, which can cover up to 100% of tuition and living costs. Here are some of the key takeaways from this blog.
- Austria offers high-quality education at affordable costs
- Rich cultural experiences and vibrant student life
- Opportunities for post-study work and career prospects
- Availability of scholarships and financial aid options
- Safe and welcoming environment for international students
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Q: Can Indian students work while studying in Austria?
A: Yes, Indian students are generally permitted to work part-time while studying in Austria, subject to certain conditions and restrictions. Non-EU/EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. There is no minimum hourly wage for part-time workers in Austria set by law. It’s important to obtain the necessary work permit from your local Austrian embassy or consulate, and ensure compliance with the regulations.
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Q: What are the popular fields of study for Indian students in Austria?
A: Some of the popular fields of study for Indian students in Austria include engineering, business and management, computer science, natural sciences, and medicine. Austrian universities are particularly renowned for their programs in engineering, technology, and business disciplines.
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Q: Is it necessary to know German to study in Austria?
A: While many programs in Austria are offered in English, proficiency in German can be advantageous for better integration into the local community and expanding job prospects. Some programs, especially at the undergraduate level, may require German language proficiency for admission.
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Q: How can I apply for a student visa to study in Austria?
A: To apply for a student visa to study in Austria, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
-A Valid passport
-Admission letter from an Austrian university
-Proof of sufficient financial means
-Health insurance coverage
-Student visa application fee -
Q: Are there any scholarships available for Indian students to study in Austria?
A: Yes, there are several scholarship opportunities available for Indian students to study in Austria, as listed below.
-The OeAD (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research) – up to INR 12L per year
-University of Vienna Scholarships – up to INR 11L per year -
Q: What is the cost of living for students in Austria?
A: The cost of living for students in Austria can vary depending on the city and individual lifestyle. On average, students should budget around INR 9L to INR 12L per year for expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other living costs. Major cities like Vienna and Innsbruck tend to have higher living costs compared to smaller cities.
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Q: Can I work in Austria after completing my studies?
A: Yes, international graduates from Austrian universities are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa, which allows them to stay and work in Austria for up to one year after completing their studies. This provides valuable opportunities to gain professional experience and explore career options within the Austrian job market.
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Q: What is the cultural scene like in Austria?
A: From the iconic opera houses and classical music performances in Vienna to the vibrant art scene and contemporary galleries, Austria offers a diverse range of cultural experiences. The country is home to numerous museums, including the world-famous Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Albertina Museum in Vienna, showcasing masterpieces from renowned artists. Additionally, Austria hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its traditions, music, and arts.
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Q: Are there good vegetarian/vegan food options available in Austria?
A: While Austrian cuisine is traditionally known for its meat-based dishes, there has been a growing trend towards vegetarian and vegan options in recent years, especially in larger cities like Vienna and Salzburg. Many restaurants, such as Sattva Vegan in Vienna, Cafe Greenhouse in Graz, and GustaV in Salzburg, offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus, catering to the increasing demand from health-conscious and environmentally-friendly diners.
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Q: Can I bring my family along while I study in Austria?
A: Yes, international students can bring their spouse and children to Austria while pursuing their studies. The visa cost for dependents (spouse and children) can range from INR 8,500 to INR 17,000, as of 2023.
The requirements generally include the following:
-Proof of sufficient funds to support family members (minimum amount varies based on family size)
-Valid passports and visas for family members
-Marriage certificate (for spouse)
-Birth certificates (for children) -
Q: Can I change my program or university after arriving in Austria on a student visa?
A: It is generally possible to change your program or university after arriving in Austria on a student visa. You would need to obtain a new admission letter from the new program or university you wish to attend and then apply for a change of residence permit with the Austrian immigration authorities. It’s important to initiate the change process well before your current residence permit expires to avoid any lapses or complications with your visa status.
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Q: Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Austria?
A: Yes, having adequate health insurance coverage is mandatory for all international students studying in Austria. While you can opt for private health insurance plans, many universities in Austria offer reasonably priced insurance plans specifically designed for international students. For example, the Austrian Student Union (ÖH) insurance plan costs around INR 5,800 per semester and covers basic medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospitalisation, and emergency services.
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