Top Universities in Austria: Rankings, Courses, and Admissions

Austria, a beautiful country in Central Europe, might be the perfect place for your higher education journey. It has a rich history, which is evident in its stunning castles, such as the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace. 

But what truly sets Austria apart is the excellence of its universities. Graduates from top Universities in Austria are highly sought after by employers worldwide. For example, the average salary for a Computer Science Engineer in Austria is around INR 48L to INR 61L (€53K to €68K) annually, and doctors can make upwards of INR 50L to INR 76L (€55K to €85K) per year. These salaries are only expected to rise with experience.

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You’ll be surprised to know that by 2023, over 87 thousand international students enrolled in top universities in Austria for higher students, a number that has been steadily increasing year after year.

Feeling excited about the possibility of studying at top universities in Austria? This guide is here to help! It’ll provide you with all the details you need, including the top universities in Austria for international students, average tuition fees, application details, and much more. Have a look.

Key Highlights

Here’s a roundabout of everything that you will learn in great detail in this blog

Why Study at Top Universities in Austria?

Austria offers much more than just charming castles and beautiful landscapes. The country has a world-class education system that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s job market.

An Austrian degree is a valuable asset to exciting career opportunities. The impressive statistics speak for themselves: over 80% of graduates land jobs within two years of graduation, and many enjoy competitive salaries.

Here’s a breakdown of the reasons to consider studying at top universities in Austria.

• Strategic Location: Austria boasts a prime location, allowing for easy exploration of Eastern and Central Europe. With borders touching eight countries like Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Lichtenstein, a great railway and bus network makes regional travel very easy.
• Affordable Education: Austria’s education system is known for being relatively inexpensive (only 1.3L per year) compared to other countries; for instance USA has a tuition fee of INR 27L to INR 50L ($32K to $60K), the UK has a tuition fee of INR 11L to INR 32L (£11K to £32K) and Australia has a tuition fee of INR 8L to INR 30L ($10K – $35K) per year. The relaxed and comfortable curriculum allows you to focus on your studies without feeling overwhelmed.
• Immerse Yourself in German: Many top universities in Austria incorporate German language classes into their curriculum. Learning German, a widely spoken language, can be a valuable asset for future employment opportunities in both Austria and Germany.
• English-Taught Programs: Top Universities in Austria also offer a variety of programs taught entirely in English, ensuring a smooth academic transition for international students.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Austria is synonymous with classical music, 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historical landmarks, and a vibrant arts scene. This rich culture creates an inspiring environment for students.
• Manageable Living Costs: Compared to many other European destinations, Austria offers affordable options for student accommodation, transportation, and even food, INR 90K to INR 1.7L (€1005 to €1930 per month). For instance, Switzerland is 57% more expensive than Austria, Denmark is 11% more expensive than Austria, and Norway is 18% more expensive than Austria.

5 Top Universities in Austria for Indian Students

Admission to top universities in Austria can open doors to excellent job opportunities after graduation, but that’s just the beginning of what the country has to offer!

Beyond academics, Austria has incredible scenery, historical sites, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Movie buffs might even recognise some Austrian locations – Hollywood films like Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald and James Bond Spectre were filmed here.

Austria is also the fifth safest country in the world. Steeped in history and rich culture, it has a remarkable 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Ready to explore beyond the amazing universities? Stay tuned for more on the best universities in Austria for international students!

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1. University of Vienna

The University of Vienna, founded in 1365, is one of the biggest and oldest universities in Central Europe. It has over 45,000 students taking classes in around 178 different programs and is one of the best universities in Vienna. That’s not all; the university also offers extra training opportunities for those who want to keep learning. 

With over 7,000 teachers, the University of Vienna is Austria’s biggest educator and researcher and the best public university in Austria. The university focuses on offering a wide range of classes but also keeps an eye on the future by exploring new research areas and building connections between different subjects.

Popular Courses Offered

• MS
• M.Sc.
• MBA/PGDM

English Requirement

Notable Alumni

• Erwin Schrödinger, a Nobel Prize-winning Austrian and naturalised Irish physicist who developed fundamental results in quantum theory, is an alumnus of the University of Vienna.
• Sigmund Freud, an Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis, is also a University of Vienna alumni.

2. Technische Universität Wien

Founded in 1815, Technische Universität Wien, or TU Wien, started as the Imperial-Royal Polytechnical Institute, making it the first University of Technology in the German-speaking world. 

Over time, the university gained considerable respect for its teaching and research, both in Austria and around the world. It is even seen as one of Vienna’s best universities and a great partner for businesses that focus on innovation.

TU Wien has eight faculties covering the core engineering fields. While their main focus is on in-depth research, they also conduct practical research to solve problems. 

Popular Courses Offered

• BA
• B.Sc
• M.Sc
• MA

English Requirement

Notable Alumni

• Fritz Lang, an Austrian film director, screenwriter, and producer who worked in Germany and later the United States, is an alumnus of the Vienna University of Technology.
• Wilhelm Steinitz was a Bohemian-Austrian and, later, American chess player. From 1886 to 1894, he was the first World Chess Champion. He is an alumnus of the Vienna University of Technology.

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3. Universität Innsbruck

With roots dating back to a Jesuit college in 1562, the University of Innsbruck is one of Austria’s oldest universities, coming in at number three. Today, it boasts a bustling campus with 16 different faculties and several areas dedicated to research, where professors and students from various fields can work together. 

Some of their big research interests include physics, mountain environments, cultural exchange, computers, biology, digital stuff, and economics and society.

Around 28,000 students call the University of Innsbruck home. The university’s main goal is to be a leader in research, teaching, and classes that help people advance in their careers. It is also working on strengthening its reputation in Europe and throughout Austria. 

Popular Courses Offered

• MA
• M.Sc
• Diploma in Maths

English Requirement

Notable Alumni

Alexander Van der Bellen, the current president of Austria, is a University of Innsbruck alumni.

Ludwig von Bertalanffy, an Austrian biologist who is known as one of the founders of general systems theory (GST), is also an alumnus of the University of Innsbruck.

4. Graz University of Technology

Since 1811, Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) has been a hub for science and technology education in Austria. It’s one of the oldest in the country and has three campuses: two downtown and one on the southeast side. 

Ranked highly in mechanical engineering, TU Graz attracts over 13,000 students across its seven faculties.

TU Graz offers a wide range of programs, including Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in all areas of science and technology. With over 16,000 students and 1,800 graduates each year, TU Graz is a thriving centre of learning and innovation.

Popular Courses Offered

• BA
• B.Sc/B.E.
• M.Sc

English Requirement

Notable Alumni

• Nikola Tesla, the Serbian-American inventor, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and futurist, was a Graz University of Technology alumnus.
• Karl von Terzaghi, known as the “father of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering”, is also a Graz University of Technology alumnus.

5. Johannes Kepler University Linz

The Johannes Kepler University (JKU) in Linz, founded in 1966, is a relatively young university. However, that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a science, business, and social sciences leader. The faculty at this university offers classes that focus on the future. 

The campus itself is beautiful, with park-like grounds! The university has four main faculties: Social Sciences, Law, Engineering & Natural Sciences, and Medicine. JKU is a welcoming place with many international students — about one in nine! It was even the first university in Austria to offer electronic student IDs.

Popular Courses Offered

• BA
• BBA
• B.Sc
• MA
• M.Sc
• MBA

English Requirement

Notable Alumni

• Volker Türk, the  Austrian lawyer and United Nations official who has been the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights since 17 October 2022, is a Johannes Kepler University Linz alumnus.
• Reinhold Mitterlehner, an Austrian politician of the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) who served as minister of economy in Austria’s government from 2008 until 2017, is also an alumnus of Johannes Kepler University Linz.

Intakes at the Top Universities in Austria in 2024

Now that you’ve narrowed your choices, you can check out application deadlines! Five top universities in Austria are ranked in the QS World Top 500 for 2025! Understanding admission deadlines is crucial if you’re setting your sights on one of the best universities in Austria.

Remember, deadlines can vary depending on the university and program you choose. Some programs in Austria only accept applications once a year. 

It’s important to double-check directly with the university you’re interested in to ensure you get all the benefits of your options. 

This way, you can apply on time for the program that best suits your goals. Stay tuned for more details about application deadlines for international students like yourself.

Here’s an overview of two major intakes at top universities in Austria.

Also Read: Study in Austria for Indian Students

Austria Student Visa: Types and Fees

So you’re excited to go on your Austrian adventure! Securing your student visa is an important first step before you start packing. Ideally, apply at least three to six months before your flight to Austria.

Austria has a high visa acceptance rate for students of around 85% or more, so that’s good news! Obtaining a student visa here is generally straightforward, but being prepared is key. 

As an international student, you’ll need to apply for a visa before arrival to study at the top universities in Austria. The authorities will typically request documents such as your passport, an acceptance letter from one of the top universities in Austria, and health insurance (a detailed list of documents will be explained in upcoming sections).

Please Note: Austria offers two main student visa types: the Short-Stay Visa (Type C) and the Long-Stay Visa (Type D). Each visa category has its specific requirements, so be sure to research which one applies to your situation. 

Here’s an overview of both student visas.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps you need to follow to get your student visa!

Eligibility Criteria

• You need an admission letter from one of the top universities in Austria.
• You must show proof of financial resources such as bank statements, documents, etc. (minimum INR 9L).
• You must show your English proficiency by passing an international test.

Here are the minimum scores required at top universities in Austria.

• You also need to get international travel medical insurance (minimum 27L).

Required Documents

Now that you have determined your eligibility review the relevant documents needed to apply for an Austrian student visa.

• Application Form
• Passport
  • It should be valid for three months after your intended departure.
  • It should have at least two blank pages.
  • It should have been issued in the last ten years.
• Two photographs in accordance with the international standards as set out by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 
• Travel medical insurance
• Austrian university admission letter
• Tuition fee payment receipt
• Proof of sufficient funds (minimum INR 9L)
• Statement of Purpose letter
• Flight details
• Accommodation details (where will you be staying while studying in Austria).  

Application Process

Now that you have gathered all the required documents for your student visa application, here’s a typical walk-through of the application process.

1. Locate the Austrian Embassy or Consulate: They’ll be responsible for processing your visa application. A list is usually available on the Austrian government’s website.

2. Explore Online Application Options: Check the website of your nearest Austrian embassy or consulate to see if they offer online applications. This can significantly simplify the process and save you time.

3. Prepare Your Application Documents: Ensure you have all the documents mentioned in the previous section

4. Submit Your Application: To submit your application in person, head to the embassy or consulate. Remember to schedule an appointment beforehand. You can usually book appointments through their website.

5. Be Prepared for Questions: During your appointment, be ready to answer questions from the embassy or consulate officials regarding your studies and plans in Austria.

6. Wait for the Decision: Once you’ve submitted your application, you should wait patiently for a decision. The embassy or consulate will inform you of the outcome soon.

Scholarships to Study at Top Universities in Austria 

Let’s talk about financing your studies at top universities in Austria! The cost of living can add up, especially for international students from India. But don’t worry; scholarships are available to help ease your financial burden.

These scholarships can range from generous amounts up to INR 12L (around €13K) annually and can be used to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. The universities, private organisations, or even the Austrian government can offer them.

With some research and effort, you might find the perfect scholarship to realise your dream of studying in Austria. This way, you can focus on your studies and have a fantastic time abroad without financial stress!

OeAD Scholarships

The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research, also known as OeAD, offers various scholarships specifically for international students, including those from India. These scholarships can greatly help finance your studies in Austria, covering your tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs.

You can check out some of the notable scholarships offered by OeAD below.

University-Specific Scholarships

In addition to the Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research (OeAD) scholarships,  top universities in Austria offer financial aid programs and scholarships specifically for international students. 

These awards can be based on academic achievements, financial need, or even your chosen field of study.

This means you have even more opportunities to find scholarships to help you finance your studies in Austria. 

A table exploring some of these university-specific scholarships is provided in more detail below.

Cost of Living in Austria as an International Student

Austria offers a vibrant student lifestyle, but it’s important to understand the costs involved. The good news is Austria allows international students to work part-time to help manage their living expenses. As a student with a visa, you can typically work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks.

As an Indian student, you will need to get a work permit along with your visa in order to work in Austria. The good news is that many top universities in Austria offer student assistant positions, and part-time job opportunities exist in various sectors like hospitality, retail, and customer service.

German language skills might be beneficial depending on the job, but English fluency can also open doors, especially in larger cities and international companies.

The average hourly wage for part-time jobs ranges from INR 900 to INR 1.3K (€10 to €15). Remember, income from work is taxed.

Balancing work and studies is key. While a part-time job can ease financial burdens and provide valuable experience, prioritise your academics. 

Many top universities in Austria have career centres to help you find jobs, write resumes, and prepare for interviews. Remember to network! Joining student clubs and attending career fairs can expand your network and boost your job prospects in Austria.

Here’s an overview of the cost of living in Austria.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Austria 2024

Career Opportunities in Austria

Austria is a career haven, particularly for graduates from its top universities. The country is strategically investing in key industries like artificial intelligence, fintech, and healthcare, creating a competitive job market with attractive salaries.

This focus is reflected in Austria’s impressive employment rate, exceeding the European average of 68% at a strong 72%.

Furthermore, doctors in Austria enjoy some of the highest salaries nationwide, averaging a substantial INR 68L (€ 76K). 

With its focus on growth industries and strong job market, Austria presents a compelling destination for both high-quality education and promising career opportunities.

Here’s a list of high-paying jobs you can do in the country after graduating from top universities in Austria.

Final Thoughts

Austria, a country known for its alpine beauty and rich history, might be the perfect fit for your European higher education aspirations. The quality of education in Austria is excellent, and its strong job market makes it a compelling choice 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. Beyond academics, Austria has a vibrant cultural scene and an exciting student life, making it an attractive destination. 

Don’t wait any longer to turn your dream into reality! Start exploring your options to study at top universities in Austria today and pave the way for a fulfilling academic and professional future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)