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4 tuition-free universities in Austria every international student should consider
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19 Sep 2022
Austria has become a popular international student hub — for good reasons. Located in Central Europe, the country ranks 16th in this year’s Best Student Cities ranking. Pair that with an estimated living cost of 1,000 euros, and it’s little surprise why many choose to study in Austria.
Tuition fees in Austrian universities are cheap, too. Like most European countries, Austrian students, nationals of all European Union (EU), and European Economic Area (EEA) member countries, generally do not pay tuition fees at public universities. For students outside these countries, you can expect to pay 726.72 euros.
On top of that, all students must pay 20 euros per semester, which covers the student union membership fee and accident insurance.
The best part? You have easy access to some of the incredible landscapes in Europe. Take, Lake Constance, for example. Here, you can soak in the view of idyllic spots, summer chateaus, charming towns and the majestic Alps. Adventure enthusiasts can take their pick from over 242 peaks in the country.
If you are a student outside the EU, EEA and Austria who wish to study in this picturesque country, here’s why you should consider these tuition-free options:
Apart from a world-class education, Austria is home to various picturesque landscapes. Source: Vladimir Simicek/AFP
Study in Austria: Best tuition-free universities for international students
1. The University of Vienna
The University of Vienna is known as one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is located in the heart of the city of Vienna and is one of two institutions in Austria that is included in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
At its core, the university promotes diversity through research. With 15 faculties and five centres, students can choose to study advanced theological studies, law, zoology, and many more. Plus, you’ll interact with students from 140 countries for a vibrant student experience.
Tuition for students who are citizens of a non-EU or EEA country costs 726.72 euros per semester, plus a student’s union fee of 21.20 euros.
2. The University of Salzburg
Nestled in architecturally breathtaking buildings in Salzburg’s city centre, the University of Salzburg — also known as Paris Lodron University Salzburg — is Salzburg’s largest educational institution.
The university is home to six faculties, including the Faculty of Catholic Theology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Faculty of Digital and Analytical Sciences, Faculty of Law, Business and Economics, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, and Faculty of Social Sciences. It also offers a comprehensive teacher’s training programme where students can combine a range of 26 subjects.
Generally, you can expect to pay 726.72 euros for an education here. You are also required to pay a student union fee of 20.20 euros.
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3. Johannes Kepler University Linz
Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) — formerly known as the University of Social and Economic Sciences — is one of Austria’s younger universities. Situated in the third largest city in Austria, JKU sets itself apart by having all its teaching in one location.
The university is well-equipped with facilities that allow students to learn by doing. They can research new technologies at laboratories, workshops, medical or clinical research centres, or the LIT Factory too.
Like the University of Vienna, you can expect to pay 747.92 euros for an education at JKU.
People sit in the sun at the Danube canal in Vienna, Austria on May 5, 2022. Source: Joe Klamar/AFP
4. Technische Universität Wien
Eager to pursue a career in technology or natural sciences at a university accredited by the QS World University Ranking 2023? Technische Universität Wien, commonly known as TU Wien, might be the place for you.
As a university conducting research, teaching and learning under the motto “Technology for people” for over 200 years, it ranked 179th in the recent QS World University Ranking. As such, the school is best known for its computer science, engineering, and natural science courses.
Do note that all of the bachelor’s programmes at TU Wien are only delivered in German, so you have to prove sufficient knowledge of the language to be admitted into the degree programme. Fortunately, most of their master’s programmes are delivered in English.
Tuition and student union fees for non-EU or EEA nationals at TU Wien start at the same rate as the University of Vienna.
