Austria is a popular choice for studying abroad. It sits in the heart of Europe, making it easy to travel to nearby countries by air, road, or train. With a population of 8.7 million, Austria is small, but it offers something for everyone, whether you love stunning Alpine views or prefer the bustling city life.

Austria's universities and higher education institutions are highly respected worldwide. Graduates benefit from a strong industry base and good employment opportunities. Vienna is Austria's oldest and most famous university city, but you can also study in Graz, Innsbruck, Linz, or Salzburg, all known for their impressive architecture and rich culture.

Austria is renowned for its winter sports scene in the Arlberg region, the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing, and Innsbruck, nestled in the Alps. The country's mountainous landscape provides breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for hiking all year round.

Cities like Vienna and Graz boast many baroque castles, palaces, gardens, and museums that showcase Austria's musical history and contributions to psychology. Famous Austrian musicians and composers include Haydn, Mahler, Liszt, and Mozart, while Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, was also born here.

This article will further discuss Austria's top universities. It will explore the benefits of studying there, the application process, specific university requirements, and highlight some of the most popular courses available.

Why Should You Study in Austria?

Austria offers a range of reasons for students to consider it as a study destination. Here’s why:

1. Central European Location: Austria’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring neighbouring countries. With its extensive railway and bus networks, students can easily travel to and discover Eastern and Central Europe during their studies.
2. Affordable Education: Many students choose Austria for its affordable education system. The country provides a comfortable learning environment with reasonable tuition fees compared to other European nations. This allows students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
3. Breathtaking Landscapes: Austria boasts picturesque landscapes, including towering mountains, lush forests, and serene lakes. Students have the opportunity to explore these stunning natural wonders, offering a refreshing break from academic life.
4. German Language Learning: Austrian universities often include German language courses in their curriculum, enhancing students’ language skills. Proficiency in German opens doors to employment opportunities not only in Austria but also in Germany, where it is widely spoken.
5. English-Taught Courses: Most universities in Austria offer programmes taught in English, providing convenience for international students who may not be fluent in German. This accessibility ensures that students from various backgrounds can pursue their academic interests comfortably.
6. Rich Cultural Heritage: Austria’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its classical music, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and historical landmarks. The country’s vibrant arts scene and literary contributions create an inspiring environment for students interested in history and culture.
7. Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in Austria, including transportation, accommodation, and food, is comparatively affordable for students. This makes it easier to manage expenses while enjoying a high quality of life.

Everything You Need to Go to Austria

1. Admission Requirements

Before applying, contact your chosen Austrian university to understand specific requirements. Typically, the following documents are needed for Bachelor’s programmes:

• For EU/EEA Students:
  • Proof of nationality (passport photocopy)
  • Secondary school leaving certificate qualifying for university studies in your home country
  • German language proficiency (certificate confirming 4 years of German lessons or equivalent)
• Non-EU/EEA Students:
  • Proof of nationality (passport photocopy)
  • Equivalent secondary school leaving certificate
  • German language proficiency (certificate confirming 4 years of German lessons or equivalent)

Requirements for Master’s programmes:

• Completion of a specialised Bachelor’s degree (min. 180 ECTS)

Requirements for PhD programmes:

• Master’s degree in the same field as your research proposal or equivalent

Programmes with Entrance Examinations:

• Some programmes (e.g., medical universities, universities of the arts, UAS) require entrance examinations. 

Check application deadlines and specific requirements well in advance (up to 6 months before the semester begins).

2. Prepare Your Paperwork

Gathering documents can be stressful but essential:

• Proof of identification (ID card or passport photocopies)
• Passport-size photographs
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Transcript of records from previous education
• Personalised motivation letter
• Recommendation letter from previous professors (if required)
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
• Proof of German proficiency (e.g., ÖSD, TestDaF, Goethe Institut, Telc Deutsch)
• Proof of application fee payment
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds to support your studies

3. Submit Your Application

Once prepared, submit your application directly to the Austrian universities. Most applications are online, but some institutions may require documents by post. Ensure timely submission to meet deadlines. Applications via Austrian Embassies or Consulates are forwarded to chosen educational institutions automatically.

4. Apply for an Austrian Student Visa

After admission, apply for a visa/residence permit if needed:

• Start the visa application early. You may need to pay the first semester’s tuition fees.
• Follow the Austrian Embassy’s requirements for a smooth visa application process.

Top Austrian Universities

Highest Ranking Universities in Austria
University Name	Times Higher Education (National Ranking)	Times Higher Education (Global Ranking)	U.S. News (Global Ranking)
University of Vienna	1	=119	215
Medical University of Graz	=2	201-250	203
Medical University of Vienna	=2	201-250	373
Medical University of Innsbruck	=3	251-300	445
TU Wien	=3	251-300	549
University of Innsbruck	4	301-350	466
Johannes Kepler University of Linz	5	401-500	986
University of Graz	=6	501-600	698
Graz University of Technology	=6	501-600	1034
University of Klagenfurt	7	601-800	-

1. University of Vienna

The University of Vienna, established in 1365 by Rudolph IV, Duke of Austria, is the oldest university in the German-speaking world. It is modelled on the Sorbonne in Paris. With over 94,000 students, including 28,000 international students, it is the largest research institution in Austria.

The university consists of 15 faculties and four academic centres, offering more than 180 degree programmes. All undergraduate courses require proficiency in German, but some postgraduate courses are available in English.

Known for its Humanities work, the university has nine Nobel Laureates, including chemist Hans Fischer and physician Karl Landsteiner, who taught there. Other Nobel Laureates associated with the university include physicist Erwin Schrödinger and economist and philosopher Friedrich Hayek. Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, is also a notable alumni.

The university operates across 63 locations in Vienna, connected by the city’s tram and bus network. Vienna is cycle-friendly, and students can use the CityBike scheme, with bikes available at stations across the city and the first hour free of charge.

The university values sports highly, with its Institute for University Sports (USI) offering a wide range of fitness, training, and sports facilities for all students.

An 18th-century botanical garden, known as 'the green lung of the university,' raises awareness of ecological issues and supports research into conservation and biodiversity.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is located in the east of the country on the Danube River. The city has been home to Mozart and Beethoven, and works by Austrian artists Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt are displayed in its museums. 

Vienna’s baroque palaces, stunning architecture, and the famous Vienna State Opera make it a popular tourist destination. Known as the 'city of dreams,' it is also associated with Freud.

University of Vienna
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
34%	31,318	31%	37.4	66:34

 

University of Vienna
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences	Arts and Humanities	Mathematics	Ecology	Environment/Ecology
Subject Ranking	27	29	36	49	71

 

University of Vienna
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	ACT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	550	6.5	87

2. Medical University of Graz

The Medical University of Graz in Austria started in 1863 when Emperor Franz Josef founded the faculty of medicine at Karl Franzens-University of Graz. In 2004, the faculty became an independent university, opening as the Centre for Medical Research with a library and Learning Centre. A Nursing Science programme also began at the same time.

Women were admitted to study medicine at the university from 1900, making it an early supporter of female doctors. In 1907, Dr Octavia Auguste Aigner-Rollett, a graduate of the university, became the first woman to open a practice in Graz. 

The university now has a Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise, which is part of a Europe-wide series of research centres led by top-level female scientists.

The Ludwig Boltzmann Institute, part of an Austrian network of specialised research institutes named after physicist Ludwig Boltzmann, was launched in 2007. In the same year, the university started its first international PhD programme.

Facilities at the university include a modern MRI scanner research facility and the Bad Aussee Hospital for psychosomatic medicine and psychotherapy. In 2009, it became the first in Austria to open a Clinical Skills Centre.

Notable alumni include Fritz Pregl, a Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, and Julius Wagner-Jauregg, a Nobel Prize winner in Medicine. Otto Loewi, a pharmacologist who won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1936 for his discoveries about synapse signal transmission, fled to New York University after the Nazis arrested him and many other Jewish scientists in 1938.

Medical University of Graz
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
10%	4,027	29%	15.5	54:46

 

Medical University of Graz
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Endocrinology and Metabolism	Neuroscience and Behavior	Immunology	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	Clinical Medicine
Subject Ranking	92	120	152	160	174

 

Medical University of Graz
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GRE	IELTS	TOEFL
38	3.5	90%	Not required	6.5	95

3. Medical University of Vienna

The Medical University of Vienna, founded in 1365 as part of the University of Vienna, ranks among the oldest medical universities in Europe. It became an independent institution in 2004.

Two undergraduate degree programmes are offered: one in medicine and one in dentistry. The university also provides a medical informatics master’s programme, combining IT with biomedical research and medicine; 16 different PhD programmes in basic science research; 10 different doctoral programmes in applied medical science; and 18 other postgraduate courses.

The university collaborates with 84 accredited teaching hospitals and has two teaching departments. Since 2014, undergraduate students complete an internship at one of these hospitals in their final year.

The institution uses a “triple track strategy” that integrates research, education, and patient care. Special programmes and measures support and encourage women to pursue scientific careers.

One notable feature of the university’s campus is the Josephinum building, constructed in 1785 during Joseph II’s reign. This building is a significant example of neo-classical architecture in Vienna and houses collections on the university's heritage, including the Museum for Anatomical Wax Models.

Four Nobel laureates are affiliated with the Medical University of Vienna. Robert Bárány and Julius Wagner-Jauregg received prizes in physiology or medicine in 1914 and 1927, respectively.

Vienna, known for its rich culture and history, boasts opera houses and famous coffee houses. UNESCO listed these coffee houses as an intangible cultural heritage in 2011.

Medical University of Vienna
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
9%	7,271	30%	8.4	54:46

 

Medical University of Vienna
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Surgery	Oncology	Clinical Medicine
Subject Ranking	20	39	53	60	78

 

Medical University of Vienna
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
38	3.5	90%	Not required	6.5	95

4. Medical University of Innsbruck

The Medizinische Universität Innsbruck (Medical University of Innsbruck) has origins dating back to 1307, starting as one of the first hospitals in the silver-mining city of Schwaz. A medical faculty was later added to the university established by Emperor Leopold I in 1669. 

This faculty became one of the four faculties of the Leopold-Franzens-Universität Innsbruck, which included philosophy, law, theology, and medicine. The medical faculty gained its independence in 2004.

Currently, the university stands as one of the largest educational facilities for doctors and medical researchers in western Austria. It is organised into medical theory, clinical practice, and additional service facilities. The main objective is to provide top-quality teaching and training, conduct world-class research, and achieve continuous developments in top-tier medicine.

Speciality research areas include oncology, neurosciences, infectiology, immunology, and transplant medicine, interfacing with genetics, epigenetics, and genomics. The university has around 3,000 students, many from Tyrol, South Tyrol, and the Province of Vorarlberg, and employs approximately 2,000 staff members. Research centres are centred around the university hospitals.

In 1984, the faculty of medicine unveiled a plaque to commemorate Christoph Probst, a medical student and member of the White Rose resistance movement. In 1994, a square was renamed Christoph-Probst-Platz in his honour. A Holocaust memorial sculpture on campus remembers the professors, doctors, and students who were marginalised and displaced in March 1938.

Medical University of Innsbruck
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
15%	3,337	44%	12.9	55:45

 

Medical University of Innsbruck
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging	Neuroscience and Behavior	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	Surgery	Oncology
Subject Ranking	138	143	195	205	210

 

Medical University of Innsbruck
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
38	3.5	90%	550	6.5	87

5. Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)

Founded in 1815, the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) was originally known as the k. k. Polytechnic Institute, focusing on scientific research and teaching. Five faculties were established in 1865, and in 1872, it was renamed the Technical University. 

The name Technical University has been used since 1975, and under the 2002 University Act, TU Wien gained full legal capacity.

Today, the university consists of eight faculties: Architecture and Planning, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Sciences, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Mathematics and Geoinformation, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, and Physics. Students at TU Wien are encouraged to participate in research projects, many of which are integrated into teaching.

The university has nearly 5,000 staff members, including professors, lecturers, and both scientific and non-scientific staff, serving around 30,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The first doctorates were awarded in 1902.

The university library, established the same year as the university, was completed in 1987. Spread across six floors, it features open access areas, reading rooms, and 700 individual study desks. 

The building is adorned with owl sculptures by Swiss artist and architect Bruno Weber and a lion fountain on the ground floor created by sculptor Gero Schwanberg.

TU Wien’s research priorities include Computational Science and Engineering, Quantum Physics and Quantum Technologies, Materials and Matter, Information and Communication Technology, and Environment.

Notable alumni include mathematician and physicist Christian Doppler (known for the Doppler effect), architect Otto Wagner, Nobel Prize winner for Chemistry Richard Zsigmondy, composers Josef and Johann Strauß, and the first Austrian astronaut Franz Viehböck.

Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
30%	11,373	31%	19.0	32:68

 

Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Computer Science	Optics	Physics	Mathematics	Condensed Matter Physics
Subject Ranking	124	126	146	175	228

 

Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GRE	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	Not specified	5.5	87

6. University of Innsbruck

Considered the third oldest university in Austria, the University of Innsbruck was founded in 1669, with roots going back to 1562 when a Jesuit college was established. The university experienced a tumultuous beginning and faced dissolution twice over the years.

Today, the university includes 16 faculties, with the most recent, the School of Education, opening in 2012. Four interdisciplinary research platforms and 33 research centres facilitate networking and collaboration between different disciplines. Research priorities include Physics, ‘Man and the Environment’, Cultural Conflicts, Scientific Computing, and Molecular Biosciences.

Located close to the Alps, the university bridges German and Romance-speaking regions. Study programmes address social, ecological, and economic issues of the alpine region. Approximately 28,000 students are enrolled, with partnerships with 10 universities and cooperation agreements with another 400 worldwide. Courses are primarily taught in German, with some master’s level business courses and undergraduate political science courses offered in English.

Accessibility programmes ensure students from disadvantaged backgrounds can access higher education. Partnerships with networks like ASEA-UNINET and Eurasia-Pacific-Uninet work to integrate students from developing countries into the European university setting.

Innsbruck, positioned between Munich in Germany and Verona in Italy, serves as the Alpine region’s state capital. Known for its winter sports, having hosted the Winter Olympics several times, the city attracts sports enthusiasts. Innsbruck is also a popular tourist destination due to its cultural offerings and beautiful Gothic architecture.

University of Innsbruck
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
29%	15,315	48%	23.7	55:45

 

University of Innsbruck
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Ecology	Physics	Geosciences	Space Science	Economics and Business
Subject Ranking	81	94	229	230	341

 

University of Innsbruck
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	525	7.0	100

7. Johannes Kepler University of Linz

The Johannes Kepler University of Linz (JKU) offers future-oriented academic degree programmes, excellence in teaching and research, numerous partnerships in Austria and abroad, and a unique campus with park-like grounds. 

More than 60 modern, hands-on academic degree programmes are available. Research at all three faculties – Social Sciences, Economics and Business; Law; and Engineering and Natural Sciences – is recognised worldwide.

The Faculty of Social Sciences, Economics and Business (SOWI) has created its degree programmes to address and solve complex social and business issues. A complete spectrum of degree programmes in social, economics, and business studies is offered. 

The Faculty of Law (RE) focuses on public, private, and international business law. Transnational cooperation efforts deal with legal issues at an international level. JKU is the only university in Austria offering a multimedia diploma degree programme in law.

The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (TN) works closely with both local and international businesses and industry. A broad, interdisciplinary range of degree programmes is offered. 

The JKU Science Park provides high-tech classrooms and modern facilities supporting teaching and research. The Faculty of Medicine (MED) is the most recent addition, opened in 2014. It offers an academic degree in human medicine and is the first Austrian university to offer studies in human medicine under the new bachelor-master’s degree system. 

The bachelor’s degree programme is conducted in cooperation with the Medical University of Graz, and JKU will accept 300 students per year to the medical degree programme in its final phase.

Johannes Kepler University of Linz
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
56%	6,803	16%	20.8	50:50

 

Johannes Kepler University of Linz
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Economics and Business	Computer Science	Mathematics	Physics	Materials Science
Subject Ranking	354	378	411	517	683

 

Johannes Kepler University of Linz
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	600	6.0	79

8. University of Graz

Founded in 1585, the University of Graz is the second oldest and one of the largest universities in Austria. Many successful scientists, including Nobel Laureates, began their careers here. Ludwig Boltzmann, a physicist and philosopher, developed his statistical theory on heat at the university. Alfred Wegener, known for his theory of continental drift, also worked here.

Today, the university offers over 120 programmes across six faculties, covering subjects from archaeology to experimental physics. The newest faculty, Environmental and Regional Sciences and Education, opened in 2007. The Medical University Graz, originally part of the University of Graz, became independent in 2004.

Approximately 12% of the 31,500 students are international, and the university participates in many international mobility programmes. Graz has partnerships with around 500 organisations worldwide. Most courses are taught in German, and students need proficiency in the language. There is a doctoral programme in Natural Sciences available in English.

Located in the southeast of Austria, Graz is home to six universities, making it a 'university town' where every sixth resident is a student. The city, known for its well-preserved historical architecture, has UNESCO World Heritage status. Graz is close to Vienna, Salzburg, Croatia, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. In 2003, Graz was named a European Capital of Culture.

University of Graz
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
31%	12,830	17%	12.6	66:34

 

University of Graz
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Arts and Humanities	Geosciences	Mathematics	Biology and Biochemistry	Psychiatry/Psychology
Subject Ranking	104	296	372	446	500

 

University of Graz
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	3.7	92%	Required	6.0	75

9. Graz University of Technology

Dating back to 1811, Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) is a respected institution specialising in technical and scientific subjects. The university was founded by Archduke Johann, who donated his extensive scientific collection to establish an institution in Graz. 

Over 200 years, the university has developed extensively, from opening its doors to women in 1919 to launching cooperative programmes with China in 2016.

Since 2004, TU Graz has had seven faculties: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Biomedical Engineering, Electrical and Information Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Economic Sciences, Mathematics, Physics and Geodesy, and Technical Chemistry, Chemical and Process Engineering and Biotechnology.

Originally based in the 16th-century Leslie Hof building, the university soon outgrow these premises. It has since expanded to three campuses in and around Graz: Alte Technik, Neue Technik, and Inffeldgasse.

Several notable scientists, including Nobel Prize-winning chemist Richard Zsigmondy, inventor Hans List, and battery scientist Karl Kordesch, are among TU Graz's alumni. Nikola Tesla, a world-famous scientist, was a star pupil during his first year but later dropped out due to a gambling addiction.

Graz, the capital of the Austrian state of Styria, is the second-largest city in Austria. Despite its size, the city has a laid-back feel, full of parkland and coffee shops. Along with TU Graz, three other universities around the city contribute to a lively cultural scene and nightlife, thanks to the thousands of students.

Graz University of Technology
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
38%	6,660	24%	8.2	26:74

 

Graz University of Technology
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Computer Science	Materials Science	Chemistry	Mathematics	Physical Chemistry
Subject Ranking	343	356	445	451	482

 

Graz University of Technology
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	Not specified	7.0	75

10. University of Klagenfurt

The University of Klagenfurt (Universität Klagenfurt or Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt) is the largest research and higher education institution in the state of Carinthia, Austria. Beginning as an Educational Science College in 1970, it became the University for Educational Sciences in 1975, the University of Klagenfurt in 1993, and finally the Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt in 2004.

Offering a broad range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programmes, the university covers fields such as engineering, management and economics, social sciences, culture, and languages. With over 12,000 students and 1,500 academic staff members, the university celebrates a diverse academic community.

Central facilities include the Robert Musil Institute, the Karl Popper Kolleg, the University Cultural Centre (UNIKUM), the building! Gründerzentrum (a start-up incubation centre), the University Sports Centre (USI), and the Klagenfurt University Library. The campus is near Lake Wörthersee, in Klagenfurt, a city with a population of about 100,000, known for its safety and Mediterranean feel with many cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Located 30 km from the Slovenian border and 60 km from the Italian border, the university strongly supports bi- and multilingualism, especially in the context of the Slovenian minority in Carinthia. Alongside the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (Italy) and the University of Fribourg (Switzerland), it is among the three most southern universities in the German-speaking world.

University of Klagenfurt
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
	3,479	31%	10.0	67:33

 

University of Klagenfurt
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Computer Science	Business and Economics	Social Sciences	Psychology	Physical Sciences
Subject Ranking	201	301	301	401	401

 

University of Klagenfurt
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
33	2.5	60%	Not specified	6.0	80

Study in Austria with CounsellingX

Austria is a popular choice for international students, not just because of its affordable tuition fees. Despite being a small country, many of its universities achieve good scores in international university rankings.

The university landscape in Austria is relatively young and modern. More than half of all institutions were established after 1960, and many of these also rank highly. Smaller universities often focus on specific subjects, offering a variety of courses in areas like business, medicine, art, and more.

In conclusion, Austria offers a diverse range of universities that cater to different academic interests. Whether you're interested in business, medicine, arts, or other fields, there are plenty of options to choose from in this vibrant and student-friendly country.

If you are interested in going to Austria and have done your research, check out CounsellingX for counsellors who can help you further. Be it inside information, specific criteria, or help with SOP/LOR; our counsellors can do it all. They are not only from the top universities in the world but have also placed many students there. 

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Key Takeaways

Top Universities in Austria

• University of Vienna
  • Founded: 1365
  • Description: Austria's oldest university, offering over 180 degree programmes across 15 faculties. Known for its humanities focus and extensive research facilities. Notable alumni include Sigmund Freud and Nobel laureate Erwin Schrödinger.
  • Language Requirements: German proficiency required for most undergraduate programmes; some postgraduate programmes available in English.
• Medical University of Graz
  • Founded: 1863
  • Description: Specialises in medical education and research, offering programmes in medicine, nursing science, and international PhD programmes. Notable for its modern research facilities and clinical skills development.
  • Notable Alumni: Nobel laureates Fritz Pregl and Julius Wagner-Jauregg.
• Medical University of Vienna
  • Founded: 1365 (as part of University of Vienna)
  • Description: Focuses on medicine and dentistry, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Collaborates with 84 accredited teaching hospitals and integrates research, education, and patient care.
  • Notable: Josephinum building, Nobel laureates Robert Bárány and Julius Wagner-Jauregg.
• Medizinische Universität Innsbruck
  • Founded: 1669
  • Description: Leading medical institution in western Austria, known for its focus on oncology, neurosciences, and transplant medicine. Offers comprehensive medical education and research opportunities.
  • Notable: Christoph Probst memorial, strong ties to Alpine region research.
• Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
  • Founded: 1815
  • Description: Specialises in scientific and technical research, offering programmes in architecture, engineering, and natural sciences. Known for its contributions to computational science and quantum physics.
  • Notable: Nobel laureate Richard Zsigmondy, significant research infrastructure.
• University of Innsbruck
  • Founded: 1669
  • Description: Offers diverse programmes across 16 faculties, emphasising interdisciplinary research platforms and partnerships. Located in a picturesque Alpine region, fostering research in physics, environmental sciences, and cultural conflicts.
  • Language: Primarily German, with select courses in English.
• Johannes Kepler University of Linz (JKU)
  • Description: Offers over 60 academic degree programmes across three faculties: Social Sciences, Economics and Business; Law; and Engineering and Natural Sciences. Known for its research excellence and unique campus environment.
  • Focus: Social sciences, law, engineering, and natural sciences.
• University of Graz
  • Founded: 1585
  • Description: One of Austria’s oldest and largest universities, offering over 120 programmes across six faculties. Notable for its contributions to sciences and humanities, including Nobel laureate Ludwig Boltzmann.
  • Language: Most courses in German; some doctoral programmes available in English.
• Graz University of Technology (TU Graz)
  • Founded: 1811
  • Description: Specialises in technical and scientific education, offering programmes across seven faculties. Known for its contributions to engineering, chemistry, and biotechnology.
  • Notable: Nobel laureate Richard Zsigmondy, extensive campus and research facilities.
• University of Klagenfurt
  • Founded: 1970
  • Description: Largest research institution in Carinthia, offering a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programmes. Located near Lake Wörthersee, known for its academic excellence in engineering, management, and social sciences.
  • Notable: Strong support for bi- and multilingualism, vibrant campus community.

General Requirements for Studying in Austria:

• Bachelor’s Programmes:
  • EU/EEA Students: Secondary school leaving certificate qualifying for university studies.
  • Non-EU/EEA Students: Equivalent secondary education certificate.
  • German proficiency required for most undergraduate programmes; some programmes available in English.
• Master’s Programmes:
  • Completion of a relevant Bachelor’s degree (typically 180 ECTS credits).
  • Proof of language proficiency in German or English depending on the programme.
• PhD Programmes:
  • Master’s degree in a related field required for research-focused programmes.
  • Language proficiency in German or English.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Application deadlines and entrance examinations may apply, especially for programmes like medical universities.
  • Documents such as transcripts, passport copies, and proof of financial means are typically required.
  • Non-EU/EEA students need to adhere to visa/residence permit requirements, including proof of health insurance and sufficient funds.