Study in Vienna in English: A Quick Guide for International Students

Have you ever dreamed of studying in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in the European Union? If so, you might want to study in Vienna in English. It’s the capital of Austria and the heart of the German-speaking world.

Vienna is a popular destination for international students who want to study in Vienna in English and enjoy the high quality of life, the rich history, and the vibrant culture of this city. But how can you make this dream a reality? What are the requirements, the costs, and the benefits of studying in Vienna as an international student?

In this quick guide, we will answer these questions and more. We will show you how to find and apply for an English-taught degree programme in Vienna, how to pay tuition fees and get scholarships, how to prove your language proficiency and get a visa, and how to make the most of your student life in Vienna. 

Related article: Best Courses to Study in Austria for International Students: Bachelor, Master, and PhD

Where to Study in Vienna, Austria?

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a popular destination for studying abroad. The city has a rich cultural and educational heritage and offers plenty of colleges and schools for different fields and interests.

According to the OECD, Vienna hosts about 74,600 international students, who make up 18% of the tertiary student population. These students can choose from a variety of public and private universities, as well as applied sciences institutions.

Public Universities and Tuition Fees

Public universities offer diverse English courses in Vienna, with varying tuition fees. Here are some of them: 

• University of Vienna – Offers a range of English courses in Vienna, including programs in Veterinary Medicine and Fine Arts. Tuition is free for EU citizens; non-EU students pay €726.72 per semester, according to the latest information.

• FH BFI Vienna – Known for its applied sciences programs, FH BFI provides English courses in Vienna. The tuition is around €363.36 per semester, according to Fachhochschule des bfi Wien website.
• WU (Vienna University of Economics and Business) – Offers various English-taught programs in business and economics. Its website says that the standard tuition fee is €363.36 per semester.

• University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien Vienna –  University of Applied Sciences is the largest purely technical university of applied sciences in Austria. It offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in English, such as Biomedical Engineering. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fees are free of charge or very low. The tuition fees are higher for non-EU/EEA students, ranging from 1,452 to 3,000 euros per year, according to their unipage.net. 

Private Austrian Universities and Their Tuition Fees

Here is a brief overview of some private universities that offer English courses in Vienna.

Webster University

It’s an American university with a campus in Vienna. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in various fields, such as international relations, psychology, management, and strategic communications. The tuition fees range from 9,000 to 21,300 euros per year. Students can enjoy the multicultural environment and the small class sizes.

MODUL University Vienna

It’s a private university that specializes in tourism, hospitality, sustainability, and business management. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in English. The tuition fees range from 9,000 to 38,000 euros per year. Students can benefit from the international faculty, the industry partnerships, and the modern campus.

Lauder Business School

This private university focuses on business administration, international management, finance, and banking. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English. The tuition fees are 660 euros per semester. Students can gain practical skills, intercultural competence, and Jewish values.

Sigmund Freud University

This university in Austria offers degrees in psychotherapy, psychology, medicine, law, and dentistry. It offers some courses in English, but the main language of instruction is German. The tuition fees vary depending on the program, but they are generally higher than public universities.

Students can learn from the experts in the field, experience clinical practice, and explore the legacy of Freud.

Vienna is a great place to study abroad, as it is Austria’s capital and largest city, rich in culture, history, and art. It is home to some of the largest universities in the country, such as the University of Vienna and the Vienna University of Technology.

It also boasts many imperial palaces, museums, and classical music venues. Vienna is also a hub for innovation and research, with many Nobel Prize winners and renowned scientists studying or working there.

Vienna is also well-connected to other countries in Europe, making it easy to travel and explore. 

What are you planning to do after studying in Viena, Austria? Check this article: What Jobs Are In-Demand in Austria in 2023?

How to Pay Tuition Fees in Vienna?

The city of Vienna offers a variety of universities and research institutions, as well as a rich cultural and historical heritage. However, studying in Vienna also comes with a cost, and students need to be aware of how to pay their tuition fees. Here are five steps to follow:

1. Check your eligibility for tuition fee exemption or reduction. 

Depending on your nationality, degree program, and academic performance, you may be eligible for free or reduced tuition fees at public universities in Austria. For example, if you are an EU citizen or a student from a developing country, you may not have to pay any tuition fees at all.

Health insurance is a requirement in some universities, especially for international students and expats. You can find more information about the eligibility criteria and the application process on the websites of the universities you are interested in. 

Also read: Health Insurance in Austria for Foreigners: Best Providers

2. Choose your payment method.

• If you are not exempt from paying tuition fees, you will have to choose a payment method that suits your preferences and circumstances. The most common payment methods are online banking, credit card, EPS payment, or payment form. You can pay your tuition fees via u:space, the online portal for students at the University of Vienna, or directly at the bank. Make sure you have enough funds in your account and pay attention to the payment deadlines to avoid late fees or cancellation of your enrollment.

3. Keep your payment confirmation

After you have paid your tuition fees, you will receive a confirmation email or a payment receipt. You should keep this document as proof of your payment and your enrollment status. You may need it for various purposes, such as applying for a visa, a scholarship, or a student card.

If you’re planning to stay and study English courses in Vienna, you need to have a reliable mobile network. Read this article about Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Austria

Student Reviews for Universities in Austria

Studying in Vienna can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, as the city offers a high quality of life, a rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant student community. But is it really that good?

Here are some of the reviews from students who studied in Vienna:

• “Vienna is a beautiful city with a lot of history and culture. Public transport is very convenient and cheap, and there are many places to visit and explore. The university is very international and has a lot of resources and facilities for students. The professors are very knowledgeable and helpful, and the courses are challenging and interesting.”
• “I loved studying in Vienna because it is a very cosmopolitan and diverse city. The university has a lot of opportunities for exchange programs, internships, and extracurricular activities. The courses are very practical and relevant, and the professors are very supportive and friendly. The student life is very lively and fun, and there are many events and parties to attend.”
• “Vienna is a great place to study because it is a very safe and clean city. The university has a lot of academic excellence and reputation, and the courses are very rigorous and comprehensive. The professors are very experienced and professional, and the students are very motivated and collaborative. The city has a lot of culture and entertainment, and there are many museums, theaters, and concerts to enjoy.”

To know more, check our article about the  Top 11 Austrian Universities for International Students [2023]

My Opinion About Studying in Vienna, Austria

Studying in Vienna, Austria offers a remarkable educational experience. Renowned universities in this city provide a diverse range of English courses, making education accessible to international students. The city, steeped in history and art, serves as an inspiring backdrop for learning.

Vienna’s commitment to research and world-class education is evident in its globally recognized programmes. Students benefit from being in the heart of Europe, opening doors to a world of opportunities.

The rest of the world’s educational hubs may pale in comparison to Vienna’s unique blend of culture, innovation, and academic excellence.

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