Learn in the Heart of Europe | Study in Austria Made Easy

Close-up view of the Austrian flag showcasing texture and vibrant colors.

Explore World-Class Education, Diverse Culture, and Global Careers.

Austria offers international students world-class education, affordable tuition, and a safe, high-quality lifestyle in the heart of Europe. With top universities, tuition-free and funded scholarships, English-taught programs, and inclusive student life, it’s ideal for learners from India, Vietnam, Nigeria, and more. Discover why Austria is a top choice for affordable, high-quality education and global career opportunities.

Studying in the Austria as an international student has many challenges—but this guide will assist international students specially from South & South East Asia and Africa.

Top Austrian Universities

A group of students leisurely walking on a university campus pathway during the day.

Top Austrian Universities

University NameQS World Ranking 2025Location
University of Vienna#130Vienna
Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)#179Vienna
Graz University of Technology (TU Graz)#277Graz
University of Innsbruck#407Innsbruck
Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU)#601–610 Linz
University of Graz (Karl-Franzens-Universität)#651–660Graz
University of Klagenfurt (AAU)#801–850Klagenfurt
University of Natural Resources & Life Sciences#851–900Vienna
Salzburg University (Paris Lodron University)#1001–1200Salzburg
University of Applied Arts ViennaNot RankedVienna

📌 Note: Rankings based on the QS World University Rankings 2025. For the most accurate and updated rankings, visit https://www.topuniversities.com/.

Benefit of choosing these universities for international students.

🎓 Globally Ranked Universities – Study at prestigious institutions like the University of Vienna, TU Wien, and University of Innsbruck, featured in QS & THE rankings.

🌍 International Student-Friendly – English-taught programs, multicultural campuses, and strong support for students from India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and beyond.

💼 Career-Focused Education – Practice-oriented learning with strong industry ties in engineering, business, life sciences, and technology sectors.

🧪 Research & Innovation Hubs – Engage in cutting-edge research in AI, renewable energy, biotechnology, and sustainability.

💰 Affordable or Tuition-Free Options – Public universities offer low or no tuition fees, with scholarships for non-EU students via OeAD and Erasmus+.

🏡 High Quality of Life – Live in safe, clean, and culturally rich cities like Vienna and Graz with excellent healthcare and public services.

✈️ Post-Study Work Opportunities – Stay up to 12 months after graduation to find a job in Austria or across the EU/Schengen region.

📚 Student-Centered Teaching – Encourages independence, critical thinking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in small classroom settings.

Young adults engaging in a focused study session with books and laptops in the library.

Austrian Universities – Comparison by Ranking, Affordability & Placement

University NameQS Ranking 2025Avg. Tuition (Non-EU)*CityKnown ForGraduate Employability
University of Vienna#130€726.72/semesterViennaHumanities, Law, Social SciencesHigh (Govt. & NGOs)
TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)#179€726.72/semesterViennaEngineering, Computer Science, ArchitectureVery High (Tech Sector)
TU Graz (Graz University of Technology)#277€726.72/semesterGrazAI, Engineering, Green TechVery High
University of Innsbruck#407€726.72/semesterInnsbruckEnvironmental Science, Tourism, PhysicsMedium–High
JKU Linz (Johannes Kepler University)#601–610€726.72/semesterLinzEconomics, AI, MechatronicsHigh (Industry Links)
University of Graz#651–660€726.72/semesterGrazLife Sciences, Cultural StudiesMedium
University of Klagenfurt (AAU)#801–850€726.72/semesterKlagenfurtBusiness, Media & CommunicationsMedium–High
University of Natural Resources & Life Sciences (BOKU)#851–900€726.72/semesterViennaAgriculture, Environment, BiotechnologyHigh (EU Research Projects)
University of Salzburg#1001–1200€726.72/semesterSalzburgPsychology, Theology, MusicMedium
A young woman carries notebooks, embodying focus and determination in a classroom setting.

Student Campus life

International student life in Austria is vibrant and inclusive, with dynamic campuses in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, and Linz. Students from India, Vietnam, Nigeria, and beyond enjoy multicultural events, English-taught programs, free German language courses, and strong academic support. Austria offers a welcoming, enriching experience, making it a top destination for international education in Europe.

👉 Essential Resources for Studying in Austria

👉 Study in Austria – Official Government Portal
Learn about all Austrian universities, study programs, admission steps, scholarships, and life in Austria as an international student.

👉 University Admissions in Austria – OeAD (Austrian Exchange Service)
Austria’s national agency for international mobility — find application procedures, degree recognition, visa support, and study funding.

👉 List of All Accredited Universities in Austria (BMBWF)
Direct from the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, this link lists all public and private universities, universities of applied sciences, and teacher education institutions.
👉 Austrian Universities Offering English-Taught Programs
Explore a full list of bachelor’s and master’s programs taught in English across top universities in Austria.

👉 Mensa Austria – Student Dining Facilities
Affordable and nutritious meal options for students across major university campuses.

Want to explore other key destinations

✨ Also explore: Top UK Universities
✨ Also explore: Top US Universities

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Food & Grocery-AS
Student Life & Visa-AS
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Preparations, IELTS etc

Austria offers a wide range of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies. Whether you’re applying to a public university in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, or Linz, financial aid is available through government programs, university-specific funding, and third-party foundations.

These scholarships make Austria one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe — especially for students from India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Nigeria, the Philippines, Kenya, and more.

🇦🇹 Government-Funded Scholarships for International Students

🎓 OeAD Scholarships (Austrian Agency for Education & Internationalisation)

OeAD is the official scholarship platform for studying in Austria. It offers funding for:

  • Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD students
  • Short-term research stays
  • Language courses and summer schools

Popular Programs:

  • Ernst Mach Grants (for non-EU students)
  • Scholarships of the Republic of Austria (for all levels)
  • Franz Werfel Grant (for humanities/language scholars)

🌐 Apply here: https://grants.at/en
🔍 Browse all opportunities by level, country, and field.

💰 Scholarship of the Republic of Austria for International Students

  • Open to applicants from developing countries
  • For Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral students
  • Monthly grant: €1,050
  • Covers living expenses, tuition, insurance
  • Administered by OeAD

🌐 Official page: https://grants.at/en/?=MzAwMzFfMzAxNThfMA==

🎓 Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide

  • For students from non-EU/EEA countries
  • Duration: 4–10 months (for studies or research)
  • Monthly stipend: €1,250
  • Covers travel allowance, accommodation help, and insurance
  • Suitable for exchange and full-time students

🌐 Learn more: https://oead.at/en/to-austria/grants/ernst-mach-grant

🏫 University-Specific Scholarships in Austria

Many Austrian public universities offer tuition waivers, merit-based scholarships, and housing support to international students. Here are some of the most popular:

🏛️ University of Vienna Scholarships

  • Offers tuition fee exemption for eligible developing-country students
  • Some departments offer faculty-specific grants

🌐 Info: https://studieren.univie.ac.at/en/tuition-fee/

🛠️ TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)

  • Helmut Veith Stipend for women in Computer Science – worth €6,000/year
  • Tuition waivers for outstanding international master’s students

🌐 Apply here: https://www.tuwien.at/en/studies/tuition-fees-scholarships/scholarships

🎓 University of Klagenfurt

  • Offers merit-based and need-based funding
  • Up to €6,000/year for eligible Master’s students
  • Partial tuition refunds for high performers

🌐 Details: https://www.aau.at/en/study/studying-at-aau/financial-matters/scholarships/

🌿 BOKU – University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences

  • Funding for students from developing countries in environment-related programs
  • Apply via Erasmus+ or OeAD grants

🌐 https://www.boku.ac.at/en/international/themen/studieren-in-wien/stipendien-und-finanzierung

🌍 Erasmus+ Scholarships (EU-Wide)

Austria participates in the Erasmus+ Programme, which supports:

  • Full-time degrees at Master’s level (Erasmus Mundus)
  • Student mobility (for 1–2 semesters)
  • Monthly stipends + tuition coverage

🌐 Explore Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/opportunities

👨🏽‍🎓 Tips for International Students Applying for Scholarships in Austria

  • Apply as early as possible (some deadlines are 9–12 months before intake)
  • Translate all academic documents into German or English
  • Tailor your motivation letter to Austrian academic values (research, sustainability, social responsibility)
  • Include proof of German/English proficiency, even if your course is in English
  • Simultaneously apply for tuition waiver + living allowance

📌 Estimated Monthly Living Costs in Austria (2025)

Expense CategoryAverage Monthly Cost
Rent & Utilities€350–€500
Food & Groceries€200–€300
Transport (with pass)€25–€50
Health Insurance€60–€80
Personal Expenses€100–€150

💡 Most full scholarships (like OeAD or Erasmus+) cover all these expenses.

Finding suitable student accommodation in Austria is an important part of planning your study journey. Austria offers a variety of safe, affordable, and student-friendly housing options — from university-managed dormitories and private student residences to shared apartments and budget-friendly hostels.

Whether you’re heading to Vienna, Graz, Linz, or Innsbruck, this guide outlines the most reliable housing options, application tips, and popular websites to book verified student housing.

🏢 1. University Halls of Residence (Student Dormitories)

Most international students in Austria stay in student dormitories managed by independent housing organizations in partnership with universities.

✅ Features:

  • Fully furnished rooms (single/shared)
  • Communal kitchens, laundry rooms, study lounges
  • Monthly rent: €250–€450
  • Located close to campus or with excellent public transport links

🏠 Popular Dormitory Providers:

ProviderCities CoveredWebsite
OeAD HousingVienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg🌐 https://housing.oead.at/en/
STUWO Student HousingVienna, Graz, Linz🌐 https://www.stuwo.at/en/
WIHASTVienna, Graz🌐 https://www.wihast.at/
Akademikerhilfe20+ cities🌐 https://www.akademikerhilfe.at/en

💡 Apply early — most student housing gets booked 3–5 months before semester begins.

🏘️ 2. Private Student Residences

These are privately run hostels and co-living spaces catering to international students. They offer more flexibility and upgraded amenities like gyms, private bathrooms, and game zones.

Examples:

Average Monthly Cost:

€400–€700, depending on city and facilities

🏠 3. Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft / WG)

Sharing an apartment (called a WG in Austria) is a popular and cost-effective option for international students, especially those who prefer independence and city living.

Key Features:

  • Private bedroom, shared kitchen and bathroom
  • Usually located in residential districts
  • No furniture in some cases — check before renting

Search Platforms:

Rent range: €300–€550/month (depending on city)

🏨 4. Temporary & Budget Accommodation (Short-Term)

If you’re arriving early or still searching for long-term housing, you can stay in a youth hostel, hotel, or Airbnb temporarily.

Options:

✅ Use these for your first few weeks while you explore and finalize permanent housing.

🌍 5. Global Housing Platforms for International Students

These websites specialize in verified student housing and offer flexible contracts, multilingual support, and early booking options:

PlatformLink
HousingAnywherehttps://housinganywhere.com/
AmberStudenthttps://amberstudent.com/
Uniplaceshttps://www.uniplaces.com/
Spotahomehttps://www.spotahome.com/

Many offer discounts or cashback for bookings done early or in collaboration with your university.

👥 6. South Asian & African-Friendly Platforms / Student Forums

Students from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, and other regions often find housing through local diaspora forums and student WhatsApp/Telegram groups.

  • Facebook Groups:
    • “Indians in Vienna”
    • “Graz Student Housing”
    • “Pakistani Students in Austria”
  • Telegram & WhatsApp Groups: Ask your university’s international office or student union for links

💡 Tips for Securing Student Accommodation in Austria

  • ✅ Start early: Apply 4–6 months before semester starts
  • 📑 Have documents ready: Admission letter, ID/passport, proof of payment (if needed)
  • 🧾 Read contracts carefully: Most rentals require 1–2 months deposit
  • 🚫 Avoid scams: Always use verified platforms and never transfer money without proper documentation
  • 👩🏽‍💻 Use Google Translate for listings in German if needed

📊 Summary of Monthly Costs (2025 Estimate)

CityDormitory (€)Private Room/WG (€)Private Studio (€)
Vienna350–450400–600550–750
Graz300–400350–500500–650
Innsbruck350–500400–600550–750
Linz300–400350–500500–650

📌 Most student housing includes utilities (electricity, water, WiFi).

Austria offers a wide range of affordable, high-quality food options for international students, whether you’re cooking your own meals or eating out. From budget supermarkets and student-friendly Mensen (canteens) to ethnic grocery stores catering to Indian, African, and Asian communities, you’ll have no trouble maintaining your food preferences or trying Austrian specialties.

This guide covers everything you need to know about daily food budgeting, grocery shopping, local cuisine, and halal/vegetarian availability in Austria’s major student cities like Vienna, Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck.

🛒 Grocery Shopping in Austria – Budget-Friendly & Convenient

🧺 Popular Supermarket Chains (Low-Cost)

These are widely accessible and perfect for students living on a budget:

SupermarketDescriptionLink
Hofer (Aldi)Discount store offering fresh produce and international itemshttps://www.hofer.at/
LidlBudget chain with weekly offers and fresh bakeryhttps://www.lidl.at/
Spar / EurosparMid-range grocery chain with extensive selectionhttps://www.spar.at/
BILLAKnown for promotions, store-brand items, and organic foodshttps://www.billa.at/
PENNY MarktGreat for everyday basics and frozen foodshttps://www.penny.at/

💡 Tip: Most chains offer weekly discount flyers on their websites and apps.

🌍 International & Ethnic Grocery Stores

Austria’s major cities have numerous South Asian, African, and Asian grocery stores, ensuring access to your favorite spices, grains, snacks, halal meat, and regional products.

🥫 Indian, Pakistani & Bangladeshi Stores

🍛 African & Middle Eastern Stores

📌 These shops are often located near train stations or immigrant neighborhoods. Ask fellow students or join Facebook/Telegram groups for local recommendations.

🏫 Student Canteens (Mensen)

Austrian universities offer affordable meals at on-campus restaurants known as Mensen, managed by Mensen.at. Meals cost between €3.50 and €6 for students and often include:

  • Vegetarian and vegan options
  • International cuisine (Italian, Asian, Turkish, etc.)
  • Daily changing menus

✅ Use your student ID for discounted prices at most Mensa outlets.

🥗 Eating Out – What’s Affordable?

A typical student spends €8–12 on a meal at a casual restaurant or café. Options include:

  • Kebabs & Döner – €4–6 (popular budget meal)
  • Pizza & Pasta – €7–10
  • Falafel & Veg platters – €5–8
  • Austrian Lunch Menu (Mittagsmenü) – €6–9 (2-3 courses during weekdays)

Use food delivery apps like:

💡 Look for “Mittagsmenü” signs outside restaurants – these are student-friendly meal deals offered during lunch hours (usually 11:30 AM to 2 PM).

🍽️ Vegetarian, Vegan & Halal Food Options

Austria is increasingly friendly to diverse dietary needs.

🌱 Vegetarian & Vegan:

  • Many Mensen and restaurants have dedicated “vegetarisch” and “vegan” meals
  • Vegan Austria directory: https://www.vegan.at/

🕌 Halal Options:

  • Halal meat is available at ethnic grocery stores
  • Restaurants with halal-friendly tags: https://www.zabihah.com/
  • Vienna, Graz, and Linz have several Turkish, Arab, and South Asian halal eateries

💰 Estimated Monthly Food Costs (2025)

Living StyleEstimated Cost (€)
Groceries (home-cooked meals)€150–€250
Eating out (2–3x/week)€80–€120
Mixed (home + restaurant)€200–€280

📌 Cooking at home is the most budget-friendly option. Team up with roommates to shop in bulk and cook together.

📦 Online Grocery Options & Meal Kits

Need groceries delivered to your dorm or flat?

Austria offers international students a rewarding academic environment, a high standard of living, and smooth visa processes. From the lively student cities of Vienna, Graz, and Innsbruck to the inclusive campus culture and easy access to Schengen travel, studying in Austria is not just about earning a degree — it’s about enjoying a rich, multicultural experience.

This guide covers everything from visa requirements and residence permits to student unions, part-time jobs, and social life, all tailored for students from India, Nigeria, Vietnam, the Philippines, and beyond.

🛂 Student Visa Requirements – Austria

🎓 Who Needs a Visa?

  • Non-EU/EEA students (e.g., from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Kenya, Ghana) must apply for a student visa or residence permit before arriving.
  • EU/EEA citizens do not require a visa but must register locally.

📄 Types of Visas

Visa TypeValidityFor Whom
Visa D (Long Stay)Up to 6 monthsFor preparatory language courses or short programs
Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Student)12 months (renewable)For full-time university students

📝 Required Documents for Residence Permit (Outside Austria)

  1. Valid passport + passport photos
  2. Letter of admission from an Austrian university
  3. Proof of sufficient funds (approx. €600–€1,100/month depending on age)
  4. Accommodation confirmation (rental contract or dormitory booking)
  5. Proof of health insurance
  6. Police clearance certificate
  7. Visa fee payment proof (~€160)
  8. Completed application form

📌 Full checklist: https://oead.at/en/to-austria/entry-and-residence

🕐 Processing Time

  • 8–12 weeks on average – Apply at least 3 months before your intended arrival date.

🛂 Austrian Embassy/Consulate in your country:
🌐 https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/embassies-consulates/

🛬 After Arrival: Local Registration

  • Within 3 days of arrival, register your address with the Meldezettel form at the local municipal office.
  • For stays over 90 days, apply for the residence permit card (Student) if not done from abroad.

📍 Info: https://oead.at/en/to-austria/entry-and-residence/residence-permit-student

👨🏽‍🎓 Student Life in Austria – Inclusive & Active

Austrian universities and cities offer a balanced lifestyle, with affordable student services, multicultural activities, and access to nature, museums, concerts, and travel.

🌍 Campus Diversity

  • Students from over 150 countries
  • Strong presence of South Asian & African student groups
  • English-taught programs + free German courses available

🏫 Student Unions & Clubs

The ÖH (Austrian National Union of Students) represents all students and offers:

  • Legal advice
  • Career support
  • Housing assistance
  • Mental health counseling
  • Student discounts

🌐 https://www.oeh.ac.at/

💼 Part-Time Jobs for Students

International students with a residence permit can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during vacations.

Types of Jobs:

  • Research assistants
  • Language tutors
  • Café, retail, or delivery work
  • Tech/startup internships

📝 Note: Some jobs require a work permit from the AMS (Public Employment Service) – often arranged by the employer.

🌐 Work rights info: https://oead.at/en/to-austria/entry-and-residence/working-in-austria

🚌 Travel & Social Life

  • ÖBB student cards and city transport passes make travel affordable
    🌐 https://www.oebb.at/en/
  • Access to nearby countries like Germany, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Italy
  • Explore historic towns, Alpine skiing, music festivals, and lakeside towns

📅 Student Events & Activities

Austrian universities host regular:

  • Welcome weeks
  • International nights
  • Cultural potlucks
  • Erasmus parties
  • Hiking & skiing trips

💡 Tip: Follow your university’s international office and ÖH chapter on Instagram or Facebook for event updates.

🏡 Safety & Quality of Life

  • Austria is one of the safest countries in Europe (low crime rate)
  • Clean air, efficient public transport, world-class healthcare
  • Globally ranked cities (Vienna, Graz) for student livability

🌐 City rankings: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings-articles/qs-best-student-cities/vienna

✈️ Summary – Why Austria is Ideal for International Students

  • ✅ Easy visa & residence permit process
  • 🌍 Diverse student life with inclusive support
  • 💰 Affordable tuition and part-time job options
  • 🛬 Safe, clean, and centrally located in Europe
  • 🧳 Opportunity to stay back and work after studies

Austria offers one of Europe’s most efficient, safe, and student-friendly public transport systems. Whether you’re commuting to class, exploring the city, or planning weekend trips, international students enjoy discounted monthly passes, access to smart mobility apps, and a variety of travel options including trams, buses, metro, trains, and bikes.

This guide will help you understand how to get around Austrian cities easily and affordably.

🚇 Public Transport in Major Austrian Student Cities

🚋 1. Vienna – Wiener Linien

Vienna has an extensive U-Bahn (subway), Straßenbahn (tram), bus, and S-Bahn (regional rail) network.

  • Semester Ticket (Semesterkarte): For students under 26
    🎟️ Cost: €75 per semester (valid for all zones)
    🌐 https://www.wienerlinien.at/web/wl-en/students
  • Annual Pass (Jahreskarte): €365/year for unlimited travel (ideal if not eligible for student fare)

🚌 Use the WienMobil App:
🌐 https://www.wienerlinien.at/eportal3/ep/channelView.do/pageTypeId/66533/channelId/-50260

🚊 2. Graz – Holding Graz Linien

Trams and buses cover all areas of Graz, especially university zones.

🚈 3. Innsbruck – IVB (Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe)

IVB operates buses and trams across Innsbruck and nearby university campuses.

  • Semester Pass (Semesterticket) for students: ~€150–180 per semester
  • Valid for all zones in Tirol
    🌐 https://www.ivb.at/en/

🚉 4. Linz – LINZ AG LINIEN

Affordable and efficient system of trams and buses.

🚆 National & Regional Travel – ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways)

For intercity and regional travel, students use ÖBB trains (Austria’s national railway system).

📱 ÖBB App for booking, live train status:
🌐 https://www.oebb.at/en/

🚴 Cycling & Eco-Friendly Mobility

Austria is a bike-friendly country with dedicated lanes, student bike rentals, and repair stations on campus.

🚲 Most universities promote eco-transport; check if your campus offers bike storage or discounts.

🚖 Ride-Sharing & On-Demand Options

🚗 Taxi & Ride Apps:

  • Uber: Available in Vienna and major cities
  • Bolt: Growing in popularity in student zones
  • Ö-Taxi: Local Austrian taxi app
    🌐 https://www.taxi.eu/

🚘 Carpooling:

📱 Best Mobile Apps for Public Transport in Austria

AppUseLink
QandoPublic transport info for Vienna, Graz, LinziOS/Android
ÖBB AppTrain tickets, schedules, seat bookinghttps://www.oebb.at/en/
WienMobilVienna’s all-in-one transport plannerhttps://www.wien.gv.at/verkehr/wienmobil/
ISTmobilRural student shuttle serviceshttps://istmobil.at/
BlaBlaCarCarpoolinghttps://www.blablacar.com/

💰 Estimated Monthly Transport Costs (2025)

CityStudent Pass (Monthly Avg.)Notes
Vienna€30–€38Semestercard available
Graz€30–€35Discounts with Studikarte
Linz€29–€32Student ID required
Innsbruck€35–€40Valid for Tirol region

✅ Most Austrian cities offer discounted semester or youth passes for students under 26.

🧳 Tips for International Students

  • ✅ Always carry your student ID or residence permit when using discounted tickets
  • 🚉 Book ÖBB long-distance tickets in advance for best prices
  • 📱 Use mobile apps for real-time delays and route suggestions
  • 💼 Many universities offer public transport orientation during welcome week

Austria is a highly student-friendly country when it comes to lifestyle affordability, thanks to a wide range of discounts available to local and international students alike. From public transport and museums to restaurants, cinema, mobile plans, and even groceries, having a valid student ID or youth card can significantly reduce your monthly expenses.

Here’s your complete guide to all the best student discounts in Austria.

🆔 What You Need to Access Student Discounts

🎓 1. Valid Student ID Card

Issued by your university (ÖH or ISIC-affiliated). Carry it when shopping, booking travel, or visiting museums.

🚋 2. Public Transport Discounts

Austria’s cities offer discounted semester, youth, and monthly passes to students under 26.

🎥 3. Entertainment Discounts

🎭 Cinema, Museums, Theatres

Many cultural venues offer discounted student tickets. Examples:

💡 Ask for “Studententarif” when buying tickets.

📱 4. Mobile & Internet Plans

Austrian telecom companies provide youth and student SIM plans with extra data or lower rates.

ProviderDiscounted PlanLink
A1 Student TariffsAffordable mobile data & callshttps://www.a1.net/
Magenta Mobile YouthDiscounted SIM & datahttps://www.magenta.at/jugendtarife
Drei (3)Youth flat rates and 5G bundleshttps://www.drei.at/

🛍️ 5. Shopping & Fashion Discounts

Use your student ID or ISIC card to unlock deals at:

🍽️ 6. Food & Dining Discounts

While groceries are already affordable, here’s where students can save more:

  • Mensen (University Cafeterias) – Main course meals from €3.50
    🌐 https://www.mensen.at/
  • Subway, McDonald’s, KFC – Often offer student menus (ask at counter)
  • Too Good To Go App – Get surplus food at discounted prices from bakeries and restaurants
    🌐 https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-at

🏋️‍♀️ 7. Fitness, Sports & Wellness

Universities offer heavily subsidized gym and sports classes through their USI program (University Sports Institute):

  • Courses include yoga, football, zumba, rock climbing, etc.
  • Prices: €20–€50 per semester depending on course

🌐 Find your city’s USI site: https://www.unisport.at/

Also check FitInn, McFit, and John Harris Fitness for student gym discounts.

✈️ 8. Flights & Travel Deals

Save on flights, hostels, and weekend travel:

📘 9. Books, Tech & Education Discounts

💡 Tips to Maximize Student Discounts in Austria

  • ✅ Always carry your Student ID or ISIC
  • 📲 Download Unidays, Student Beans, Too Good To Go
  • 🔍 Ask for “Studententarif” before paying at stores or counters
  • 💻 Use your university email to unlock academic tech offers

Planning to study in Austria? Your pre-departure preparation is crucial for a smooth transition. From taking the right language tests (IELTS/TOEFL/German proficiency), organizing travel documents, and understanding university onboarding to packing and budgeting, this guide will help you arrive in Austria confident and ready.

Whether you’re heading to Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, or Linz, this section covers everything international students need to know to prepare effectively for their academic journey in Austria.

📝 1. Language Proficiency Requirements

🎓 English-Taught Programs

Most Austrian universities offering international programs accept:

TestMinimum Requirement
IELTS6.0–6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT79–95
PTE Academic58–65
Duolingo English Test95–120 (accepted by some institutions)

📌 Always check with your university’s admissions page for exact score requirements.

🌐 Example – University of Vienna:
https://studieren.univie.ac.at/en/

🌐 IELTS Official: https://www.ielts.org/
🌐 TOEFL Registration: https://www.ets.org/toefl
🌐 Duolingo English Test: https://englishtest.duolingo.com/

🇩🇪 German-Taught Programs

If your program is in German, you may need:

ExamLevel
ÖSD / Goethe ZertifikatB2 or C1
TestDaF4×4 or higher
DSH (Germany)DSH-2 or equivalent

🌐 Goethe Institut: https://www.goethe.de/en/index.html
🌐 ÖSD Exams: https://www.osd.at/en/

💡 Some universities offer language preparatory courses (Vorstudienlehrgang) before starting your main program.

🎒 2. Pre-Departure Checklist

Prepare early for a hassle-free arrival in Austria. Key steps include:

  • ✅ Final admission letter
  • 🛂 Student visa or residence permit
  • 💳 Proof of sufficient funds (~€11,000/year)
  • 🏠 Accommodation confirmation
  • 🩺 Travel & Austrian health insurance
  • 💼 Copies of all academic documents
  • ✈️ Book your flight 6–8 weeks in advance
  • 🧳 Pack seasonally appropriate clothes

📌 Winters are cold — pack thermals, coats, gloves, and waterproof shoes.

💡 3. What to Pack for Austria (Student Essentials)

CategoryItems
ClothingWinter jackets, layers, boots, casual & formal wear
ElectronicsLaptop, universal adapter, external storage
FoodSpices, ready-to-eat packets, pickles (within allowed limits)
AcademicNotebooks, stationery, digital copies of transcripts
DocumentsPassport, visa, insurance, university letters (print + soft copies)
OthersBasic medicines, toiletries, travel pillow, padlocks

🧳 Use compression bags to save space. Avoid overpacking, most essentials are easily available in Austria.

💻 4. Online Orientation & Arrival Support

Most Austrian universities provide:

  • Online or hybrid pre-arrival orientation sessions
  • Virtual campus tours & city guides
  • Onboarding modules for residence registration, student IDs, transport passes
  • Introduction to university platforms (e.g., Moodle, USI, Mensen systems)

🌐 Example – Graz University of Technology welcome guide:
https://www.tugraz.at/en/international/incoming-students/

🧳 5. Arrival Tips for First Week in Austria

  • 📝 Register your address within 3 days (Meldezettel form)
  • 🛂 Collect your residence permit card from local authority (if pre-approved)
  • 📱 Get an Austrian SIM card (A1, Magenta, Drei)
  • 🏦 Open a student bank account (Erste Bank, BAWAG, Raiffeisen)
  • 🚆 Purchase local student transport pass
  • 🏠 Confirm housing check-in, WiFi setup
  • 🛒 Visit nearby grocery and household stores: Hofer, Lidl, IKEA

🧠 6. Academic Culture & Expectations

Austrian universities value independent learning, academic integrity, and student engagement.

What to Expect:

  • Emphasis on research and analytical writing
  • Interactive lectures, open debates, and project-based assessments
  • Strict rules against plagiarism (use tools like Turnitin)
  • Semester schedules: Winter (Oct–Jan), Summer (Mar–Jun)

🌐 Learn more: https://studyinaustria.at/en/living-studying/

🤝 7. Connect with Fellow Students Before Departure

Join these for pre-arrival help:

  • 🌍 Facebook groups:
    • “Indians in Vienna”
    • “International Students in Austria”
    • “Nigerians in Austria”
  • 📱 Telegram/WhatsApp groups: Ask university’s international office or ÖH
  • 💻 Reddit threads: r/StudyInEurope | r/Austria

📑 Summary – Top Prep Resources for Austria

ResourceLink
Study in Austria portalhttps://studyinaustria.at/en/
OeAD (student mobility info)https://oead.at/en/
Visa & residence permithttps://oead.at/en/to-austria/entry-and-residence
IELTS registrationhttps://www.ielts.org/
TOEFL infohttps://www.ets.org/toefl
Duolingo English Testhttps://englishtest.duolingo.com/
German Language Courseshttps://www.goethe.de/