Austria combines a long tradition of higher education with state-of-the-art research – it’s higher education institutions have accomplished outstanding achievements on an international level and gained a high reputation. Austrian higher education institutions offer an ever-growing number of degree programmes: you can choose between first-class research-based courses, a world-famous education at any of the universities of the arts, high-quality practice-oriented degree courses at the universities of applied sciences, and sound, up-to-date teacher education and innovative courses at private universities.
In the last few years the Austrian university system has introduced the European three-tier system of degrees according to the Bologna process. Besides, the old two-tier system still exists in some subject areas and universities.
EDUCATION SYSTEM IN AUSTRIA
Kindergarten
In Austria, the educational career has its start in Kindergarten. One year before entering primary school, children are obliged to attend one Kindergarten year. The idea behind this mandatory year is to provide children with the necessary skills they need for school.
Primary Education (Volksschule)
After Kindergarten, children enter into primary school at the age of 6. Primary school has a duration of 4 years and is mandatory for everyone. Most primary schools in Austria are taught exclusively in German, however, there are individual private primary schools across the country who have specialized in English.
Secondary Education
Austria offers 2 levels of secondary education.
Secondary level 1 lasts for 4 years. Students can choose between new secondary school (Neue Mittelschule – formally known as Hauptschule), academic secondary school lower level (AHS Unterstufe) as well as special needs schools and inclusive education.
Secondary level 2 also lasts for a total of 4 years, with the following options: secondary technical or “polytechnical” schools (= schools preparing students for an apprenticeship or job), vocational schools and apprenticeships (dual system), vocational secondary schools, vocational colleges (3-year education), upper level of grammar schools (higher secondary schools of general education) as well as the vocational preparatory year and integrative vocational education.
Higher Education
There is a wide variety of higher educational institutions in Austria. A total of 22 Austrian universities offer a broad range of study options for students. Among them, 6 Austrian Universities of Arts offer creative education programmes on music, theatre, film, fine or applied arts. Furthremore, Austria has 21 Universities of Applied Sciences that offer a combined total of 264 degree programmes. In addition, there are 16 private universities and 14 Teacher Training Colleges and Institutes.
Some 500 different study options in numerous fields are available in Austria. Depending on the field of study, the number of applicants and the size of the university the application criteria varies. In total, international students make up 26% of the Austria’s college student body. The majority of international students originate from one of Austria’s neighboring countries (mostly Germany and Italy) or from another EU Member country. After the EU, students from Asia form the second largest group with 8.4%. Visit https://studyinaustria.at/en/ for the full overview on study programmes offered in Austria, as well as a leaflet with listed Austrian universities, the structure of the Austrian education system and all relevant details regarding tuition fees, accommodation, residency & visa etc.
Language Requirements
As Austria is a German-speaking country, you might wish to attend a German-speaking study program. Please consider that you should start learning German early enough to ensure that your German level is high enough in order to follow an academic class.
Those who do not want to attend an entirely German university program have the chance to enroll in a study programs taught in English. In general, there are no universal language requirements which can be apply to all universities. For the specific required language level please refer to the homepage of the respective university you are interested in.
Residency and Visa
In order to study in Austria as a non-member of the European Union, you need to apply for a residence permit for study purposes. You should hand in your application including your letter of admission at least three months before entering Austria. In addition, you will have to prove your sufficient financial means, which comes up to HK$ 100,000 for students under the age of 24 and HK$ 120,000 for students above this age. More information is provided on the webpage of the Austrian Consulate General Hong Kong .
Financial Means
One academic year comprises two semesters, each of around four or five months. When preparing and considering a study program in Austria, the cost of living should be considered. Living expenses, especially housing, can vary greatly depending on the city of study. But in general, all living expenses will be approximately HK$8,000 per month. In order to help you with your living expenses and your studies in Austria, various grants and scholarships are provided at the following database. Furthermore, you may have a look on the website of OeAD to check whether you are eligible for affordable housing. In general, the OeAD-Housing Office allocates vacant residence places to international scholarship holders and exchange students at Austrian universities and colleges as well as other educational institutions and recognized private universities in Austria.
Scholarships
The Austrian government, many private institutions and some universities offer scholarships for students. Scholarships are managed by a special agency – the Austrian Exchange Service (OeAD - Österreichischer Austauschdienst). Various financial support are offered while studying in Austria.
Austrian Private Schools and Universities interested in Students from Asia. Check out our "Study in Austria Guide" in which we summerized the offer of Austrian schools and universities (Bachelor- and Master-Programmes, most in English) interested in recruiting international students.
International Study Programmes conducted in English Though the common language of instruction remains German, an increasing number of programmes is offered in English. There are no universal language requirements valid for all universities in Austria. For the specific required language level please refer to the respective university.
As Austria is a German-speaking country, student might wish to attend a study programme in German. They should start learning German early enough to ensure that their German level is high enough in order to follow an academic class.
Tuition fees and other expenses
Tuition Fees:
University
Public University (less than HK$9,000 per year)
Private University (less than HK$100,000 per year)
Secondary school
Free of Charge (mainly taught in German)
The above chart is solely for reference. Please contact the Austrian institution for the latest information.
If you would like to know more about suitable programmes from Austrian schools, universities and education providers for students from Hong Kong and China, then check out our "Study in Austria Guide".
LivingExpenses
One academic year comprises two semesters, each of around four to five months. Taking into account the living costs, the living expenses are between HKD 6,000 - 7,000 per month. For information on various grants and scholarships, please visit the website .
ApplicationProcedures
Please send the application and necessary documents to the universities directly.
Visa Application Procedures
Study Visa, Residence Permits
As to study in Austria, students need to apply for a residence permit for study purposes. They should apply for this at least three months before entering into Austria with the receipt of the notification of admission attached. In addition, they will have to proof sufficient financial means. The Austrian Consulate General Hong Kong provides detailed information in this matter.
Interested in studying in Austria? Learn more about the offer of 8 private Austrian Schools and Universities, watch the video and download brochures at our Virtual Platform.
Austrian schools and universities offer an increasingly broad range of educational opportunities for international students.
More and more courses are taught in English. In the hybrid event “Study in Austria” recorded on Nov. 5, 2022, eight leading Austrian universities and schools presented their programmes to study in Austria.
Due to the current travel restrictions, most Austrian education providers presented remotely via ZOOM. Two of the education providers presented in person.
Overview: To see all 8 Austrian schools and universities from the webinar watch this video in
English and Chinese.
Programme & Presentation Rundown
Min | ||||
0:00 | – | 7:05 | Christine NG, Mother of a Student of IMUK Graz | |
7:05 | – | 16:18 | Robert Pichler, Program Director (Business Consultancy International) of University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt | |
16:19 | – | 22:37 | Simone Faxa, Programme Assistant of Pre-College Program of University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien | |
22:38 | – | 29:32 | Ioana Anghel-Pirich, Director of the Learning Centre Sigmund Freud Privat University | |
29:33 | – | 36:23 | Wei Wang, Project Manager of MCI China Centre of MCI Management Center Innsbruck | |
36:24 | – | 44:54 | Petra Frings, Prospective Student Advisory Service of IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems together with Cheuk Ying LEUNG, Alumni | |
44:55 | – | 50:56 | Thomas Lammel, Senior Program Manager of Central European University | |
50:57 | – | 1:02:44 | Monica NG, Representative of Modul University Vienna (in person) | |
1:02:45 | – | 1:03:40 | Overview Information of ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA “Study in Austria” |
For an overview of the 8 Schools, and Universities represented below:
IMUK Graz
IMUK Graz is a Music Academy located in Graz, the second largest city in Austria, and is a music school founded by a Taiwanese couple and recognized by the European Union. For more than ten years, it has assisted countless students to go to Austria for further studies and to play music.
University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
As Lower Austria's largest University of Applied Sciences and one of the country's top educational institutions, focuses on practice-oriented education, international networking and innovative research work.
University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
The University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien is Austria’s only purely technical university of applied sciences. Their educational selection consists of 12 bachelor’s and 18 master’s degree programmes, which are offered as full-time, part-time and/or distance study programmes. Four-degree programmes are taught in English.
Sigmund Freud University
Sigmund Freud University in Vienna pioneered the study of Psychotherapy Science as an academic degree. This program approaches Psychotherapy by emphasizing research activities, practical training, and academic exchange among different psychotherapy schools. Sigmund Freud University is one of the only academic institutions in the world, where Psychotherapy is taught at an undergraduate level.
MCI | The Enterpreneurial School®
MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® combines science and business in a unique concept: international lecturers and experts, a worldwide network and countless services offer students an unforgettable study experience and excellent career prospects.
IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems
The University of Applied Sciences stand for a pioneering, open-minded, and appreciative approach. IMC Krems currently offers 16 bachelor and 11 master degree programmes, as well as 4 continuing education courses – about 40% of programmes are taught in English.
Central European University
With the opening of its Vienna campus, CEU is launching its Executive MBA with US & EU accreditation. This MBA is taught by faculty from the world’s top universities such as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT and INSEAD. The CEU Executive MBA for the Open World is a mid-career management program for professionals with at least 8 years of experience.
Modul University Vienna
Modul University Vienna (MU) is an internationally-oriented organization for research and education on tourism, sustainable development, new media technology, and public governance.
Find out more about six Austrian education providers and learn about their programmes during the recorded webinar dated May 18, 2022.
During the webinar, general information about “Study in Austria” was presented. Each Austrian institution also introduced their programmes. Watch the recorded webinar.
Programme & Presentation Rundown
Min 0:00 – 2:24 WELCOME – Franz Rössler, Austrian Trade Commissioner for Hong Kong
PRESENTATION BY AUSTRIAN INSTITUTIONS
2:25 – 13:33 Robert Pichler, Program Director (Business Consultancy International) of University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
13:34 – 26:23 Christina Karafiat-Seitz, Course Assistant Pre-College Program of University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
26:24 – 34:39 Simon Tjoa, Course Director, University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten
34:40 – 42:40 Wei Wang, Project Manager of MCI China Centre of MCI Management Center Innsbruck
42:41 – 54:40 Thomas Lammel, Senior Program Manager of Central European University
54:41 – 1:00:55Yvonne Choi, Market Officer of Advantage Austria presenting on behalf of IMUK Graz
For an overview of the 6 Schools, and Universities represented CLICK HERE, or check below:
Central European University
With the opening of its Vienna campus, CEU is launching its Executive MBA with US & EU accreditation. This MBA is taught by faculty from the world’s top universities such as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT and INSEAD. The CEU Executive MBA for the Open World is a mid-career management program for professionals with at least 8 years of experience.
IMUK Graz
IMUK Graz is a Music Academy located in Graz, the second largest city in Austria, and is a music school founded by a Taiwanese couple and recognized by the European Union. For more than ten years, it has assisted countless students to go to Austria for further studies and to play music.
MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®
MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® combines science and business in a unique concept in the alpine metropolis Innsbruck: international lecturers and experts, a worldwide network and countless services offer students an unforgettable study experience and excellent career prospects.
University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
The University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien is Austria’s only purely technical university of applied sciences. Their educational selection consists of 12 bachelor’s and 18 master’s degree programmes, which are offered as full-time, part-time and/or distance study programmes. Four-degree programmes are taught in English.
University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
As Lower Austria's largest University of Applied Sciences and one of the country's top educational institutions, focuses on practice-oriented education, international networking and innovative research work.
St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences is a key player in the Austrian higher education sector and one of the most important employers in the region. Their university distinguishes themselves through its future-oriented and steadily growing number of study programmes, strong interdisciplinary collaboration and its research focus.
Watch the recorded webinar.
Austrian schools and universities offer an increasingly broad range of educational opportunities for international students. More and more courses are taught in English. Nine leading Austrian universities and schools presented their programmes to study in Austria during a webinar in mandarin on November 10th and a hybrid event at the ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA office on November 13th.
Overview: To find out more about all 9 Austrian schools and universities go to our Virtual Platform
After the presentations attendees had the opportunity to speak with representatives (in person or through video calls) in 10-minute 1-on-1 sessions.
Programme & Presentation Rundown
14:30 - 15:00 Registration
15:00 - 15:30 Welcome and general introduction about "Study in Austria"
15:30 - 15:40 IMUK Graz (in person)
15:40 - 15:50 Modul University Vienna (in person)
15:50 - 16:00 Break
16:00 - 16:10 AMADEUS International School Vienna (in person)
16:10 - 16:20 IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems
16:20 - 16:30 MCI The Entrepreneurial School®
16:30 - 16:40 Sigmund Freud University
16:40 - 16:50 University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
16:50 - 17:00 Webster Vienna Private University
17:00 - 17:10 University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
16:00 - 18:00 hrs Individual Meetings / conduct an initial admission interview with an Austrian education representative (10 mins each)
Schools and Universities presenting:
AMADEUS International School Vienna
AMADEUS International School Vienna is a unique day and boarding IB World school with an integrated Music and Arts Academy. Amadeus offers a distinctive blend of rigorous academics, an innovative music and arts education, and a culturally diverse and multilingual experience enhanced by optional boarding in superior facilities.
IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems
The University of Applied Sciences stand for a pioneering, open-minded, and appreciative approach. IMC Krems currently offers 16 bachelor and 11 master degree programmes, as well as 4 continuing education courses – about 40% of programmes are taught in English.
IMUK Graz
IMUK Graz is a Music Academy located in Graz, the second largest city in Austria.. A music school founded by a Taiwanese couple and recognized by the European Union. For more than ten years, it has assisted countless students to go to Austria for further studies and to play music.
MCI | The Enterpreneurial School®
MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® combines science and business in a unique concept: international lecturers and experts, a worldwide network and countless services offer students an unforgettable study experience and excellent career prospects.
Modul University Vienna
Modul University Vienna (MU) is an internationally-oriented organization for research and education on tourism, sustainable development, new media technology, and public governance.
Sigmund Freud University
Sigmund Freud University in Vienna pioneered the study of Psychotherapy Science as an academic degree. This program approaches Psychotherapy by emphasizing research activities, practical training, and academic exchange among different psychotherapy schools. Sigmund Freud University is one of the only academic institutions in the world, where Psychotherapy is taught at an undergraduate level.
University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
The University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien is Austria’s only purely technical university of applied sciences. Their educational selection consist of 12 bachelor’s and 18 master’s degree programmes, which are offered as full-time, part-time and/or distance study programmes. Four degree programmes are taught in English.
Webster Vienna Private University
Webster University in Vienna, ensures high quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. A degree from Webster Vienna is accredited in both the USA and Austria, and recognized everywhere in the world.
University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
As Lower Austria's largest University of Applied Sciences and one of the country's top educational institutions, focuses on practice-oriented education, international networking and innovative research work.
Watch the recorded seminar.
Learn more about the offer of 9 private Austrian Schools and Universities, watch short videos, download brochures at our online platform.
Austrian schools and universities offers an increasingly broad range of educational opportunities for international students starting. More and more courses are taught in English. In the webinar “Study in Austria” recorded on Oct. 20, 2020 nine leading Austrian universities, schools and education agents presented their programmes to study in Austria.
Overview: To see all 9 Austrian schools and universities from the webinar watch this video.
Schools and Universities presenting:
AMADEUS International School Vienna
AMADEUS International School Vienna is a unique day and boarding IB World school with an integrated Music and Arts Academy. Amadeus offers a distinctive blend of rigorous academics, an innovative music and arts education, and a culturally diverse and multilingual experience enhanced by optional boarding in superior facilities.
IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems
The University of Applied Sciences stand for a pioneering, open-minded, and appreciative approach. IMC Krems currently offers 16 bachelor and 11 master degree programmes, as well as 4 continuing education courses – about 40% of programmes are taught in English.
Modul University Vienna
Modul University Vienna (MU) is an internationally-oriented organization for research and education on tourism, sustainable development, new media technology, and public governance.
University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten
The St. Pölten UAS LLC is locally anchored, globally connected and stands for future-oriented academic education in the subject areas of economics, media & digital technologies,computer science & security, rail technology & mobility and health sciences, and social sciences.
University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
The University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien is Austria’s only purely technical university of applied sciences. The educational offerings consist of 12 bachelor’s and 18 master’s degree programmes, which are offered as full-time, part-time and/or distance study programmes. Four degree programmes are taught in English.
Webster Vienna Private University
Webster University, ensures high quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. A degree from Webster Vienna is accredited in both the USA and Austria, and recognized everywhere in the world.
University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt
As Lower Austria's largest University of Applied Sciences and one of the country's top educational institutions, focuses on practice-oriented education, international networking and innovative research work.
VIA Service Ltd & Co KG
VIA Service helps to fulfill requirements, take care of the paperwork and make the transition period for international students pursuing studies in Austria as smooth as possible.
Chinazentrum für Sprache und Kultur
The Austrian Integration Fund authorized Baihe – Chinazentrum für Sprache und Kultur, a language training institution specialized in “German courses for Chinese”, as the official partner and being authorized by the Austrian Language Certificate (ÖSD – Austria, Switzerland, Germany) to become an examination center.
Find more details on the institutes.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
For information on Austrian Public Schools and Universities please contact: OeAD Cooperation Office Shanghai
Your contact point for information on Austrian Private Schools and Universities in Hong Kong:
If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us:
ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA
13/F, Diamond Exchange Bldg.
8-10 Duddell Street
Central
Hong Kong
Contact:
Ms Yvonne Choi
T +852 2522 2388
E hongkong@advantageaustria.org
Let´s stay in touch and follow us:
Study in Austria / Facebook account:
https://www.facebook.com/educationinaustria
Study in Austria / WeChat Account:
WeChat ID: STUDY_IN_AUSTRIA
Upcoming EDUCATION events
...coming soon!