Master’s programs in Austria

Brief overview of Master’s programs in Austria

Master’s programs in Austria attract international students due to high-quality education, affordable costs, and a wide range of programs. Austrian universities offer over 300 master’s programs in fields such as engineering, business, law, social sciences, arts, and natural sciences. Approximately 27% of students in Austria are foreigners, making the country one of the most popular destinations for international education. Master’s programs typically last 1-2 years (2-4 semesters) and provide 60-120 ECTS credits. The primary language of instruction is German, but over 130 programs are available in English, simplifying admission for international students. Austria, as a participant in the Bologna Process, ensures worldwide recognition of its degrees, enhancing graduates’ career prospects.

Features of Master’s programs in Austria

Master’s programs in Austria are distinguished by a high degree of student autonomy. Students can independently choose subjects, create schedules, and determine exam deadlines. This allows combining studies with work or other activities. Universities emphasize practical skills, offering internships and partnerships with major companies. For example, the Vienna University of Technology collaborates with tech firms, while the Vienna University of Economics and Business offers MBA programs focused on the international market.

Another feature is the modular education system, where students access materials through electronic platforms, including presentations, lectures, and additional resources. Some programs, particularly at Universities of Applied Sciences (FH), focus on applied disciplines such as IT, design, or medicine. Unlike research universities, FH emphasize professional training, attracting students aiming for a quick career start.

Advantages of Master’s programs in Austria

• Affordable tuition costs. Public universities charge international students around 746 euros per semester, significantly lower than in the USA or UK. Private universities are more expensive, but their costs (up to 26,000 euros per year) remain competitive.
• High-quality education. Austrian universities, such as the University of Vienna and Vienna University of Technology, are ranked in the QS World University Rankings. For example, the University of Vienna holds 14th place in “Media and Communications.”
• International environment. Approximately 1.6% of all international students worldwide choose master’s programs in Austria, creating a multicultural atmosphere.
• Flexible study process. Students can extend their studies without the risk of expulsion, which is particularly convenient for those learning German.
• Employment opportunities. Master’s students can work up to 20 hours per week, and after graduation, they can stay in Austria to search for a job.

Disadvantages of Master’s programs in Austria

• Language barrier. The primary language of instruction is German, and most programs require a C1 level. This can be a challenge for students with basic language skills.
• Bureaucracy. The admission process requires thorough document preparation, including apostilles and translations, which can take several months.
• Limited selection of English-taught programs. Although there are over 130 English-language programs, their variety is limited compared to German-language ones.
• High financial requirements. To obtain a visa, students must show proof of 7,458–13,560 euros per year in their bank account, depending on age.

• To address the language issue, students can enroll in preparatory German language courses (Vorstudienlehrgänge) at universities, which help reach C1 level in 1–2 years. These courses are available starting from A2 level.
• To handle bureaucracy, it’s worth contacting agencies like UniPage or Education in Vienna, which assist with document and visa processing.
• The limited selection of English-taught programs can be offset by choosing private universities, such as Webster University Vienna or MODUL University, where instruction is in English.
• Financial requirements can be alleviated by applying for scholarships or working part-time during studies (up to 20 hours per week).

Universities in Austria offering Master’s programs

Austria has 22 public universities, 21 universities of applied sciences, 14 teacher training colleges, and 12 private universities. Below are some leading universities offering master’s programs:

These universities offer both German- and English-taught programs and have partnerships with international companies for internships.

Admission requirements for Master’s programs in Austria

To enroll in a master’s program in Austria, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree. The master’s program must be related to your bachelor’s field. For example, a bachelor’s degree in economics does not qualify for a master’s in medicine.
2. Language proficiency. German-taught programs require ÖSD, TestDaF, or Goethe certificates at B2–C1 levels. English-taught programs require IELTS (6.5 or higher) or TOEFL (80 or higher).
3. Academic performance. Some universities, particularly for economics and mathematics programs, may require GMAT (660 or higher) or GRE scores.
4. Additional exams. Creative, medical, or economics programs may require entrance exams.
5. Financial solvency. For a visa, students must show proof of 7,458 euros per year (for students under 24) or 13,560 euros (for students over 24).

Some universities, such as the University of Innsbruck, offer preparatory courses for those whose qualifications do not meet the requirements.

Documents for admission to Master’s programs in Austria

To apply for a master’s program in Austria, the following documents are required:

• Translated and notarized bachelor’s degree with a transcript of grades.
• Language proficiency certificate (ÖSD, Goethe, IELTS, TOEFL).
• Motivation letter (1–2 pages, outlining study goals).
• Resume (CV) detailing academic and professional experience.
• Recommendation letters (1–2, from professors or employers).
• Passport and its copy.
• Additionally: description of the bachelor’s program curriculum, portfolio (for creative fields), GMAT/GRE results.

Documents are submitted online through the university’s website or platforms like OeAD. Deadlines typically fall between February and June but may vary.

Cost of studying in Master’s programs in Austria

The cost of studying in Austria depends on the type of university:

In addition to tuition, students pay a social contribution (approximately 20 euros per semester). Living expenses in Austria amount to 800-1,000 euros per month, including housing, food, and transportation. Costs in Vienna may be higher than in Graz or Innsbruck.

Scholarships and grants for Master’s programs in Austria

International students can apply for scholarships and grants that partially or fully cover expenses. Main options:

1. OeAD Scholarships. The Agency for International Cooperation offers grants from 2 months to 2 years, covering tuition and living expenses (up to 1,050 euros per month).
2. Erasmus Mundus. The program for astronomy and astrophysics students at the University of Innsbruck provides 1,000 euros monthly and up to 5,000 euros for research.
3. Private University Scholarships. For example, Webster University Vienna offers 10–50% discounts for high-achieving students.
4. Grant from Vedomosti Newspaper. MBA students at the Vienna University of Economics and Business can receive up to 10,000 euros.
5. University Scholarships. The University of Vienna offers up to 50% discounts on law programs, while the University of Klagenfurt provides up to 886 euros per month for technical fields.

To search for scholarships, the grants.at platform is convenient, offering around 300 options for master’s students. Scholarship applications are typically submitted after enrollment.

Career prospects after Master’s programs in Austria

Graduates of master’s programs in Austria have high employment prospects due to degree recognition and the practical focus of programs. Main opportunities:

• Employment in Austria. Students can stay in the country after graduation with a residence permit for job search. The average salary for graduates is 2,500-4,000 euros per month.
• International career. Austrian degrees are recognized in the EU, USA, and other countries. Specialists in IT, engineering, medicine, and business are particularly in demand.
• Internships. Universities collaborate with companies like Siemens, Red Bull, and OMV, offering paid internships during studies.
• Further education. Master’s graduates can pursue a doctorate, which lasts 3-4 years.

For example, graduates of the Vienna University of Technology often find jobs in tech companies, while MODUL University graduates excel in tourism and hospitality.

Is it worth studying in Master’s programs in Austria?

Studying for a master’s degree in Austria offers the opportunity to obtain high-quality education at an affordable cost in a country with a high standard of living. Vienna, ranked first globally for quality of life, provides comfortable conditions for study and work. Despite language and bureaucratic challenges, these can be overcome through preparatory courses and professional support. Austrian universities offer flexibility, practical skills, and international prospects, making them attractive to international students. If you aim for quality education and career growth in Europe, a master’s degree in Austria is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What level of German is required for admission?
   Most programs require a B2-C1 level. However, with an A2 level, students can enroll in preparatory courses at universities to reach the required level.
2. Is it possible to study in English?
   Yes, over 130 master’s programs in Austria are taught in English, especially at private universities like MODUL University and Webster University Vienna.
3. How much does it cost to live in Austria as a student?
   Average expenses are 800-1,000 euros per month, including housing, food, transportation, and insurance. Costs in Vienna may be higher.
4. Can students work during their studies?
   Yes, master’s students can work up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during holidays. The average wage is around 10 euros per hour.
5. How to apply for a scholarship?
   After enrolling in a university, students can apply for scholarships through the grants.at platform or directly at the university. Main programs include OeAD, Erasmus Mundus, and university grants.