Study in Austria Guide
Affordable public universities, German- and English-taught programs, admission requirements for Turkish students, the student residence permit, working and post-graduation careers — all on one page.
- The student residence permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Student) is obtained before entering Austria by applying to the Austrian mission in Turkey; as the decision can take up to 90 days, apply at least 3 months in advance.
- Turkish students are asked for their YKS result document (the Turkish university-entrance exam) in the university application.
- The means of support must be shown in advance for 12 months; the amount varies by age.
The Austrian Higher-Education System
| Institution / program | Duration / scope | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Universität | Bachelor's to PhD | Research-oriented public universities. |
| Fachhochschule (FH) | Bachelor's and master's | Universities of applied sciences; capped, selective programs. |
| Bachelor | Usually 3 years (6 semesters) | Most programs are in German. |
| Master | Usually 2 years (4 semesters) | More English-taught options. |
| PhD | Usually at least 3 years | Research and dissertation. |
The winter term (Wintersemester) starts in October and the summer term (Sommersemester) in March.
ContentsUniversity Admission for Turkish Students
- High school diploma and YKS: Alongside the high school diploma, a certified copy of the Turkish university-entrance exam (YKS) result is required in the application. Universities look for a qualification at a level that would also allow entry to the chosen subject in Turkey.
- Missing requirements: For areas found lacking in the diploma assessment, additional exams (e.g. mathematics, physics, chemistry) may be required; these are completed in preparation programs.
- Application: Directly through the university's online system; non-EU application deadlines are usually earlier than for EU students and vary by university.
- Some subjects: High-demand programs such as medicine and psychology have an entrance exam or pre-registration process.
The university you apply to decides which program your diploma grants admission to. Check the current document list on each university's international-application page.
Language Requirements, Preparation and Language Schools
German-taught programs
At the University of Vienna, for example, A2 German is required for the application and C1 for final enrolment.
VWU preparation program
The Vienna universities' preparation program (Vorstudienlehrgang) prepares you in German and for the required additional exams.
English-taught programs
Especially at master's level; with documents such as IELTS or TOEFL.
For your German preparation, you can look at our German lessons. For language schools and summer schools in Austria, see the program boxes above.
ContentsTuition Fees
| Public universities (non-EU students) | €726.72 / semester |
|---|---|
| Students' union contribution (ÖH) | Paid separately each semester (a small amount) |
| Fachhochschule and private universities | Different fees depending on the institution and program |
Student Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Student)
- Step 1Admission: An admission or enrolment document from the university.
- Step 2Application: At least 3 months before entry, to the Austrian mission in the country where you live (embassy or a consulate authorized for visas).
- Step 3Decision: Up to 90 days; if approved, a D visa valid for 4 months is issued for entry to Austria.
- Step 4In Austria: Collecting the residence-permit card; at collection you show health insurance covering all risks.
| Means of support (2026) | Under 24 €722.58 / month · 24 and over €1,308.39 / month — in advance for 12 months |
|---|---|
| Rent | Rent above €386.43 per month must be shown in addition |
| Health insurance | Insurance covering all risks; students can enrol in Austrian health insurance in their own name from €78.84 per month (2026) |
| Validity | 12 months |
| Renewal | Proof of at least 16 ECTS per year (or 8 semester-hours of courses) |
Official source: OeAD — Aufenthaltsbewilligung Student
ContentsWorking and After Graduation
While studying
A work permit for up to 20 hours per week is granted without a labour-market test; the employer obtains the permit by applying to the AMS.
After graduation
The residence permit can be extended once by 12 months to look for a job or start a business.
Red-White-Red Card
Those who find a suitably paid job matching their level of education during this time can apply for the card without a labour-market test.
Living in Austria
- Budget: The official means-of-support amounts are a minimum; in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck rent takes a large share of the budget, while Graz and Linz are usually more affordable.
- Accommodation: Student halls and shared flats (WG) are common; start looking right after admission.
- Formalities: After arrival, address registration (Meldezettel) and residence-permit procedures.
- Language: Even if you study on an English-taught program, German is a major advantage for daily life and finding work.
Sample Timeline: October (Winter Term) Entry
- The previous yearGerman course (target C1) or English exam; YKS result, diploma and certified translations.
- Application period (varies by university)Online application to the university; non-EU students' deadlines are usually earlier.
- Right after admissionMeans-of-support, insurance and accommodation documents.
- At least 3 months before entryResidence-permit application to the Austrian mission.
- September – OctoberEntry with the D visa, address registration, residence-permit card, final enrolment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is university tuition in Austria?
At public universities, non-EU students pay €726.72 in tuition per semester plus a small students' union contribution. Fachhochschule and private university fees differ.
How do Turkish students apply to university in Austria?
The application is made directly to the university. Alongside the high school diploma, a YKS result document is required. German-taught programs require A2 German for the application and C1 for final enrolment; gaps can be completed in preparation programs.
How much money do I need to show for the residence permit?
For 2026, students under 24 must show €722.58 per month and those 24 and over €1,308.39 per month, in advance for 12 months. Rent above €386.43 per month and health-insurance costs are added on top.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. A work permit for up to 20 hours per week is granted without a labour-market test; the employer obtains the permit.
Can I stay in Austria after graduating?
Graduates can extend the residence permit once by 12 months to look for a job or start a business. Those who find a suitable job during this time can apply for the Red-White-Red Card.
We're With You for Your Education in Austria
From choosing a university and program to the application file and German and IELTS preparation, we have supported students since 2009.
Information was verified on 17 September 2026 from OeAD, the Austrian government portals (oesterreich.gv.at, migration.gv.at) and universities' official pages. Amounts are updated each year; confirm the current information from official sources and your university before applying.