The education system in Austria

The Republic of Austria boasts one of the highest-quality and most affordable education systems in Europe. Each year, more than 160,000 international students choose the country.

1. Secondary education

Education in state schools is free of charge and compulsory for children aged 6 to 15. After primary school (up to age 10), pupils are streamed into two tracks: the gymnasium (academic path) or the secondary school (practical focus). At the upper-secondary level, studies conclude with the Matura exam — a school-leaving certificate that grants admission to universities without entrance examinations.

2. Higher education

Higher education comprises three levels: Bachelor's (6 semesters), Master's (2–4 semesters) and Doctoral studies (6 semesters). Tuition for international students ranges from 380 to 760 euros per semester. There are no entrance examinations (except for medicine and creative disciplines). Key features include academic freedom and mandatory internships from the very first years. The strongest fields are the exact sciences, law and the arts.

3. Language requirements

To study, you must demonstrate German proficiency of at least B2 (Goethe-Zertifikat, ÖSD or TestDaF certificates). International applicants can take language courses at universities, which provide student status and the right to work.

Summary

The main advantages for international applicants are: tuition from 380 to 760 euros per semester, no entrance examinations (except for medicine and creative disciplines), internationally recognised diplomas, academic freedom, mandatory internships, and the right to work while studying.