Costs & funding
Cost of studying in Austria for international students
Austria is affordable compared with the UK, Switzerland, or the US, but you still need a clear budget. Tuition is only part of the picture; rent in Vienna and mandatory health insurance add up quickly.
Last updated: 28 June 2026
Tuition fees
Public universities charge non-EU students about €726.72 per semester. EU/EEA citizens usually pay no tuition, only the ÖH (student union) fee. Private universities and some specialised programmes charge €3,000–€15,000+ per year.
Monthly living costs
Vienna: expect €900–€1,400/month including shared accommodation. Graz and Linz: often €750–€1,100. Innsbruck and Salzburg: similar to Vienna for rent; student housing helps. Budget €200–€350 for food, €50–€80 for public transport (student passes are discounted), and €65+ for health insurance.
Financial proof for your visa
Immigration authorities require 12 months of living costs in a blocked account or equivalent proof. Scholarships from OeAD, Erasmus+, or your university can reduce the amount you must deposit personally.
Official resources
Frequently asked questions
Is Vienna expensive for students?
Vienna is Austria's most expensive city for rent, but still cheaper than London, Zurich, or Paris. Student dormitories (Studierendenheim) and shared flats (Wohngemeinschaft) keep costs manageable.
Are there scholarships for international students in Austria?
Yes, OeAD, Ernst Mach grants, Erasmus+ and university-specific awards. Search grants.at and check each institution's international office.