Programmes & fields
PhD and doctoral studies in Austria
Austria invests heavily in research, FWF grants, EU Horizon projects and university doctoral programmes attract international researchers. Many PhD positions are fully funded employment contracts, unlike fee-paying models in the US or UK.
Last updated: 28 June 2026
Types of doctoral study
Structured doctoral programmes (Graduate Schools) vs. individual supervision with a dissertation agreement. STEM and medical fields often advertise paid PhD positions on university job portals. Arts and humanities may use uni:docs fellowships or external grants.
Funding sources
FWF (Austrian Science Fund), OeAD scholarships, Erasmus Mundus and university assistant contracts (Universitätsassistent). A funded position typically includes social insurance and a monthly salary, verify contract terms before relocating.
Key dates & deadlines
- Winter application deadline (many public programmes)5 September
Confirm on each university portal, medicine and arts often close earlier.
- Summer application deadline (many public programmes)5 February
Not all programmes admit for summer semester.
- Recommended visa application window3–6 months before arrival
Apply after admission; embassy forwarding adds 6–12 weeks.
Official resources
Frequently asked questions
Can I do a PhD in English in Austria?
Yes, many STEM and social science doctoral groups operate in English, especially in Vienna, Graz and Linz. Confirm language of supervision with your prospective advisor.
Do PhD students pay tuition in Austria?
Employed doctoral candidates often pay only the student union fee. Non-employed external PhDs may pay standard semester tuition, check your university's doctoral ordinance.