Nowadays undergraduate studies in Austria are gaining popularity: in five years, the number of foreign students in Austrian universities has increased by 40%. The main reasons are rather low tuition prices and high-quality educational programs.
Bachelor’s programs in Austria are experiencing a recent surge in popularity. Over the past five years, the number of foreign students enrolled at Austrian universities has surged by 40%. This upswing can be attributed to various factors: from affordable tuition fees — ranging from 726 to 1,244 USD annually — to high quality educational programs focused on market demands.
List of universities and bachelor's program costs in Austria
Bachelor's programs in Austria typically span 3-4 years. Upon program completion, students are awarded a diploma equivalent to 180-240 educational credits (ECTS) within the Bologna system, granting them eligibility for entry into a master's program.
The academic calendar at Austrian universities runs from October to June, divided into two semesters: winter (October to January) and summer (March to June). At the end of each semester, a 2-3 week examination period ensues. Evaluations at Austrian universities assume varied formats, ranging from oral examinations to written tests or essays. The prevalent grading system employs a five-point scale, where F denotes unsatisfactory performance and A signifies the highest score.
Austria extends students the unique opportunity to partake in lectures beyond their home institution. It is common for students to attend specific courses at other universities for a fee, even without formal enrollment as a student. Such options are available, for instance, at Innsbruck University.
Class structure and learning approach
Austrian university students enjoy a remarkable degree of independence within their educational journey. They can construct their own schedules, select study subjects, instructors, coursework themes, and even examiners. However, this autonomy implies high motivation from the student; lacking such drive, timely course completion becomes improbable.
Alongside the usual lectures and seminars, Austrian universities incorporate specialized practical sessions, referred to as "Übung" These sessions prioritize the cultivation of specific skills, rather than mere reinforcement of acquired knowledge. For example, humanities students partake in an academic writing course.
Austria witnesses a disheartening dropout rate, with over 50% of students discontinuing their university studies. The Vienna Medical University (23%) and the Mozarteum Conservatory (39%) exhibit notably lower departure rates. In Europe, Austria ranks among the countries with the highest dropout percentages.
The prevalent cause behind students dropping out of Austrian universities is the inability to continue paying for education. Also, disappointment with their chosen field prompts numerous students to withdraw from their programs.
The Austrian government is actively trying to curtail dropout rates. Initiatives include financial aid for financially challenged students and the establishment of career centers. However, as of present, the dropout rate remains unchanged.
Prospects after studying in Austria
There are several opportunities after a bachelor's degree in Austria.
Employment
Securing a promising job in Austria becomes highly attainable upon earning a bachelor's degree. The country maintains a low unemployment rate of 2% among individuals aged 25 to 30. To increase chances of successful employment in Austria, students can engage in internship programs with prominent corporations or do part-time employment while studying. A student visa facilitates a 20-hour work allowance per week. Graduates also have the option to explore job opportunities within the EU or even in the United States. An Austrian bachelor's diploma holds substantial esteem among global employers, both in the fields of science and humanities.
Master’s programs
Enrolling in an Austrian master's program requires a relevant bachelor's degree. Thus, changing your specialization after graduation may be challenging in Austria. While entrance exams are uncommon, they occasionally take place. Selection of candidates is primarily based on GPA. Austrian master's programs span 2 years, culminating in a final exam and presentation of research work before a commission.
