Study in Austria: Low Tuition, Visas and 20-Hour Work
Austria charges non-EU students about €1,500 a year at public universities and allows 20 hours of work a week. Check permits, Vienna rent and language.
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Austria study snapshot
Use this before you compare universities. The best destination choice depends on cost, recognition, visa readiness, housing and how the course supports your next step. Rules last reviewed September 21, 2026.
| Student route | Non-EU students usually need a residence permit for students, often started through the Austrian embassy before travel, with proof of admission, funds, insurance and accommodation. |
|---|---|
| University check | Check whether the institution is a public university, a university of applied sciences or a private university, and confirm the language of instruction for your exact program. |
| Work while studying | Non-EU students can generally work up to 20 hours a week, and the employer normally needs a work permit for you before you start. |
| Post-study option | Graduates can usually apply to extend their stay to look for work, then move to a Red-White-Red Card if they find a qualifying job; conditions must be checked at the time. |
| Cost pressure | Public tuition for non-EU students is about €1,500 a year, so Vienna rent, health insurance and the proof-of-funds requirement carry most of the budget. |
| Best-fit students | Students who want low public tuition in central Europe and can handle German-language admin, even on an English-taught program. |
City and campus realities
The city can change rent, commute, safety, job access and student experience as much as the university name.
Cities to compare: Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Linz, Salzburg.
Checks before you apply
Do these checks before paying a deposit or treating an offer as safe.
Use these Austria guides before you shortlist
These pages help you test the destination through cost, visa, work, recognition and transfer risk.
What a degree in Austria really costs
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenPart-time work rules in Austria
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenCheapest English-taught masters in Europe
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenCosts and scholarships
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenVisa and work rights
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenUniversity check
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
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OpenAustria guides
Guides that cover Austria directly, across cost, visas, work rights and universities.
How much does a degree in Austria really cost for international students
Non-EU students pay €1,500 to €3,600 yearly tuition plus €800 to €1,200 monthly living costs in Austria in 2026. Check fees, health insurance, and visa.
Read guide Visa & Work Rights / Work RightsPart-time work rules for international students in Austria
Non-EU/EEA students in Austria can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester in 2026. Check your visa and permit conditions before working.
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Read guideFind universities in Austria that fit your grades, goals and budget.
Tell us what you want to study, your academic background and your budget. Get a starter shortlist with estimated costs, why each option could fit, and what to check before applying.
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