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The Austrian Education system
A detailed graphic overview of the Austrian education system can be found here for download (pdf).
Eurypedia
European Encyclopedia on National Education Systems
Important information
University Type
In contrast to the universities the Fachhochschul-Studiengänge are practice-oriented and therefore their curricula include a compulsory career-oriented practical training.
Language
For programmes taught in English generally a proof of knowledge of German is not required. Please keep in mind that the language of instruction is not always apparent on the homepages of the programmes!
For all other programmes at Austrian universities and universities of applied sciences (also those with language of instruction “English and German”) knowledge of German is required.
Further information about the proof of proficiency in German can be obtained from the university / university of applied sciences concerned. As a rule the level of proficiency required is B2 or C1 of the Common European Reference Framework for languages.
Information for exchange students: In many programmes with German language of instruction courses in English are also offered!
Semester
The academic year (start: autumn) in Austria consists of 2 semesters.
Joint Degree /Double Degree Programme
These are courses that will be studied partly at an Austrian university and partly at a partner university abroad. The programmes lead to the conferral of both national degrees (joint degree = conferral of a joint degree or double degree = conferral of degrees of both partner universities).
In Austria these terms are often used synonymously.
Erasmus Mundus
Erasmus Mundus is a co-operation and mobility programme of the EU in the field of higher education. Erasmus Mundus master courses are offered by a consortium consisting of at least three European higher education institutions. They lead to the conferral of a double, joint or multiple academic degree. Students have to study at at least two university institutions.
Please note: Applications may not be addressed to the Austrian university but directly to the consortium. Students will be allocated the place where they will study!
Tuition fees
Under certain circumstances Austrian citizens and citizens of EU/EEA countries do not have to pay tuition fees. All other students (including stateless students) pay EUR 363.36 per semester.
For details and exceptions see Tuition fees at universities.
For some international programmes (e.g. Erasmus Mundus) the tuition fees are higher.
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