If you’ve been dreaming about studying in Europe but are worried about the cost, I’ve got good news for you — Austria could be your golden ticket. 🇦🇹

When most people think about Europe, they picture high tuition fees, expensive cities, and endless student loans. But Austria breaks that stereotype. This beautiful country offers high-quality education at some of the most affordable rates in Europe — and in some cases, even cheaper than studying at home.

So, if your budget is tight but your ambitions are big, keep reading. I’m going to walk you through eight of the cheapest universities in Austria where you can get a world-class education without going broke.

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Why Choose Austria for Your Studies?

Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly talk about why Austria is such an attractive option for students.

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1. University of Vienna (€70 – €800 per semester)

If you want history, prestige, and affordable tuition all in one place, the University of Vienna is your best bet.

Founded in 1365, it’s one of the oldest universities in the world. Today, it offers over 180 degree programs, including many in English. Tuition fees are incredibly low for EU/EEA students (around €70) and still affordable for non-EU students (around €800 per semester).

Imagine studying in a city famous for Mozart, coffee houses, and breathtaking architecture — all while paying less than the cost of a new smartphone per semester.

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2. TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) (€750 per semester)

If technology, engineering, or computer science is your passion, TU Wien is a great choice.

This university is known for cutting-edge research and strong connections to the tech industry. You’ll be studying in Vienna, one of the world’s most livable cities, while paying around €750 per semester.

Plus, TU Wien graduates are highly employable — which means your investment will likely pay off quickly.

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3. University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) (€350 – €750 per semester)

BOKU, as it’s popularly called, is perfect for students interested in environmental science, agriculture, and sustainability.

With tuition between €350 and €750 per semester, you get access to excellent research facilities and hands-on training. If you’re someone who loves nature and wants to work in fields related to climate change or food security, BOKU could be your dream school.

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4. University of Innsbruck (€1,200 per semester)

Located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the University of Innsbruck offers a unique study experience.

While the tuition here is slightly higher at €1,200 per semester, the location is unbeatable. Imagine finishing your lectures and heading straight to the mountains for skiing or hiking. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, it’s worth every cent.

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5. FH Oberösterreich (University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria) (€30 – €200 per semester)

This might just be the most budget-friendly university on our list. Tuition fees range from only €30 to €200 per semester — yes, you read that right!

FH Oberösterreich focuses on practical education, offering strong links with industry and great internship opportunities. If you want affordable education that’s also career-focused, this is a top pick.

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6. Medical University of Vienna (€800 per semester)

If you’re pursuing medicine, dentistry, or related health sciences, the Medical University of Vienna is a global leader.

The tuition fee for non-EU students is around €800 per semester — a bargain compared to medical schools in other countries where fees can reach tens of thousands of euros per year. Plus, Vienna’s healthcare facilities are among the best in the world, making it an excellent place for medical training.

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7. University of Applied Arts Vienna (€750 per semester)

If you’re a creative soul, this university will feel like home.

Known for programs in fine arts, design, architecture, and media, the University of Applied Arts Vienna charges around €750 per semester. Here, you’ll not only get academic training but also the chance to work on real creative projects that could launch your career.

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8. University of Salzburg (€700 per semester)

Set in one of the most picturesque cities in Austria, the University of Salzburg offers affordable tuition at around €700 per semester.

It’s a particularly strong choice for humanities, social sciences, and theology. And when you’re not studying, you can explore Salzburg — the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Cost of Living in Austria: What to Expect

While tuition fees are low, you’ll still need to budget for living expenses. On average, a student in Austria spends about €900 – €1,200 per month on accommodation, food, transport, and other essentials.

Here are some tips to keep costs down:

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How to Apply to Austrian Universities

Most universities in Austria accept applications online through their official websites. Deadlines vary, but generally, applications for the winter semester are due between March and July, while summer semester deadlines are between October and January.

For English-taught programs, you’ll need to provide proof of language proficiency (usually IELTS or TOEFL), unless your previous studies were in English.

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Final Thoughts

Studying in Austria proves that high-quality education doesn’t have to come with a massive price tag. Whether you’re into technology, medicine, arts, or environmental sciences, there’s an affordable option waiting for you.

So, if you’ve been putting your study abroad dreams on hold because of money, it might be time to give Austria a serious look. With its low tuition fees, stunning scenery, and central location in Europe, Austria offers the perfect balance between quality education and an enriching life experience.

After all, why pay $30,000 a year when you can study in a European capital for less than the cost of a used laptop?

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