Study in Austria on a Budget: 8 Affordable Universities You Should Know About

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Post last modified:November 23, 2025
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Study in Austria on a Budget: 8 Affordable Universities You Should Know About

Dreaming of studying in Europe but worried about tuition fees? Good news — Austria could be your golden ticket.

Unlike many countries in Europe where education costs can skyrocket, Austria offers world-class universities at surprisingly low tuition fees. In fact, you could study in cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Innsbruck for less than the cost of a single semester back home.

So, if your budget is tight but your ambitions are big, here are 8 of the most affordable universities in Austria that provide quality education without draining your wallet.

Why Study in Austria?

Before we dive into the list, here’s why Austria stands out for international students:

●Affordable tuition fees – Much cheaper than the US, UK, or Australia.

●Top-quality education – Degrees recognized worldwide, with programs in German and English.

●Safe & beautiful environment – From the Alps to historic cities, Austria blends safety with scenery.

●Central European location – Quick train rides to Germany, Italy, or Switzerland.

●Student-friendly lifestyle – Discounts on transport, food, and cultural events.

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

Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. With over 180 programs, including many in English, it attracts students from all over the globe.

●EU/EEA students: Around €70 per semester

●Non-EU students: Around €800 per semester

Studying in Vienna means living in a city of Mozart, coffeehouses, and grand architecture — all at a fraction of typical university costs.

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

If engineering, computer science, or technology excites you, TU Wien is an excellent choice. Known for cutting-edge research and strong links to the tech industry, it prepares graduates for high-paying careers.

●Tuition: €750 per semester

●Perks: Strong job opportunities post-graduation, central Vienna campus.

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

Passionate about sustainability, agriculture, or climate change? BOKU is the perfect fit.

●Tuition ranges from €350 to €750 per semester.

●Programs focus on environmental science, food security, and natural resource management.

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

Nestled in the Alps, the University of Innsbruck offers not only strong academics but also unmatched scenery.

●Tuition: €1,200 per semester

●Best for: Students who love skiing, hiking, and outdoor adventure alongside studies.

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

This is arguably Austria’s most affordable university, with tuition starting as low as €30 per semester.

●Focuses on applied sciences and career-driven programs.

●Strong ties with industry mean plenty of internship and job opportunities.

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

For students aiming for medicine, dentistry, or health sciences, this university is a global leader.

●Non-EU tuition: Around €800 per semester

●Compared to medical schools in the US or UK, this is a huge bargain.

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

A hub for creativity, this university offers programs in fine arts, design, architecture, and media.

●Tuition: Around €750 per semester

●Expect lots of hands-on projects and portfolio-building opportunities.

8. University of Salzburg (€700 per semester)

Located in the birthplace of Mozart, the University of Salzburg is perfect for lovers of history, culture, and the humanities.

●Tuition: Around €700 per semester

●Strong programs in humanities, social sciences, and theology.

Cost of Living in Austria

While tuition is low, you’ll need to budget for living expenses. On average:

●Monthly living cost: €900 – €1,200

●Tips to save:

○Share apartments (WG)

○Use student discounts for transport

○Cook at home

○Attend free cultural events

How to Apply

Most Austrian universities accept online applications. Here’s the general process:

1.Visit the university’s official website.

2.Check program deadlines (Winter semester: March–July | Summer semester: October–January).

3.Submit your application online.

4.Provide proof of English/German proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent).

5.Wait for your admission letter and apply for your student visa.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Austria proves that top-quality education doesn’t have to mean sky-high tuition fees. Whether your passion is technology, medicine, arts, or environmental science, there’s an affordable option waiting for you here.

So if you’ve been postponing your study abroad dreams because of money, maybe it’s time to give Austria a serious look. Why pay $30,000 a year when you can study in Europe for less than the cost of a second-hand laptop?

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