Top Austria Public University List 2025: Rank, Fees & Guide

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Oct 09,2025

Complete Austria Public University List: Rankings, Fees & Admission Guide - TerraTern

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The Austria public university list 2025 comprises 46 universities with affordable and high-quality education. Some universities comprise nine federal states, including traditional, technical, medical, arts, and applied sciences. The Best Universities are the University of Vienna (152 QS 2026), TU Wien (197 QS), and the University of Innsbruck (28,000 students). Tuition fees are between 0 and 1,500 euros and 350 euros and above for English-taught courses in engineering, medicine, business, arts, and sciences. Austrian universities are known for their reputation worldwide, offering research opportunities and faculty quality, and being strategically located in the heart of Europe.

 

How Many Public Universities Are There in Austria in 2025? Latest Update

A road through the forsts; How Many Public Universities Are There in Austria - TerraTern

How many universities are there in the Austria public university list? There are 46 state universities in Austria. 

They include:

  • 23 conventional comprehensive universities.

  • Technical universities

  • Medical universities

  • Arts universities

  • Universities of applied science (Fachhochschulen).

  • They are spread through nine federal states. 

Geographic Distribution

  • Vienna: 9 universities, such as the University of Vienna and TU Wien.

  • Graz: 4+ universities, one of which is the University of Graz and TU Graz.

  • Innsbruck: 3 universities, one of them being the University of Innsbruck.

The other institutions are in Linz, Salzburg, and other smaller cities.

These colleges are multidisciplinary and serve thousands of students.

What are the Types of Public Universities in Austria?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? The public universities in Austria are divided into five major categories: 

1. Classical Universities (Universität)

  • 23 institutions

  • Provide full-scale programs in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

  • Large student populations, 10,000–91,000 

2. Technical Universities

  • TU Wien, TU Graz

  • Concentrate on STEM disciplines: engineering, computer science, and Technology.

  • Strong research output 

3. Medical Universities

  • Healthcare and medical research expert.

  • Provide valuable and research-oriented medical courses. 

4. Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)

  • Business, engineering, and IT positions.

  • Reduced the size of their classes (hands-on learning). 

5. Arts Universities

  • Pay attention to music, fine and applied arts.

  • Provide expert creative courses.

Which Current Federal States Have the Most Public Universities?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? The state concentration of the public universities in Austria is reduced to several states: 

  • Vienna: 9+ institutions

  • Styria (Graz): TU Graz, Medical University of Graz, University of Graz.

  • Tyrol (Innsbruck): Medical University of Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck.

  • In Austria (Linz): Johannes Kepler University Linz. 

Institutions are smaller in other states and offer highly specialized programs.

Areas differ in terms of population-to-university ratios and types of programmes.

What Are Austria's Top-Ranked Public Universities for Indians in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? There are several internationally ranked institutions in Austria. 

Top 10 Austrian Universities:

  • University of Vienna -152 QS 2026, 110 THE 2025, 91,000+ students.

  • TU Wien- 197th on QS, 30000 students, high level of STEM.

  • University of Innsbruck- 230th global, 28000 students, 49.9 percent foreign.

  • University of Graz -Research-intensive, comprehensive Programs.

  • TU Graz - Technical and engineering major.

  • Medical University of Vienna -Top medical research.

  • Wien University of Economics and Business (WU Wien) - Business leader.

  • University of Salzburg- Liberal Arts and Sciences specialization.

  • Johannes Kepler University Linz -Technology and business.

  • Medical University of Innsbruck -Alpine medicine study. 

Also Read: Austria Job Seeker Visa

Which of the Latest Austrian Universities Rank in the Global Top 200?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • University of Vienna always takes the 152nd place in QS 2026, the 110th in THE 2025.

  • TU Wien is a top-performing engineering and Technology university (ranked 197 QS).

  • Physics, communications, and law subject-specific rankings. 

The primary criteria for global ranking are research, faculty, and international cooperation.

What Makes These Current Universities Globally Competitive?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Research Excellence: University of Vienna 4500-5000 publications each year.

  • Partnership with Other International Universities: 400+ partnerships at the University of Innsbruck.

  • Innovation Measures: TU Wien submits 37 patents in a year.

  • Faculty Quality: Various award-winning faculty.

  • Student Diversity: Large international student rates.

Where Are Austria's Public Universities Located in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? The universities of Austria are primarily urban.

Major University Cities

  • Vienna: 9+ universities, benefits in the capital.

  • Graz: 4 or more universities, UNESCO, student-friendly.

  • Innsbruck: 3 universities, an alpine place.

  • Linz: 2 universities, industrial relations.

  • Salzburg: 2 universities, a cultural center.

Regional Advantages

  • City-based schools have internships and industry connections.

  • Universities located in rural areas are cheaper to live in.

  • Cities are very culturally and leisurely enriched. 

Also Read: Jobs in Austria for Foreigners: Latest Experts Guide

Why Is Vienna Austria's Latest Largest University Hub?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Critical Mass: 9 or more major universities.

  • Historical Significance: The University of Vienna was founded in 1365.

  • Economic Opportunities: Multinational firms, institutions of the EU.

  • Cultural Diversity: 40%+ foreign inhabitants.

  • Infrastructure: Transport, student quarters, research facilities.

Which Austrian University in Current Cities Offers the Best Student Experience?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Affordability: Comparisons of the cost of living.

  • Student Population: Students have a high percentage of residents.

  • Cultural Services: Museums, concerts, festivals.

  • Leisure: Sports, sporting centers, and parks.

  • Accommodation: Availability of student accommodation.

  • Career Prospects: High rate of graduate employment.

What Programs Do Austrian Public Universities Offer for Indian Students in 2025?

A village on river; What Programs Do Austrian Public Universities Offer - TerraTern

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? Austria also has programs at all levels of degree: 

Degree Levels

  • Bachelor's: 180 ECTS, 6 semesters

  • Master's: 120 ECTS, specialized

  • PhD: 3-4 years, research-based.

  • Professional Representation: Executive training. 

Field Coverage

  • STEM: 40% of programs

  • Humanities & Social Sciences: 35%

  • Business & Economics: 15%

  • Arts & Creative Fields: 10%

How Many Latest English-Taught Programs Are Available?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • English: 350+ English programs

  • Bachelor's: 50+ programs

  • Master's: 200+ programs

  • PhD: 100+ programs

  • Popular Fields: Computer Science, International Business, Engineering, Data Science, International Relations, Environmental Sciences.

Which Current Specialized Programs Make Austrian Universities Unique?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Alpine Studies -University of Innsbruck.

  • Quantum Technologies -TU Wien.

  • Music- University of Music Vienna Music Performance.

  • Arts- Design and Applied Arts University of Vienna.

  • Medical Technology- Medical Universities.

  • Sustainable Energy - Multiple TUs.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Austrian Public Universities in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

General Requirements

Academic qualifications equal to those of the Austrian Matura.

  • Language: German OR English, where English programs are taken.

  • Application Deadlines: September 5th (Winter), February 5th (Summer)

  • Authentication of Documents: Translation and Apostille. 

EU/EEA Students

  • Secondary education with direct access.

  • Streamlined document authentication.

  • No other visa condition.

  • International Students who are not EU.

  • University entrance qualification certificate.

  • Long documents: transcripts, motivation letters, CV.

Previously, it took shorter periods to handle visas.

What are the Latest Language Requirements that Students Must Meet?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

German Programs

  • At least 4 years of German or B2-C1 certificates.

  • German-speaking countries had exemptions. 

English Programs

  • IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 88+

  • Native speaker exemptions

  • Courses of language support.

Which Current Documents Are Required for University Applications?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? 

Universal Documents

  • Passport/ID

  • Academic certificates

  • Language certificates

  • Application form

  • Passport photos 

International Students

  • Certificate recognition

  • Motivation letter

  • CV/Resume

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Portfolio (arts programs)

  • Entrance exam results 

Processing Requirements

  • Official translations

  • Apostille certification

  • Initial application to certain universities.

  • Digital copies that were scanned were accepted first.

 

How Much Do Austrian Public Universities Cost for International Students in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

Tuition Fees

  • EU/EEA: €0–€1,500 per year

  • Non-EU: €726–€1,500 per year

  • Special Programs: increased charges. 

Mandatory Costs

  • Student Union Fee: 21.20 euros per semester.

  • Administrative Fees: €50–€100

  • Health Insurance

  • Registration Fees 

Program-Specific Costs

  • Medical: Facilities are charged more.

  • Arts: Materials and equipment.

  • Technical: Laboratory and software access.

  • Field Research: Tourism and accommodation. 

Also Read: Construction Jobs in Austria: Latest Expert Job Guide

How Do Latest Austrian University Costs Compare Internationally?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

Europe

  • Germany: €0–€350 per semester

  • Netherlands: €2,168 EU, €10,000+ non-EU

  • Switzerland: €1,000–€4,000

  • UK: £9,250+ domestic, £15,000+ international 

Global

  • USA: $10,000–$50,000+

  • Canada: CAD $6,000–$40,000+

  • Australia: AUD $20,000–$45,000+

The quality of education in Austria is excellent and at a reduced cost.

What Current Financial Aid Options Are Available?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list? 

Government Scholarships

  • OeAD Scholarships

  • Ernst Mach Grant: €1,050 monthly

  • Franz Werfel Scholarship 

University Aid

  • Merit scholarships

  • Need-based aid

  • Research assistantships

  • Tuition waivers 

External Funding

  • Erasmus+ Grants

  • Fulbright Austria

  • DAAD Scholarships

  • National & private scholarships.

What Is the Application Process for Austrian Universities in 2025? Latest Update

A castle; Application Process for Austrian Universities - TerraTern

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

Application Timeline

  • 18-12 Months: Investigation, linguistic preparation, gathering of documents.

  • 12- 6 Months: Turn in test scores, scholarship applications.

  • 6–3 Months: Submit documents, take out visas.

  • 3-1 Months: Admission, enrollment, and plan accommodation

Methods

  • Online applications

  • Paper applications

  • Centralized systems

  • Direct university contact

When Are the Latest Application Deadlines for Austrian Universities?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Winter Semester: September 5th

  • Summer Semester: February 5th

  • Restricted Admissions: March -April.

  • Arts/Portfolio Programs: Vary by University.

What Current Entrance Examinations Are Required?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Medicine/Dentistry: MedAT

  • Veterinary: VET exam

  • Psychology: Admission test

  • Arch Construction: Portfolio/practical exam.

  • Arts: Artistic aptitude

  • Sports: Fitness tests

What Scholarship Opportunities Exist at Austrian Universities in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

Major Scholarships

  • OeAD: Ernst Mach Grant €1,050/month

  • Franz Werfel Scholarship: Full tuition + allowance

  • University Merit-Based Awards: €500-12,000/year.

  • Research Assistantships: 1,200–2000 euros/month. 

External Grants

  • Erasmus+ Mobility Grants

  • Fulbright Austria

  • DAAD scholarships

How Do the Latest International Students Apply for Austrian Scholarships?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Find out available scholarships (6-12 months prior)

  • Prepare necessary paperwork (3-6 months before a trip)

  • Meet deadlines.

  • Take part in evaluation/interview (2-4 months)

  • Receive award notification 

Documents Requirement: Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, research proposals, motivation letters, language certificates, and financial proof.

What Are the Current Most Valuable Austrian University Scholarships?

The public universities of Austria also prove to be most competitive because there are several high-value scholarships for international students. These scholarships not only pay school fees but also living expenses, and in some cases, even the travelling expenses will be paid, and the students will be able to concentrate fully on their education. 

The most valuable opportunities are broken down here:

1. Ernst Mach Grant (OeAD)

  • Value: Up to €1,050 per month

  • Coverage: Travel allowance + living allowance of international students.

  • Eligibility: Master's and PhD students all over the world.

  • Duration: Short-term movement (1-12 months) or full degree support.

  • Advantages: Opportunities to access Austrian universities, network, and research assistance. 

2. Franz Werfel Scholarship (OeAD)

  • Value: Full tuition + living expenses (depending on country of study)

  • Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, and travelling expenses.

  • Eligibility: International students of selected countries.

  • Length: Full year or school year.

  • Special Feature: Country-specialized funding associations. 

3. University of Vienna Scholarships of Excellence.

  • Value: €6,000–€12,000 per year

  • Coverage: Tuition is part of living expenses.

  • Qualification: Outstanding undergraduate or graduate studies.

  • Period: 1 year of study, usually, which can be renewed based on performance. 

4. TU Wien International Scholarship of Excellence.

  • Value: €1,000–€3,000 per semester

  • Coverage: Half tuition.

  • Eligibility: Master's students who are high achievers and international.

  • Pros: Stimulates research participation and excellence in academics. 

5. Research Assistantships

  • Value: €1,200–€2,000 per month

  • Eligibility: PhD and Master's students.

  • Coverage: Living expenses + field research experience.

  • Advantages: Practical, faculty mentoring, international research.

What Are the Benefits of Studying at Austrian Public Universities in 2025?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

Academic

  • World-class education

  • Access to research projects

  • Award-winning faculty

  • Small class sizes 

Economic

  • Affordable tuition €0–€1,500

  • Low living costs

  • Part-time work options

  • Post-study work rights 

Cultural/Geographic

  • Central European location

  • UNESCO heritage, arts, music

  • Multilingual environment

  • Safe, high-quality life

  • Alpine recreation 

Also Read: Data Science Jobs in Austria: Experts' Latest Guide

How Do Latest Austrian Degrees Compare in Global Recognition?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Bologna Process compliance

  • ECTS transferable credits

  • International accreditation

  • Employer recognition

Professional qualification: EUR-ACE (engineering), WHO (medicine), AACSB/EQUIS (business).

Employment of graduates is high.

What Current Post-Graduation Opportunities Exist in Austria?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • Job search visa: 6 months

  • EU Blue Card

  • Startup/self-employment

  • Research positions

  • Sectors like technology, healthcare, tourism, finance, and research.

  • EU citizenship, permanent residence.

Which Austrian Universities Are Best for International Students in 2025? Experts Insights

Houses near a body of water; Austrian Universities Are Best for International Students - TerraTern

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • University of Innsbruck: 49.9% international study population.

  • TU Wien: Intense English courses.

  • University of Vienna: Greatest variety of programs.

  • WU Wien: International emphasis on business.

  • University of Salzburg: A good place of study, good courses.

  • General Services: Orientation, language support, academic advising, housing, cultural integration, career service

What Latest Support Services Do Austrian Universities Provide International Students?

Austrian universities take international students' success seriously and provide a broad support service. These services include academic, personal, and social needs to facilitate smooth integration and a positive experience of studying. 

1. Pre-Arrival Support

  • Information Sessions: Students are introduced to life in the Austrian universities through online orientation programs.

  • Documentation Support: Visa application, authentication of academic certificates, and other documentation.

  • Housing Co-Ordination: Assistance in finding affordable student housing.

  • Airport Pickup: Some universities offer pickup services to incoming students.

  • Buddy Systems: This involves matching the international students with the local students who act as mentors. 

2. Academic Support

  • Study Skills Workshops: Academic writing, research techniques, and time management training.

  • Tutoring Programs: Course-specific tutoring for problem courses.

  • Training in Libraries: Instruction in searching and using library and online resources.

  • Technological Support: Support of IT services and learning platforms.

  • Preparation of Exams: techniques, sample questions, and assistance with standardized tests. 

3. Personal and Social Support

  • Counseling Services: Personal and mental counseling to handle stress or cultural readjustment.

  • Health Services: Campus health centers and advice on health insurance.

  • Social Activities: Student societies, cultural events, and clubs to promote community involvement.

  • Cultural Programs: Orientation about the Austrian culture, tradition, and local culture.

  • Emergency Support: 24/7 telephone assistance in case of emergency or critical cases. 

4. Career and professional Support

  • Career Counseling: Advising on internships, job seeking, and career development.

  • Seminars: Curriculum vitae writing, interviewing, and professional skills.

  • Job Placement Assistance: Networking with employers and alums on part-time or after-graduation job opportunities. 

5. Community Support and Integration

  • Language Classes: German and English to enhance academic and everyday life communication.

  • International Clubs: Social clubs to interact with students of other cultures.

  • Volunteer and Exchange Programs: The possibility to work with the local community.

How Diverse Are Current Austrian University Campuses?

What universities are there on the Austria public university list?

  • 20–50% international students

  • Visitors from 100+ countries.

  • Multilingual campuses

  • International faculty 30–50%

  • Study groups, cultural events, and sports.

 

Conclusion

In the Austria public university list, it is possible to find 46 institutions with global rating, low tuition fees (free up to 1,500), and more than 350 programs in English. Students enjoy scholarships, post-study Work, and high percentages of international students and globally recognized degrees. Austria offers international students a perfect combination of academic excellence, affordability, and culture. Contact TerraTern for more information on Austria public university list.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many public universities are there in Austria?

Austria has a total of 46 public universities. These include 23 traditional universities, technical universities, medical universities, and universities of applied sciences. They are spread across the country's nine federal states, offering a wide range of programs.

What are the top 5 public universities in Austria by ranking?

The top five public universities are the University of Vienna (#152 QS 2026), TU Wien (#197 QS), University of Innsbruck (#230 global), University of Graz, and TU Graz. These institutions are recognized for their research, faculty quality, and international collaborations. They offer a variety of programs across multiple fields.

How much do Austrian public universities cost for international students?

EU/EEA students generally pay between €0 and €1,500 per year. Non-EU international students pay slightly higher, ranging from €726 to €1,500 annually. Additional mandatory fees, like student union contributions (€21.20 per semester), also apply.

Do Austrian public universities offer programs in English?

Yes, Austrian universities offer over 350 English-taught programs across bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Most of these are master’s programs in engineering, business, and computer science. This makes Austria an attractive destination for international students who prefer studying in English.

What are the application deadlines for Austrian universities?

The standard application deadline for the winter semester (starting in September) is September 5th. For the summer semester (starting in March), the deadline is February 5th. Admission-restricted programs often require earlier submissions, sometimes several months in advance.

What documents do international students need to apply?

Students need a valid passport, academic certificates with official translations, and language proficiency proof. A motivation letter, CV, and proof of university entrance qualification from their home country are also required. Some programs may ask for additional documents, like portfolios or recommendation letters.

Are scholarships available for international students in Austria?

Yes, a variety of scholarships are available. These include OeAD grants like the Ernst Mach Grant (€1,050 monthly), university-specific merit awards, research assistantships, and Erasmus+ funding. Scholarships help cover tuition and living expenses for eligible students.

Which Austrian cities have the most universities?

Vienna has the largest number with over nine public universities. Graz follows with four or more institutions, Innsbruck with three, and Linz and Salzburg have two each. These cities also offer diverse student life, cultural activities, and employment opportunities.

What language requirements exist for studying in Austria?

Students must demonstrate German proficiency for German-taught programs, usually a minimum of four years of study or B2-C1 certificates. For English-taught programs, IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (88+) scores are required. Native speakers of the program language are typically exempt from testing.

Can international graduates work in Austria after studying?

Yes, graduates can apply for a six-month job search visa after completing their studies. Opportunities exist for the EU Blue Card, permanent residence, and eventual Austrian citizenship. Many fields, especially technology, healthcare, and business, have strong employment prospects.