Austria offers bachelor and master programmes in finance for international students. You can study in English, pay tuition that varies by your citizenship, and apply through a clear timeline. Below you will find the main steps and what to expect.
Study levels
Austrian universities have two main levels for finance:
- Bachelor (3 years) - basic economics, accounting and finance foundations.
- Master (1 or 2 years) - deeper specialisation, research projects and optional internships.
Some schools also provide a combined bachelor‑master track that lasts four to five years. Check the programme page of each university for exact duration.
Entry requirements
Requirements differ for EU and non‑EU applicants, but the core elements are similar.
- Secondary school certificate or bachelor degree that is recognised in Austria.
- Proof of English proficiency - usually IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80, unless the programme is taught in German.
- For master studies, a relevant bachelor degree with a minimum grade of 2:2 (or equivalent).
- Some programmes ask for a short motivation letter or a CV.
Always verify the exact list on the university's admissions page. For visa purposes, the Austrian immigration authority (BFA) provides the official checklist.
English‑taught programmes
Many Austrian universities deliver finance programmes completely in English.
- University of Vienna - Master in Finance and Accounting.
- Vienna University of Economics and Business - Bachelor and Master in International Business and Finance.
- Johannes Kepler University Linz - Bachelor in Business Administration (Finance track).
Search the university's programme catalogue for "English" or "international" to be sure. The language of instruction is listed on each programme page.
Tuition and fees
Tuition depends on your citizenship status.
- EU/EEA students - typically no tuition for public universities, only a small semester fee (around 20‑30 EUR) that covers student services.
- Non‑EU students - typically between 1,500 EUR and 4,500 EUR per semester for finance programmes.
Private institutions may charge higher fees. The exact amount is always shown on the university's admissions page. Scholarships are listed on the university website or on national scholarship portals.
Living costs and budgeting
Austria has a high quality of life and moderate living costs.
- Accommodation - shared apartments or student dorms usually cost 300‑600 EUR per month.
- Food and groceries - about 200‑300 EUR per month.
- Transport - public transport pass around 50 EUR per month, often included in the student fee.
- Health insurance - mandatory for all students; cost varies, check the Austrian health insurance provider website.
Overall, budget around 800‑1,200 EUR per month. Adjust the figure according to the city; Vienna is usually at the higher end.
Application timeline
Plan your steps early to avoid last‑minute stress.
- June‑July: research programmes, note entry requirements and language scores.
- July‑August: prepare documents - transcript, passport, language certificate, motivation letter.
- August‑September: submit online application through the university's portal.
- October‑November: receive admission decision, then apply for a student visa if needed (check the Austrian embassy or BFA website).
- January‑February: register for courses and arrange accommodation.
Exact deadlines can shift each year, so always check the programme page for the current year.
Common questions
Do I need a German visa if I study in English?
Yes. If you are not an EU/EEA citizen, you need a student residence permit. The Austrian immigration authority (BFA) explains the required documents and processing time.
Can I work while studying?
Non‑EU students may work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full time during holidays. Check the BFA website for work‑permit rules.
Are there scholarships for finance students?
Many universities offer merit‑based scholarships for non‑EU students. Look at the scholarship section of each university’s website or the Austrian Exchange Service (OeAD) for national awards.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.