Vienna is one of the most popular student cities in Europe. It has many public universities, art and music schools, and universities of applied sciences. You can find both German-taught and English-taught programmes, but the options depend on the level and the field, so always check the programme page.
Which universities and colleges are in Vienna?
Vienna has a wide mix of higher education institutions. Different schools are known for different strengths, so it helps to match the institution to your subject.
- University of Vienna - broad academic study, research, and many humanities and social science subjects.
- Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) - engineering, technology, architecture, and science.
- Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) - business, economics, and management.
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) - agriculture, environment, forestry, and related sciences.
- Medical University of Vienna - medicine and health-related study.
- University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna - veterinary medicine and animal health.
- Universities of the arts - for music, theatre, design, visual arts, and performance.
- Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) - practice-based study with strong links to industry.
For exact course names, entry rules, and language requirements, use the university's admissions page. In Austria, the rules can differ a lot between programmes, even inside the same institution.
English-taught study in Vienna
Vienna has English-taught programmes, especially at master's level and in some business, technology, and international study tracks. At bachelor's level, many programmes are still mainly in German.
- Check if the whole degree is in English, or only some modules.
- Look at the required English level, usually shown with IELTS, TOEFL, or similar proof.
- Check if you also need German for classes, internships, or everyday life.
- Read the application steps early, because document lists can be long.
If you are not sure, go straight to the programme page and the admissions office. Do not rely on older forum posts, because admission rules can change.
Costs, rent, and daily living
Vienna is usually more expensive than many other Austrian cities, especially for rent. Even so, it is often seen as easier to budget for than some larger Western European capitals. Your real monthly cost depends on room type, food habits, and travel.
- Rent: student rooms and shared flats are often the biggest cost. A room in a dormitory or shared apartment is usually cheaper than renting a private studio.
- Food: supermarket shopping is often manageable on a student budget if you cook often.
- Health insurance: you may need proof of insurance depending on your status and nationality. Check the Austrian authorities and your university.
- Study materials: some programmes need books, lab gear, or software.
When comparing Vienna with the rest of Austria, expect higher housing costs than in many smaller cities. For an exact picture, check current rent listings, student housing providers, and the university's own student services page.
Student housing and transport
Many students in Vienna live in student dorms, shared flats, or private rooms. Dorm rooms can be easier for first-year students because they may come with furniture, internet, and a simpler move-in process.
- Student dormitories: often the easiest first step if you are moving to Austria for the first time.
- Shared flats: good if you want more independence and are ready to search early.
- Private rentals: usually the most expensive option.
Vienna has strong public transport with metro, trams, buses, and suburban rail. Students often use a discounted semester or annual ticket, but the exact offer changes, so check the local transport operator and your university. If you live near a tram or metro line, you may not need a bike for daily travel.
Part-time work and student life
Many international students look for part-time work, but the rules depend on your nationality, residence status, and study level. Always check the Austrian national immigration authority before you start working. Your university may also have career services, job boards, or internship support.
- Work rules can be different for EU and non-EU students.
- Some jobs need German, even if your programme is in English.
- Internships may count as part of your study plan or may need separate permission.
Vienna student life is active and international. You can find libraries, cafes, museums, parks, student groups, and events throughout the year. The city is large, but many students say it still feels manageable because public transport is good and university life is spread across the city.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
If you want universities in Vienna to find you, make your profile clear and complete. Admissions teams and programme offices often search for students by subject, level, language ability, and documents.
- Show your field of interest clearly, such as engineering, business, medicine, design, or social sciences.
- List your current education, grades, and the qualification you will finish with.
- Add your English level and any German level you already have.
- Upload key documents if you have them, such as transcripts, passport copy, CV, or language proof.
- Write short and clear information about what you want to study.
That makes it easier for the right admissions office to understand your profile and contact you first. It does not replace a formal application, but it can help you get relevant attention earlier.
Common questions
Is Vienna good for international students?
Yes, Vienna is a strong student city with many universities, public transport, and a large international community. It is a good fit if you want a mix of academic options and city life.
Can I study in Vienna in English?
Yes, some programmes are fully in English, especially at master's level. At bachelor's level, German is often still needed, so always check the programme page.
Is it expensive to live in Vienna?
Vienna is often more expensive than many other Austrian cities, mainly because of housing. Shared flats and student dorms can help lower your monthly costs.
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.