If you want to study computer science in Austria, you can usually choose between a bachelor's and a master's degree. The main things to check are your school or degree documents, language level, and the admissions rules of each university.
What you can study in Austria
Computer science is offered at public universities, universities of applied sciences, and sometimes private universities. The exact name can vary, for example computer science, informatics, software engineering, or data science.
- Bachelor's degree - usually the first step after secondary school.
- Master's degree - for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
- Some programmes are fully academic, while others are more practice-based.
Check the programme page carefully, because entry rules and teaching language can be different from one university to another.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor's programme, universities usually ask for a school-leaving certificate that gives access to higher education in your home country. Some applicants also need proof that the same qualification would let them enter a similar programme there.
For a master's programme, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree. If your degree is from outside Austria, the university checks whether it is close enough to the Austrian entry standard.
- Passport or ID
- Diploma or degree certificate
- Transcript of records
- Proof of language level
- Sometimes a motivation letter or CV
Some universities may ask for an entrance exam, a portfolio, or extra documents. Always read the admissions page of the exact programme.
English-taught and German-taught options
Austria has both English-taught and German-taught computer science programmes, but many bachelor's degrees are still mainly in German. Master's programmes are more likely to be available in English, especially in technical fields.
For English-taught study, universities often ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted English test. For German-taught study, you may need proof of German at a level set by the university.
- Check the programme language on the official page.
- Check which test scores are accepted.
- Check whether you can submit proof later or must send it with the application.
If your language proof is missing, some universities do not consider the application complete.
Tuition and living costs
Costs depend on your citizenship, university type, and programme. Public universities often have lower tuition than private ones, but you still need to budget for living costs.
For many EU and EEA students, public universities charge only a small semester fee or administrative contribution. Non-EU students often pay higher tuition at public universities, but the amount can still vary a lot by institution and programme. Private universities usually cost more, sometimes much more.
Because fees change, always check the university's official fees page and the programme page.
- Tuition: often low to moderate at public universities, higher at private universities.
- Housing: usually the biggest monthly cost.
- Food, transport, insurance, books, and phone costs also matter.
For living costs, many students should plan for a monthly budget that can cover rent, daily expenses, and health insurance. Exact amounts depend on the city and your lifestyle. Vienna is often more expensive than smaller university cities.
Application timeline and what to do first
Start early. Many students begin 6 to 12 months before the programme starts, especially if they need a visa, housing, or a language test.
- Choose 3 to 5 programmes that fit your background.
- Check the entry rules and language requirement for each one.
- Prepare documents, translations, and certified copies if needed.
- Take the required language test.
- Apply before the university deadline.
If you are from outside the EU or EEA, also check visa and residence permit rules with the Austrian official immigration authority or the Austrian embassy or consulate in your country.
How universities find candidates
Universities and admissions teams often use student lists and enquiry tools to find people who match their programmes. They look for your subject area, education level, language level, and the documents you already have.
- Be clear about computer science or a related field.
- Add your current or finished education level.
- State your English or German level honestly.
- Upload transcripts, diplomas, and language proof if you have them.
The better your profile matches the programme, the easier it is for an admissions office to contact you first.
Common questions
Can I study computer science in Austria without German?
Yes, some master's programmes are taught in English. For bachelor's programmes, German is still very common. Always check the teaching language on the official programme page.
Do I need my documents translated?
Often yes, if the university asks for certified translations. Rules differ by university, so check whether they accept English documents or need translations into German or English.
How do I know if my previous studies are enough?
The university decides this. Compare your previous diploma with the programme's entry rules and, if needed, contact the admissions office or check the university's admission page.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This saves time when you are comparing programmes and want universities to reach out to you directly.
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.