Austria is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant cultural scene. However, financing your education abroad can be a challenge. Fortunately, Austria offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to help international students achieve their academic goals. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of scholarships in Austria, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and tips for securing financial support.
1. Overview of Scholarships in Austria
Austria provides numerous scholarships for international students at various levels of study, including undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. These scholarships are offered by the Austrian government, universities, and private organizations.
- Government Scholarships: Funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and other governmental bodies.
- University Scholarships: Offered by individual universities and higher education institutions.
- Private and Non-Profit Scholarships: Provided by foundations, organizations, and companies.
2. Government Scholarships
The Austrian government offers several scholarship programs to support international students.
a. Austrian Government Scholarships for International Students
- Eligibility: Open to students from developing countries, particularly those in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
- Coverage: Includes tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel costs.
- Application Process: Apply through the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country. Deadlines and requirements vary by country.
b. Ernst Mach Grant
- Eligibility: For students and researchers from non-EU/EEA countries pursuing studies or research in Austria.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowance.
- Application Process: Submit applications online through the OeAD-GmbH (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research). Deadlines are typically in March and September.
c. Franz Werfel Grant
- Eligibility: For doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers in the fields of humanities and social sciences.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowance.
- Application Process: Apply online through the OeAD-GmbH. Deadlines are usually in March and September.
3. University Scholarships
Many Austrian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or targeted at specific fields of study.
a. University of Vienna
- Eligibility: Open to international students enrolled in degree programs at the University of Vienna.
- Coverage: Partial tuition fee waivers and monthly stipends.
- Application Process: Check the university’s scholarship portal for specific deadlines and requirements.
b. Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)
- Eligibility: For international students pursuing engineering, natural sciences, and technical studies.
- Coverage: Tuition fee waivers and financial support.
- Application Process: Apply through the TU Wien scholarship office. Deadlines vary by program.
c. University of Graz
- Eligibility: Open to international students in various disciplines.
- Coverage: Tuition fee reductions and stipends.
- Application Process: Submit applications through the university’s scholarship office. Deadlines are typically in the spring and fall.
4. Private and Non-Profit Scholarships
Several private organizations and foundations in Austria offer scholarships to international students.
a. OeAD Scholarships
- Eligibility: For students and researchers from specific countries and regions.
- Coverage: Monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances.
- Application Process: Apply online through the OeAD-GmbH. Deadlines vary by program.
b. Erasmus+ Program
- Eligibility: For students from EU/EEA countries and partner countries participating in the Erasmus+ program.
- Coverage: Monthly stipends, travel grants, and tuition fee waivers.
- Application Process: Apply through your home university’s international office. Deadlines are typically in the spring.
c. Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) Scholarships
- Eligibility: For students from developing countries pursuing studies in fields related to development.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipends, and travel costs.
- Application Process: Apply through the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country. Deadlines vary.
5. Tips for Securing Scholarships
- Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and application process well in advance to meet deadlines and gather required documents.
- Research Thoroughly: Explore all available scholarship opportunities, including government, university, and private scholarships.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and alignment with the scholarship’s goals.
- Prepare Strong Documents: Ensure your CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters are well-written and compelling.
- Seek Guidance: Consult with your university’s international office or a scholarship advisor for assistance with your application.
6. Additional Financial Support
In addition to scholarships, international students in Austria can explore other financial support options.
- Part-Time Work: International students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
- Student Loans: Some banks and financial institutions offer student loans with favorable terms for international students.
- Grants and Bursaries: Check with your university for additional grants and bursaries that may be available.