When I first started looking into studying abroad, Austria wasn’t at the top of my list.
To be honest, I was thinking more along the lines of London, Paris, maybe Amsterdam. But after a few too many Google rabbit holes and one serendipitous YouTube vlog about life in Vienna, I stumbled onto something kind of magical — Austria’s incredible universities.
Fast-forward a year, and not only did I get into an Austrian university, but I also visited a bunch of campuses, made friends from all over the world, and fell in love with Austrian coffee culture and Alpine weekends.
So if you’re curious about studying in Austria — whether for a full degree, an exchange semester, or just to daydream about it — I’ve put together this guide to 20 Austrian universities, the way I wish someone had told me about them: casually, honestly, and with real links so you can dive deeper when one catches your eye.
1. University of Vienna
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.univie.ac.at
Let’s start with the grand dame of Austrian education. Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is basically Hogwarts for grown-ups (without the magic wands, unfortunately). It’s enormous — around 90,000 students — and offers everything from philosophy to physics. The best part? You’re studying in historic buildings right in the heart of the city. It doesn’t get more “European study abroad fantasy” than this.
2. TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.tuwien.at
If you’re more into robots than Romantic poetry, TU Wien is your jam. Techies, engineers, and programmers from around the world flock here. It’s serious, but in a good way. Think: labs, research, and the occasional startup born in a dorm room.
3. WU Wien (Vienna University of Economics and Business)
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.wu.ac.at
This is where the business brains go. WU has one of the most modern campuses in Europe — and I’m not kidding, it looks like it came out of a sci-fi movie. If you’re into marketing, finance, or global business, this place is practically made for you.
4. University of Graz
📍 Graz
🌐 www.uni-graz.at
Graz feels like Vienna’s cooler, artsier cousin. It’s Austria’s second-largest city, and its university — founded in 1585 — blends old-school charm with modern academic programs. Bonus: the coffee culture here is on point.
5. TU Graz (Graz University of Technology)
📍 Graz
🌐 www.tugraz.at
For those who prefer numbers and circuits over novels and essays, TU Graz is where engineers and tech wizards sharpen their skills. The research culture is strong, and the student projects are legit impressive.
6. University of Innsbruck
📍 Innsbruck
🌐 www.uibk.ac.at
Imagine waking up to the Alps outside your dorm window. That’s daily life in Innsbruck. The university is great for sports science, biology, and psychology. And yes, you can go skiing after class. Just saying.
7. JKU Linz (Johannes Kepler University Linz)
📍 Linz
🌐 www.jku.at
This one surprised me. Linz isn’t as hyped as Vienna or Salzburg, but JKU is very forward-thinking. They were the first to offer a full Artificial Intelligence degree in Austria. If you’re into innovation and digital tech, keep an eye on this one.
8. University of Salzburg
📍 Salzburg
🌐 www.plus.ac.at
Yes, this is Mozart’s hometown. And yes, the hills actually do feel alive here. Salzburg’s university is a gem for theology, communication, and political science. It’s small enough to feel personal, but big enough to offer a wide range of programs.
9. University of Klagenfurt
📍 Klagenfurt
🌐 www.aau.at
Tucked near a lake and close to Slovenia and Italy, this university has a very international vibe. It’s perfect for students who love a peaceful setting but still want strong academics in IT, media, or education.
10. BOKU (University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna)
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.boku.ac.at
This is Austria’s eco-university. If you care about sustainability, agriculture, and environmental protection, you’ll love BOKU. The campus feels like a breath of fresh air — literally and metaphorically.
11. Medical University of Vienna
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.meduniwien.ac.at
This is the place for future doctors. It’s connected to Austria’s largest hospital, so the clinical experience is top-notch. It’s competitive, but if medicine is your calling, MedUni is worth the hustle.
12. Medical University of Graz
📍 Graz
🌐 www.medunigraz.at
Slightly smaller than its Vienna counterpart, but just as reputable. Known for being research-oriented and very student-focused. Plus, Graz as a student city is just… so easy to love.
13. Medical University of Innsbruck
📍 Innsbruck
🌐 www.i-med.ac.at
Another solid choice for med students. What makes this one stand out? The Alps. If your idea of decompressing after an anatomy exam involves snowboarding, you’ve found your spot.
14. Mozarteum University Salzburg
📍 Salzburg
🌐 www.moz.ac.at
Aspiring musicians, dancers, and stage performers, take note. Mozarteum is world-renowned for the arts. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into a symphony. There’s nothing quite like it.
15. University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (MDW)
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.mdw.ac.at
Think Juilliard, but Viennese. If your heart beats in 4/4 time, and you’ve been dreaming of performing in European concert halls, MDW is your dream school.
16. Angewandte (University of Applied Arts Vienna)
📍 Vienna
🌐 www.dieangewandte.at
This is where art meets innovation. The creativity here is electric — whether you’re into digital design, fashion, or visual media, Angewandte is less of a school and more of a creative universe.
17. University of Art and Design Linz (Kunstuniversität Linz)
📍 Linz
🌐 www.ufg.at
If you’re into new media, 3D art, or experimental design, Linz will surprise you. It’s one of the most forward-thinking art schools I’ve seen. And Linz, though quieter, has a super creative underground scene.
18. Danube University Krems
📍 Krems
🌐 www.donau-uni.ac.at
This one is mostly for postgraduates and professionals looking to level up. It’s known for short, intensive programs in health, education, and business. If you’re thinking about returning to school later in life — this is a great place to do it.
19. FH Joanneum (University of Applied Sciences)
📍 Graz & other cities
🌐 www.fh-joanneum.at
More hands-on, less theory. That’s the applied sciences approach, and Joanneum does it brilliantly. Think media production, health tech, and sustainable design — with real projects, not just exams.
20. St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
📍 St. Pölten
🌐 www.fhstp.ac.at
One of the younger but rapidly growing universities in Austria. It’s buzzing with creativity and tech — especially in media studies and digital innovation. Think of it as a rising star you’ll be glad you got in early on.
Wrapping It Up
Austria isn’t just Mozart and mountains — it’s a country where education feels accessible, inspiring, and (believe it or not) affordable. Most public universities here have little to no tuition for EU students and modest fees for internationals.
But what really won me over wasn’t the prestige or the price. It was the vibe. The professors care. The libraries are full, but not stuffy. The students are diverse. And every weekend is a chance to hop on a train to Italy, Germany, or Hungary.
If any of these universities sparked your interest, click through the links and explore. You never know — your next big adventure might just start in Austria.
Have questions? Want help deciding which Austrian university fits you best? Drop a comment or send a message — I’m happy to share what I’ve learned. 😊
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