Austria is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international students because of its low tuition fees, high academic standards, and access to European-funded scholarships. While Austria does not offer many traditional “full-ride” undergraduate scholarships, students can still significantly reduce study and living costs through government grants, mobility funding, and university-based scholarships.

Below are five of the best and most reliable scholarship opportunities in Austria, followed by practical tips for studying in Austria as an international student.

1. OeAD Scholarships (Austrian Government Scholarships)

The OeAD (Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalisation) is Austria’s official body responsible for scholarships and international academic mobility. It hosts multiple scholarship schemes for international students, researchers, and exchange participants.

These scholarships can cover:

• Monthly living allowance
• Health insurance
• Accommodation support
• Partial or full tuition support (depending on programme)

Official link:
https://oead.at/en/study-research-teaching/overview-grants-and-scholarships

Scholarship search database (very important):
https://grants.at/en/

Best for: International students seeking Austria government scholarships or verified funding options.

2. Ernst Mach Grant (OeAD – Worldwide Programme)

The Ernst Mach Grant is one of the most well-known Austrian scholarships for international students. It supports study, research, and academic exchange at Austrian universities.

What it offers:

• Monthly stipend
• Health insurance
• Research and study support
• Academic networking opportunities

Official Ernst Mach Grant page:
https://oead.at/en/study-research-teaching/overview-grants-and-scholarships/ernst-mach-grant

FAQ (recommended before applying):
https://oead.at/en/study-research-teaching/overview-grants-and-scholarships/ernst-mach-grant/faq-ernst-mach-grant-worldwide

Best for: Students interested in research-focused or exchange-based study in Austria.

3. Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Study in Austria Option)

Although not Austria-specific, Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees frequently include Austrian universities as host institutions.

These scholarships can be fully funded, covering:

• Full tuition
• Monthly living allowance
• Travel costs
• Insurance

Erasmus+ official site:
https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees:
https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/opportunities/opportunities-for-organisations/cooperation-among-organisations-and-institutions/erasmus-mundus-joint-masters

Best for: International students looking for fully funded master’s programmes that include Austria.

4. University of Vienna Scholarships (Summer & Winter Schools)

The University of Vienna offers scholarships and tuition waivers for international students attending its summer and winter schools. While not full-degree funding, these programs are valuable for academic exposure, CV building, and future scholarship applications.

What you may receive:

• Tuition fee waiver
• Partial financial support
• Academic certificates from a top European university

Official scholarship page:
https://international.univie.ac.at/en/summer-and-winter-schools/general-information-about-application-and-scholarships/scholarship/

Best for: Students seeking short-term funded academic programmes in Austria.

5. Austria Scholarship & Research Grants Database (grants.at)

This is Austria’s official and most comprehensive funding database, listing over 1,000 verified scholarships and grants for international students and researchers.

You can filter by:

• Study level
• Country of origin
• Field of study
• Duration and funding type

Official link:
https://grants.at/en/

Best for: Students who want to find lesser-known or niche Austria scholarships.

Important Tips for Studying in Austria as an International Student

1. Tuition Fees Are Already Low

Public universities in Austria charge non-EU students around €726 per semester, which is far cheaper than most Western countries. This makes Austria a low-budget study destination, even without full funding.

2. Proof of Funds & Student Visa

International students must show proof of financial means when applying for an Austrian student visa. Scholarships from OeAD or Erasmus can help reduce this burden.

3. Health Insurance Is Mandatory

All students must have valid health insurance in Austria. Many government scholarships include insurance coverage, which saves money.

4. Language Requirements

While many programmes are taught in English, some scholarships and universities may require basic German proficiency, especially for undergraduate studies.

5. Apply Early

Austria scholarships often close months before the academic year starts. Late applications usually mean missing funding opportunities.

6. Combine Scholarships With Student Jobs

International students in Austria are legally allowed to work part-time, helping cover accommodation and living expenses.

Final Thoughts

Austria may not offer many traditional full undergraduate scholarships, but its low tuition fees, government grants, and European mobility programmes make it one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe.

If you apply strategically — combining OeAD funding, Erasmus scholarships, and university support — studying in Austria can be both realistic and affordable.