Admission Requirements & Cost of Studying in Austria

Studying in Austria is a dream for many Pakistani students who want access to quality education, affordable tuition, and international exposure. However, before applying, it’s important to understand the admission requirements and the cost of studying in Austria.

This guide explains everything Pakistani students need to know about the application process, eligibility, tuition fees, and additional costs.

Admission Requirements for Pakistani Students

Admission requirements vary depending on the level of study (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD), but the general criteria are as follows:

• Academic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have completed Intermediate (F.Sc/FA) or A-levels equivalent to Austrian standards. Proof of university admission eligibility in Pakistan is usually required.
  • Master’s Degree: A recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
  • PhD: A master’s degree in the relevant subject with strong academic performance.
• Language Requirements
  • Many Austrian universities offer English-taught programs, especially at postgraduate level. For these, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) is often required.
  • Some programs, especially at bachelor’s level, may require German proficiency (A2–B2 level).
• Required Documents
  • Pakistani students generally need to submit:
  • Academic transcripts & certificates (attested by HEC & IBCC)
  • Proof of university admission in Pakistan (for bachelor’s applicants)
  • English/German language test scores
  • Copy of passport
  • Motivation letter & CV
  • Proof of financial means
• Application Process
  • Apply directly via the university’s online portal or through Austria’s official study platform.
  • Submit all required documents before the deadline.
  • Await the admission letter (which will later be required for visa application).

Cost of Studying in Austria

One of the main advantages of choosing Austria is the affordability of education compared to other European countries.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for Pakistani students vary depending on the type of university (public or private).

Here’s a table summarizing approximate tuition costs:

Other Costs

Apart from tuition, Pakistani students should also budget for living costs, which include accommodation, food, health insurance, and transportation. On average, a student may spend around €800 – €1,000 per month.

Scholarships for Pakistani Students

To make education more affordable, Austria offers various scholarships:

• Austrian Development Cooperation Scholarship
• Erasmus+ Scholarship
• University-specific scholarships (merit-based and need-based)

These scholarships can reduce or fully cover tuition fees, and in some cases, also provide a monthly allowance.

Why the Costs are Manageable for Pakistani Students

Compared to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia where annual tuition fees can reach $15,000 – $30,000, Austria provides an affordable alternative without compromising on quality. Scholarships and part-time jobs further reduce the financial burden.

Part-Time Work to Cover Costs

Pakistani students can work part-time in Austria (generally up to 20 hours per week) while studying. Typical wages range between €8 – €12 per hour, which can cover a significant portion of monthly expenses.

Students who learn German quickly can find better-paying jobs and internships.

Conclusion

For Pakistani students, Austria provides a clear and accessible pathway to higher education. With straightforward admission requirements, affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities, it is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe.

By preparing early—especially in terms of language proficiency and document attestation—Pakistani students can secure admission in Austrian universities and enjoy a high-quality education with manageable costs.