About Austria
Austria is located in the spectacular Alps of central Europe with a population of 8.7 million. It is one of the founders of OECD and has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world (47,188$). It is the 12th richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita. Austria became a member of the EU on 1 January 1995. Other than its strong industry sector, tourism is an important source of income for Austria. In 2007, it had world’s 9th highest international tourism receipts.
More than 21 million international tourists visit Austria annually. Austrians enjoy a very high standard of living. Its capital Vienna is ranked as the most livable city in the world in several consecutive years by various international surveys. It is also the location of the head quarters of United Nations and OPEC. The UN-Habitat termed it as the most prosperous city in the world in 2012/2013. It held 1st rank in the Innovation Cities Index.
Although German is the mother tongue of the majority, Austria is a truly multi cultural country with significant population speaking various languages of the world. Austria which was home to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart has a rich cultural heritage. Arnold Schwarzenegger was born and Beethoven spent most of his life in this great country.It is also the home of the management guru Peter Drucker and the world renowned psycho-analyst Sigmund Freud.
Studying in Austria
Due to its rich cultural past and present, Austria is cherished by people worldwide. The varied landscape is of great importance to tourism. There are many ski resorts and in the summer there are a multitude of opportunities for hiking and climbing or for water sports on the numerous lakes.
Other factors for deciding on a stay in Austria include the great social security, the economic stability and the great hospitality of the Austrians. The Austrian educational system offers a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.
Why Austria is an ideal place for studying and living?
- Four of the top ranked universities in the world are in Austria. Moreover, 7 universities have found place in the QS world university rankings 2014/15.
- The courses can be pursued in English.
- Plenty of huge discounts including public transport and for leisure activities are available for students.
- Austria is an affordable place for foreign students.
- Austria has rich cultural heritage and a shared European history. There is plenty to explore during the off days.
- Quality of life in Austria is regularly rated among the highest anywhere in the world. In fact, Vienna was named the world’s leading city for quality of life in Mercer’s 2014 quality of living survey.
- Austria is one of the safest and economically stable countries. It is part of Schengen Area.
- Plenty of part time jobs where students can earn between 700Euros to 1200 Euros per month.
- Austria received a score of 9 out of 10 and ranked fourth in international students’ satisfaction Awards 2014.
- Average salary for full time job in Austria: 43000+ Euro per year
Students Visa Requirements
Documents required to apply for your student residence permit in Austria (Aufenthaltsbewilligung Studierende)
- The filled-in application form.
- A valid passport. Make sure your passport is valid throughout the entire period of your stay in Austria.
- A copy of your health insurance plan. Two recent passport size photo.
- Proof of accommodation in Austria.
- A criminal record certificate.
- A proof of sufficient financial means or copy of your grant/scholarship stating you can support yourself financially throughout your time as a student in Austria.