Overview
Austria vs Germany for international students
Both countries offer excellent public universities and low tuition. Austria is smaller, often faster to navigate bureaucratically in Vienna, and has lower non-EU fees at many institutions. Germany has more programmes and cities but fiercer competition in popular fields.
Last updated: 28 June 2026
- 77+Higher education institutions
- 2,000+Degree programmes indexed
- €726.72 / semesterNon-EU tuition (public universities)
- ~30% of enrolmentsInternational students in Austria
Tuition comparison
Germany abolished tuition at most public universities (semester contributions only). Austria charges non-EU students ~€726/semester, still very affordable. Private options in both countries cost more.
Which to choose
Choose Austria for liveability, smaller cohorts, and Central European location. Choose Germany for maximum programme variety and industry scale. Many students apply to both.
Key dates & deadlines
- Winter semester beginsOctober
Lectures typically start early October; arrive in September for orientation.
- Summer semester beginsMarch
Smaller programme intake than winter at many faculties.
- Winter application deadline (many public programmes)5 September
Confirm on each university portal, medicine and arts often close earlier.
- Summer application deadline (many public programmes)5 February
Not all programmes admit for summer semester.
- Recommended visa application window3–6 months before arrival
Apply after admission; embassy forwarding adds 6–12 weeks.