5 Things You Should Know If You Are Thinking of Studying in Austria

One of the most attractive student destinations in Europe is Austria. It offers the right kind of climate, education, and otherwise, for one’s personality to grow and flourish. Being one of the highly developed countries in the region, there is no dearth of opportunities available to students who come here from all corners of the world. So, if you are a student and contemplating higher education abroad, then Austria will serve as a good option for you.

To single out a country for higher education is one of the most challenging tasks in the lives of students. There is a world of things one needs to know about the country and its education system to finalize it. Austria, thus, is no exception. Even though Austria is as good as they say, you must acquaint yourself with a few very fundamental details of the Austrian way. In this article, you will find a head-start. Over here, I have only enumerated a few of the things you should know about Austria before coming here for education. There are certainly more, but let us stick to the top 5.

1. Relieved of Tuition Fees
   One of the things which students look in a potential country of education is the expenditure which goes into enrolling and pursuing the course. Tuition fees, among all other expenses, hit hard and can dismantle the financial lives of students. Many students of caliber are unable to pursue an education in their desired destination because of a lack of funds. In Austria, there is one big sigh of relief so far as tuition fee is concerned. The Austrian education system is state-funded which means you don’t bear the burden of tuition fees. While European students do not generally pay tuition fees at all in public universities, non-European students have to give up only a reasonably tolerable amount towards tuition fees.
2. The overall cost of living
   Austria like most European countries is not an easy ride so far as the cost of living is concerned—but it is certainly tolerable if you are wise and methodical. Accommodation facilities are generally expensive which means that you should consider finding a flatmate to split your bills with. A flatmate will help you save a ton on groceries, which are not cheap in the country. While dining out could be a pricey affair, you can have a mouthful of alcohol as it is not cheap. One thing, however, you should remember is that there are many discounts extended to students in many food outlets and retail stores. Even public transportation facilities run similar discounts. So, use your status as a student smartly and save.
3. Call an Austrian, Austrian
   I am not sure why but there are surprisingly a lot of people who confuse Austrians with Germans. Even if you have that sort of impression, it is strongly recommended that you discard the same before you mess up in Austria. Yes, there are a lot of cultural, historical, and linguistic similarities between the two countries; doesn’t make them the same thing. Germans are not very popular in the country, though they will not be treated poorly in the country. Just avoid calling them Germans or commenting that Austrians are very much Germans—they won’t like it and you will not look cool.
4. Overdose of Austrian culture
   Europe is anyway a hotspot of interesting cultures, and Austria has one of the most beautiful ones. You step out into the street and you will be bombarded by the sheer presence of the local culture embodied in its buildings, language, and lifestyle. Vienna, in particular, is a treat to the eyes and offers a view of stunning architectural brilliance. From palaces to cathedrals, there is almost too much for the sight to behold. It is not just about the architecture; over here, you can involve yourself in exquisite local music, galleries, and fine art. A student will have a wonderful time here, trying to seek excellent education and a distinctive cultural experience.
5. Work while studying
   We all need some alternative for extra money. Well, you have got it here in Austria. Whether you are a local or an international student, you can work while pursuing higher education. There are, however, limitations imposed. International students on a student visa can work for a limited number of hours, which is 10 per week for undergrads, and 20 per week for postgrads. Only when you are on a vacation, you are allowed to work full-time. Note that there are no such limitations imposed on EU students.

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