A master in Austria is often cheaper for EU students than people expect. At public universities, EU and EEA students usually pay no tuition fee in the regular master period. This guide explains the amounts, a worked example and how health insurance works for German students.
Short answer: For EU and EEA students, the regular master at the University of Vienna costs EUR 363.36 per semester, but only from semester 7. Non-EU students pay EUR 726.72 per semester from semester 1. The student union fee of EUR 24.70 applies to everyone. Status: October 2026, the university page gives no date of its own.
The most important points
- Tuition for EU and EEA students in a regular master: EUR 363.36 per semester, only from semester 7.
- Non-EU students pay EUR 726.72 per semester from semester 1. The university names possible exceptions.
- The Austrian student union fee (ÖH-Beitrag) of EUR 24.70 applies to all students.
- If you are statutorily insured in Germany, you carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Without existing cover, you can take out student self-insurance or voluntary self-insurance in Austria.
What does a master in Austria cost per semester?
The tuition amount depends on whether you come from the EU and EEA or from a non-EU country. The University of Vienna lists these rates for the regular master. The page has no date of its own, so the status is October 2026, the date we checked it.
| Students | Fee starts | Amount per semester | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU, EEA, Switzerland | from semester 7 | EUR 363.36 | University of Vienna |
| Non-EU countries | from semester 1 | EUR 726.72 | University of Vienna |
| All students | every semester | EUR 24.70 student union fee | University of Vienna |
These figures apply at the University of Vienna. Other public universities, universities of applied sciences and private universities set their own rules. Check the tuition regulations of your target university before you apply.
What does the whole master in Austria cost?
Tuition is only one part of the bill. Rent, food, insurance and course materials come on top. The example below covers only fees and the union fee.
Assumption: the master lasts four semesters at the University of Vienna.
- EU students: no tuition in semesters one to six. Four semesters of union fees come to 4 × EUR 24.70, that is EUR 98.80.
- Non-EU students: 4 × EUR 726.72 tuition gives EUR 2,906.88, plus EUR 98.80 union fees.
- Total for four semesters: EUR 98.80 (EU) or EUR 3,005.68 (non-EU), excluding living costs.
Which health insurance do you need in Austria?
The answer depends on whether you are statutorily insured in Germany. According to the Austrian government portal oesterreich.gv.at, an existing insurance also applies during a stay in Austria if you carry the European Health Insurance Card. Whether your cover continues for a full master is a question for your German health insurer. The portal names no specific office and no form.
| Situation | What oesterreich.gv.at says | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Statutorily insured in Germany | The existing insurance continues; carry the EHIC | Ask your health insurer how far the cover reaches for a full study period |
| No insurance at all | Health insurance in Austria is required | Check student self-insurance, otherwise voluntary self-insurance |
Student self-insurance is a reduced tariff that only applies if the conditions are met. Our overview of study abroad cases is available here: health insurance for students in the EU: EHIC and more.
How do you apply for a master in Austria?
Each university sets its own admission requirements. Check on the page of your target university which language certificates, aptitude tests and deadlines apply. Start early with certificates and translations, because both take time.
How can you finance the master in Austria?
Besides savings, student loans, scholarships and public support are possible. Whether German support continues abroad is decided by the responsible office on a case-by-case basis. An overview of scholarships is available here: scholarships for students in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay tuition in Austria as a German?
EU and EEA citizens pay the lower rate. According to the University of Vienna, tuition in a regular master only starts from semester 7, so a four-semester master usually costs no tuition.
What happens if I study longer than four semesters?
From semester 7, EU students pay EUR 363.36 per semester. If your studies take longer, plan for this unless an exception applies.
Do I need Austrian insurance if I am statutorily insured in Germany?
Ask your health insurer. According to oesterreich.gv.at, the existing insurance remains valid with the EHIC. The portal does not say whether this covers a full degree.
Does the union fee also apply to master students?
Yes. According to the University of Vienna, the EUR 24.70 student union fee applies to all students.
Your next steps
- Check whether you are statutorily insured in Germany and ask your health insurer about cover for studying in Austria.
- Look up the tuition rules on the page of your target university and check whether exceptions apply to you.
- Calculate the fees for the regular study period and add your living costs.
- Settle the financing before you sign a rental contract.
Related guides
- Master abroad: countries, application and costs (in German)
- Private health insurance abroad during your studies
- Scholarships for students in Germany
- Student loans compared (in German)
Sources: University of Vienna: tuition fee amounts (no own date, checked October 2026) · oesterreich.gv.at: checklist for students, social insurance (last updated 26.01.2026)
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
