Studying abroad has its perks, from professional development to experiencing new cultures and improving your language skills. While there are several countries to study in, Austria seems like a good study destination. Legatum Prosperity Index studied 167 countries and came up with a list. According to the report, Austria ranks 4th in safety and security, 5th in natural environment, 11th in living conditions, 14th in personal freedom and 22nd in education. Are you looking to study in Austria from Nigeria? This article covers all you need to know about studying abroad.
Some facts about Austria
- Austria ranks among the most livable countries in the world. For the 10th time, it tops the list of Mercer’s Quality of Living survey.
- Austria is home to some of the best universities in the world. 7 Austrian universities made the QS World University Rankings in 2018.
- The cost of living is relatively cheap; hence students can afford necessities.
Steps to studying in Austria from Nigeria
Choose a program and university
This is probably the most important stage in the application process. What’s your career goals? While you might want to chase your dreams and passions, consider the future possibilities of your intending program. Are you pursuing a bachelor’s, master or PhD program? Think about this, too, as these programs have specific requirements. Most Bachelor’s courses in Austrian universities are delivered in German. After choosing a study program, decide on the university. There are over 14 top universities, including other institutions in Austria. Some of them are Central European University, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Vienna University of Economics and Business, etc.
Check the admission requirements
Each university has its specific requirement. Consult the university’s admission office or program coordinators for more enquiries about the admission criteria. Here are few things to know about studying in Austria:
- Most study programs, especially Bachelors, are German taught hence applicants are expected to have sufficient knowledge of the language.
- You must be a proficient English speaker to apply for English-taught courses.
- Non-EU/EEA students with a degree from a non-EU/EEA country may only study the same discipline or course related to it. This means that if you have a Bachelor’s degree in Arts, you can’t pursue a Master’s in Business.
- If you’re applying for a graduate degree at an institution of applied sciences, you’ll need to have relevant professional experience.
Prepare the paperwork
This seems like the most stressful stage, but if you’re well prepared, you’ve got no worries. Most Austrian universities require the following documents:
- Original and copies of your passport or identity card.
- High school or Bachelor’s diploma
- Passport-sized photographs
- Your academic transcript showing the grades of your previous studies.
- Letter of motivation
- Letter of recommendation from your professors or lecturers
- Proof of language proficiency in English
- Depending on your study program and level of study, you may need to present proof of German language proficiency tests like TestDaF, ÖSD, etc.
- Proof of funds to cater for your needs throughout your studies.
- Proof of payment for the application fee
Submit your application
Following documentation is the submission of your application. Austrian universities do not operate a centralised application system. Hence, each university administers its application process. While most applications are submitted online, some institutions make it imperative to submit your application via post. Furthermore, you’ll need to legalise your documents. Legalise and authenticate your documents at the Ministry of Education and Foreign Affairs in Abuja. Find out about the application deadline so you can meet up with submission. Check with the university concerning the application deadline.
Wait for feedback
Your prospective university will give you updates about your application if it’s successful or not. If successful, they will send an acceptance letter to you via email or post. The mail will include guidelines or instructions about the next steps to take during enrolment at the university.
Enrol at the university
The enrolment process entails submitting the original copies of your application documents, payment of tuition fees and registration. Typically, EU citizens are eligible for free education; hence they won’t pay tuition fees. As a Nigerian student, you will need to make tuition fee payments. While tuition costs vary from one program to another, international students may need to pay 3,000 – 23,000 EUR per year. If you’re pursuing a specialised program, you should expect to pay about 35,000 EUR or more every year.
Apply for a student visa
Congratulations! You’ve been granted admission to an Austrian university. The next step to take is to apply for a student visa. As an international student, you should begin your visa application soon. Applying for an Austrian student visa seems quite easy if you’re well informed about the process. Below are the documents required for your visa application.
- Two recent coloured passport photographs with a clear background and dimension of 35-40mm.
- Your passport valid for at least 6 months with a minimum of two blank pages.
- Admission letter/proof of enrolment issued by the Austrian university.
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- A police report indicating you have no criminal records.
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Proof of flight reservation
- Birth certificate
- Biometric data
- Proof of tuition fees payment or grant
- A notarized letter signed by one or both of your parents declaring financial responsibility.
Visa processing fees for adults and minors are €80 and €50, respectively. You may pay an additional €100 for residence permits. The processing of the visa may take up to 1-4 weeks.
If you need to write an entrance examination or interview for your chosen study program, you may have to travel during the application process. Ensure you legalise your documents before applying for a visa. The Austrian Embassy will reject documents that are not legalised since they will send them to Austria for approval.
Plan your trip to Austria
Now, you’re admitted to a university and have your visa at hand. It’s about time you start preparing for your trip to Austria. Search online for accommodation options. You can check here for a suitable choice. Join student forums online to have a foreknowledge of studying in Austria. You can join a German class or learn the language through an app. This will help a smooth transition.
