Austria is stepping up as a destination of choice for Indian engineering students who are seeking high-quality education at affordable costs. With a brand-new partnership between Austria’s top technical universities and Indian institutions, over 300 seats have now been opened up for students who wish to pursue cutting-edge engineering and technology programmes abroad. This opportunity is particularly significant for Indian students who might miss out on IITs or NITs but still aim to gain international exposure and expertise.
The official accord was announced by Katharina Wieser, Austrian Ambassador to India, and Armstrong Pame, Joint Secretary of India’s Education Ministry, linking Austria’s leading technical universities with VFS Educational Services.
Austria’s Universities Partner with India for Global Exposure
The partnership brings together TU Wien, TU Graz, and TU Leoben, three of the most prestigious institutions in science and technology. These universities are well-regarded internationally for their close ties between research and industry, particularly in engineering, artificial intelligence, quantum mechanics, and sustainable technologies.
Ambassador Wieser emphasized that public universities offer top-tier education at affordable rates, well-supported by the government. “Austria views higher education as significant for all. Low-cost does not translate into lower quality education,” she noted.
For Indian students, this means the chance to earn a two-year Master’s degree with integrated work experience while paying just €726.72 per semester, along with a small union fee of €25.
Expands Opportunities Beyond IITs and NITs
India’s Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education remains below 30 percent, yet the country has over 54 globally ranked institutions. This new partnership is expected to attract not only students who couldn’t secure seats in IITs or NITs, but also those seeking a more international education.
The programme offers diverse specializations ranging from metallurgy, biotechnology, circular engineering, computer science, AI, and robotics, to sustainable technologies, industrial data science, and software engineering. TU Leoben has even introduced special Bachelor’s tracks in geo-energy engineering and circular engineering for Indian students, with 15 dedicated seats.
This broad spread ensures that students can find programmes aligned with global industry demand, while also tapping into strengths in innovation and applied sciences.
Application Process: Simple and Transparent
The application process for engineering programmes is streamlined for Indian students. Applicants must hold a BE, BTech, or BSc (Hons) from a recognized ANABIN institution with at least a 2.5 GPA on Austria’s grading scale.
Strong English proficiency is a must, as most courses are taught in English. Applications can be submitted through VFS Education Services or via email. Selection is based on academic grades, English ability, personal evaluation, and document verification.
Admissions are open for both the Summer and Winter terms of 2026, offering flexibility for students to plan their studies.
Beyond tuition, students are expected to cover living costs such as rent, visa, and travel. However, Austria balances this by allowing international students to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. Moreover, graduates can avail of a one-year post-study visa extension, giving them the chance to gain valuable European work experience.
Prof. Peter Moser, Rector of TU Leoben, highlighted that Austria is not seeking to establish new campuses in India, but rather to strengthen collaborations. This ensures Indian students study in Austria itself, benefitting from the country’s secure environment, international student diversity, and globally respected degrees.
Push for STEM Talent
One of the key reasons Austria is investing in this collaboration is the decline in local interest in STEM subjects across Europe. With fewer European students choosing science and engineering, Austria is keen to attract skilled international graduates. India, with its large student population and strong interest in STEM, has emerged as a natural partner.
Currently, Austria already hosts students from more than 80 different countries, and the country aims to keep its classrooms diverse and globally connected.
For Indian students aspiring to global opportunities, Austria is positioning itself as a gateway to high-quality education, affordable tuition, and strong industry connections. With more than 300 Master’s seats and new Bachelor’s openings, the collaboration between Austria and India provides a life-changing opportunity to learn, grow, and build careers on an international stage.
In the words of Ambassador Wieser, Austria is showing that education can be both accessible and excellent — a combination that Indian students are ready to embrace.
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