As a computer science student from Romania at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), I am not only exploring my passion for computers and network systems during my studies, but also the peculiarities of the Austrian higher education system. Therefore, I would like to share my experiences with you, using TU Graz as an example to illustrate how higher education works in Austria.

Admission process

Most bachelor’s programmes at Austrian universities are open to all students who have completed their secondary education. However, some programmes require entrance examinations or have specific admission requirements, it mostly depends on the degree programme you choose to study. You can find all the information about the admission for a specific degree programme on the webpage “Overview: Bachelor’s Degree Programmes”.

To learn more about the admission process at TU Graz visit the blog post “How can I study at TU Graz”.

Academic Year Structure

The academic year in Austria is divided into two semesters:

• Winter semester: October to January
• Summer semester: March to June

Vacation Periods:

• Winter break (Winterferien): Two weeks during Christmas and New Year
• Inter-semester break (Semesterferien): Whole month of February between winter and summer semesters
• Summer break (Sommerferien): Three months from July to September
• Some religious and national holidays

During the semester breaks, while there are no regular classes, the university remains active in terms of examination periods, laboratory work, internships and research activities. It’s important to note that this flexible structure allows students to take or retake exams during the examination or vacation periods and to plan their study schedule according to their personal needs. This schedule differs from many other countries, where the academic year might follow a more fixed standard structure.

On the Academic Year section of the TU Graz website you will find an up-to-date list of important deadlines, including the beginning of the winter and summer semesters and admission periods.

Flexible Study Organisation

One of the most distinctive features of the Austrian university system is the remarkable freedom students have in organising their studies. Unlike many other countries where students follow a rigid semester-by-semester curriculum, Austrian universities offer significant flexibility. Students can largely decide for themselves which courses to take each semester, as long as they eventually complete all required courses and prerequisites. This system, known as “freie Studieneinteilung” (free study arrangement), allows students to:

• Create their own personalised study schedule each semester and choose their courses within the curriculum framework
• Balance difficult and easier courses according to their preferences
• Adapt their course load to accommodate part-time work or other commitments
• Retake courses in different semesters if needed
• Balance mandatory lectures with elective subjects

This flexibility is particularly valuable for students who need to work while studying or those who want to focus more intensively on specific areas of interest. However, it also requires good self-organization skills and careful planning to ensure all degree requirements are met.

Duration of Studies

In Austria, a bachelor’s degree is designed to be completed in six semesters (three years). However, the system includes a built-in “tolerance period” of eight semesters (four years including the three standard years) to accommodate various study circumstances. If you go beyond the tolerance period you are allowed up to fourteen semesters (seven years) at extended period fee.

At a glance:

• Standard duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
• Tolerance period: 2 semesters (1 year)
• Extended duration: 14 semesters (7 years)

Why Students Often Take Longer

Many students take longer than three years to finish their degrees, which is quite normal in the Austrian system due to several factors. The flexible nature of Austrian universities allows students to combine their studies with part-time work, which helps them gain valuable professional experience while supporting themselves financially. Students often take time to participate in internships, enhancing their practical skills and industry connections. Some choose to participate in student exchange programmes, enriching their academic experience through international exposure.
The system also accommodates those who wish to take additional courses beyond the minimum requirements, allowing them to broaden their knowledge base. This flexibility extends to the pace of study itself, with students able to organize their coursework in a way that best suits their individual circumstances. The tolerance period is specifically designed to support this flexible approach while still encouraging students to complete their studies within a reasonable timeframe.

Tuition Fee Implications

During the standard study period and tolerance period, students pay regular tuition fees. However, if students exceed the tolerance period, they will be required to pay significantly higher tuition fees each semester. The Tuition fees are as follows:

For EU/EEA students:

• Regular fee: EU/EEA students are exempt from paying tuition fees, they only pay the student union fee of 24.70 euros per semester
• Extended period fee: if the standard duration of studies is exceeded, students will be charged a tuition fee of 363.36 euros per semester (plus the student union fee of 24.70 euros)

For non-EU students:

• Regular fee: 726.72 euros per semester (plus student union fee). Students from South-East Europe have the possibility of applying for reimbursement of tuition fees if they fulfil certain criteria. There is also a Tuition fee waver for some other countries.
• Extended period fee: Additional charges may apply

Check the website “Tuition Fees and the Austrian Student Union Fee” for information on and around the topic

TU Graz: A Unique Blend of Technical and Scientific Education

TU Graz stands out for its comprehensive range of study programmes. What makes it particularly special is its collaboration with the University of Graz through the NAWI Graz initiative (Natural Sciences Graz). This partnership is unique in Austria and allows students to benefit from the expertise and resources of both institutions. TU Graz offers a wide range of bachelor’s programmes in various technical and scientific fields. The current bachelor’s programmes include:

TU Graz Programmes:

• Architecture
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical and Process Engineering
• Civil Engineering Sciences and Construction Management
• Computer Science
• Digital Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Electrical Engineering and Audio Engineering
• Geodesy
• Information and Computer Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering and Business Economics
• Software Engineering and Management

NAWI Graz Programmes (TU Graz in cooperation with University of Graz):

• Chemistry
• Geosciences
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Technical Physics
• Molecular Biology
• Environmental Systems Sciences / Natural Sciences-Technology

For detailed information about each programme and admission requirements, you can visit the complete overview of bachelor’s programmes on the TU Graz website.

Language of Teaching

While bachelor’s programmes are primarily taught in German, TU Graz offers an increasing number of master’s programmes in English. International students are expected to have German language skills at level C1 for bachelor’s programmes however there is a possibility to start you studies as a non-degree student with at least A2 level in German.

For detailed information about required German language skills, visit the blog post Required German language skills for studies.

Conclusion

The Austrian university system, as exemplified by TU Graz, offers high-quality education with distinct advantages, including a strong theoretical foundation combined with practical experience, unique collaborations such as NAWI Graz, and affordable education compared to many other countries. Students benefit from flexible study arrangements and from faculties recognized at the European and global levels. Whether you’re interested in technical or scientific fields, understanding these characteristics of the Austrian university system can help you make an informed decision about studying here.

If you would like to start as a degree-seeking student at TU Graz and need any help with your stay in Austria even before arrival, contact the Welcome Center. You can also take a look at the and take a look at the website “Becoming an International Student at TU Graz”.