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First considerations

The International Office of the Academy is delighted about your interest in an exchange programme in Vienna and studying at one of the leading art universities in Central Europe. In Vienna, you can expect an internationally oriented study programme that offers you diverse opportunities. The city of Vienna is renowned for its vibrant art scene and rich cultural offerings, influenced by its historical heritage. Additionally, Vienna is home to numerous international organizations, providing an inspiring environment for young artists. We would be happy to support you in your endeavor to complete an exchange programme at our Academy. We recommend familiarizing yourself with the information about studying at our Academy and getting in touch with the International Office of your university.

Nomination and Deadlines

  • The Academy of Fine Arts Vienna only accepts official nominations from partner universities. Freemover applications cannot be considered.
  • Nomination and application deadlines are as follows:
    for the winter semester (Start: October 1 - End of January): March 31
    for the summer semester (Start: March 1 - End of June): October 31

Tuition Fees and Student Union Membership Fee

  • Exchange students are exempt from tuition fees.
  • Every student in Austria must pay the student union membership fee of approximately €23/semester (www.oeh.at). This fee includes liability and accident insurance within the Academy's premises. Payment is made via bank transfer.

Language

  • The language of instruction at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is German. Some courses are also conducted in English. It is strongly recommended to acquire basic knowledge of the German language before the stay to facilitate a smooth start. Proficiency in English is also advantageous.
  • For the fields of stage design and Master in Critical Studies, it is strongly recommended to acquire sufficient German language skills prior to your stay in Vienna.

The Academy offers a special German course for beginners for exchange students.

Entry and Visa

Information on entry and stay in Austria can be found on the OeAD (Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalization) website: https://oead.at/de/nach-oesterreich/einreise-und-aufenthalt.

For entry into Austria, a valid passport or ID card is sufficient for all EU, EEA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), and Swiss citizens.

Citizens of third countries (non-EU citizens) require a visa to enter Austria. The type of visa depends on the duration and purpose of the stay.

Incoming students are responsible for applying for the visa themselves. Please apply for visa in due time, as visa processing may take several weeks or months. Further information can be found at https://oead.at/de/nach-oesterreich/einreise-und-aufenthalt.

Health and Accident Insurance, Accommodation

  • Exchange students must independently arrange sufficient health and accident insurance.
  • The Academy of Fine Arts Vienna does not have its own student dormitories. Students are generally responsible for organizing accommodation during their stay in Vienna. With the acceptance, an information sheet will be sent by email, providing details and links regarding housing search in Vienna.
  • Cost of living in Vienna is at least EUR 950. It depends on personal preferences.