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vocational schools in Austria offer free, affordable program for all student including international students. These schools offer hands-on training, internship, and fast employment in Austria and Europe without acquiring a university degree.

In recent years, many international students chose Austria as their study destination, because of quality vocational education, low-cost living, English-taught programs, and the chance to stay back and work in the EU. The vocational school in Austria is open for students from all over the world who want to gain valuable skills and build a better future.

See Also: Top 10 Best Countries that offers free Vocational Schools for International Students 2025

What Are Vocational Schools?

Vocational schools, also known as trade schools or technical colleges, focus on skill-based training that equip student with practical skills that prepare them for specific jobs. In Austria, vocational schools offer programs in areas like hospitality, tourism, health care, automotive, IT, fashion, and many more. Most courses take between 8 months and 2 years and include internships to help you gain real-world experience.

Why Choose Vocational Schools in Austria?

Here are some real reasons why thousands of students choose Austria:

• Affordable education: vocational programs are fully funded, meaning they are free or cost very little.
• English-taught courses: You don’t need to speak German to study in Austria .
• Work experience—Many schools include internships.
• EU recognition: Austrian diplomas are accepted across Europe.
• No proof of funds needed: Some scholarships don’t require bank statements.
• Residence permit: You’ll get a permit during your study and can apply for work permits after.
• Relocate with family: In most cases, you can apply to bring your family too.

Top Vocational Schools in Austria 2025

1. Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH)—Salzburg

One of the most popular vocational schools in Austria that offers fully funded programs in:

• Tourism Management
• Hotel and Hospitality Management

Courses are taught in English, and students from developing countries can apply for Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) scholarships.

These cover tuition, meals, accommodation, insurance, and pocket money.

Key Details:

Institution: Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH), Austria

• Courses Offered: Tourism Management and Hotel/Hospitality Management
• Language of Instruction: English
• Duration: 8 to 12 months, followed by a compulsory internship
• Start Date: September 8, 2025
• Last Application Period: December 2, 2024 – March 15, 2025
• Result Announcement: May 2025

Scholarship Benefits

You can study for free at Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH) in Austria as an international student, thanks to it fully funded scholarship for all students through the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC). Depending on your country of origin, you may qualify under one of two categories: ADC Priority Countries or OECD Developing Countries to study for free.

What the Scholarship Covers

• Full tuition fees

• Learning materials

• Health insurance

• Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on school days)

• Monthly allowance

• Cultural and social events

• Local transportation

• Partial accommodation support

What You Will Cover

• A one-time €1,500 contribution for accommodation and other administrative costs

• Visa application fee

• International travel expenses

This low financial contribution makes it one of the most affordable ways to study and relocate to Europe.

Click here to apply for vocational study in Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH), Austria

2. MODUL Tourism College—Vienna

MODUL is a popular vocational school for hospitality and tourism in Austria. It offers international diplomas and strong links to the hotel and tourism industry.

MODUL programs focus on business, management, and entrepreneurship in tourism.

See Also: Best Vocational Schools in Germany for International Students in 2025

3. BFI Vocational Training Institute

BFI is another vocational school for business administration, logistics, social work, and health care. Some courses are available in English, and they are suitable for adults, including foreign students who want to work in Austria.

4. WIFI International

WIFI is Austria’s largest adult education that offers training in engineering, IT, language, and creative fields. Their international branch offers programs suitable for students without German skills.

5. Austrian Berufsschulen (Public Trade Schools)

Berufsschulen is another best government-approved vocational schools in Austria with most programs in German, international students can join if they meet the language requirement. Courses include engineering, nursing, fashion, electronics, and more.

Vocational School Courses You Can Study in Austria

Most vocational schools in Austria offer courses in:

• Tourism and Hospitality
• Culinary Arts
• Health and Nursing
• Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
• Information Technology
• Fashion and Design
• Business Administration
• Social Work and Childcare

These programs are designed to give you the skills to find work immediately after graduation.

Admission Requirements

To apply to vocational schools in Austria for international students, you usually need:

• WAEC, GCE, A-Level, or high school diploma
• Valid international passport
• Proof of English proficiency (WAEC English, IELTS, or TOEFL)
• Motivation letter
• At least one year of work experience (for some programs)
• Age between 18 and 25 (for certain scholarships)

Note: If your documents are not in English, you may need to translate them into English, German, or Dutch.

Scholarship and Funding Opportunities

The Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) offers fully funded scholarships to students from developing countries. The scholarship covers:

• Tuition fees
• Study materials
• Health insurance
• Three meals per day
• Accommodation (partial)
• Monthly stipend
• Local transportation
• Social and cultural activities

You may only be required to contribute €1,500 for accommodation or personal expenses. That’s a small price for a life-changing opportunity.

Application Process

The application process is simple and takes less than 10 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Vocational School Application Portal – Start your application online at the official website once the portal is open.

2. Fill in the Online Application Form – Provide your personal and academic details.

3. Upload Required Documents – These include your WAEC/GCE certificate, work experience proof, international passport, and a motivation letter.

4. Submit – You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application is processed.

5. Interview (if required) – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a video interview.

6. Wait for Results – Results will be announced in the following months.

Applications usually open in December and close around March the following year. Courses begin in September.

Life After Graduation

Many vocational programs in Austria include internships, which can lead to jobs. You can apply for a work permit after graduation and continue living in Austria. With time, you may qualify for permanent residency.

Since Austria is part of the EU, your certificate is valid across all EU countries. You can also work in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and beyond.

FAQs: Vocational Schools in Austria

1. Can I apply without a university degree?

Yes. Most vocational schools only require a WAEC, GCE, A-Level, or high school diploma. No university degree is needed.

2. Are the programs taught in English?

Many programs, especially in tourism and hospitality, are taught entirely in English. However, some schools may require basic German knowledge for other fields.

3. Can I relocate with my family?

Yes, but the scholarship usually only covers the main applicant. You must show proof of funds to support your spouse or children.

4. Do I need proof of funds to apply?

If you are applying for a fully funded scholarship, you do not need proof of funds. For self-funded programs, some schools might ask for financial proof.

5. What is the cost of living in Austria for students?

On average, students spend €600 to €900 per month, including housing, food, and transportation. With a scholarship, most of these costs are covered.

Final Thoughts

Austria is one of the best countries for international students who want skill-based education for chef, hotel manager, nurse, or  software technician, these vocational schools in Austria is open for international students.