Top 5 Cheap and Free Vocational Schools in Austria for International Students (2025 Guide)

If you’re looking for a free, affordable, and practical way to study abroad, vocational schools in Austria for international students might be what you should consider. These schools offer hands-on training, real-life experience, and a fast route to employment in Europe—all without requiring a university degree.

In recent years, more and more international students have been choosing Austria as their study destination. Why? Because Austria offers quality vocational education, low-cost living, English-taught programs, and the chance to stay back and work in the EU. The program is open for international students, whether you are in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, or the Philippines. Austria welcomes students from all over the world who want to gain valuable skills and build a better future.

What Are Vocational Schools?

Vocational schools, also known as trade schools or technical colleges, focus on skill-based training. Instead of learning theory for four years, you learn practical skills that prepare you for specific jobs.

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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 for International Students?

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— No need to speak German to study.
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 for International Students

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

One of the most popular vocational schools in Austria for international students, ITH 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.

Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH) 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

This is a fully funded opportunity offered 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.

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 top-rated hospitality and tourism school 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.

3. BFI Vocational Training Institute

BFI offers programs in business administration, logistics, social work, and health care. Some courses are available in English, and they cater to adults, including foreign students who want to work in Austria.

4. WIFI International

WIFI is Austria’s largest adult education provider. It 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)

These are Austria’s government-approved trade schools. While most programs are in German, international students can join if they meet the language requirement. Courses include engineering, nursing, fashion, electronics, and more.

Courses You Can Study

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:

Visit the Vocational School Application Portal – Start your application online at the official website once the portal is open.
Fill in the Online Application Form – Provide your personal and academic details.
Upload Required Documents – These include your WAEC/GCE certificate, work experience proof, international passport, and a motivation letter.
Submit – You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application is processed.
Interview (if required) – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a video interview.
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 for International Students

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. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a chef, a hotel manager, a nurse, or a software technician, there are vocational schools in Austria for international students ready to help you succeed.

Take the first step today. Explore schools, prepare your documents, and apply as soon as the application window opens. With the right planning, your dream of studying and living in Europe can become a reality.