Explore medical education opportunities in Austria with a focus on medical universities, requirements, costs, admission process, and top schools. Discover studying Medicine in Austria.
Are you considering studying medicine in Austria but unsure where to start?
Austria offers world-class medical education in a highly developed healthcare system, making it an excellent destination for international students. With low tuition fees and a strong focus on practical training, studying medicine in Austria can be a life-changing decision.
Austria is known for its high academic standards, accessible healthcare system, and commitment to medical innovation. Medical schools in Austria offer rigorous programs combining theory, lab work, and clinical practice in state-of-the-art hospitals.
High-quality education with a strong clinical focus
Tuition fees are relatively low or free in public universities
Degrees are recognized across the EU and beyond
Courses align with the Bologna Process
Teaching hospitals ranked among Europe’s best
Multilingual environment with English-taught options
Supportive infrastructure for international students
Opportunity to learn German for better integration
Safe, clean, and culturally rich cities
Strong job prospects across Europe after graduation
Top Medical Universities in Austria
Austria is home to some of Europe’s most reputable public universities for medical studies. These institutions follow the EU standard curriculum and offer excellent clinical training.
Medical University of Vienna (MedUni Vienna)
Medical University of Graz
Medical University of Innsbruck
Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU – Faculty of Medicine)
Admission to Austrian medical universities is competitive, especially for international applicants. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and pass entrance exams.
High school diploma equivalent to Austrian Matura
Proof of completed science subjects (biology, chemistry, physics)
German language proficiency (at least B2)
Some programs offer English-taught tracks
Medical university entrance exam (MedAT)
Proof of nationality and residency
Motivation letter or personal statement
Valid passport and ID copies
Application submitted through university portals
Application deadlines typically in March to May
Understanding the MedAT Exam
The MedAT is the standardized entrance exam used by Austria’s public medical universities. It evaluates cognitive skills, scientific knowledge, and social competence.
Section
Focus Area
Time
Score Impact
Cognitive Abilities
Memory, math, language logic
90 min
High
Social-Emotional Skills
Empathy, accuracy
45 min
Medium
Basic Sciences
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math
75 min
High
Text Comprehension
Reading and analyzing texts
45 min
Medium
Held annually in July
Conducted only in German
Results released in August
Minimum scores vary by university
Preparation courses available
Can be retaken annually
Scoring is percentile-based
Seats are limited (approx. 1,500 annually)
Quotas for EU and non-EU applicants
Registration begins in February
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
Medical education in Austria is affordable compared to many Western countries. Public universities charge minimal fees, especially for EU students.
Public universities offer subsidies for low-income students
Scholarships available for academic merit
Private universities are more expensive (€12,000+ per year)
Student dormitories are cost-effective
Students can work part-time (20 hrs/week)
Budget-friendly supermarkets and student cafeterias
Discounts on public transport with student ID
Monthly budget: €800 – €1,200
Language Requirements and Preparation
Although German is the primary language of instruction, some universities offer English-language pre-med programs or electives.
German proficiency required (usually B2 or C1)
Language tests accepted: TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, ÖSD
MedAT is in German only
University preparation courses (Vorstudienlehrgang) available
Intensive German language schools in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck
Daily immersion improves fluency quickly
Learning German improves patient interaction
Language proficiency impacts clinical training quality
Free or low-cost language apps for practice
Local integration programs often include language support
Structure and Duration of Medical Studies
Medical education in Austria follows a six-year integrated program combining theory, research, and clinical practice.
Total duration: 6 years (12 semesters)
Split into pre-clinical (3 years) and clinical (3 years)
Includes internships and bedside teaching
EU-compliant medical curriculum
Taught at university hospitals and clinics
Final year is practical (“clinical year”)
No Bachelor-Master split (single-cycle degree)
Graduates receive Dr. med. univ. title
Thesis or research project required
Opportunities for study abroad via Erasmus+
Residency and Postgraduate Opportunities
After graduation, students can either begin working as junior doctors or pursue residency training in Austria or other EU countries.
Apply for medical license (Approbation)
Must complete residency (Turnusausbildung)
Residency length: 3–6 years depending on specialty
Competitive placement process
Salary for residents: €45,000–€55,000 annually
Medical license valid across the EU
Postgraduate programs offered in English
Options to specialize or work immediately
Research pathways available
Hospitals often recruit graduates directly
Living in Austria as a Medical Student
Austria is known for its high standard of living, efficient public services, and scenic beauty, making it a welcoming place for students.
Safe cities with low crime rates
Efficient public transport
Rich cultural scene (museums, music, festivals)
Affordable student housing
Excellent healthcare system
Many part-time job opportunities
Strong student support services
International student communities
Green spaces and outdoor activities
Balanced work-study lifestyle
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study medicine in Austria in English?
Most medical programs are taught in German, but a few pre-med or health science programs may offer English instruction.
Conclusion
Studying medicine in Austria offers a unique blend of academic excellence, affordability, and cultural richness. It’s a smart move for students aiming for a successful medical career in Europe.
