Austria Strengthens Education Ties with India Through STEM Initiatives

By Ezra September 23, 2025
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Austria has announced a major expansion of its higher education collaboration with India, launching new STEM-focused initiatives aimed at boosting student mobility and research cooperation.

The partnership, unveiled by Austrian Ambassador to India Katharina Wieser and Armstrong Pame, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Education, brings together three leading Austrian universities – TU Wien, TU Graz and TU Leoben – in collaboration with VFS Education Services. The programme will enable eligible Indian students to pursue Master’s and select Bachelor’s degrees at subsidised tuition rates.

Ambassador Wieser highlighted Austria’s long-standing expertise in fields such as quantum mechanics, engineering, and artificial intelligence, noting that the country’s universities combine research excellence with close industry integration. She emphasised that Austria maintains “very moderate fees” while treating higher education as a public good, supported extensively by the state.

The initiative comes at a time when Austria faces a shortage of STEM graduates due to declining interest among European students. With India producing a vast pool of engineering talent, the collaboration is expected to benefit both countries. According to Wieser, “India offers the right match for our demographic needs and global collaboration goals.”

Indian enrolments in Austria will also be supported by VFS Education Services, which will manage applications, documentation, and pre-departure guidance. Students must hold a BE, BTech or BSc (Hons) from an ANABIN-recognised Indian institution and demonstrate English proficiency. Successful applicants will also gain a one-year post-study visa extension for international work experience.

Over 300 Master’s seats and 15 Bachelor’s seats will be available from 2026. Tuition fees are set at €726.72 per semester, plus a €25 student union fee, with students responsible for living and travel costs.

Austria already hosts students from more than 80 countries and ranks among Europe’s safest study destinations. With three-quarters of its programmes taught in English, the country aims to position itself as an attractive alternative to traditional English-speaking destinations now tightening immigration rules.

Source: INDIAN EXPRESS

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