Austria is located in the heart of Europe. It shares borders with Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, and Switzerland. Austria is a member state of the European Union and is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning alpine landscapes, and high quality of life.

Austria offers excellent higher education with a strong reputation in fields like science, engineering, music, and the arts. Public universities are very affordable, even for international students from outside the EU. Tuition fees are relatively low compared to many other Western countries.

Student life in Austria is also budget-friendly. Students benefit from discounted public transportation, reduced museum and event tickets, and subsidized meal plans. A hot meal at a university canteen can cost as little as €3–4, and student housing is often available starting around €300-400 per month, depending on the city.