7 Best Research Universities in Austria for International Students

Austria has long been known as a center of academic excellence in Europe. The country is home to world-class higher education institutions renowned for their high-quality research and innovation.

If you’re considering pursuing your studies in Austria, you’ll discover a number of universities with strong research traditions and state-of-the-art research facilities. Here are seven of the best research universities in Austria that continue to lead in various academic and scientific fields.

Fast, secure, and affordable online money transfers from Indonesia to Austria

1. University of Vienna

The University of Vienna is the oldest university in the German-speaking world and one of Austria’s most prominent research institutions. Founded in 1365, it has a rich academic history of nearly 800 years. The university hosts over 45,000 active students and 7,000 academic staff, all contributing to diverse areas of research.

According to the AD Scientific Index, the University of Vienna ranks #1 in Austria, with 95 scientists among the top 3% globally and 284 scientists among the top 10% worldwide. The university’s research excellence is reflected through 178 innovative degree programs and more than 300 academic partnerships across Europe via the ERASMUS program, enabling students to gain international research experience.

See Also: How to Open a Bank Account in Austria for Foreigners (Step-by-Step Guide)

2. Medical University of Vienna

The Medical University of Vienna is the largest medical organization in Austria and one of Europe’s leading biomedical research institutions. It originated from the former Faculty of Medicine of the University of Vienna, established in 1365. Today, with nearly 8,600 students and over 6,500 employees, it offers exceptional research facilities through 30 university clinics and 12 medical theory centers.

The university applies a “triple-track strategy”, integrating research, education, and patient care simultaneously.
It is consistently ranked among the top 50 medical universities in the world. Based on the AD Scientific Index, the Medical University of Vienna ranks #2 in Austria, with 74 scientists in the top 3% globally.

See Also: How to Send Money from PayPal to a Bank Account

3. University of Innsbruck

The University of Innsbruck, founded in 1669, has a long-standing reputation for research and teaching excellence. As the third-oldest university in Austria, it comprises 16 faculties and several interdisciplinary research centers dedicated to high-impact research.

The university ranks #350 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and #3 in Austria according to the AD Scientific Index. Its research priorities include Physics, Molecular Biosciences, Scientific Computing, and Mountain Research.

Thanks to its extensive international partnerships, students and researchers benefit from global collaboration opportunities. Located in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck offers a unique setting for environmental and alpine studies.

See Also: How to Send Money Abroad Without a Bank Account

4. Graz University of Technology (TU Graz)

Graz University of Technology, or TU Graz, is a public research institution founded in 1811 by Archduke John of Austria. It is the oldest science and technology research university in Austria and ranks #427 in the QS World University Rankings 2026. TU Graz is also among the world’s top 200 universities in mechanical engineering.

Research at TU Graz spans from fundamental studies to applied industrial projects. Its five “Fields of Expertise” focus on key areas that shape the future of science and technology. The university offers 19 bachelor’s and 36 master’s programs, including 20 English-taught master’s degrees, making it highly attractive for international students.

See Also: How to Open a Bank Account in United States

5. Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU)

Though relatively young, founded in 1966, Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) has rapidly grown into one of Austria’s leading institutions in science, business, and academia.

With around 24,000 students and 3,000 staff members, JKU is the largest educational and research institution in Upper Austria. The 90-hectare campus hosts three main faculties:

• Social Sciences, Economics, and Business,
• Engineering and Natural Sciences, and
• Law.

JKU is also the only university in Austria offering a multimedia diploma program in Law, and its Faculty of Medicine, established in 2014, provides degrees in Human Medicine.

See Also: How to Open a Bank Account in Mali: A Complete Guide for Foreigners

6. Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien)

The Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) is the largest technical university in Austria, known for its cutting-edge research and innovation. Founded in 1815 as the Imperial-Royal Polytechnical Institute, it became the first technical university in the German-speaking region.

TU Wien houses eight faculties, covering classic engineering disciplines such as Mathematics, Physics, Civil Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. It is internationally recognized for its advanced research facilities and strong partnerships with innovative industries, making it a hub for technology and engineering development.

See Also: How to Open a Bank Account in South Africa (for Expats & Foreigners)

7. University of Graz

The University of Graz is Austria’s second-oldest and one of its largest universities, carrying the motto “Working for the Future.” Its research focuses on sustainability, climate change, and biosciences, addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.

The university offers over 120 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, joint degree programs, and summer schools. With partnerships with more than 500 institutions worldwide, it provides an internationally oriented learning and research environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.

See Also: How to Open a Bank Account in Ghana: Complete Guide for Expats

Austria’s top universities offer world-class research environments, international collaboration, and innovative academic programs. Whether you’re pursuing medicine, engineering, law, or environmental studies, studying in Austria will give you access to globally recognized research facilities and diverse academic opportunities.

If you’re looking for a country that blends academic excellence, cultural richness, and research innovation, Austria stands out as one of Europe’s best destinations for higher education.

Download Transfez App

Transfez App can help you transfer money abroad more quickly and efficiently. Jack Finance can also help your business in making transactions abroad. For those of you who want to send money to relatives who are abroad because they are studying, working, or traveling, Transfez will be ready to help. This app is available on Android as well as iOS.