The full-scale war not only destroyed schools and universities, but also changed the fate of thousands of applicants. Due to the deaths of students and teachers, the destruction of infrastructure, air raids, the occupation of parts of the territories, and power outages, more and more Ukrainian schoolchildren and students are choosing to study abroad. And the most popular destination has become Austria.
Scholarships instead of explosions
According to the educational company “Look Wider”, in 2024 the number of applications from Ukrainians for admission to foreign universities increased by 30% compared to the previous year. Austrian universities are particularly popular - demand there increased by as much as 45%.
“In 2023, we received 6,600 requests, and in 2024, 8,500,” says the company’s CEO, Oleksandra Kovalska.
Austria has become an educational magnet for good reason: free tuition at public universities, lower living costs compared to other EU countries, and relative proximity to Ukraine make this country attractive to students.
Growth statistics
According to the Austrian Statistical Office, from 2021 to 2024, the number of Ukrainian students in this country increased from 2,077 to 3,324 people — by 60%.
Year after year:
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2021/2022 — 2077 students
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2022/2023 — 2,652 students
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2023/2024 — 3324 students
This is a clear indicator of how much the war has influenced the choices of young people.
English-language programs for Ukrainians
Austrian universities quickly adapted to the new realities. Many of them launched English-language programs specifically targeted at Ukrainian applicants. Among the most popular are the University of Vienna, Graz University of Technology, Vienna University of Economics, University of Innsbruck, Webster, and others.
Will the graduates return?
The question that worries many is whether students will return after completing their studies. Dmytro Vyhovsky, founder of “Look Wider,” claims that his team is already working on a program to return young professionals to Ukraine. It involves cooperation with Ukrainian business to create real jobs.
Admission schedule
There are clear deadlines for those wishing to enter Austrian universities:
Winter semester
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Submission of documents: March – July
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Exams: June – August
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Enrollment: until September 5
Summer semester
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Submission of documents: November – January
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Enrollment: until February 5
Entrance exams are held only in the summer.
Educational emigration has become another form of salvation for Ukrainian youth. And at the same time, it is a new challenge for the country, which must not only retain talents, but also create conditions for them to want to return.
