Study Abroad in Vienna
College Study Abroad
Explore Vienna with CIEE
Study abroad in Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital, where European heritage and a modern, innovation-focused atmosphere seamlessly blend. Historic cafés and grand palaces like Schönbrunn sit alongside a growing startup and research scene shaping Europe’s future, while Baroque architecture, world-class museums, and a vibrant arts and music culture showcase the city’s rich history and creativity. Spend your days exploring renowned cultural institutions, attending concerts in the city of Mozart and Strauss, or relaxing in picturesque public squares and parks. As one of Europe’s most beautiful, livable, and international capitals, Vienna study abroad offers an inspiring mix of culture, innovation, and everyday discovery.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Vienna designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, the arts, international studies, STEM, and social sciences. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as the arts, communications, business administration, finance, hospitality, and marketing, gaining valuable international work experience in the heart of Europe. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Vienna study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing the culture, history, and global perspective that make this city truly unique.
Top Activities in Vienna with CIEE
Every CIEE Vienna study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Vienna, excursions may include:
- Taking guided tours of iconic landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, exploring the historic city center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or discovering vibrant neighborhoods filled with cafés, markets, and Habsburg-era and modern architecture
- Attending a classical music performance at the Musikverein or opera at the Vienna State Opera, experiencing Vienna’s world-renowned musical heritage firsthand
- Getting immersed in Vienna’s innovation scene by visiting startup hubs, touring cutting-edge research centers, or networking with entrepreneurs shaping the city’s future in tech and business
Academics in Vienna
CIEE Vienna
Study in a city renowned for its elegance, intellectual legacy, and creative excellence. Experience immersive academics alongside classical music, historic architecture, café culture, and a high quality of life that makes Vienna one of Europe’s most inspiring capitals.
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Vienna
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Vienna. Known for its structured, globally connected work environment, Vienna blends international business, culture, and sustainability to create a refined professional landscape at the heart of Europe. As a central European hub with a strong international outlook and exceptional quality of life, the city fosters collaboration, innovation, and long-term professional growth. Interning in Vienna offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while building meaningful connections across global industries. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Arts, Audio/Video Technology + Communications
- Business Management + Administration
- Finance
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Marketing, Sales + Service
- Transportation, Distribution + Logistics
Community Impact Initiative in Vienna
CIEE's Community Impact Iniative invites you to connect more deeply with your host city by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building meaningful relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to efforts that create lasting, positive change. Through these immersive, hands-on experiences, you’ll engage with your surroundings while supporting initiatives that matter most to your host community.
While in Vienna, your service work will align with broader initiatives focused on:
- Food Security
- Community Development + Public Health
- Youth Development + Education Initiatives
New Programs Coming in 2027
- Business + Culture
- Engineering, Technology + Sciences
- Open Campus Block
- Quarter in Vienna
- Semester Global Internship
- Semester in Vienna
- Semester Intern + Study Abroad
- Sustainable Smart Cities
Request Information
Pocket Guide to Vienna
Currency
Euro
Spoken Languages
Austrian German, English
Available Transportation
U-Bahn (subway), streetcars, buses, regional trains, bike-sharing network
Famous Local
Sigmund Freud – a pioneering figure in psychology known for founding psychoanalysis and shaping modern understandings of the human mind
Climate
Temperate continental climate with warm summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year
Local Attraction
The Prater – Vienna's largest public gardens and amusement park, including the famous giant Ferris wheel
Did you know?
The Prater – Vienna's largest public gardens and amusement park, including the famous giant Ferris wheel
Airport
Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Social Norms
Viennese culture values respectfulness, punctuality, and formality
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, umbrella, sport coat or blazer for cultural evenings
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Vienna is an incredible place to study abroad! With its mix of universities, international organizations, great coffee, and a buzzing arts scene, the city makes everyday life feel exciting and inspiring.
On a Vienna study abroad program, you can spend your mornings in class and your afternoons exploring world-class museums, grabbing coffee at a classic Viennese Kaffeehaus, or strolling through historic streets. Plus, Vienna’s central location makes it easy to hop on a train and explore more of Europe, so there’s always something new to discover.
Studying abroad in Vienna means living in a city that blends history, culture, and creativity at every turn. With world-class music and art in a historic setting, Vienna offers an inspiring backdrop for your studies.
You’ll take engaging courses and then bring these subjects to life exploring the city with your faculty and CIEE staff. Once the capital of a multicultural empire extending from the Alps in the west to Russia in the east, Vienna was the stage on which some of the most important events and ideas in European history played out. This history is visible and explorable today still.
As a tourist in any city, you’ll want to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Research the areas of Vienna you’ll be going to, ask friendly locals for their opinions, and learn basic German phrases in case of emergency. Stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid walking alone once it’s dark, and always use official transportation services.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
The cost of studying abroad in Vienna varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go abroad. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual Vienna study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Student life in Vienna is lively, social, and full of culture. You’ll balance classes with exploring the city – meeting friends at cafés, studying in beautiful libraries, and enjoying the city’s many parks and public spaces.
In your free time, you can visit museums, attend concerts, or experience Vienna’s famous coffeehouse scene. With a strong student presence and plenty to see and do, it’s easy to build a routine while still feeling like you’re discovering something new every day.
No, you don’t need to know German to study abroad in Vienna. CIEE courses are offered in English, and you’ll find that English is widely spoken throughout the city, especially in academic and student settings.
That said, learning a few basic German phrases – and even some Austrian dialect – will enhance your experience and help you connect more with local culture.
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships for studying abroad in Vienna. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Vienna to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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Safety at CIEE Vienna
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Vienna
CIEE Vienna offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Vienna housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.