Scholarships for international students interested in Austria?

I'm considering studying in Austria and wanted to know if there are scholarships specifically for international students. Are these opportunities through the universities or external organizations, and how competitive are they?

Yes, there are indeed several scholarships for international students looking to study in Austria. These opportunities can either come directly from the universities or from external organizations. Typically, scholarship competitiveness can vary based on the particular program or school.

The Austrian government offers scholarships through organizations like the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research. The Ernst Mach Grant for studying at an Austrian University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) and the Ernst Mach Follow-up Grant are examples of such scholarships. These scholarships are generally open to students from all countries, with amounts varying between each.

As for competitiveness, it heavily depends on the specifics of the scholarship. Generally speaking, scholarships that cover a significant portion (or all) of tuition and provide a stipend will be more competitive. Typically, factors such as academic performance, skills related to your chosen field of study, and even language proficiency (especially in German, as some programs may have language proficiency requirements) can be deciding factors.

When applying for scholarships, it's highly recommended to start early, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements, and tailor your application materials to each scholarship—this shows you took the time to understand what the scholarship committee values and increases your chances of being selected.

Remember to always verify the specific details and deadlines for every scholarship you're interested in. Things change, and every scholarship has its own unique application process and set of requirements.