Studienbeihilfenbehörde - Childcare cost subsidy

Childcare cost subsidy

You get up to 150 EUR per month for each child to help pay for childcare while you study. The subsidy covers part of your actual costs: fees for a nursery, creche, childminder or after-school care, plus related meal and activity contributions. It is paid once per semester after you prove what you spent. The money comes from Austria's student aid authority (Studienbeihilfenbehorde). It is separate from your regular study grant.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are an ordinary student at a recognised Austrian university or college.
• Grant link: You already receive Austrian study aid (Studienbeihilfe) or a degree-completion grant (Studienabschluss-Stipendium). Without one of these, you cannot get this subsidy.
• Timing: You are at least in your third semester. The subsidy is not paid for the first two semesters.
• Your children: You have your own children living in your household.
• Paid care: A paid childcare service looks after your children. Free, private care does not count.

How to apply

You apply after each semester using form SB 11a, sent to your local student aid office (Stipendienstelle) by post or in person. Your childcare provider must confirm your costs on the form. There is no fixed yearly deadline, but you must apply no later than the end of the semester following your last semester of study aid. You reapply for every semester.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a targeted top-up, not a competitive scholarship. If you already receive Austrian study aid, have your own children in paid care and are past your second semester, you meet the conditions. There is no legal entitlement, but a complete application with proof of your actual costs is normally what decides it. Keep your receipts and apply promptly after each semester.