Federal Ministry of Science and Research (BMWF) - Ernst Mach Grant for studying at an Austrian university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule)

Ernst Mach Grant for an Austrian university of applied sciences

You will receive 1,300 EUR per month for a study period of 4 to 10 months at an Austrian university of applied sciences (a practice-oriented higher education institution). The scholarship covers one or two exchange semesters, but not a full degree programme, and cannot be extended. It is paid out by the OeAD, the Austrian Education Agency, on behalf of the Austrian Ministry of Science. Please allow for additional costs that may not be covered by the scholarship: health insurance, rent of over 300 EUR per month, visa fees and travel expenses.

Who can apply

• Where you study now: You are enrolled at a university outside Europe.
• Where you go: You are undertaking an exchange semester or a guest semester at an Austrian university of applied sciences, not at a standard state university.
• Level: You are a Bachelor’s or Master’s student. Bachelor’s students must have completed at least 4 semesters by the time of application.
• Age: You are 35 or younger.
• Acceptance first: You have already received written confirmation, prior to submitting your application, that the university of applied sciences will accept you as an exchange student or ‘free mover’.
• Course load: You are taking a course worth at least 16 ECTS credits in Austria, and your home university has confirmed in writing that these will count towards your degree.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply. However, you must not already be living permanently in Austria or have completed the majority of your education there.

How to apply

First, secure a place at an Austrian university of applied sciences. You should then apply online via the OeAD scholarship portal between October and 1 February, between 23 and 59 (CET). External experts from your field of study will review each valid application; a selection panel will make the decision, and you will receive the result by email around the beginning of July. There is no interview.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding scheme is very narrowly defined: you must be from a non-European higher education institution, already be admitted to a university of applied sciences, and be 35 or younger. Consequently, the pool of applicants is smaller than for open scholarships. If you clearly meet these requirements and secure your exchange place well in advance, your chances are good. Selection is based on an academic assessment of your application documents; therefore, a clear and complete application is more important than a polished interview.