October 26, 2024 - Nicolas
The Bachelor of Business and Economics (BBE) at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) is one of Austria’s most sought-after programs. With a slim acceptance rate of just 7%, only around 1 in 14 applicants secure a spot, making competition fierce. So, if you’re aiming to land one of these coveted seats, it’s essential to understand what influences your ranking in WU’s selection process—and, most importantly, how you can prepare to stand out.
Instead of scrambling to find alternatives or waiting for a second chance, why not start preparing for the BBE entrance exam? Let’s dive into how the selection process works today, debunk a few myths, and explore how you can maximize your score. Ready to step up your preparation?
In the past, students faced an application process that involved submitting motivation letters, where applicants could display their enthusiasm and language skills. While this gave students a chance to showcase their passion for the program, it was also highly subjective, leading to potential inconsistencies. To create a more objective selection procedure, WU has now simplified the process, leaving your ranking to two critical factors: the Online Self-Assessment (OSA) and your score on the BBE entrance exam.
Today’s Selection Process focuses solely on measuring knowledge and aptitude through objective assessments. So let’s break down each part to help you understand how to maximize your ranking.
The OSA is divided into two parts: graded and ungraded:
While your score on the OSA doesn’t directly impact your overall ranking in the exam, it plays a vital role if you end up with the same score as other applicants. Given the thousands of applicants each year, many students do score similarly. Here’s where a strong OSA performance can set you apart and possibly secure your spot in the program. Although WU suggests that high school knowledge should be enough for the OSA, it definitely helps to prepare thoroughly. By starting with a structured BBE entrance exam preparation, you’ll build your foundation across all topics, giving you an edge that could make a difference in getting accepted or not.
The BBE entrance exam is the single most important factor in your selection. It’s designed to measure your understanding of fundamental concepts necessary for success in the BBE program, including key topics from economics, math, and English. For a detailed overview of the contents contained in the BBE entrance exam, you can refer to this page. With so many applicants each year, a top score here can catapult you up the ranking list.
The good news? We offer a Free BBE Entrance Exam Preparation Course that dives deep into these subjects, equipping you with the tools to master the material and feel confident on exam day. Early preparation is invaluable, and a well-planned study approach ensures you’re set to make the most of this opportunity.
Imagine this scenario: each year, about 3,360 students apply for the Bachelor of Business and Economics program at WU Vienna, but only the top 240 spots are available. Let’s say the first 239 spots go smoothly to the top-scoring students. But for spot 240, two applicants are tied—they both scored exactly 89% on the entrance exam. While one finished the exam quickly in just two hours, the other took all the available time, double-checking answers.
Does finishing faster help in this case? Not at all. The time you take doesn’t affect your ranking. So, WU Vienna looks to the next determining factor: the Online Self-Assessment (OSA) score. One student had prepared thoroughly using the BBE Insider materials and scored an impressive 95% on the OSA, while the other, who tackled it tired and distracted after a long day, scored 82%. Even though they performed equally on the entrance exam, that extra preparation paid off. The student with the higher OSA score (95%) secures spot 240 and is admitted, while the other student lands at spot 241—just outside the acceptance cut-off.
This example shows just how crucial the OSA can be, even as a secondary ranking factor. Take it seriously, and give yourself every advantage by preparing well.
Like any competitive process, rumors abound. Let’s clear up a few common myths:
Myth: There’s a Maximum Quota for Foreign Students.
It’s a common misconception that a certain number of spots in the BBE program are reserved specifically for Austrian students, which could limit opportunities for international applicants. This is simply not true! The BBE selection process is completely merit-based, giving everyone, regardless of nationality, an equal chance to secure a spot based solely on performance.
However, it’s true that a significant number of Austrian students do well in the process, often due to the country’s high education standards. That’s one reason we created BBE Insider: we believe everyone deserves the same chances to access top-notch education. Our exam preparation materials are designed to empower ambitious students from around the world, giving you all the tools you need to succeed in the BBE Entrance Exam. Use them well, and you’ll be ready to stand out!
Myth: Specific backgrounds or countries of origin have an advantage.
No applicant receives preferential treatment based on where they come from. Your acceptance is determined solely by your performance in the selection process, so your success depends only on your knowledge and skills.
The BBE selection procedure may be competitive, but early and consistent preparation can make a difference. Even though WU doesn’t require prior preparation for the OSA, starting your BBE prep journey now will allow you to develop a deep understanding of the materials and approach exam day with confidence.
If you’re ready to boost your chances, check out our Free BBE Entrance Exam Preparation Course. It's designed to guide you through all necessary subjects, build long-term understanding, and keep you ahead of the competition. Ready to get started?
