October 26, 2024 - Nicolas
The Bachelor of Business and Economics (BBE) program at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) is highly sought after. With an acceptance rate of just about 7%, it is arguably the most popular economics or business-related bachelor’s program in Vienna. This means that only around 1 out of 14 applicants are accepted. If you find yourself among the majority who are not accepted, you might be on the lookout for alternative programs. This blog post will outline other English-taught undergraduate programs in business-related fields available in Austria, which you might consider instead of WU BBE. However, I suggest you don’t waste your time looking for alternatives and instead start studying for the entrance exam. You might want to check out our guide on “How to Prepare for the BBE Entrance Exam 2025.” If you're curious about how you can greatly increase your chances of being accepted, this guide is the logical next step in your preparation process.
WU Vienna is a world-famous business university, renowned for its highly engaging programs, supportive environment, and beautiful campus. However, exploring alternatives is crucial for students passionate about studying in Vienna but unable to secure a spot in WU Vienna's sought-after programs. Austria offers several excellent English-taught undergraduate programs that can serve as suitable alternatives. A year of 'doing nothing' definitely does not contribute to future success, even if it might seem convenient in the short term. Therefore, having a “plan B university” is beneficial, even if it requires certain sacrifices. Remember, you might spend a year at your “plan B university” and then transfer to WU Vienna. It is generally possible to transfer credits between universities, provided they fit the study program’s syllabus.
The greatest differences between universities often arise due to their type. Private universities not only charge high tuition fees each semester but also impose other fees, such as registration fees, which can amount to several hundred to a thousand euros. Be aware that the range of available courses is typically smaller at private universities due to their smaller size, providing fewer options compared to public universities. Furthermore, some universities are known as universities of applied sciences, which typically have different learning methodologies and course structures. Many students describe a “high school-like” atmosphere at universities of applied sciences, mainly due to smaller class sizes and largely predefined timetables.
When exploring university options in Austria, it's essential to highlight the differences between public and private institutions. Public universities like WU Vienna are quite affordable, with EU/EEA students paying nothing for their first eight semesters (thus typically nothing for their degree) and non-EU students paying €726.72 per semester. This makes public universities a high-quality and cost-effective choice for many.
On the flip side, private universities tend to have very high tuition fees. For example, Webster Vienna Private University charges €11,739 per semester for all students, regardless of nationality. However, private universities often offer smaller class sizes, more engagement with professors, and a more personal experience (the lecturers may recognize when you are missing!), providing a more tailored educational experience.
The quality of education can vary across public and private institutions, however, it’s definitely not true that private universities offer higher quality education across the board. What matters more is the reputation and accreditation of the university. A highly reputed university can be beneficial for your future career as employers often recognize and prefer candidates who have excelled at well-known institutions. WU Vienna holds the prestigious and rare "triple accreditation" from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA, placing it among an elite group of fewer than 1% of business schools worldwide to have earned all three quality seals, a distinction shared by only 72 institutions globally. Using online rankings and checking for accreditations can help you make a solid decision. It is also good to know that there is no evidence that students from private universities are more in demand in the job market compared to those from public universities.
Although tuition fees are one of many ways to save taxes while studying, opting for a public university in Austria can result in significant cost savings over the course of your studies. They have significantly lower tuition fees, and many offer reduced rates for disadvantaged groups or scholarships for high-performing students. These financial benefits can accumulate substantially over a typical three-year bachelor's program, potentially saving students and their parents tens of thousands of euros. This money could be invested in activities like traveling or a semester abroad, an invaluable opportunity to stand out among peers and gain unique experiences.
Besides tuition fees, all students in Austria are required to pay the "ÖH-Beitrag," the student union contribution, which is €24.70 per semester regardless of nationality. This minimal fee supports student services and representation, ensuring a supportive educational environment.
Understanding the difference between universities and universities of applied sciences can help you make a more informed decision. Universities like WU Vienna and the University of Klagenfurt focus heavily on theoretical knowledge and research. These institutions often have larger campuses and a broader range of programs, allowing students to choose niche subjects of their interest and to become experts in those. WU Vienna, for example, is renowned for its extensive research facilities and international network, providing students with numerous opportunities for academic and professional growth.
On the other hand, universities of applied sciences, such as Fachhochschule des BFI Wien and Lauder Business School, emphasize practical skills and industry connections. These institutions often have smaller class sizes and a curriculum designed to directly prepare students for specific career paths. For instance, Fachhochschule des BFI Wien offers a program in European Business: Languages, Management, International Excellence, which integrates language skills with business management education. Generally, universities of applied sciences provide a more classroom-like feeling with predefined schedules, while universities offer the flexibility to sign up for courses as they fit your schedule.
Studying in Austria offers numerous advantages beyond affordable education. The country boasts a high quality of life, a vast offer of affordable student housing, and a safe, welcoming environment for international students. Did you know that Vienna was ranked as the most livable city multiple times in the last decade? Austrian universities also provide excellent public services and support systems to ensure a fulfilling student experience.
While the Bachelor of Business and Economics (BBE) program at WU Vienna is an excellent choice at Austria’s most renowned business university, it’s not the only path to a successful career in business, economics, finance, or related fields. Austria offers a variety of high-quality, English-taught programs that cater to different interests and career goals. Exploring these alternatives can help you find a program that fits your aspirations and provides a fulfilling university experience.
However, my goal is to help you get into your dream study program, which is probably the Bachelor of Business and Economics when you navigate on this website. I hope to see you in our completely free BBE preparation course (which is also suitable to prepare for similar study programs), and on the campus one day!
