Studying in Austria: Recommendations for reform

It has long been evident that many students in Austria do not complete their degrees within the standard duration. To address this, the FORWIT working group on Studying in Austria, established at the end of 2024, has thoroughly examined the framework conditions for higher education to determine how efficient study at Austrian institutions can be enabled. The findings and conclusions are now presented in a recommendation to the federal government.

“Our analyses indicate an urgent need for action in two closely interconnected problem areas: first, the unsatisfactory number of graduates combined with low social mobility; and second, inefficiencies in the study process, such as long study durations or high dropout rates—particularly in the university sector,” explains Thomas Henzinger, Chair of FORWIT. “This not only affects individual educational trajectories but also weakens the country’s capacity for innovation, labour market flexibility, social cohesion, and democratic resilience.”

The Council’s recommendation comprises ten actionable options addressing critical aspects such as study choice, planning reliability, commitment, and affordability, while also concerning the higher education system as a whole.

The right study choice: Early orientation and widening participation

“The right study choice must be supported as early as possible in school.”
Jörg Flecker

Mandatory educational and career orientation from lower secondary level (Sekundarstufe I) should continuously support young people in developing their interests and competencies. A virtual toolbox for advisors and online self-assessments can reduce information gaps and improve study choice. “The right study choice must be supported as early as possible in school, or at the latest during the study entry and orientation phase,” says Jörg Flecker, a member of the working group.

To widen participation in higher education, FORWIT recommends reforming study eligibility requirements. In addition to the Matura (A-level equivalent) as the primary access route, alternative pathways should be created for high-potential individuals with non-grammar school backgrounds. During the study entry phase, a cross-disciplinary onboarding process should provide clear information on performance requirements, alternative study options, and career prospects. A particular focus should be on improving gender equality, especially in STEM subjects, through targeted support measures such as mentoring and cohort-based learning.

Planning reliability: A modern organisation for commitment and success

A modern study organisation—featuring evidence-based curricula, transparent study progression recommendations, and more intensive support—should shorten study durations and reduce dropout rates. Flexible study models, such as part-time study, can facilitate higher education access for individuals with diverse educational backgrounds while increasing commitment for both students and universities.

A reform of study law and examination regulations should make study progression reliably plannable. Crucially, commitment should be fostered primarily through positive incentives and supportive structures. Promoting learning cohorts can help counteract the anonymity of mass higher education. “The goal must be to make completing a bachelor’s degree within the standard duration the norm for as many students as possible,” emphasises Henzinger.

Affordability: Increasing equity, reducing structural barriers

The affordability of completing a bachelor’s degree within the standard duration must be guaranteed for all students who pursue their studies purposefully, without the need for extensive part-time work.

“The investments are offset by increased efficiency in the higher education system and positive economic and societal effects.”
Jörg Flecker.

A socially balanced study grant should relieve students from low-income households and reduce structural barriers. To expand eligibility, income thresholds for study grants should be adjusted. A state-guaranteed student loan for those just above the grant threshold, along with completion scholarships, can reduce the need for employment that delays studies. “The necessary investments are offset by increased efficiency in the higher education system and positive economic and societal effects,” notes Flecker.

Development of the Higher Education System: Strategic Expansion and Internationalisation

“The strategic development of the higher education system requires coordinated collaboration among all higher education sectors.”
Thomas Henzinger

The increase in graduate numbers should be accompanied by an expansion of university of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) capacities, while preserving the distinction between universities and Fachhochschulen through clearly defined profiles. The expansion of study places must be evidence-based and aligned with societal transformation processes. “The strategic development of the higher education system requires coordinated collaboration among all higher education sectors. Political guidelines and systemic requirements must be aligned,” says Henzinger.

Internationalisation is a central lever for competitiveness. A forward-looking strategy should support the targeted recruitment, integration, and long-term retention of international talent in the Austrian labour market. Tiered tuition fees could include a retention incentive, with repayments tied to graduates remaining in Austria’s job market.

Study Conditions in the Context of the Higher Education Strategy 2040

“We urge the federal government to incorporate this recommendation directly into the Higher Education Strategy 2040 process.”
Thomas Henzinger

“The recommendation now submitted to the federal government contains the results and conclusions of extensive research, analysis, and international comparisons,” explains Henzinger. The timing—coinciding with the development of the Higher Education Strategy 2040—is, in his view, a fortunate alignment. “To effectively utilise our findings, we urge the federal government to incorporate this recommendation directly into the Higher Education Strategy 2040 process.”

Against the backdrop of current discussions on the future of Austrian higher education, the recommendation provides a complementary and essential perspective on the framework conditions for study and teaching.