Author: Dr. Qamar Ali Waince

Documents Verification

The verification process involves visiting the applicant’s home, union council, and other respective institutions to cross-check the authenticity of all the documents, including the birth certificate, police character certificate, and all educational transcripts and documents. This process may take around three months to complete. After the verification is positive, the embassy will invite the applicant for document legalization through email.

The cost of the documents verification application fee is 28,600 PKR, which is charged by the Austrian embassy in Pakistan. It’s important to note that the verification process is a crucial step in the application process and must be completed before proceeding with other formalities, such as documents legalization and visa application. By understanding the process and cost involved in document verification, you can better plan and budget for your study abroad journey in Austria.

For students intending to apply to master’s programs in Austria, they should get four documents legalized: their bachelor’s DMC (Transcript) and Degree, along with their Birth Certificate and Police Character Certificate. If applying for a Ph.D., they should also get their master’s Transcript and Degree legalized. In some cases, to determine eligibility, universities may require bachelor’s transcripts and degrees, so Ph.D. applicants are advised to get these documents legalized as well to avoid inconvenience.

Bachelor’s applicants will need to get their Matriculation and Intermediate documents legalized, which means they will require four documents in normal circumstances. For both Master’s and bachelor’s applicants, the total cost for getting their four documents legalized would be around 320 EUR. For Ph.D. applicants, the total cost would be around 480 EUR, as they will need to get six documents legalized.

Sending Documents to Austrian University

You may need to courier your documents to the university, which can be a costly affair. It’s recommended to use a reputable courier service to ensure your documents are delivered safely and on time. The cost of this service can vary depending on the size and weight of the package, as well as the courier service you choose. On average, it can cost around 10,000 PKR to send your documents to the university in Austria.

It’s important to plan ahead and budget for these costs to ensure a smooth application process. You can also consult with your university or an education consultant to get advice on the best courier services available and the most affordable options for sending your documents.

Booking of Accommodation in Austria

It is important to note that booking a student accommodation in Austria is becoming increasingly challenging due to the rising number of international students in the country. As a result, it is essential to begin your search for accommodation as early as possible, and to have a solid plan in place well in advance of your arrival. Many international students choose to live in shared apartments or flatshares, as this can be a more affordable option compared to renting a private studio or apartment.

The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. For example, accommodation in larger cities such as Vienna, Salzburg or Innsbruck can be more expensive than in smaller towns or rural areas. It is essential to consider your budget and living preferences when selecting an accommodation option.

In summary, securing accommodation as an international student in Austria can be challenging and expensive. It is important to begin your search early and consider your options carefully. By doing so, you can find an accommodation that meets your needs and allows you to make the most of your study abroad experience in Austria.

Travel Insurance

The cost of travel insurance for students in Pakistan is approximately 10,000 PKR, depending on the insurance company and the coverage required. It is recommended to compare different insurance plans and choose the one that meets the requirements of the Austrian government and your personal needs.

Air Ticket (One-Way)

Upon arrival in Austria, students will receive a Residence Permit in the form of a plastic card, similar to a credit card. This card serves as proof of legal stay in Austria and contains personal information, such as the student’s name, photo, date of birth, and duration of stay. It is important for students to keep this card with them at all times, as it may be required for various purposes, including travel within Austria or crossing international borders.

National Visa-D

It’s crucial for international students to obtain the National Visa-D to ensure a smooth and legal entry in Austria. Therefore, it’s highly recommended for students to complete the necessary paperwork and submit their application for the National Visa-D in a timely manner. Doing so will guarantee a hassle-free and successful start to their academic journey in Austria.

Tuition Fee

Upon arrival, students receive a student card from the admission department of the university. To activate the card, students need to validate it using the machines available in the department. This validation process requires payment of tuition fee through a bank card. It’s recommended to use a debit card for this purpose, as bank transfers may take several days and delay the enrollment process.

It’s also worth noting that the tuition fee varies depending on the type of university. For general public sector universities, the fee is 750 EUR, while for universities of applied sciences, it’s 363 euros per semester. However, private sector universities typically charge around 5000-6000 euros per semester.

Miscellaneous Expenses

In conclusion, studying in Austria can be a fulfilling experience, but it’s important to be aware of the expenses involved. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your study abroad journey. For more information on obtaining a residence permit as a student in Austria, please visit https://oead.at/en