German language requirement and the VWU preparation path
Most bachelor's programmes at public universities in Vienna are taught in German and generally require a C1 level to enrol. At the application stage, however, it is possible to start out with a lower level.
The application level differs from the enrolment level
An A2 or B1 level language certificate may be enough to apply to German-taught programmes; C1 is required to enrol and start classes. This gap is closed during the VWU (Vorstudienlehrgang) preparatory period.
How does VWU work?
A candidate who receives conditional admission to a programme enrolls in the preparatory course as directed by the university. The course length varies based on your current language level; some programmes also require supplementary exams (Ergänzungsprüfung).
- Enrolling in the preparatory period with a conditional admission letter
- Level test and a course plan based on your level
- Transition to the main programme once C1 is reached
English-taught alternatives
For applicants who do not want to take the German route, there are English-taught programmes available; for example, WU Wien's Business & Economics bachelor's programme is taught in English. The language proof and application calendar differ for these programmes.