AUSTRIA · LINZ
Johannes Kepler University Linz
public · Founded 1962 · Languages: de, en
In short
Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is a public research university in Upper Austria offering a wide range of programs in social sciences, economics, law, engineering, natural sciences, and medicine. It is known for its pioneering degrees and strong research links with industry.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1962
- Students
- 24,000
- International students
- 3,500
- Acceptance rate
- 75%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–8k/yr
- Languages
- DE, EN
- Location
- Linz, Austria
Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is a public research university in Linz, Upper Austria, established in 1962. With approximately 24,000 students, it is the only university in Upper Austria and covers social sciences, economics, law, engineering, natural sciences, and medicine on a compact campus. JKU pioneered Austria's first Computer Science and Mechatronics degrees and is a recognised centre for AI, polymer chemistry, and bioinformatics research.
Why study here
- Benefit from a strong emphasis on research and innovation, with direct links to industry through the JKU Technology Transfer GmbH and spin-off support.
- Be part of a campus university that offers most facilities and services in one compact location, fostering a vibrant student environment.
- Access pioneering academic programmes, such as being the first in Austria to offer a Computer Science degree and a programme in Mechatronics.
- Receive dedicated support as an international student, with various scholarships and an International Welcome Center.
- Explore diverse fields of study including social sciences, economics, law, engineering, natural sciences, and medicine.
Student life
Johannes Kepler University Linz offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of services designed to support students. The university has a comprehensive library and learning center, IT services including Wi-Fi access, and facilities for copying and scanning. For students with children, 'Kidsversity' provides flexible childcare services, including year-round and summer programs, with a pedagogical concept focused on individual child development and self-reliance. The campus features various buildings, including lecture halls, research facilities, and student residences. Beyond academics, JKU hosts numerous events for entertainment and social engagement. Support is also available through the 'Hausdienst' for various campus-related needs.
Fees
InternationalNon-EU/EEA international students typically pay a tuition contribution of approximately €1,500–€8,000 per year depending on programme and prior qualifications. Some master's programmes, especially executive education, carry higher fees.
HomeAustrian and EU/EEA students pay the standard Austrian student union fee (ÖH) of approximately €23 per semester plus a tuition contribution of €363.36/semester if applicable (based on credit regulations).
LivingLinz is one of Austria's most affordable cities. Monthly living costs are approximately €700–€1,000 including student housing, food, local transport, and personal expenses.
MOREclassic and Borealis-MORE scholarships (€110–€360/month) are available for refugee and displaced students. Tuition for regular EU students is often waived subject to standard study duration rules.
Admissions
Matura or equivalentAustrian Matura or recognised equivalent secondary leaving certificate for bachelor entry
Bachelor's degreeRecognised first degree for master's programmes; some require specific subject background
TranscriptsOfficial transcripts with certified translation into German or English
Language proficiencyGerman for German-taught programmes; English for English-taught master's
Specific entry examsMedicine (MedAT) and some other programmes require aptitude tests
IELTS6.0
TOEFL iBT80
Cambridge C1 AdvancedPass
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025473
University scholarships
Study Abroad Scholarship (Go Abroad)Varies — for JKU students studying at partner institutions
Merit Scholarship (Federal Ministry)Awarded for completing degree within standard time with GPA 2.0+
MOREclassic / Borealis-MORE Scholarship€110–€360/month for eligible refugee and displaced students
IRIS FISCHLMAYR AwardRecognition award for outstanding Master's or PhD thesis with diversity dimension
JKU Study GrantsFor diploma/master's theses or dissertations deserving financial support
Accreditation
JKU is accredited by the Austrian Accreditation Council (AQ Austria). The Graduate School of Management (LIMAK) holds additional quality seals. Research journals are indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.
Programs
a selectionJohannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor of Business Administration (BSc)
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BSc) program at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) provides a comprehensive foundation in business administration, equipping you with essential knowledge and practical skills for a successful career in the corporate world. The program focuses on developing your entrepreneurial thinking and action, with a significant emphasis on digitalization and its impact on businesses. You will gain a solid understanding of strategic decision-making, financial management, and operational processes, preparing you to navigate the complexities of the modern business environment.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Johannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education (General Education)
Become a teacher in your favorite subjects with the Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education (General Education) program. This program allows you to combine two teaching subjects or one teaching subject with the specialization "Inclusive Pedagogy." Upon completion, you will be qualified to teach in various school types, including general higher education schools (AHS), vocational schools (Middle or Higher), secondary schools (Mittelschulen), polytechnic schools (PTS), and special needs schools. The program is offered in cooperation between the Upper Austria and Salzburg locations. You can continue your studies with a Master's program in Secondary Education at the Linz campus. The program structure includes an introductory and orientation phase (StEOP) at the beginning, with specific courses that must be completed before you can register for further modules.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
96 mo
Duration
Johannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming our world, from self-driving cars to intelligent assistants. The Bachelor's program in Artificial Intelligence at JKU offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of this digital revolution. This program is designed for those who want to actively shape the future by understanding and developing machine learning algorithms and intelligent decision-making systems. JKU is a recognized hub for AI research, and this degree is one of the first of its kind in Europe, providing an international perspective. You will gain a solid foundation in mathematics and computer science, specializing in core AI areas. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and prepares you for immediate entry into the job market or for further study in a Master's program. The program aims to equip you with the skills to approach complex problems systematically and develop innovative solutions.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Johannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor's Degree in Artificial Intelligence
The Bachelor's degree program in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) prepares you to be at the forefront of the digital revolution. This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to shape the future by understanding how machines learn and developing the algorithms for intelligent decision-making. As one of Europe's first academic programs in AI, JKU offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise in a rapidly evolving and highly sought-after field. The program is taught in English and provides a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, and core AI concepts, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Johannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor's Degree in Biological Chemistry
The Bachelor's degree program in Biological Chemistry is a unique, multidisciplinary program offered jointly by Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) in Austria and the University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice (CZ). This program allows you to explore the fundamental building blocks of life by delving into the terminology and principles of both biology and chemistry. You will develop a solution-oriented approach to understanding biological processes through a strong foundation in chemistry and hands-on laboratory experience. All courses are taught in English, providing an immersive international learning environment. Graduates are well-prepared for the job market or for further Master's studies in STEM fields.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Johannes Kepler University Linz · Austria
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
This Bachelor's degree program in Computer Science at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) offers a comprehensive education across the entire spectrum of information and communication technology. You will gain a deep understanding of modern technologies, including algorithms, artificial intelligence, virtual worlds, and secure networks. The program balances theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing you to be an innovator in this rapidly evolving field. JKU, a pioneer in computer science education in Austria, provides a strong academic environment with experienced professors dedicated to delivering world-class education.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Austria
full fundingInstitute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) and the NOMIS Foundation
NOMIS-ISTA Fellowship
Open to early-career researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD or expect to obtain one within 8 months of the deadline, have a strong interest in interdisciplinary research, ideally have some postdoctoral experience, can begin the fellowship within 6 months of selection, and have not previously been employed at ISTA. Each project must be co-supervised by two ISTA faculty members from different disciplines, with the option to add an external co-supervisor.
full
Funding
€76k
Max
Sep 18, 2026
Deadline
full fundingVienna BioCenter (VBC)
Vienna International Postdoctoral Program (VIP2)
Open to researchers of all nationalities who hold a PhD in life sciences or a related field (physics, engineering, chemistry, computer science, mathematics) and have at least one first-author publication or a preprint on bioRxiv or arXiv. Applicants must satisfy the Marie Curie transnational mobility rule: they may not have resided or worked in Austria for more than 12 months in the three years before the call deadline.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Jun 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingVienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna)
ViCAS Fellowship at WU Vienna
Open to final-year PhD students and early-career researchers who earned (or will earn) a PhD in 2021 or later, with a research focus on experimental or behavioral economics. Applicants must be able to reside in Vienna for the full 12-month residency. Open to candidates of all nationalities, including EU and non-EU researchers.
full
Funding
€42k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingTU Wien (Vienna University of Technology)
Helmut Veith Stipend for Female Master's Students in Computer Science at TU Wien
Open to female students of any nationality who hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Mathematics (Bologna first cycle) or an equivalent qualification, and who meet the admission requirements for one of TU Wien's English-taught Master's programmes in computer science. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English (e.g. TOEFL or equivalent), show extensive knowledge of and interest in at least one of Helmut Veith's research areas - formal methods and verification, logic in computer science, foundations of artificial intelligence, computer security or complexity theory - and commit to residing in Austria for the duration of the Master's studies. Two referees who can provide letters of recommendation must be named.
full
Funding
€14k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingOeAD – Austria's Agency for Education and Internationalisation
OeAD Ernst Mach Grant (Austria)
For students and researchers from eligible countries who wish to study or conduct research in Austria, via several sub-programmes (including the worldwide and developing-country tracks). Eligibility, age limits, and host requirements depend on the specific Ernst Mach sub-programme; applications are made through the OeAD grant platform.
full
Funding
€14k
Max
Mar 1, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU)?
+
Non-EU/EEA international students typically pay a tuition contribution of approximately €1,500–€8,000 per year, depending on the program and prior qualifications. Some master's programs, especially executive education, may have higher fees.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Linz?
+
Linz is considered one of Austria's more affordable cities. Monthly living expenses, including student housing, food, local transport, and personal expenses, are estimated to be around €700–€1,000.
What academic fields does Johannes Kepler University Linz offer?
+
JKU covers a broad range of disciplines, including social sciences, economics, law, engineering, natural sciences, and medicine.
What makes JKU's academic programs unique?
+
JKU pioneered Austria's first degrees in Computer Science and Mechatronics and is recognized for its research in AI, polymer chemistry, and bioinformatics.
What support is available for international students at JKU?
+
JKU provides dedicated support for international students, including an International Welcome Center and various scholarship opportunities.
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