4 best boarding schools in Vienna 2024

Despite the fact that there are more than 600 private schools in Austria, only about 10% of children study there. One of the main reasons for this is the high cost, especially against the background of free education in public educational institutions.

Depending on the chosen program, the schools in Vienna are divided in several types: religious, Waldorf schools, Montessori schools, and international, which are extremely popular among the foreign students. In the boarding school in Vienna the students are studying and living there during academic year.

There are many British, French and American international schools in Vienna that follow the educational programs of these countries. In English schools, children can get GCSE and A-Levels certifivates, in American schools – SAT and AP. The gold standard for international schools is the International Baccalaureate (IB), so most schools offer studying in this program.

Vienna's boarding education is renowned across Europe for its quality. Designed for students aged 6 to 18, these institutions emphasize personal development and career guidance, following Austria's ethos of preparing youth for professional and personal success. The curriculum is broad, encompassing languages, mathematics, and sciences.

Stages of Education at Viennese Boarding Institutions

• Primary Stage: Grades 1-4 for ages 6-10.

• Middle Stage: Grades 5-8 for ages 10-14, including junior classes in higher secondary or gymnasium settings (Allgemeinbildende höhere Schule - AHS).

• Higher Secondary Stage: Grades 9-12 for ages 14-18, with a mandatory 9th grade.

Entry assessments at Viennese institutions ensure a customized educational experience, focusing on the child's development level and German language skills.

Tailored Education and Career Guidance

In Vienna, educational pathways are aligned with students' interests and academic capabilities, especially in the pivotal 4th grade. The transition from primary to secondary levels is designed to maximize each student’s potential. Options include comprehensive and academic secondary paths, suited to varied academic goals.

Academic institutions specialize in areas like grammar, natural sciences, and economics, covering grades 8-12. Students have options to shift to vocational or technical paths after the 8th grade, preparing them for university and professional careers. Progression to higher grades and university typically involves the Matura exam, assessing proficiency in German.

Internationally recognized, Viennese boarding institutions provide elite education, blending rigorous academics with comfortable living environments and a diverse student body. While German is the primary instructional language, international curricula in English are available, with German as a secondary language.

The facilities boast comprehensive infrastructures, from digital connectivity to sports amenities, promoting a well-rounded educational experience. Students engage in various extracurricular activities, ensuring comprehensive personal growth.

Paul McLean

Director of AIS-Salzburg since 1995

If we talk about the rankings of Austrian boarding schools, by what criteria are they compiled? How much can they be trusted today?

There are few international boarding schools in the country, so if they participate in the rankings, then in international ones, on a par with boarding schools in Europe, Great Britain and North America (mainly with English-speaking schools). Criteria may differ depending on the program offered: college preparation, athlete course, etc. Most parents turn to international schools to provide their children with a global learning experience and prepare them for university entrance in any desired country in the world. Let me start with the general criteria that are used when ranking programs, and then move on to more specific features.

For international learners, the price for a term in Vienna's premier boarding institutions generally starts at 13,000 euros per trimester, inclusive of living accommodations, meals, and educational resources. This investment affords a top-tier educational and nurturing environment, preparing students for global opportunities.

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