5 best private schools in Vienna 2024

Private schools in Vienna include English-speaking and German-speaking schools, since German is one of the state languages, there are also French schools.

Private schools in Vienna offer a wide range of subjects, a diverse curriculum with teaching in many languages, including traditional English, German, French, and Swedish, Indonesian and Portuguese. Children study basic subjects, as well as theater, computer science and fine arts.

Below the main advantages of studying in English schools in Vienna are provided:

• Austrian secondary education is recognized prestigious in TOP universities and leading companies all over the world.
• Vienna is a safe city with a high standard of living, excellent ecology and friendly locals. Study and life take place in a comfortable environment, and the adaptation process takes a very short time.
• There are several prestigious universities in Vienna, which are among the world's top universities, where the international students can successfully continue studies after graduation.
• The foreign students can enroll in local universities right after high school: this is a great advantage and the main difference between Austria and other European countries, in which the main requirement for applicants is to complete a two-year educational course.
• A significant part of academic programs involves basic education in English with the study of German as a foreign language.
• Leading academic programs from all over the world are available in primary schools in Vienna. In addition to classical Austrian education, you can get a certificate of British, American, German, Swiss and other directions here.

Private schools in Vienna are chosen by parents and students seeking a more challenging curriculum. These institutions are renowned for their intellectually stimulating environments, where education is the cornerstone of all activities. Key features include small class sizes, highly qualified teachers, and enhanced interaction between students and educators, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized educational experience.

Viennese private schools are recognized for providing academic qualifications respected globally. Vienna's dynamic, diverse society offers international students a unique cultural experience, making it an excellent gateway to prestigious universities worldwide.

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.

The cost for a semester at a private school in Vienna typically starts from 14,000 euros per trimester, inclusive of accommodation, meals, and educational materials.

One of the top private schools in Vienna is Amadeus International School Vienna American International School Salzburg AISS, where fees begin at 46,640€/year. This unique co-educational and boarding institution is an IB World School with an integrated Academy of Music and Arts, creating a vibrant international student community. The school offers International Baccalaureate programs (PYP, MYP, and DP) for grades 1-12 and an early development program for ages 3-5. With an average class size of 18-20 students, Amadeus emphasizes exploratory learning, critical thinking, and a range of extracurricular activities.

The Austrian education system, including private schools in Vienna, provides comprehensive development at primary, secondary, and senior levels. Students explore a wide array of subjects, including:

• Mathematics

• Languages (German, English, Latin, Greek, Modern languages)

• Music

• Visual Arts

• Business Studies

• Religious Education

• Electives

• Computer Science

• Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

• Geography

• History

• Philosophy

• Social Studies

• Business and Economics

After completing their final grade, students undertake a centralized final test, essential for university admissions.

US High School Diploma and Advanced Placement Programs

US-based programs like the High School Diploma and Advanced Placement are highly regarded, recognized by numerous global institutions. These rigorous programs include multiple languages, general subjects, and electives. Advanced Placement courses require accumulating credits across various subjects.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

The IB, established in the 1960s, is a prestigious program combining academic rigor with social involvement and research. It is well-recognized by top universities around the world.

The enrollment process typically involves:

• Application submission in English.

• Providing essential documents: passport scan, digital photo, past report cards, recommendations, residence permit copy.

• Assessment, with English and mathematics exams for secondary level entrants.

• Payment of a registration fee of approximately 300 euros, also applicable for waitlist inclusion.