Language Programs in Austria

You can’t go wrong when choosing a city to learn languages in Austria. It all boils down to what type of atmosphere you prefer. Speaking of boiled, don’t forget to try the tafelspitz, a boiled beef dish originating here that dates back to 1836!

Kitzbuhel. Kitzbuhel is a popular location for language schools in Austria. Because of its medieval appearance and feel, this ski resort town is both a desirable place to visit or stay for a while. Walk down the cobblestone streets at your leisure—cars aren’t allowed to drive in the town center! Kitzbuhel offers a unique mix of Austrian culture with its quaint, yet energetic, atmosphere. 

Vienna. Austria’s capital and largest city, Vienna offers an adventure of a much different variety for language learning abroad in Austria. Known for its palaces, cathedrals, art galleries, museums, and music, this center for Austrian culture has everything you need to fully submerge yourself and learn languages in Austria. Imagine spending your morning in a cozy coffee shop in the midtown while brushing up on your language studies. After you’ve enjoyed a nice apfelstrudel or sachertorte, visit a palace in the afternoon, and take in an opera in the evening.

You have chosen your location, so now it is time to decide what language to study. When in Austria, however, it is pretty much a no brainer to study German. 

German. Austrian German is the official language of Austria, however it is not usually spoken today.  Instead, Austro-Bavarian German/Alemannic German is most commonly used, which is a combination of Austrian German dialect and Standard German. When you hear Austrian German as it is spoken in Austria, you will notice a different dialect that is more pleasing to the ears than traditional German you would hear in Germany. Learning these language skills is an added advantage for successful integration.

English. Although English language classes might not be the first language of choice, it can be a good option for foreign students taking language courses in Austria. Think, Masters Programs. Those students are typically multi-lingual and interested in challenging language learning experiences out of their comfort zones. But this is really no different that you deciding to study German in a country other than Germany! Let’s face it, language learning abroad in Austria will give you an edge above everyone else back home taking language classes from their local schools.

The most popular types of intensive language programs in Austria include university and private language schools. 

University programs are often geared more towards students who want to learn in a more traditional atmosphere, while at the same time completing other studies. Many students interested in language learning abroad in Austria attend universities and are likely pursuing a higher education or enrolled in a Master’s Degree program.

Language schools in Austria are typically combined with culture immersion programs and will give you a more one on one experience in a more relaxed atmosphere than a university setting. This type of language program is more intensive and focuses on immersion into the culture, where the language is actually spoken. These programs can include activities such as volunteering, interning, living in a homestay, and participating in cultural excursions in addition to taking language classes.

The benefits of learning a language abroad are priceless. Not only will your openness and flexibility to embracing new ideas be increased, but you will gain a cross culture understanding while learning a new language where the language is actually spoken. All of this combined will be a huge self confidence boost and will make you more attractive to future employers, not to mention the amazing stories you will have to share with your peeps back home. They’ll be envious!

An insider tip to life in Austria for language learners is do yourself a favor and do not, I repeat, do not, mistakenly call someone from Austria a German. Although they speak a form of the German language they are Austrians and proud of their distinct heritage. It is sort of like comparing Canadians with Americans, or apples with orange. They are similar in some ways but they are one of a kind when you get to know them on their home turf.