Study Abroad Programs in Austria

I had a fantastic time on my semester abroad in Vienna, Budapest, and Belgrade. Based in Vienna, the program took us deep into the heart of European politics, democracy, and diplomatic institutions. Through excellent guest lecturers and site visits, we were introduced to the complexity of Europe. Vienna is a hub of international happenings and a city soaked in history, art, and culture. Staying with a host family was an amazing opportunity to get local knowledge and practice cross-cultural skills. From Vienna, we traveled to Budapest and Belgrade. Through cultural outings, academic discussions, and political events, our knowledge was challenged, changed, and cultivated during the excursions. During the ISP period, I was able to dive deep into the politics of Vienna by exploring the democratic implications of it's excellent public space infrastructure. For anyone interested in international relations, European politics, diplomacy, or democracy, I would highly recommend the program.

I thikn the most worthwhile is when all of us go through things togther and work together the last two days to finish our final project. I think it is a great idea to put a big final projectd combined both art and graphic design

While I have had the opportunity to study abroad in multiple countries, through multiple different programs, AIFS Salzburg is by far the best program/experience I have ever had the pleasure of being apart of. From on site personnel, to the immersive experiences, AIFS Salzburg has not only provided me with the best abroad experience, but given me the tools and resources to continue to grow and navigate the globe. I am forever grateful for having had the opportunity and privilege to be apart of such an amazing and inspiring experience.

An exceptionally well-designed program through which participants gain valuable experience in sustainable construction. The practical project, site visits, and discussions with experts are particularly valuable. The international environment adds a special charm to everyday activities as well as to enjoying life in Vienna.

When I decided I wanted to go abroad, I was nervous about a lot of things. First off, I was scared that when I went abroad I would have to settle for a location I did not want to be in because I needed my credits to transfer over. Luckily AIFS had a program in a wonderful city with a bunch of classes that would transfer back to my home university super well. When I chose this program, I was overjoyed but nervous about living in a homestay. When I got there I was happily surprised to find that my host family was amazing and provided me with an experience I would not have been able to have if I had been in a dorm/apt. The people that I met in the program were some of the coolest people I have ever known and am happy to call them my friends to this day. If you are looking for a great program in Paris where you have the freedom to meet new people, travel, and find yourself in a new place, I would 100% recommend this to you!

I studied abroad in Salzburg, Austria this past summer 2025. In comparison to many other program providers, AIFS has a ton of amazing choices for shorter length programs like summer and January term. Summer term was a great option for me because my major requires several important classes during the term on campus. From before departure through my time in Salzburg our program coordinators and instructors were amazing! They were so helpful, easy to work with, and excited to help us build connections and experience Salzburg. My program offered dorm-style housing which was a great way to meet people in program as well as other international students. The Salzburg program had a ton of awesome excursions scheduled for us which ranged from a baking class to taking a weekend trip to Vienna! I improved my language skills by getting involved in a German speaking community, gained more confidence solo traveling, and developed my communication skills by building relationships with some great friends I made and some members of the Salzburg community. I would recommend this program to any students who are looking for a program that has a good balance of structure and free time. I would also recommend this specific program to students in humanities majors. I'm a History Major with a Minor in Art History so I especially enjoyed the Austrian Folk Art and Folk Customs class where we got to visit a bunch of amazing museums!

Recently, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Vienna with IES Abroad this past spring semester of college. At first, I was a bit skeptical - everything was happening so quickly. I was adjusting to a new environment, meeting new people (and repeating the same introduction over and over), and on top of that, beginning to learn a new language - German. As the semester progressed, I became increasingly grateful to be in Vienna. I met so many wonderful people, many of whom I still stay in touch with, and gained a fresh perspective on many aspects of life. The IES staff were incredibly supportive and fun, and I genuinely enjoyed most of my courses. One of the highlights of my experience was how much I was able to travel, far more than I could have back at my home university. I would absolutely recommend Vienna as a study abroad destination.

From the immersive courses to simulations of country negotiations, I enjoyed every bit of it. learning the history of finance was equally eye-opening, and looking into sustainable systems that are currently working and resolving challenges of sustainability or impact-driven cooperation.

I had the honour to be a part of the Green.Building.Solutions. Summer University in Vienna last year. For three weeks, international students from all around the world came together for a joint study program in Vienna. The program offered a variety of activities, including lectures at the TU Vienna and the BOKU, panel discussions, excursions and evening events. The students' accommodation was located in the beautiful 2nd district, near the Prater (a huge and very beautiful park), in a very lively neighbourhood with many bars, restaurants and coffee shops. After the first two weeks of the program, the students would work on their own projects in groups that were afterwards presented in a beautiful setting at the TU. The project work was supported by architecture professors from TU and various practitioners from different fields who supported the groups with their specific knowledge. All in all, I can only recommend the GBS! We built a wonderful, international community, the staff was very sweet and supportive and the practical work was interesting and productive. Plus, Vienna in summer offers great activities for many different interests and is definitely worth the visit.

I had an incredible experience with the Summer University at GBS. The program fosters critical thinking through outstanding lecturers who cover highly relevant, future-oriented topics. One of the most enriching aspects was the opportunity to connect with people from around the world and gaining insights into how different countries approach the same global challenges in different ways. On top of that, I made friendships across borders that I truly cherish. It was an unique and unforgettable experience that I wouldn’t have wanted to miss!

I could see from the beginning that it will be a very good experience., starting with my application (very precise, detailed and useful information) and the pre-summer school period. There was always someone there to answer my questions, offer support, find solutions to the problems that came up or even remind me of the deadlines. And most of all, there was so much understanding when there were delays from my part. Everything offered in the summer school was useful to me. The experience itself was rich. First of all, there was the location - Vienna is such a beautiful city, noone should miss it! Then there was everything that was made available for us, as a group - all the presentations, workshops, excursions, educational, cultural and leisurely activities. The teaching methods were something that I, for one, have never experienced before. The organizing team did a really good job. It was like a feast. I only wish I could have gone without sleep, in order to make use even more of everything that was just laid out for us... and of course, I wish it lasted longer!

Participating in the Green Building Summer School in Austria was an incredible experience. I had the chance to connect with students and academics from around the world, expanding my network in meaningful ways. Being immersed in Viennese culture - commuting like a local, discovering hidden gems, and learning in such a vibrant city made the experience even more rewarding. The program offered a rich look at both current practices and future innovations in green and sustainable building, and I left feeling inspired and energized. I would highly recommend this program to any students interested in making the built environment a more sustainable place

The best study abroad program I have done till now - unlike many other programs it was perfectly organised - all the information was delivered to us in advance, lots of activities planned for the students. The courses and lectures were extremely informative, perfect for someone who wants to get to know all the aspects of the environment and green building. I recommend it to all my friends!

Participating in the Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems (AEMS) program in Vienna was an incredible experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in a truly global environment, surrounded by brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds, all eager to explore innovative economic and sustainability concepts. One of the most rewarding aspects of AEMS was the opportunity to connect with participants from all over the world. These connections went beyond networking—they fostered meaningful exchanges of ideas, cultural perspectives, and lifelong friendships. The collaborative spirit of the program created an inspiring atmosphere where discussions about alternative economic models were not just theoretical but practical and applicable to real-world challenges. The content of the program was equally impactful. The sessions, led by experts and academics, provided deep insights into sustainable economic systems, monetary reform, and climate-friendly policies. What made AEMS unique was its emphasis on how we can apply these concepts in different contexts, making the knowledge gained not just valuable but also actionable. Overall, AEMS Vienna was an enriching experience that broadened my perspective and reinforced my commitment to sustainable economic solutions. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of alternative economic systems while building a global network of like-minded individuals.

I was thrilled to be part of this amazing experience in the summer of 2017 after being awarded a partial scholarship. I had one of the most memorable times of my life and still reminisce from some of the moments I had with people from all over the world. I enjoyed the group sessions we had (the disagreements as well, LOL!), the sightseeing activities and the bonding we had. Looking forward to visiting Austria some time soon and maybe dropping by the summer school. I am forever grateful for this experience and looking forward to connecting with some of my colleagues some time in the future.

I had an amazing time abroad in Vienna! The IES staff are so resourceful, and the people I met have been incredible. The professors are great, and there were so many opportunities for different activities outside the classroom in our free time.

My semester abroad in Granada, Spain was absolutely unforgettable. I decided to stay with a host family and I lived in their home with another student in the same program. Living with a roommate, we became really close friends. My host family was so kind and welcoming, they included us in everything they did. I learned so much Spanish culture and tradition from spending time with the family. The school was called Center of Modern Languages and I had a mixture of Spanish and Business classes. I loved speaking Spanish in class and getting to know other students. AIFS provided a level placement test at the beginning of the semester so that everyone found courses that were appropriate for their knowledge of Spanish. The classes were very fun and I enjoyed going to class. The AIFS program excursions were some of the best experiences/trips that I went on. I was blown away by the Morocco trip as well as the Seville/Córdoba/Gibraltar weekend. The trips were well planned, affordable, and allowed for free time to explore with friends. I made so many connections with locals, got to experience once in a lifetime activities like riding camels next to the ocean, and tried amazing foods. The program application process was hassle-free and the program advisors in Granada are so helpful. I would often visit their office and just chat with them or ask their advice on where to visit on the weekend. They organized cooking classes, art classes, sporting events, and cultural activities like a flamenco show. Granada is such a wonderful city. It is very walkable and the people are very friendly. There are endless tapas bars in the city where you get free food with each drink purchase. I made friends with lots of locals and other students from across the US. I attended exchange club meetings where you get drinks and tapas, and you chat in whatever language you are trying to learn with people from around the world. AIFS did a wonderful job providing opportunities for all of the students in the program to get to know each other. I made a close-knit group of friends and we spent so much time together. I am so thankful for having met them thanks to AIFS. We even visited each other once we arrived back in the US! I would highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to experience Spain on a more personal scale compared to bigger cities. I think Granada is the most beautiful city, and the Alhambra is a must-see!

My time in Vienna through IES Abroad was the most influential experience I had in my college career. I had the opportunity to meet life-long friends, explore new cities, immerse myself in new cultures, and take courses that challenged my worldview and helped me grow into a more compassionate and well-rounded individual. The people I met in Vienna are some of my closest friends. Our time traveling together cemented a bond that I will cherish forever. IES: Vienna also sponsors trips and provides information to aid students in traveling both in Austria and across Europe. IES: Vienna provides a space for its students to take academically rigorous courses that are designed to interact with the city of Vienna itself. My classes took trips to museums, parks, churches, and monuments to explore Vienese history and culture. IES guided us every step of the way through pre-departure, our time abroad, and as we transitioned back home. I would recommend the program to anyone looking to study abroad!

As someone who's studied abroad multiple times, I was beyond excited to participate in a program closer to home! Initially, I wanted to come out of the experience with a little bit better Serbian, and some new friends and experiences! Upon completing the program, I realized I got those and much more! During my three and a half months in Serbia, I had an incredible host family and gained relationships I hope to foster for life. My favorite part of the program was its internship component, which allowed me to connect with the local culture more by interning at a local organization that perfectly fits into what I want to do in the future!

I participated in this program during the spring 2024 semester. I had never been to Europe prior to the program, and was unfamiliar with the Balkan region aside from some historical context. During the program I gained invaluable perspective on the region and Europe, experienced the culture first-hand through day-to-day life and my host family, and made lifelong friendships. I really enjoyed the excursion aspect of the program where we got to visit other countries and learn comparatively. I would recommend this program to any student interested in expanding their studies internationally and eager to step outside their comfort zone!