Admissions Criteria

Bachelor's Degree

Bachelor's (Undergraduate) degree applicants should possess a completed secondary/high school degree, have good academic records (minimum grade point average or GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent in non-U.S. grading systems), and meet the minimum required English proficiency to be considered for admission.

Freshmen, students who enroll at Webster directly from high school or transfers in from another accredited university with less than one year of courses (less than 30 credits), are encouraged to start in the Fall or Spring semesters due to the required first-year semester courses and the sequencing of degree major courses.

Transfer students from another accredited college or university who have accumulated over 30 U.S. credit hours (60 ECTS) as transfer credits may enroll in any of our starting terms (including the optional Summer term) depending on the availability of the classes they need to continue their studies. Please make sure that your university is accredited by your country's Ministry of Education or has an official regional U.S. accreditation, otherwise, Webster will not be able to transfer any courses you have completed into your Webster degree record. All transfer credits go towards the U.S./American degree diploma (not the Austrian-accredited WVPU diploma).

Master's Degree

Master's (Graduate) degree applicants should possess a Bachelor degree from an accredited university. Additionally:

  • At least two years of relevant work experience are preferred for admission to the MBA program.

The university should be accredited by the Ministry of Education of the country it operates in and the applicant's academic record should show at least a minimum American grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Transcripts not showing grades using the American grade point average (GPA) will be converted by WVPU's Admissions Office. Due to our curriculum's thorough coverage of subject content, students interested in the MA in International Relations program are not required to have a corresponding Bachelor degree in that field.

Selection Process

Due to the diverse backgrounds of our student population, acceptance is determined by a variety of characteristics. Decisions are based on (but are not limited to) academic background, English proficiency, motivation, global perspectives, extracurricular involvement and strength of essay.

September, 2020

  1. Introduction

    WVPU aligns its admission regulations with that of its parent, Webster University, providing broad consistency of admission criteria across Webster University’s global network of campuses and extended sites. Application deadlines are posted on the website. Where they exist, limits on the maximum intake for any program are published on the website.

    General and program-specific admission regulations and procedures are specified in the General Admission Requirements for Undergraduate/Graduate Programs section of the respective study program regulation.

    The following are the general admission requirements for candidates seeking admission to one of Webster Vienna Private University’s (WVPU) accredited degree programs.

  2. General admission requirements for undergraduate programs

    The following are the general requirements that qualify candidates for admission to WVPU’s undergraduate study programs.

    1. Proof of completion (or expected completion) of secondary school diploma programs or examinations accredited nationally or international university preparatory program diplomas such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at schools authorized to implement this standardized program (See the Non-exhaustive list of nationally accredited qualifications as an example ).

      1. Minimum Secondary School Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 based on a 4-point scale or its converted equivalent in international educational systems.

    2. Proof of English language proficiency. All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of their English proficiency.

      1. Transcripts showing attendance for the previous four years at a secondary school taught in English, or

      2. The following tests suffice as proof of English efficiency:

        Table 1: English efficiency test scores, undergraduate degree programs

        Test Minimum Score
        TOEFL (iBT) 80
        IELTS Academic 6.0
        Password English Language Testing 53
        Pearson/PTE Academic 53
        iTEP 3.7
        ACT - composite score 23
        WAEC English Exam B3
        Cambridge Advanced Certificate (CAE only) A, B, C; 169
        International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) HL English A: 4; HL English B: 5; SL English A: 5; SL English B: 6
        GCE/A Level English exam B
        SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section 450
        GTEC (CBT Exam) 1201
    3. Documents to be submitted. All candidates must submit:
      1. An online application form (https://webster.ac.at/apply-now).
      2. A copy of the biographical page of the applicant’s valid passport.
      3. Secondary school transcript with courses, final grades/results from the last three school years, and graduation date. For applicants who are about to graduate, transcript of grades from the last school years may be considered for provisional admission.
      4. Certified English translations of all academic documents not issued in English.
      5. Proof of English language proficiency.
      6. One recommendation letter or completed recommendation form.
      7. Original essay/personal motivation statement in English of at least 300 words.
    4. An Admission Committee led by the Head of Admissions decides on the final admission to the study program once the candidate has submitted a complete application.
      1. The Admission Committee may be joined by representatives from the Office of the Director and the respective departments.
      2. The Admission Committee may request an interview (in person, online, or by telephone) with the applicant to be joined by the applicant’s program department head in order to clarify questions raised during the application process and to further check his/her knowledge of English.
      3. The Admission Committee may decide to provisionally admit students until official transcripts or other required documents have been delivered.
    5. Minors require the approval of a legal guardian.
    6. Transfer students must meet all the requirements listed above plus have minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or its equivalent from a nationally accredited higher educational institution.
      1. If attendance is at least one academic year, this requirement completely supersedes the requirement to present secondary school transcripts.

  3. General admission requirements for graduate programs

    The following are the general requirements that qualify candidates for admission to WVPU’s graduate study programs.

    1. Proof of completion (or expected completion) of a bachelor’s (Cycle 1, EQF Level VI) degree from a nationally accredited higher educational institution (See the Non-exhaustive list of nationally accredited qualifications for examples).
      1. Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA): 2.5 on a 4-point system or its equivalent in their accredited undergraduate or bachelor’s degree program.
    2. Proof of English language proficiency. All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of their English proficiency.
      1. Transcripts showing attendance for a bachelor degree taught in English, or

      2. The following tests suffice as proof of English efficiency:

        Table 2: English efficiency test scores, graduate degree programs

        Test Minimum Score
        TOEFL (iBT) 80
        - writing score 22
        IELTS Academic 6.5 (The Admissions Committee may accept candidates with an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 together with a positive outcome of a faculty interview to confirm English proficiency.)
        Password English Language Testing 65
        Pearson/PTE Academic 53
        iTEP 3.9
        Cambridge Advanced Certificate (CAE only) A, B; 176
        GTEC (CBT Exam) 1201

    3. Documents to be submitted. All candidates must submit:

      1. An online application form (https://webster.ac.at/apply-now).

      2. A copy of the biographical page of the applicant's valid passport.

      3. Complete bachelor's degree transcript with courses, final grades/results from all school years and graduation date (if applicable); for applicants who are about to graduate, transcript of grades may be considered for provisional admission.

      4. Certified English translations of all academic documents not issued in English.

      5. Proof of English language proficiency.

      6. One recommendation letter or completed recommendation form.

      7. Original application essay in English on a topic related to the degree program.

      8. Updated Curriculum Vitae/resume with work experience in English.

    4. Satisfactory interview with faculty/academic department head of the applicant’s degree program.

    5. An Admissions Committee led by the Head of Admissions decides on the final admission to the study program once the candidate has submitted a complete application.

      1. The Admission Committee may be joined by representatives from the Office of the Director and the respective departments.

      2. The Admission Committee may request further interviews (in person, online, or by telephone) with the applicant to be joined by the applicant’s program department head in order to clarify questions raised during the application process and to further check his/her knowledge of English.

      3. The Admission Committee may decide to provisionally admit students who require additional prerequisite courses.

      4. The Admission Committee may decide to provisionally admit students until they have completed an additional set of pre-requisite courses that will not count toward the applicant’s degree program.

    6. Transfer students must meet all the requirements listed above plus have minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or its equivalent from a nationally accredited higher educational institution.

      1. If attendance is at least one academic year, this requirement completely supersedes the requirement to present secondary school transcripts.

  • Appeal procedure

    In the event that an applicant is rejected admission to a program, the applicant may appeal the decision by requesting exceptional consideration in the form of a written letter to the Head of Admissions, who will discuss the matter with the respective academic department head, Associate Director, and Director. Applicants may be exceptionally admitted upon their unanimous approval.

  • Amending the admissions requirements

    Minimum admission requirements are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to change. Changes to those requirements can only be made by decision of the Executive Board following consultation with the University Senate and approval of the University Council and General Assembly.

September, 2020

  1. For admission into WVPU undergraduate programs:

    The following is a non-exhaustive list of nationally accredited secondary school qualifications that satisfy the requirement for proof of completion (or expected completion) of a secondary school diploma program or examination accredited nationally or international university preparatory program diploma such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP):

    Table 1: Nationally accredited secondary school qualifications

    Austria

    Matura Certificate or Reifezeugnis der Allgemeinbildenden höheren Schule / AHS (academic secondary school).

    Note: Berufsbildenden höheren Schule / BHS (secondary vocational school) ending with the Matura are not recognized within Webster University’ shared admissions equivalency database and therefore not included here.
    Albania Diplomë e Maturës Shtetërore represents attainment of a level of education comparable to completion of secondary school in the United States.
    Bosnia & Herzegovina Certificate (Svedočanstvo or Svjedočanstvo) or Diploma of Completion of Secondary Education.
    Bulgaria Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie or Diploma of Secondary Education which consists of a four-year program after completion of basic/primary education at the comprehensive (general secondary) schools.
    Croatia Svjedožba o Završnom Ispitu, Svjedožba o Završnom Srednjem Obrazovanju/ Svjedožba mature. The Maturity Certificate and Final Exam represent completion of 4 years of Gimnazija (gymnasium/secondary school) study, ages 14 – 18.
    Czech Republic Maturitni Vysvedceni [Maturity certificate] awarded after 8 years of gymnasium (admission after 5th year of basic school), ages 11 to 19.
    France Baccalauréat de ľEnseignement de Second Degré/Baccalauréat Général, 3-year upper-secondary program.
    Germany Zeugnis der allgemeinen Hochschulreife (Certificate of General Maturity for Higher Education), awarded after completion of 6 years of study at a Gymnasium.
    Greece Apolytirio Eniaiou Lykeiou (Upper Secondary School Certificate), awarded upon completion of 3 years of Upper Secondary School (9 + 3).
    Hungary Érettségi Bizonyítvány or Maturity Certificate, secondary-level credential awarded upon completion of a five-year program at an academic secondary school.
    Italy Diploma di Maturità/Diploma di Esame di Stato, Maturity Diploma / Diploma of State Examination; these generally represent completion of secondary school and passing of State examinations.
    Kazakhstan “Attestat” or attestation of middle (complete) secondary education, representing the completion of eleven years of primary/secondary education; it is the credential most commonly required for entrance into an institution of higher education.
    Romania Diploma de Bacalaureat [Baccalaureate diploma], secondary-level credential awarded upon completion of a four- to five-year program at an academic or vocational/technical secondary school.
    Russian Federation Attestat o srednem (polnom) obschem obrazovanii [Certificate of (Complete) General Secondary Education], awarded upon completion of 2 years of compulsory secondary education (preceded by 9 years of compulsory primary/middle school).
    Serbia Diploma Srednje Škole, Diploma of Acquired Secondary Education, awarded upon completion of 4 years of a general or vocational secondary school.
    Slovak Republic Vysvedčenie o Maturitnej Skúške / Maturitné Vysvedčenie or Certificate of Maturity Examination from a gymnasium.
    Ukraine Atestat, Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education or Matriculation Certificate. Upper secondary grades 10 and 11 are called “Complete Secondary Education”.
    United Kingdom

    General Certificate of Secondary Education Ordinary Level (GCE O-Level), awarded after completion of 5 years of secondary school and passing a national examination; General Certificate of Education Advanced Subsidiary Level (GCE AS-Level) awarded after completion of

    1 year of study and passing a national examination OR General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (GCE A-Level) awarded after completion of 2 years of upper secondary school and passing a national examination.

  2. For admission into WVPU graduate programs:

    The following is a non-exhaustive list of nationally accredited bachelor’s degree qualifications that satisfy requirement for the proof of completion (or expected completion) of a bachelor’s (Cycle 1, EQF Level VI) degree:

    Table 2: Nationally accredited bachelor's degree qualifications

    Austria Bachelor’s degree awarded after completion of 6 semesters (180 European Credit Transfer System/ECTS) at an accredited institution of higher learning.
    Albania Diplomë Bachelor (Bachelor Diploma)/ Diplomë të Nivelit të Parë [DNP], Bachelor Diploma/First-Cycle Diploma]; completion of the first cycle in the Bologna-based higher education structure in Albania, a minimum of 180 ECTS credits with normal duration of 3 years.
    Bosnia & Herzegovina Stručni Naziv Diplomirani in [field]), Diploma (Diploma) with Professional Title of Graduate in [field], awarded by a University Faculty, Academy or Higher School.
    Bulgaria Bakalavr, Bachelor, awarded upon the completion of four years of study.
    Croatia Diploma i Strucni Naziv, Diploma and professional title, Polytechnics, Schools of Professional Higher Education (visa skola, “higher schools,” not to be confused with high school), and Universities.
    Czech Republic Bakalar, Bakalar Umeni, Bachelor or Bachelor of Arts, awarded after 2 to 4 years of university studies.
    France Diplôme ďÉtudes Universitaires Générales (DEUG) from a university, other similar diplomas also awarded by profession.
    Germany Bakkalaureus (Bachelor); awarded after 3 – 4 years of university study preceded by 13 years of primary and secondary school.
    Greece Ptychio (Diploma), awarded upon completion of 4 years of undergraduate study (12 + 4).
    Hungary Alapkepzes/Alapfokozat (Bachelor), a 3 year First Cycle Bologna-compliant degree (180 ECTS).
    Italy Diploma Universitario (DU), University Diploma (old 1st cycle generally awarded in the fields of agriculture, health, technology, and economics; to be replaced by Laurea di 1° livello (L) or Level 1 Laureate (new 1st cycle), undergraduate studies seeking to guarantee students a command of general scientific methods and contents as well as specific professional skills.
    Kazakhstan Bakalavr, awarded by universities following four years of post-secondary university study.
    Romania Diplomă de absolvire, or Graduation diploma, postsecondary-level credential awarded upon completion of a three-year college program.
    Russian Federation Diploma of Bakalavr awarded by an academy, institute, or a university in conjunction with the State Attestation Commission following 4 years of undergraduate education.
    Serbia Diploma Višeg Obrazovanja, Higher National Diploma, awarded upon completion of a 2- or 3-year program at a više škole OR Diploma visokog obrazovanja, First University Diploma awarded upon completion of a 4-year first-level university program.
    Slovak Republic Bakalár, Bachelor's degree, awarded since 2002 following either 3 years (6 semesters and 180 ECTS) or 4 years (8 semesters and 240 ECTS) of post-secondary study.
    Ukraine Dyplom Bakalavra, Diploma of Bachelor, an academic and professional diploma generally awarded after 4 years of study.
    United Kingdom Foundation Degree (FdA, FdSc) awarded after completion of 2 years of study plus Diploma of Higher Education awarded after completion of 1 year of study, also Bachelor of: Arts, Science, Nursing, Midwifery, Engineering, Education, Science in Physiotherapy, Laws, etc.

Apply to Webster Vienna Private University

Application Process

It only takes a few simple steps to apply at Webster Vienna. Check out this video and learn how:

[Music]

[An illustration of a student sitting at a desk with a laptop, looking thoughtful. A thought bubble appears above their head with a stack of books.]

Thinking about your next step in your studies? Whether you're looking at a bachelor's or master's degree, it only takes a few simple steps to get you there.

[Webster University Vienna Private University logo]

Here at Webster Vienna, we offer year-round admissions, so you can apply and be provisionally accepted before you have graduated from high school or a university.

[The following steps are listed on a computer screen illustration:]

Create an account on our website and fill in our application form. You can provide your required documents by uploading or emailing them to the admissions office. Once we have reviewed your application and confirmed that you have met the criteria, you will receive an acceptance package. Sign and return your agreement to confirm your attendance.

[A hand draws an illustration of a classroom with a teacher and students.]

Your acceptance package will include guidance on everything from information on tuition fees, housing, and health insurance requirements.

[A hand points to a checklist on a clipboard.]

We will also provide you with instructions in case you require an Austrian entry visa or student residence permit.

[Split screen showing an admissions officer and the student talking on the phone.]

Once registration opens, you will be contacted again to sign up for classes. The final step is to move to Vienna.

[The student is shown at an airport check-in desk.]

Remember to bring your documents requested and outlined on your acceptance letter.

[A man and woman are shown smiling.]

We look forward to welcoming you at the new student orientation and seeing you on campus at Webster Vienna.

[webster.ac.at/apply-now]

Please refer to the table below to see our academic periods, start dates and deadlines.

Academic Year 2026-2027

** No scholarship applications possible; only limited places available in required classes

NOTE: All students must arrive on campus one week before the start date of the term, or "Week 0" for the New Student Orientation (NSO).
Dates and Deadlines Fall Semester 2026 Spring Semester 2027
First Day of Classes Webster US: Aug. 17, 2026  
WVPU: Sept. 14, 2026 WVPU: Feb. 8, 2027
End of Semester Exams Dec. 2026 May 2027
NON-EU/EEA Deadline March. 31, 2026 July 31, 2026
EU/EEA/AT Deadline **July 31, 2026 **Dec. 5, 2026

Apply as early as possible if:

  • You need an entry visa to come to Austria. The student visa and residence permit application process may take 4-6 months or longer depending on your country of residence.
  • You are interested in new student scholarships. Only students who have been officially admitted and meet the academic and financial criteria may apply for a scholarship. Send your application for admissions until April 30 (for the Fall semester) or Oct. 31 (for the Spring semester). Please check our scholarship page for information on scholarship application instructions, deadlines and supporting documents.

Webster Vienna Private University makes admissions decisions based on a review of several application documents to evaluate the likelihood of applicants' success in our degree programs. For this process, it is essential for us to have the official documentation of your prior educational records. Please be aware that we cannot make an admissions decision without all of the required documents.

Summary of the Application Steps

  • Read the information details of your intended degree and the tuition fees.
  • Check the application deadlines (see section above); make sure you apply for the correct semester.
  • Start and submit your online application form.
  • After submitting, please upload the required documents (see details below) on to your application.
  • Please email admissions@webster.ac.at when you have uploaded all of your admissions documents so they can be reviewed more promptly.

Details on Required Application Documents

  • A completed online application.
  • A copy of the biographical page of your valid passport.
  • Academic transcripts/records showing subjects and results of the past three (3) years with a copy of your secondary school diploma (if already available) — these may be emailed directly by your school (certified official copies or originals will be required for full acceptance). If you have taken International Baccalaureate Diploma exams, please send an email to transcripts.row@ibo.org to request access to your results for Webster Vienna and copy (CC) our Admissions Officers in that email. Certified English translations must be provided if these documents were issued in another language. For more information on how to submit these documents, please contact us.

Transfer students: please include all completed or your latest university/college academic transcripts. Syllabi may be requested for preliminary transfer credit evaluations. Please note the Austrian WVPU Diploma only allows for a limited number of transfer credits.

  • English proficiency test scores (see English Proficiency Testing in the next section for a list of acceptable tests and minimum scores).
  • Original applicant essay — should be a new, original work written by you specifically for this application. It should demonstrate your writing ability, good structure, correct grammar, diction and vocabulary. Your essay should be uploaded in your online application: essay topic suggestions and guidelines.
  • Letter of recommendation written and signed by a counselor or teacher/professor (on official school or organization letterhead).
  • Students of international or U.S. high schools: you may submit SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) scores. When requesting an official SAT score report to be sent to Webster Vienna, please provide our institution code: 9131. SAT scores are not required, but if available, can help support your application. The same institutional code may also be used when requesting AP score reports to Webster Vienna.

Admissions decisions will be communicated by email. If you are accepted, you will receive a complete acceptance package by email and upon request, by post. Please make sure to write your correct and complete postal address including your zip code, city and country etc., on the application form, including your phone number (for courier deliveries outside of Europe). This acceptance package will include important information and visa application forms, as needed.

You should write a brief essay (300–500 words) on a topic that means something to you.

Your essay has to be your own work, done without anybody’s help and without any external resources, specifically for this application.

If you are struggling to think of a topic, please feel free to use one of the suggestions below.

Topic I:

Write about your role model or a person you admire, and explain how you think Webster University could help you follow their example. If you do not have a specific role model, write about the qualities you hope to embody when you graduate from Webster.

Topic II:

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt compelled to question or challenge a belief or idea held by someone else? What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Topic III:

Describe a problem you would like to solve or a service you would like to provide. It can be an intellectual challenge, a response to an ethical dilemma, or something personal and every day: the scale is irrelevant. Explain its significance to you and what steps you would take to deliver an outcome.

Topic IV:

Describe an idea or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you, and how do you think it could influence the development of your personality?

Topic V:

Have you ever learned (or failed to learn!) something that completely changed your life? It can be something complex or something very simple. Describe what it was and how it changed you or your circumstances.

Topic VI:

Write about an object of artistic expression that you love — it can be a book, a painting, a play, a film, a song or album, a sculpture, architectural work, anything! Explain why you find it so special and how it has affected you. 

Webster Vienna Private University accepts several different internationally recognized English proficiency exams.

 

* Requires well-written applicant essay and additional interview with WVPU's Language Center
Test Minimum Score
TOEFL (iBT) 4.5 (equivalent to the old score: 80)
TOEFL (paper-based test) 550
IELTS Academic 6.0
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) A, B, C or 169
Password Skills Plus 6.0
Pearson/PTE Academic 53
iTEP 3.7
Integrated Skills in English (ISE) Exam ISE II - Distinction Level
Language Certificate International ESOL B2 High Pass
Skills for English Test (SELT) B2 Pass
Duolingo English Test (DET)* 110
All Other Tests Please check with the Admissions Office

How do I submit my English results to WVPU?

TOEFL (iBT): Please use WVPU’s institutional code 0547 to submit your official results via ETS.

IELTS Academic: We require a clear copy of your certificate with the TRF number uploaded to the online application portal.

Cambridge C1 Advanced: Please use the Results Service for Candidates to share your results with us.

Are there any other ways to prove English proficiency?

Webster offers several ways for students to qualify for a waiver of the requirement to prove English proficiency via ESL test scores.

What if I do not meet the minimum English proficiency score? (under the English proficiency tests table):

Academically qualified students who are not yet proficient in English and have slightly lower scores in the above tests may be granted conditional acceptance and be placed in our Intensive English for the Global Scholar Program for 1-2 semesters.

Test Minimum Score
WAEC English Exam B3
ACT 23
SAT (from April 2016) 450 in the evidence-based reading and writing
IB Diploma Exams HL English A — min. score of 4
HL English B — min. score of 5
SL English A — min. score of 5
SL English B — min. score of 6
IB Diploma Full IB Diploma officially certified
GCE A Levels English Language B or higher
GTEC (CBT Exam) 1201 or above: Exempt from ESL
Successful studies at an accredited English-medium institution in an approved country or at an approved institution Minimum of 3 years

For more information, contact the Admissions Office.

Application Deadlines for 2026-27

The intake for our graduate programs is only possible in the Fall Semester.

** Late processing: no more scholarships available!

NOTE: All students must arrive on campus one week before the start date of the term, or "Week 0" for the New Student Orientation (NSO).
Semester Fall Semester 2026
Start Date WVPU: Sept. 14, 2026
Non-EU/EEA Deadline March 31, 2026
EU/EEA/AT Deadline July 31, 2026

Please apply early if:

  • You need an entry visa to come to Austria. The student visa and residence permit application process may take 4-6 months or longer depending on your country of citizenship.
  • You are interested in new student scholarships. Send your application for admissions until April 30 (for the Fall Semester) or Oct. 31 (for the Spring Semester). Only students who have been officially admitted and meet the academic and financial criteria may apply for a scholarship. Please check our scholarship page to find more details including application instructions, deadlines and supporting documents.

Webster University makes admissions decisions based on the application documents to evaluate your likelihood to succeed in your studies. For this process, it is essential for us to have the official documentation of your prior educational records. Please be aware that we cannot make an admissions decision without all of the following documents.

Application Steps and Required Documents

  1. Read the information details of your intended degree.
  2. Check the application deadlines (see section above); make sure you apply for the correct semester.
  3. Start and submit your online admissions application.
  4. After submitting, upload the following required documents into your online application record):
    • Updated academic transcripts from all current or completed higher education programs (scan and upload as PDF files on to your online record first; official, original documentation may be submitted at the start of the semester. Note that official original records sent directly by your school are required for a full admissions decision and acceptance). For more information on how to submit these documents, please contact us.
    • English proficiency test scores (see English Proficiency Testing in the next section for a list of acceptable tests and minimum scores).
    • An essay (view essay topics).
    • A letter of recommendation.
    • Updated curriculum vitae (see special note below on MBA work requirements).
    • Copy of a valid passport.
  5. Email admissions@webster.ac.at when you have uploaded all of your documents so they can be reviewed more promptly.
  6. An in-person or virtual interview with the head of the academic department is required. Your admissions officer will help organize the interview.

Special Program-Specific Requirements

MBA: applicants are expected to have at least two years of full-time relevant work experience. Internship, volunteer work and leadership activities may also be considered if a candidate is short of the full-time work experience as long as they contribute meaningfully to the candidate's profile. While the university does not specify categories of expected work experience, applicants should elaborate on their work experience in their essay.

Admissions decisions will be communicated by email. If you are accepted, you will receive a complete acceptance package by email and upon request, by post. Please make sure to write your correct and complete postal address including your zip code, city and country etc., on the application form, including your phone number (for courier deliveries outside of Europe). This acceptance package will include important information and visa application forms, as needed.

Due to Austrian accreditation requirements, graduate students must complete one of the following courses depending on their desired degree:

  • International Relations and Security Studies students: 6000 Integrated Studies in their relevant field.
  • MBA students: BUSN 6140
  • A full graduate thesis (course code: 6250) worth 6 credit hours may be substituted for this requirement.

You are asked to write a brief essay (minimum 600 words), in Microsoft Word, with font Times New Roman, font size 12, spell-checked, on one of the topics listed below corresponding to the program you are applying to.

Your essay has to be your own work, done without anybody’s help and without any external resources.

MA in International Relations and Security Studies:

(Minimum 600 words)

Please select a major current event and discuss how it might shape the world in the next 10 years.

MBA

(Minimum 600 words)

In your essay, please describe your work experience in detail (work assignments, projects you worked on, accomplishments you achieved). Further explain how the MBA program fits your further career plans, i.e. how you expect it to contribute to your professional development.

Webster Vienna Private University accepts several different internationally recognized English proficiency exams.

International English Tests

  • TOEFL iBT: minimum overall score of 80, with minimum writing score of 22
  • TOEFL (paper-based test): minimum overall score of 550
  • IELTS Academic Test: minimum overall score of 6.5
  • Password Skills Plus: minimum overall score of 6.5
  • Pearson/PTE Academic: minimum score of 53
  • iTEP: minimum score of 3.9
  • Cambridge Advanced Certificate (CAE only): score A or B; minimum numerical score of 176
  • GTEC (CBT Exam): score of 1201 or above
  • Duolingo English Test (DET): 120 (with additional interview and well-written applicant essay)
  • All other tests: please check with the Admissions Office

English is waived when the applicant is a citizen of or has attended an accredited institution for at least three years in one of the following countries (applicants must submit high school transcripts for verification):

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • The Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Canada (except Quebec)
  • Dominica
  • Ghana
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Jamaica
  • New Zealand
  • St. Kitts and Nevis
  • St. Lucia
  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Canada
  • United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales)
  • United States of America

OR:
Completed at least one academic year of college-level coursework conducted in English at a regionally accredited U.S. institution of higher learning (ESL coursework does not qualify toward the one full-year exception).

For more information, contact the Admissions Office.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is it like to be part of the Webster Vienna community?

You will discover a supportive community and personalized educational experience at Webster Vienna. We have been sustaining a legacy of welcoming students from around the globe since opening our doors in 1981. Today, more than 60 nationalities are represented among our campus students and staff members. Whether you’re enrolling as a first-year student, a transfer student or a graduate student, WVPU provides a community environment that prioritizes your education. For a closer look at life in the Webster community, join us on TikTok and Instagram.

General and Campus Life

No. All degree programs at Webster Vienna Private University are taught entirely in English. WVPU was the first university in Austria to offer English-only degree programs and American-accredited degrees.

Webster Vienna Private University is located in the magnificent and historic Palais Wenkheim in Vienna’s 2nd district (Leopoldstadt). Situated in a popular neighborhood with easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, and housing options, this former palace was completely renovated to include state-of-the-art facilities while preserving its traditional historic features.

WVPU facilities in Palais Wenkheim include video and audio recording studios, a Mac lab, group project rooms, a neuroscience research lab, a piano room, a student lounge, and a library equipped with computer stations, printing services, and access to over 17,000 books, e-books and databases. On-campus support services include the Language Center, Student Resource Center, Career Services and Counseling Services.

Yes. Prospective students are warmly welcomed toschedule an in-person campus visit of Palais Wenkheim to explore our historic building, classrooms and facilities firsthand.

Yes. You can take a virtual campus tour online anytime to view Palais Wenkheim's facilities and get a feel for our campus environment.

Yes. Webster University offers full-term Study Abroad programs in many international locations around the world that WVPU students can participate in. To earn both the American diploma and the Austrian-accredited diploma, students must complete the majority of their credits at the Vienna campus.

For more information on study abroad opportunities, schedule an appointment with WVPU’s Student Resource Center.

You can contact the Webster Vienna admissions team directly by emailing admissions@webster.ac.at. We are happy to help, and are generally quick to reply. We look forward to hearing from you.

Admissions and Visa Basics

Webster Vienna offers two main intakes per year for full-time degree programs: Spring (beginning in February) and Fall (beginning in September). A part-time undergraduate intake is also available in October for up to three Common Core Module (non-major) classes only. For graduate studies, all master's programs are available in the Fall only.

The Webster Vienna online application system follows Webster University’s U.S. main campus calendar, which lists term start dates one month prior to Vienna’s schedule. When completing your application, select January if you want to begin studying in Vienna in the Spring (February), and select August if you want to start in the Fall (September).

Application deadlines depend on citizenship. Non-European Union (EU)/non-European Economic Area (EEA) applicants require additional time for Austrian visa and residence permit processing. WVPU strongly recommends that non-EU/EEA students submit a fully complete application at least seven months prior to their intended start date. View current EU and non-EU application deadlines for exact cutoff dates.

While student visas and residence permits are processed exclusively by official Austrian immigration authorities (Municipal Department 35 or MA 35), Webster Vienna provides guidance throughout the process. WVPU assists non-EU/EEA students by outlining visa-free entry rules, document requirements, and step-by-step application instructions for the Austrian student residence permit.

Discover more information about visas and permit applications, find out if you are permitted to enter Austria without a visa or check your visa-free period, steps to take and required documents to apply for the Austrian residence permit and more.

Yes. While most WVPU bachelor’s and master’s degrees are designed for face-to-face learning in the classroom with Vienna-based professors, select degree programs can be completed partially or entirely online through Webster University Online.

Copies of academic transcripts, diplomas, and test scores are sufficient during the initial application evaluation stage. If you receive provisional acceptance into Webster Vienna, you will be required to submit official, original documents to secure full admission, with detailed instructions provided in your acceptance package.

Once all required application documents are uploaded, the Webster Vienna admissions team typically issues a decision or requests further information within two weeks. Application evaluations only begin after all supporting documents are submitted. Contact admissions to confirm if anything is missing.

Bachelor's Application FAQs

To apply for an undergraduate program, submit an online application through the Webster admissions portal. For guidance before applying, review our undergraduate admissions process page or contact our team at admissions@webster.ac.at.

Applicants must submit the following supporting documents:

  1. Academic transcripts from the past three years of study
  2. English proficiency examination scores (IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent)
  3. A 300–500 word application essay or statement of purpose
  4. One letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor or counselor
  5. A copy of a valid passport
  6. (Optional) A current CV or resume

Webster Vienna requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or non-U.S. equivalent). We will make our own calculations using our internal grading scale, to convert non-U.S. grades into our American GPA. Admissions evaluations are holistic, considering academic performance alongside your essay, letters of recommendation and extracurricular background. Higher GPAs are required for scholarship eligibility.

Undergraduate applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80. The English proficiency requirement may be waived for native English speakers, citizens of exempted countries or students meeting specific institutional criteria.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum scores may be eligible for WVPU's English Language Preparatory Program. Through this one- or two-semester program, you work to improve your academic language skills to meet the direct entry requirements for your selected bachelor's program.

Yes. High school seniors (e.g., Grade 12 students) can apply using transcripts from years 9, 10 and 11, along with midterm reports and predicted grades if available. Final official transcripts and your high school diploma must be submitted prior to enrollment.

No specific high school subjects are required for admission, though foundational coursework in relevant subjects can be helpful for future degree classes.

Yes. On the application form, you can select "Undecided" as your program. The Webster Vienna team will help you select your final major from our list of WVPU bachelor’s programs.

Yes. WVPU evaluates international and national high school curricula including IB Diplomas, Advanced Placement (AP), A-Levels/IGCSE and the Austrian Matura. You can specify your curriculum on the application form. Eligible exam scores and coursework may be awarded university-level transfer credits.

Applicants must submit an original 300–500 word essay written specifically for this application. The essay should demonstrate clear structure, grammar and vocabulary. You can choose from prompt topics focusing on personal goals, ethical challenges or influential ideas — view all undergraduate essay topics for details.

Yes. WVPU accepts transfer students subject to specific academic criteria:

  • Official transcripts and course descriptions or syllabi must be evaluated by the U.S. main campus (with certified English translations if needed). Credit equivalencies are determined by comparing course syllabi and content.
  • Only courses with a grade of "C" (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) or higher are eligible for transfer credit.
  • Transfer credits apply toward the U.S. degree. Students who transfer more than the degree-specific maximum allowed credits will receive the American bachelor's diploma only and will not be eligible for the Austrian diploma.

Master's Application FAQs

Applicants to Webster Vienna master’s programs must submit the following supporting documents:

  1. Academic transcripts from all prior university-level studies (bachelor’s or master’s programs)
  2. English proficiency examination scores (IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent)
  3. A professional resume or CV
  4. A program-specific application essay or statement of purpose
  5. One letter of recommendation from a professor or employer
  6. A copy of a valid passport

Webster Vienna accepts a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or non-U.S. equivalent). Grades are converted using an internal grading scale. Admissions decisions are holistic, evaluating academic transcripts alongside work experience, letters of recommendation and essays. Higher GPAs are required to qualify for new student scholarships.

Graduate applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80. The English proficiency requirement may be waived for native English speakers, citizens of exempted countries or students meeting specific institutional criteria.

Applicants must submit an original, self-written essay (minimum 600 words) tailored to their intended degree program:

  • MA in International Relations and Security Studies: Select a major current event and discuss how it might shape the world over the next 10 years.
  • MBA: Describe your professional work experience, achievements and career plans, explaining how the MBA fits into your development.

Yes. For the MBA, applicants without an accredited business degree completed within the past five years must complete an online prerequisite course after admission and prior to starting core classes.

Yes. An interview conducted by the head of the department is a required step for all master’s degree applicants. This interview is scheduled after your application file is complete and before a final admissions decision is issued.

Tuition, Financial Aid and Housing

Tuition rates vary by degree level and credit load. View our full breakdown of tuition rates and term dates on the Webster Vienna Tuition and Fees page.

Tuition is payable each semester via bank transfer or online payments through Flywire. Review complete payment instructions and semester deadlines on our Tuition and Fees page.

Yes. Webster Vienna Private University offers two installment models (a 50/50 plan and monthly installments). To qualify, undergraduate students must enroll in at least nine U.S. credits per semester, and graduate students must enroll in at least six U.S. credits per semester.

Yes. Admitted students must pay a 1,000 euro deposit to secure your spot and register for classes. This deposit is credited directly toward your first semester tuition. See our admissions terms and conditions for details.

Yes. Webster Vienna Private University offers partial, merit- and need-based scholarships and tuition grants for incoming undergraduate, graduate and alumni applicants.

  • WVPU New Student Scholarships: Incoming bachelor’s and master’s degree students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and proven financial need can receive multiyear awards ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 euros per academic year. Annual application deadlines are May 31 for fall entry and Nov. 30 for spring entry.
  • Webster Alumni Graduate Discount: Webster University alumni enrolling in any master’s degree program receive an automatic 20% tuition discount.
  • Webster Vienna Legacy Grant: Students with a parent or sibling who currently attends or graduated from the Webster campus network receive a 10% tuition reduction (5% for extended family).
  • On-Campus Training Scholarships: Enrolled undergraduate and graduate students can apply for internal research or administrative assistant positions to earn tuition credits each semester.
  • U.S. Federal Aid & Veterans Benefits: Eligible U.S. citizens and veterans can utilize FAFSA aid and VA education benefits toward degree programs.

 Find more information on our Financial Aid and Scholarships page.

Yes. An Austrian student residence permit allows students to work part time up to 20 hours per week. Additionally, enrolled students can apply for the Webster Vienna Training Scholarship, which offers paid on-campus work experience alongside tuition discounts. Find more information about this scholarship opportunity on the Financial Aid and Scholarships page.

Webster Vienna does not have on-campus dormitories. Instead, WVPU partners with student accommodation providers near campus, including The Social Hub (formerly The Student Hotel, a 15-minute walk from campus), Milestone, STUWO Student Housing, and The Fizz. Visit our housing page for room availability and pricing.