Academy of Fine Arts Vienna·Art and Cultural Studies
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Art and Cultural Studies focuses on the theoretical education alongside practical work in fine arts. It offers insights into the connections between art, culture, and society, fostering skills in scientific research and critical analysis of cultural developments. The curriculum promotes understanding issues in women's and gender studies and examines the implications of aesthetic theories.
The program focuses on developing artistic skills across various media, including painting, sculpture, and digital arts. Students explore contemporary artistic practices and theoretical foundations to nurture their individual creativity.
The program is organized into several phases, spanning multiple semesters, where students engage in both practical studio work and theoretical courses. An internship component allows for real-world experience, culminating in a thesis project that showcases personal artistic development.
Graduates acquire a robust set of competencies in creative expression, critical thinking, and technical skills. They gain the ability to conceptualize and execute artistic projects and engage in contemporary discourses in the art world.
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
Founded in 1692, the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is one of Europe's oldest art academies, focused on fine arts, scenography, conservation, and architecture.
Visit university site€350–€650 / month (dorm room)
1040 WienSingle rooms, double roomsAkademikerhilfe
Mayerhofgasse 3, 1040 WienSingle & shared roomsAkademikerhilfe
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