Studying in Austria gives you not only the chance to gain a high-quality education but also a set of important rights and protections. These include access to education, fair treatment, participation in decision-making, and protection against discrimination. At the same time, being part of a university community means following certain rules both national laws and internal university regulations.
One key document you will encounter is the Hausordnung (literally “house rules”) which is the official document that sets out the rules of conduct for all people using university premises, including students, staff, visitors, and service providers.
It is a legally binding set of internal regulations, approved by the university’s management, that ensures safety, order, and proper use of university facilities.
Think of it as the university’s code of conduct + safety manual + building use policy combined.
Compliance requirement: Enrolling at the university means you agree to follow the Hausordnung.
Covers daily campus life: From ID card use and building access to lab safety and event organization.
Legal consequences: Violations can lead to disciplinary action — from warnings to being banned from certain facilities, and in severe cases, expulsion.
Access to Education: Once admitted, you have the right to attend courses, take exams, and use university facilities according to your study plan (Curriculum).
Fair Assessment: Exams must be relevant to the curriculum, grading must be transparent, and you can request to see and discuss your results.
Retake Opportunities: At least three attempts are normally allowed if you fail an exam (rules vary by university).
Student Union Membership: All students are automatically part of the ÖH (Austrian National Union of Students), which offers representation and free legal advice.
Fee Transparency:
EU/EEA students: tuition-free within the standard study period + 2 extra semesters.
Non-EU/EEA students (or specifically student residents permit holders): €726.72 per semester in most cases (with possible exemptions).
Students can influence decisions through the ÖH student representation system, with elected bodies at program, faculty, and university levels. This includes the right to:
Vote in ÖH elections.
Suggest changes to the curriculum.
Be consulted on major policy changes affecting students, usually through the OH.
Johannes Kepler University (JKU Linz)
Covers building access, safety in research labs, and behavior during events.
Specific rules for using the library, computer rooms, and sports facilities.
Prohibits political advertising in classrooms without prior approval.
The JKU Hausordnung is available on the university website in both German and English are found in this page and change the language on the website to access the language version you need.
https://www.jku.at/en/office-for-legal-affairs/bulletin-statutes-co/
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (FH OÖ)
Separate Hausordnung for each campus (Linz, Steyr, Hagenberg, Wels).
The Hausordnung is available on the university website in both German and English are found in this page and change the language on the website to access the language version you need.
