You want a career-changing year in Europe without emptying your savings. The Austrian Development Scholarships make that real. This fully funded opportunity lets you study in Austria, build global skills, and return home ready to lead in tourism and hospitality.
Backed by the Austrian Development Cooperation, these scholarships support talented applicants from developing countries. If you are passionate about hospitality or tourism management and you are ready to level up fast, this program gives you the funding, training, and network to do it. Applications for the 2026/2027 intake are open. If you meet the criteria, this is your moment to apply.
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Below, you will find exactly what the scholarship covers, who can apply, how selection works, and how to submit a standout application. No fluff. Just the details you need to move forward with confidence.
Why this scholarship stands out in 2026/2027
Fully Funded for priority countries – tuition, accommodation, insurance, and more covered under the main track.
Industry-focused – hands-on training designed with employers, not just classrooms.
International credential – a respected Austrian diploma that boosts your profile at home and abroad.
Strong alumni network – connect with graduates working in hotels, tourism boards, airlines, and education.
Clear path to impact – built for applicants who will bring skills back to their countries and drive change.
What the scholarship covers
Funding benefits depend on the scholarship category you are awarded. In the 2026/2027 cycle, the Austrian Development Scholarships typically include the following:
For ADC Priority Countries – Fully Funded
Tuition fees for the full program
Accommodation during the study period
Health insurance for the duration of your stay
Monthly allowance or pocket money to cover basic living costs
Travel support for international airfare to Austria and return after completion
Excursion or program-related fees where applicable
For Other Developing Countries – Partially Funded
Tuition fees for the full program
Accommodation during the study period
Health insurance for the duration of your stay
Usually does not include international travel or monthly allowance
Always verify the exact coverage on the official page for your category before applying. Benefits are confirmed in your admission and scholarship award letters.
Study fields and host institution
The Austrian Development Scholarships are offered in partnership with the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH), Salzburg. You will study in Austria and complete an intensive, career-focused program aligned with global industry standards.
Available study fields for 2026/2027
Hospitality Management Diploma
Tourism Management Diploma
Programs are designed to build real operational and leadership skills. Expect practical modules, case studies, and exposure to best practices used by top hotels and tourism organizations worldwide.
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The Austrian Development Cooperation offers two main scholarship tracks:
ADC Priority Countries Scholarship – the fully funded option for applicants from designated priority partner countries of the Austrian Development Cooperation.
Developing Countries Scholarship – a partially funded option for applicants from other eligible developing countries.
Country eligibility lists are published by the program each cycle. If your country is not on the priority list, you may still be eligible under the developing countries track.
Who can apply: eligibility
You must meet both the scholarship criteria and the academic entry requirements of the ITH program you choose.
Eligibility Area
What It Means for You
Citizenship
Must be a national of an eligible ADC priority country or another eligible developing country.
Academic background
Secondary or post-secondary qualification that meets ITH entry standards. A related field in tourism, hospitality, business, or management is an advantage.
Work experience
Relevant professional experience in hospitality, tourism, or related services strengthens your application.
Language proficiency
Strong English skills required. You may be asked to submit proof of proficiency or complete an interview.
Motivation and impact
Clear plan to apply skills in your home country after graduation. Motivation letter is critical.
Availability
Ability to attend the full program in Austria in the 2026/2027 academic year and comply with visa requirements.
Note: Exact requirements can vary by program. Always cross-check the latest criteria on the official ITH admission page before you apply.
How to apply for the Austrian Development Scholarships
Confirm your eligibility – Check if your country is listed under ADC priority countries or other developing countries on the scholarship page.
Choose your program – Decide between Hospitality Management or Tourism Management based on your goals.
Create your application account – Start the online application through ITH’s admissions portal.
Prepare your documents – Gather certified copies and translations where required. See the checklist below.
Complete the online form – Fill in personal details, education history, work experience, and your scholarship category.
Upload documents – Make sure files are clear, readable, and in the accepted formats.
Submit before the deadline – Late or incomplete applications are not reviewed.
Attend interviews or tests – If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview or asked for additional proof of language skills.
Receive your decision – If selected, you will get both an admission letter and a scholarship award letter with funding details.
Apply for your visa – Use your official letters to start the Austrian student residence permit process.
Motivation letter explaining your goals and intended impact
Proof of English proficiency if requested
Recommendation letters from employers or professors
Any country-specific or program-specific forms requested by ITH
Tip: Name your files clearly, keep sizes within limits, and submit certified translations if your documents are not in English or German.
Selection process and timeline
Selection is competitive. Committees assess your academic fit, professional potential, and your plan to contribute to development in your home country. Strong motivation letters and verifiable experience can set you apart.
Screening – Applications are checked for completeness and basic eligibility.
Evaluation – Academic records, experience, and motivation are reviewed.
Interview – Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed online.
Final decision – Successful candidates receive admission and scholarship award letters.
Admitted scholars then prepare for travel, accommodation arrangements, and residence permit applications for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Visa and arrival guidance
International students generally apply for a Residence Permit – Student for Austria after receiving their admission and scholarship letters. Processing times vary by embassy and season, so start quickly once you are selected.
Where to apply – At the Austrian embassy or consulate responsible for your country.
Key documents – Admission and scholarship letters, passport, health insurance proof, accommodation confirmation, and financial proof as required by the embassy.
Work options – Limited part-time work may be possible with the correct permit. Always follow the latest Austrian regulations.
For official guidance on studying in Austria, consult the national agency: OeAD – Study in Austria
Deadline for 2026/2027
Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Do not wait until the last moment. Gathering documents, securing recommendations, and preparing for interviews takes time. Submitting early shows professionalism and reduces stress.
FAQ
Is the scholarship open to all countries?
No. It is open to applicants from ADC priority countries and other eligible developing countries. Check the current list on the scholarship page.
Can I apply without work experience?
Yes, you can apply, but relevant experience in hospitality or tourism makes your case stronger. Use your motivation letter to show potential and leadership.
Do I need an English test score?
Strong English is required. Depending on your background, you may be asked for a test score or assessed during an interview. Follow the instructions in the application portal.
What costs are not covered?
Coverage depends on your category. The developing countries track typically excludes international travel and monthly allowance. Always confirm your benefits in the official award letter.
Can I bring dependents?
Family accompaniment is subject to Austrian immigration rules and your financial capacity. Scholarships generally fund the student only. Ask your embassy and the program for the latest guidance.
Ready to apply?
If you want an impactful, fully funded study year in Europe, this is your chance. Gather your documents, craft a powerful motivation letter, and submit a complete application for the 2026/2027 intake. Opportunities like this do not wait. Apply now on the official scholarship page and take the next step toward a global career.
