boarding schools in Austria are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best boarding schools in Austria, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose an Austrian boarding school?
Choosing a boarding school is a significant decision that can profoundly impact a child’s educational journey and personal growth. Austria, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, also offers some of the finest boarding schools in the world. These institutions are celebrated not only for their academic excellence but also for their holistic approach to education that nurtures all aspects of a student’s development.
Academic Excellence
Austrian boarding schools boast a rigorous academic environment that challenges and inspires students. The curriculum often follows internationally recognized programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), which are known for their comprehensive and balanced approach. This prepares students not just for university, but for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Moreover, the small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing teachers to foster each student’s strengths and address their weaknesses effectively.
Cultural Enrichment
Living in Austria provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in a region steeped in historical and cultural significance. From music and arts to science and innovation, Austria has made substantial contributions that boarding school students can explore and learn from. Frequent school-organized excursions to museums, historical sites, and cultural events make education a vibrant, living experience.
Language and Multicultural Exposure
At an Austrian boarding school, students often become fluent in German, one of the world’s major languages, while also improving their English and possibly picking up other European languages. The multicultural environment, with peers from around the globe, also fosters a deep understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures, which is invaluable in our increasingly globalized society.
Personal Development and Independence
Boarding schools inherently promote personal development by encouraging students to become more independent and self-reliant. Living away from home, students learn to manage their time, finances, and personal responsibilities earlier than many of their peers. This independence is crucial as they transition to university and later life.
Outdoor Activities and Sports
The geographic diversity of Austria—from its alpine peaks to its verdant valleys—offers students a range of outdoor activities that are both recreational and educational. Whether it’s skiing, hiking, or cycling, students at Austrian boarding schools can balance their academic pursuits with physical activities that are essential for mental and physical health.
In conclusion, an Austrian boarding school offers more than just a rigorous academic education. It is a holistic environment that prepares students for the challenges of the real world through cultural immersion, language acquisition, personal development, and physical well-being. For parents seeking a rich, well-rounded education for their children, Austria offers some of the best options in the world.
How much does it cost to attend boarding schools in Austria?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $25,000 | $50,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $2,085 | $4,165 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $27,200 | $54,500 |
Top boarding schools Austria 2025
Discover top Boarding Schools in Austria. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
St Gilgen International School 
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Salzburg - St. Gilgen
- Co-Education
- 9 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 31,700 - 73,200 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme, IB Middle Years Programme
- Foundation:2008
- Community: 225 students • 35 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IB MYP
- Language:English
- World-Class IB Curriculum
- Inspiring Alpine Environment
- Safe & Caring Boarding Community
Annual tuition fees at St Gilgen International School range from 31,700 eur to 73,200 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Application Fee: €290 Enrolment Fee: €2,700 Deposit (refundable): €6,000 (Day student) What’s Included. Fees cover:- Academic tuition - Curriculum-based and enrichment trips/activities - Day students: School lunches Please note: Additional...Application Fee: €290 Enrolment Fee: €2,700 Deposit (refundable): €12,000 (Boarding student) What’s Included. Fees cover:- Academic tuition - Curriculum-based and enrichment trips/activities - Boarding students: Accommodation and all meals Please...
Schloss Krumbach International School
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Austria - Vorarlberg
- Co-Education
- 12 to 19 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 39,900 - 43,680 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2020
- Community: 25 students
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English, German
- Breathtaking Austrian castle setting
- Weekly outdoor education expeditions
- Cultivates global citizen ethos
Annual tuition fees at Schloss Krumbach International School range from 39,900 eur to 43,680 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
AMADEUS International School Vienna
-
Austria - Vienna
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 13,200 - 52,000 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- Foundation:2012
- Community: 310 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Unrivaled Music & Arts Academy
- Boarding in Historic Vienna
- Dual Diploma: IB & Austrian Matura
Annual tuition fees at AMADEUS International School Vienna range from 13,200 eur to 52,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Popular boarding schools Destinations in Austria
Parent and Student Reviews
- September, 2025Being rather shy, contained to himself and not speaking English our son started 7 years ago at grade 5. He developed to an open minded, critical person, self confident knowing about his talents and what he wants to look his life like. He made close friendships and even teachers became friends. Starting grade 12 this year he said that he doesn’t want school to end as he could not imagine to have a better time in life. What to say more?<div>P.S.: my older son attended a public school- the difference is tremendous!</div>
- September, 2025Our two kids (16, 12) are attending the school now for 4, 3 years as day-students. We love the family-style environment as well as the stunning surrounding. The school offers great care for our kids and the great 1:5 teacher-stutent-ratio helps them to develop their skills and grow their personality! There is a broad variety of extra-curricular activities and our kids love to either develop their passion further or try something new… overall the best choice we could think of although the financial investment shall not be overseen!
- September, 2025Our two kids have been at St. Gilgen International School since Grade 5 (now in Grades 6 and 8), and we couldn’t be happier with our choice. The teachers truly know and support each child, and the community feels warm and welcoming.The location is absolutely stunning – surrounded by mountains and the lake – and the outdoor activities and experiences make this school so unique. Our kids love going to school, which says it all!
Yes, it’s a big investment, but the education, personal growth, and opportunities they receive are worth every cent. We’re proud to be part of the St. Gilgen community. - 4.I know the Krumbach school in Austria where my niece Anne Princess GAKIZA, orphan of father and mother studies. This school takes care of all her needs (school fees, travel and accommodation, health care and insurance, ect. ..) and develop the child’s talents. As legal guardian, I am very delighted to have my niece in Krumbach school and I would recommend this school without a second thought…The orphan has a wonderful time at school with excellent relationships and attention, love and adequate education. In addition to her strong open-mindedness in the scientific field, she is learning several languages which is also a very pleasant tool to start for a long subsequent journey of study and learning!
The school allows also for very organized control of the behavior and needs of students in a more specific and personalized way.
I would like to thank all the staff and educational leaders of the school for the period already spent by my niece at Kumbrach school and the quality/service that was provided.
An exceptional school attentive to the specific needs of children, in a wonderful environment for children to learn and develop their creativity.
The school’s strong points are the maintenance of permanent liaison with parents, the communication of informations which trace the activities carried out by the children as well as the academic results of each term. You know it’s a good school when your child can’t wait to return at the end of the holidays. - February, 2024Our son is in his third year at the school. And we can already form an opinion about everything.
The first thing that sticks in the mind is the location: a castle on a mountain in the middle of the forest with an inexpressible view and always fresh air.
Secondly, the daily routine and hygiene in everything is observed with Austrian pedantry.
Third, the offices, lodging and recreation rooms, library, are modern and comfortable.
Fourth, the new sports ground, bicycles, contribute to the physical development of students.
Fifth, the kitchen, it deserves special praise. Diverse, full, healthy food. Special thanks for the days of cuisines of different nations. Pupils not only familiarize themselves with the dishes of the world, but also actively participate in their preparation.
The sixth is collective, creative work. Joint productions of plays, cognitive visits to museums, theaters, exhibitions, movies, concerts. Annual outings for skiing and skating in winter, hiking in summer and tourist trips to European countries. This is a topic for a separate comment.
And, finally, the seventh is the main thing. Educational process. Bilingualism! Education is a two-way process, teacher – student. The approach to the selection of teachers is serious. Not every teacher is able to be enthusiastic about his subject, complex to teach simply, while maintaining the subordination. It works here.
There are no perfect schools, as well as people. The administration solves force-majeure circumstances, nuances in requirements, difficulties in adaptation of teenagers and young men (at the expense of their moral and physical health) skillfully, keeping the spirit of the school and the priority of education.
We are sincerely grateful to all those who work, bring up, educate our son, showing him respect. - There are several reasons that I sent my daughter to AMADEUS Vienna. One of them is that there is an individualized approach in the Primary Years Programme. It allows her to grow and experience an environment which is very conducive to creative learning. That is an extremely good fit for my child who likes music, using her hands to learn, the arts, and dancing.
What I believe is most special about AMADEUS Vienna is the IB learning that it offers and the individualized learning approach. In addition, it is a relatively small school and you quickly learn who other parents are and exchange information and experiences. There is a really rich sense of community here.
The school is a close community; one that is very supportive one that is very open and the children are learning a lot about being good community members. I would tell parents to jump in because it is a really, really special place. Every day is a memorable moment because I have a happy child coming home. - February, 2023The school is a special place in Vienna because it is a nice area and a nice campus, and it is a great big family. It is not a school like usually; it is not about pressure, it is about enjoying to learn, enjoying to get an education. The teachers are nice and the parents are nice. The school is so social and inclusive, there is no bullying, there is happiness, and everybody helps together if someone needs help.
If someone would ask me if they should send their child to AMADEUS Vienna, I would definitely say yes. After my daughter has been a family member at AV for 8 years now, I am convinced that I have chosen the best school for her. - February, 2023I was in a huge school in Japan but AMADEUS school is small and I think that makes this school special because we are united. People are close to each other and more open-minded and more internationally minded.
The boarding I really feel like is a big family. It is really cool that if I have something to ask, I can ask anyone, and it feels like more than friends. ‘Family’ is a good way to describe it.
I think it is a really good thing to send your kids here and my parents really think so too, because now I speak more languages, but I also want to say that you should not only send your kid here to learn new languages – because it is not about what language you speak, it is about what you say. You can learn English anywhere but if you come here you will learn something new; you will fit into the society and you will be more mature. - February, 2023What is special about AMADEUS is the atmosphere and the community. Studying in such a special place motivates you. AMADEUS is a place to grow – it gives you the opportunity and the chance to be your best self.
Summary
Choosing an Austrian boarding school offers students a blend of rigorous academics, particularly through programs like the IB, alongside a rich cultural immersion in a historically significant region. Students benefit from a multicultural environment that enhances language skills and global awareness, coupled with personal growth fostered by independence and a range of outdoor activities.