Studying in Vienna: the guide for students with a Fachabitur at the University of Vienna

Studying international law: your path to the University of Vienna 🎓

Are you interested in studying international law at the renowned Universität Wien (University of Vienna)? It’s an exciting and demanding choice that can open the door to a global career in law and politics. But how can you make that dream happen with a Fachabitur in business (a German school-leaving qualification that only grants access to certain fields, unlike the general Abitur)? Which exams are waiting for you, and how can you prepare as well as possible? In this article you’ll find all the answers you need for a successful start to your studies.

The route via the Studienberechtigungsprüfung (SBP)

If you don’t have a general Abitur but a Fachabitur in business, the University of Vienna lets you gain access to the degree through the Studienberechtigungsprüfung (SBP), a university entrance qualification exam. It’s designed specifically for people who want to qualify for higher education in a particular field. Think of it as an access exam that can clear your way into university.

What the Studienberechtigungsprüfung covers

The SBP usually consists of several parts that check whether you’re suited to studying law. The subjects vary by field of study, but in general they can include:

German: your German language skills are tested, since it’s the main language of instruction.

English: because international law often involves English, a language test may be required here too.

Mathematics: basic maths skills are often part of this exam as well.

Business and law: your subject knowledge in business and in law generally is taken into account, as it’s relevant to your later studies.

The admission exam for law

Once you’ve passed the Studienberechtigungsprüfung, the next step follows: the admission exam specific to the degree. It’s designed to further test the knowledge and skills you need to study law. The focus is on:

Law: basic knowledge of international and Austrian law.

Critical thinking: your ability to analyse and solve complex problems carries a lot of weight here.

Language comprehension: good reading comprehension and the ability to argue precisely are crucial.

How to prepare for both exams 📚

Thorough preparation is the key to success. Here are some proven strategies to make sure you’re ready:

Courses and tutorials: there are plenty of online platforms and courses dedicated to preparing for the SBP and the admission exam.

Study groups: exchanging ideas with other prospective students can give you new perspectives and study techniques.

Practice books: invest in practice books that deal with the specific requirements of the exams.

Another useful tip is to take mock exams regularly, to simulate the real thing and ease your nerves.

Why study international law in Vienna?

As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, the University of Vienna offers an excellent study environment. Vienna itself is considered a cultural and political centre of Europe, which gives you many extra learning and career opportunities:

International networks: build valuable contacts that can open doors for you around the world.

Cultural diversity: immerse yourself in a city full of history and culture that will enrich your time as a student.

University partnerships: make use of the university’s many international partnerships for semesters abroad and research projects.

These aspects matter not only for your studies but also for your later career in international law.

Financial support and resources

Many students worry about the cost of studying abroad. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of scholarships and financial support to help fund your academic journey. Look into these early:

Scholarships: many organisations offer scholarships specifically for international law students.

Student jobs: Vienna offers lots of opportunities for students to gain experience and earn money through part-time jobs or paid internships.

Finding a place to live: look into student halls and shared flats to find affordable housing.

Final thoughts 🌟

Studying international law at the University of Vienna is an excellent way to start your career in a global context. Even without a general Abitur, there are paths open to you. Careful preparation for the SBP and the specific admission exam, combined with the many resources and networks in Vienna, will set you up well for your future career. Seize the opportunity and start an exciting and rewarding academic journey!

For more information and official details, visit the University of Vienna’s website or the page on the Studienberechtigungsprüfung. Good luck! 🍀