Montanuniversitat Leoben logo

Montanuniversitat Leoben

Leoben, AT · Ranking #501

The University of Leoben is Austria’s leading institution for mining, metallurgy, materials science, and industrial engineering, founded in 1840. It offers specialized programs in mining, metallurgy, materials engineering, mechanical and process engineering, as well as economics related to industry. The university emphasizes research-led teaching, applied sciences, and close industry collaboration. Students benefit from modern laboratories, pilot plants, and workshops, as well as opportunities for internships and international exchange programs. Leoben’s location in Styria provides access to industrial hubs and outdoor activities, creating a practical and culturally rich learning environment.

Montanuniversitat Leoben logo

Montanuniversitat Leoben

About the university

The University of Leoben is Austria’s leading institution for mining, metallurgy, materials science, and industrial engineering, founded in 1840. It offers specialized programs in mining, metallurgy, materials engineering, mechanical and process engineering, as well as economics related to industry. The university emphasizes research-led teaching, applied sciences, and close industry collaboration. Students benefit from modern laboratories, pilot plants, and workshops, as well as opportunities for internships and international exchange programs. Leoben’s location in Styria provides access to industrial hubs and outdoor activities, creating a practical and culturally rich learning environment.

Key information

  • Location: Leoben, AT
  • Ranking #501
  • QS #601
  • THE #401
  • US News #600
  • National ranking #4
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Mining Engineering
  • Metallurgy
  • Materials Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Economics

Programs (6)

  • Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Environmental Science
  • Industrial Engineering

Student body

  • Total students: 4,500
  • Undergraduate: 2,800
  • Graduate: 1,300
  • International students: 20%

Campus life

Montanuniversität Leoben is one of the world's most specialized mining and materials science universities, with approximately 3,500 students in the small Styrian town of Leoben (25,000 inhabitants). This creates an extraordinarily close-knit student community — students represent over 12% of the town's population. Leoben is the cheapest university city in Austria for student housing, with rents starting from €200/month, and the city council offers a €250 welcome voucher for new students plus €100 for each additional year. The university maintains strong traditions, including the famous Ledersprung (leather jump) ceremony for graduates. Despite its small size, the university has an outstanding reputation in mining engineering, materials science, and petroleum engineering, with near-100% employment rates. The surrounding Styrian Alps provide excellent hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €650 - €1,200 / per month

Housing options

  • Student dormitories in Leoben (€200-350/month)
  • OeAD housing
  • Private apartments (very affordable)
  • Leoben city offers €250 voucher for new students

Student clubs and organizations

  • Mining and engineering societies
  • International students network
  • Ledersprung tradition (leather jumping ceremony)
  • Sports groups

Sports

  • USI Leoben sports
  • Football
  • Skiing
  • Hiking
  • Climbing
  • Volleyball

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • Voestalpine
  • Siemens
  • Andritz
  • RHI Magnesita
  • Borealis
  • Montanuniversität Leoben Industry Partners

Internships: Students have access to internships, research assistantships, and industry placements in mining, metallurgy, and materials sectors. These opportunities provide practical experience aligned with their studies, strengthen professional skills, and enhance employability. The university supports networking, collaborations with companies, and international research programs.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High school diploma
  • academic transcripts
  • German or English language certificate
  • passport
  • CV

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • €1,600 - €2,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 45.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Leoben provides merit-based and need-based scholarships, as well as funding via Austrian government programs and Erasmus+. Students may receive support for tuition, living costs, research projects, or international mobility. Graduate students can access research assistantships and project-based funding. International students are encouraged to apply for scholarships promoting academic excellence and industry-focused studies.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1840
  • Teaching languages: english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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