Johannes Kepler University Linz logo

Johannes Kepler University Linz

Linz, AT · Ranking #451

Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is a leading public research university in Austria, located in Linz and founded in 1966. It offers a wide range of programs spanning business, economics, law, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, medicine (in cooperation with partner institutions), and educational sciences. JKU emphasizes a research‑driven, interdisciplinary approach and maintains strong international connections and collaborations. The university hosts modern campuses with advanced laboratories, libraries, and innovation hubs. Students benefit from diverse learning experiences, participation in research projects, and numerous exchange programs. JKU’s integration with industry and scientific networks enhances employability and prepares graduates for global careers across sectors.

Johannes Kepler University Linz logo

Johannes Kepler University Linz

About the university

Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is a leading public research university in Austria, located in Linz and founded in 1966. It offers a wide range of programs spanning business, economics, law, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, medicine (in cooperation with partner institutions), and educational sciences. JKU emphasizes a research‑driven, interdisciplinary approach and maintains strong international connections and collaborations. The university hosts modern campuses with advanced laboratories, libraries, and innovation hubs. Students benefit from diverse learning experiences, participation in research projects, and numerous exchange programs. JKU’s integration with industry and scientific networks enhances employability and prepares graduates for global careers across sectors.

Key information

  • Location: Linz, AT
  • Ranking #451
  • QS #551
  • THE #301
  • US News #450
  • National ranking #3
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Business & Economics
  • Law
  • Social Sciences
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Natural Sciences

Programs (12)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Data Science
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Medicine

Student body

  • Total students: 19,000
  • Undergraduate: 11,000
  • Graduate: 6,000
  • International students: 19%

Campus life

Johannes Kepler University Linz features one of Austria's most beautiful campuses — a 36-hectare park setting in northeast Linz, with modern buildings surrounded by greenery and connected to the city by tram (16 minutes to the centre). JKU has 10-11 student dormitories near campus with approximately 3,000 beds, making it one of Austria's best-supplied universities for student housing. The Julius Raab Heim is particularly popular with international students. Linz itself has transformed from an industrial city into Austria's technology and innovation capital, home to the Ars Electronica Center — a world-renowned museum of digital art and technology. The city sits on the Danube, offering riverfront cycling and walking paths. JKU is known for its strengths in engineering, computer science, and social sciences, with over 150 sports courses available through USI. Linz offers affordable living and excellent quality of life.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €700 - €1,300 / per month

Housing options

  • 10-11 student dormitories near campus (~3000 beds)
  • Julius Raab Heim (popular for international students)
  • OeAD housing
  • Private shared apartments
  • Affordable Linz rents

Student clubs and organizations

  • ÖH Student Union JKU
  • Engineering society
  • Business society
  • International students network
  • Over 60 organizations

Sports

  • USI Linz sports
  • Football
  • Swimming
  • Volleyball
  • Basketball
  • Skiing
  • Athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 88%

Partner companies

  • Deloitte
  • PwC
  • Siemens
  • voestalpine
  • IBM
  • Erste Group

Internships: JKU integrates internships and practical work experience into many programs, especially in business, engineering and sciences. Students take placements with industry partners, research labs, and public institutions to gain real‑world skills. Career services support students in identifying opportunities, preparing applications, and connecting with employers. International exchange programs also include practical components, enhancing global employability.

Admission requirements

Required documents

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

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • €0 - €2,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 65.00%
  • Scholarships available: JKU offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid for domestic and international students. Funding options include merit‑based scholarships, Austria government support, Erasmus+ mobility funding, and project‑specific grants. Some scholarships help cover tuition, living expenses, or support participation in research and international mobility. Doctoral candidates often access funded positions within research groups. Students are advised to consult official scholarship resources for up‑to‑date opportunities and eligibility criteria.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1966
  • Teaching languages: english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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