Austria to Create New Academic Secondary Schools

Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr announces a bill to formalize a program allowing students to earn university credits early.

Education Minister () announced that a bill for a new special form of academic secondary school is currently under review. This follows the success of the 'Students at University' pilot project launched in 2000 at .

The program allows students to take exams before their final school leaving certificate, which are credited toward future degrees. Participation rose from 58 students in 2019/20 to 170 in 2025/26, with the number of partner institutions doubling from 19 to 38.

This expansion includes universities, private colleges, and vocational schools. Computer science and natural sciences lead enrollment with 25 students each. Currently, Salzburg University hosts 28 students, followed by 22 in and 20 at .


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