Housing
Living in Austria
Living in Austria can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your study experience. It allows you to observe, understand and appreciate cultures and values that are different from your own. Salzburg College Housing is reserved for Study Abroad and Pathway students only. Degree students must make their own arrangements. We are happy to give recommendations.
How are housing placements determined?
The process of matching students with the right kind of living situation is taken very seriously as it will constitute a major aspect of a student’s European experience. For this reason we ask to you tell us as much as you can about yourself on our housing form and in your biographical sketch.
What about my independence?
The student residence landlord and our Austrian host families recognize that Salzburg College students are young adults. There are no curfews or similar rules (other than your usual family or house rules such as being considerate towards others, preserving energy, locking certain doors, etc.).
You are expected to exercise common courtesy such as coming in quietly after a late night out and keeping the living areas clean. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide to what extent you want to be involved in a family life or with your peers at the dorm.
You choose and determine your level of involvement and independence.
Do I have to commute to the College or is there on-campus housing?
Students live all over town. While some will live near campus, others may be placed a fifteen minutes to half an hour commute away. Depending on where you are located you can choose to either walk, bike or ride the bus to campus.
Public transportation and biking are common and very efficient and safe in Salzburg. Salzburg College is located down the street from the main intersecting point of the bus system. Students can purchase weekly, or monthly, bus passes which allows them to use the bus at all times, not just to commute between home and school.
One of the main biking paths of Salzburg runs along the river near Salzburg College and connects to a large net of other paths and biking lanes. Bikes are usually rented, however, some host families may provide you with one. Bikes are not recommended in heavy snow, which may be typical for January / February, or if you are not used to riding bicycles in traffic.
Are meals included?
Yes! Meals are provided in both the Student Residence and Homestays.
Student Residence: Breakfast & Dinner, Monday–Friday (Friday dinner is provided as a sack lunch)
Homestay: Breakfast & Dinner, Monday–Sunday
Please note: No meals are provided during official break periods, and there are no refunds for missed meals.
What about dietary restrictions?
Both the Student Residence and host families are happy to accommodate dietary needs. Students simply need to inform the residence cook or their host family about any special requirements. Please be aware, however, that a 100% allergen-free environment cannot be guaranteed.
Student Residence
Salzburg College collaborates with the Salzburger Lehrerhaus for student residence accommodations.
Amenities include:
● Fully furnished incl. linen, towels, dishes
● Shared kitchen
● Shared washer & dryer
● Wifi
● All utilities included
● 100% smoke-free & drug-free facility
Single units are dependent on availability and upon request, and at extra charge.
Homestay
While Austrian host families provide a “home away from home,” they also respect students’ need for privacy and independence. Families vary in background and structure—ranging from full households to older couples, single hosts, or even multi-generational homes.
Students may be placed with families according to their language needs: those wishing to strengthen their German might join “German only” households, while beginners are often matched with English-speaking hosts. Living with a host family offers an authentic view of Austrian culture and often leads to lasting bonds that continue well beyond the semester abroad.
Independent Living
There are other housing options available for graduate and non-traditional students in Salzburg which include sharing or leasing a furnished apartment. Students who do not feel comfortable with the homestay or student residence option, especially non-traditional students or married couples, are encouraged to inquire about alternate options. Salzburg College staff will be happy to facilitate.