FAQs

The Summer University

When and where does AEMS take place?

The AEMS Summer University will be held in person from 14 July to 1 August 2025 in Vienna, Austria. Participants who opt for the housing package can extend their stay for an additional week free of charge after the program concludes. This offers the perfect chance to explore Vienna—one of the most liveable cities in the world—and enjoy its culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere.

Is there an online-only option?

No, AEMS is an in-person program held exclusively in Vienna.

Can I attend only a few days?

No, continuous attendance is mandatory. We aim to create a safe and supportive space for all participants, which is why we keep the group consistent throughout the three weeks.

What is the language of this course?

All lectures, workshops, and social activities are conducted in English. A good command of English is therefore essential for participation.

Do participants receive a certificate / ECTS credits at the end of the course?

Yes! Upon successful completion of the summer university, participants will receive a certificate worth 5 ECTS credits along with an individual grade. These credits can often be accredited at your home university. To ensure this, please check with your home institution in advance. .

How can I get the 5 ECTS accredited at my university?

Reach out to your home university beforehand to confirm if the 5 ECTS credits can be transferred into your studies. If needed, we’re happy to assist by providing any required documentation—just get in touch with us!

Participants

How many participants take part in the course?

Every year, we welcome 50 to 60 participants from around the globe.

Who is the program aimed at?

The AEMS Summer University is designed for students and professionals from all fields who have an interest in economy, finance, and ecology. Participants will explore innovative alternatives to the current profit-driven economy and gain a deeper understanding of the complex interconnections shaping our world.

What is the participant field like?

AEMS thrives on its strong international diversity. Participants come from all over the world, with no more than 10% from the same country—creating a truly global learning environment. In 2024, participants represented 26 nations!

The program is open to people of all ages and professional backgrounds. To give you an idea: our youngest participant was 18, and our oldest was 83! While many attendees are students (undergraduate or postgraduate), the program also attracts professionals from various sectors, including former parliament members, bankers, ministry employees, artists, campaigners, and entrepreneurs.

At AEMS, we believe everyone can contribute to and benefit from the exchange of transformative ideas.

I’m not a student anymore / I work full-time or part-time. Can I still attend the program?

Absolutely! AEMS is open to both students and professionals who are passionate about reshaping our economic systems.

Please keep in mind that AEMS is an intensive, full-time program spanning three weeks. Continuous attendance is mandatory, so we strongly recommend taking time off to fully immerse yourself in this unique experience.

I´m Austrian, can I still attend?

Of course!

I have a disability or require special medical attention. How do I inform you?

We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and will do our best to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure everyone can participate fully. If you have any specific needs or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]

Application

How do I apply for AEMS?

You can apply via our application form.

First, you will need to register on our website by entering your name, email address, and choosing a password. Once registered, you can complete the application form for the AEMS Summer University.

When does the application period start and end?

The application period is already open!
You can apply until June 30, 2025.
For scholarships, the deadline is April 30, 2025.

How long does it take to review my application?

We review applications regularly and aim to respond as soon as possible. Please be patient if you do not hear back immediately.

Participation fee and payment

What is the participation fee?

The participation fee for the three-week course is EUR 1,390, which includes all program activities, social events, excursions, and a public transport ticket for Vienna. Scholarship recipients pay a reduced fee of EUR 590.

Do you have any special offers?

Yes!

Bring-a-Friend Offer: Former participants of the AEMS or GBS Summer University can enjoy one free week in a student residence in Vienna if someone joins based on their recommendation. The new applicant just needs to mention name of the graduate in the application form. More details can be found here.

What does the participation fee include?

All program activities and lecture-related events
Light refreshments during lectures
A public transport ticket for Vienna

Find more information here.

Optional accommodation in a student residence is available for an additional EUR 300. This also includes one free extra week before the program begins, giving you more time to explore Vienna and Austria. Moving in is possible from 7 July (optional). Moving out is until 4 August at 9 am.

What is NOT included in the fee?

Travel expenses to and from Vienna, including visa costs (if applicable)
Health and liability insurance
Food and laundry expenses during your stay

You can find further details on what’s included here.

Can I pay by credit card or PayPal?

Yes, payment can be made via credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer. .

Where can I find the Terms and Conditions?

Please read our General Terms and Conditions before applying.

Scholarships

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes, scholarships are available for students who cannot afford the full participation fee but demonstrate excellent qualifications. The scholarship application deadline is April 30, 2025.

Who is eligible for a scholarship?

Scholarships are available for outstanding applicants with financial need. The eligibility criteria include:

Student status
Financial need
Motivation letter
Strong English language skills
Minimum academic level: pre-university (A-level)

How can I apply for a scholarship if I study at a partner university?

Students from partner universities can apply for scholarships offered by their respective institutions. Check the list of partner universities here. If you’re eligible, enter your university name in the “scholarship reference” field of the application form.

When will I be informed about my scholarship status?

Scholarship decisions will be communicated after the application period ends. Exceptional cases, such as applicants requiring a visa, may be notified earlier.

Travel and accommodation

Do you provide funds for travel expenses?

Travel expenses are not included in the participation fee. However, we recommend checking grant opportunities provided by organizations like OeAD GmbH (e.g., CEEPUS, Erasmus, etc.).

Do I need a visa, and will you provide an invitation letter?

Visa requirements depend on your home country. Please check with the Austrian Embassy in your country of residence.
If you require a visa, we will support your application by providing an invitation letter after your successful enrollment in the program and payment of the participation fee.

Please note that it is your obligation to take care of visa arrangements in time.

Do you provide accommodation in Vienna?

Yes, optional accommodation is available for an additional EUR 300. This fee includes housing in a student residence for the full three-week program, plus one additional free week before the Summer University to make the most of your stay in Vienna.

Moving in is possible from 7 July. Moving out is until 4 August at 9 am.

Is staying in the student residence mandatory?

No, staying in the residence is optional. If you already live in Vienna, you are welcome to attend the program while staying at your own accommodation.

Where do I pick up my room key?

Details about picking up your room key will be provided after your successful enrollment in the program.

Is transport from the airport or train station provided?

No, transport is not included. Further instructions regarding your accommodation and public transport ticket will be sent after your enrollment.

General Questions

Who organizes AEMS, and is it officially accredited?

AEMS is an officially accredited university course at BOKU University Vienna.
The program is a collaboration between OeAD student housing (organizer), BOKU University, and the Economy for the Common Good. More information can be found here.

What is OEAD student housing?

OeAD student housing provides energy-efficient accommodation for students across Austria and hosts approximately 10,000 students annually. Sustainability is a core principle of OeAD student housing. As a non-profit organization, it focuses on innovative construction projects, including globally recognized energy-efficient student residences in Passivhaus Standard and beyond.

Since 2005, CEO Günther Jedliczka has been a true pioneer in creating sustainable student housing. Examples include the Popup dorms, mobile student homes crafted from wood to meet the Passivhaus Standard, the GreenHouse, the world’s first Energy-Plus student residence that generates more energy than it consumes, or the Mineroom, the world’s first multi-story Passivhaus-Plus student residence built entirely from wood.

Günther Jedliczka also initiated the Green.Building.Solutions. and AEMS Summer Universities to address global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity, while inspiring the next generation to lead the green transformation.

Does OeAD student housing offer other Summer Universities?

Yes! We also offer the Green.Building.Solutions. Summer University.
This program attracts changemakers and future green builders who aim to apply their knowledge to create a more sustainable world. It is particularly relevant for students and professionals in fields such as civil and ecological engineering, architecture, land management, and related disciplines. The next Green.Building.Solutions. course will take place from July 14 to August 2, 2025.