FAQs

Who is the program aimed at?

GBS attracts like-minded changemakers and future green builders who aspire to make the world a better place by implementing the gained knowledge in their future careers. The content is relevant to students and professionals alike in the fields of architecture, (urban) planning, civil and ecological engineering, as well as in all fields related to the built environment at a domestic or foreign university.

When and where does it take place?

The summer university is held from July 16th to August 7th, 2022 in Vienna, Austria. After the official course, every participant gets the possibility to expand their stay in the OeAD-Guesthouse by one week (for free) and have a better look at one of the most liveable cities in the world – Vienna.

Is it going to be in person or virtual in 2022?

We are currently planning for GBS to take place physically – in person – in Vienna. However, this is subject to change in consideration of upcoming developments.

How many participants take part in the course?

Each year between 50 and 60 participants take part in the course.

How do I book a place for GBS?

Follow this link to the application form.

Please note that you will be asked to register for the website first. Enter your name and mail-address and choose a password to complete this step. Afterwards, you need to fill in the application form for the GBS Summer University.

The application deadline for scholarships is May 31st, 2022 (EXTENDED). We recommend applying as soon as possible, as places and scholarships are limited.

When does application start and end?

Registration usually starts in December and is possible until June, 30th. The application for scholarships for 2022 is possible until May 31st (EXTENDED).
For application on our website please keep your documents ready and register online via our online registration form.

What is the language in this course?

All study and social activities are carried out in English. A certain level of knowledge of the English language is therefore obligatory.

Who is the organizer of this course and is it officially accredited by a specific organization?

GBS is an officially accredited university course from BOKU University Vienna. The program is collectively organized by OeAD student housing together with the main Austrian partner universities. Find the full list of our partners here.

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

You receive an official university certificate from BOKU University on 7 ECTS (only if applying until April 18th) AND a participation certificate issued by the main organizers: OeAD student housing (us), BOKU University, TU University, and the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT). Both certificates show the modules and ECTS of the course.

How can I use the 7 ECTS towards my university degree?

If you apply before April 18th, 2022 you will receive an official certificate of BOKU University Vienna showing 7 ECTS after successful completion of GBS. Please get in touch with your home university about accreditation of the ECTS into your studies beforehand.

If you apply after April 18th, 2022 you will receive the participation certificate mentioned above.

How much is the participation fee?

The participation fee for the three-week-course, including accommodation for four weeks, social activities, excursions, site visits and tickets for public transport in Vienna, is EUR 2.490,- for professionals and EUR 2.000,- for students. Scholarship holders pay a reduced fee of EUR 490,-.

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes, we offer scholarships for students who cannot afford the full course fee but have excellent qualifications in the fields of architecture, building and planning as well as similar study fields. Please find all the info here.

Am I eligible for a scholarship?

Students with their main studies in architecture, planning, engineering and similar fields are eligible to apply for a scholarship – our target group here especially comprises Master students. The scholarships are sponsored by private companies and are given to outstanding scholars with financial needs. They are chosen by a jury on basis of the application and the documents handed in.

What are the requirements for a scholarship?

Current Master’s study at an appropriate topic (architecture, planning, urban studies, energy planning, engineering, …)
Good study progress or average grade
Financial need
Motivational letter (experience, qualifications, and skills)
Very good English knowledge

I am working full-time / working part-time alongside studying. Can I still attend the program?

The summer university is open to not only students, but also professionals of various backgrounds. We want to reach as many people as possible with the contents of green and sustainable building.

However, please note that the GBS is a full-time program taking place for the duration of three weeks. Continuous attendance is mandatory to receive a certificate.

I am Austrian, can I attend?

Of course you can! The course in for national and international students and professionals.

What is included in the participation fee?

The participation fee includes accommodation, all parts of the program as well as lecture materials, and tickets for the public transport system in Vienna.

Which costs do I need to cover myself?

All costs related to your trip to Vienna, e. g. flight, visa expenses, …
Costs related to health and household insurance
Food and laundry during your stay in Vienna
Individual activities

You can find more information on what’s included here.

Do you provide accommodation in Vienna?

Yes. Accommodation in a passive house OeAD-Guesthouse is also included in the program fee, please find more info here.

I am living in Vienna - do I have to move in the student guesthouse?

Moving into the guesthouse is not obligatory. If you’re already living in Vienna, you can of course take part in the program from your own home. Still, our participants always enjoy the possibility of getting to know each other better and further discussing the topics of the course through living in a shared community.

I have applied for GBS - how long does it take, until my application is reviewed?

We will inform all the applicants the latest after the scholarship application deadline – May 31st (EXTENDED). We give our best to get back to every applicant as soon as possible. Please be patient, if we do not answer to your application immediately.

Do I need a visa to travel to Austria, and do you provide an invitation letter?

It depends on your country of residence, if you need a visa for Austria or not. Please check with the Austrian Embassy in your country. We will support your visa application by providing you an invitation letter as soon as you’re successfully enrolled in the program by the payment of the participation fee.

Please note that it is the student’s obligation to take care of visa arrangements for entry and the duration of their stay in Austria. For information about the visa requirements check the OeAD website.

Please be aware that it can take some weeks for your visa to be issued. So please request an appointment at the embassy as early as possible.

I have a disability or require special medical attention. How do I let you know about this?

We are committed to create an environment of equal opportunity and will strive to make all reasonable adjustments in order to enable students to undertake the program. If you have any prior questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at gbs@oead.at

Does the OeAD student housing offer any other summer universities?

We also offer the Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems (AEMS) Summer School. AEMS participants get an in-depth understanding of the complex interconnections between economy, ecology and society. Together with experts from different fields, they explore already existing alternatives to the current profit-oriented economy. They also get support in developing their own project ideas. The course takes place from July 18 to August 5, 2022, and is open to students and professionals from various backgrounds.