The education and training system in Austria aims to enable young people to develop their talents and acquire the skills needed to meet current and future labour market challenges. Public schooling is free of charge and includes nine years of compulsory education starting at the age of six. In addition, the Compulsory Education/Training until age 18 (Ausbildungspflicht bis 18) requires young people to remain in education, training or preparatory measures until they reach adulthood. A distinct feature of the Austrian system is its strong vocational education and training (VET) sector, particularly the dual apprenticeship system, which combines company-based training with vocational school education (see Chapter 6.1.2 and 6.2).

The Federal Ministry of Education (BMB) sets the legal framework for Austria's school system, covering education from primary through secondary levels. Implementation is carried out through the nine state education directorates (Bildungsdirektionen), which operate as joint federal-state authorities. Since the 2026/27 school year, additional middle management structures have been introduced to strengthen school governance and quality development (neues Mittlere Management).

Ensuring equal opportunities and inclusion is a key principle of the Austrian education system. Public schools are open to all and aim to promote democratic values, tolerance and participation regardless of social background. Measures supporting inclusion include free schoolbooks (Schulbuchaktion) and school transport (Schülerfreifahrt), language support for students with a migrant background and specialised programmes for students with additional needs (Sonderschule und inklusiver Unterricht) (see Chapter 6.6).

Within the Austrian Youth Strategy, the action field ‘Education and Employment’ (Bildung und Beschäftigung) aims to support young people in developing their competences and facilitating successful transitions from education to the labour market. This includes coordination across several ministries and alignment with the Austrian Youth Goals to improve skills and opportunities for young people.