Online Campus

Your Path to College.

FERNFH Information Center

Your journey through college starts here.

Are you wondering if college is right for you? Or are you about to submit your application? Here you’ll find all the information you need in one place. We’ll guide you through the process—from orientation to helpful tips and documents to the admissions process.

Step by step—so your dream can become a reality.

Apply now for your distance learning program!

Welcome to the FERNFH Infocenter —your guide on the path to the degree program of your choice. Whether you’re just looking to learn more about distance learning, already have specific questions, or are about to apply, you’ll find everything you need right here in one place. The Infocenter supports you at every stage of your decision-making and application process with the right information, tools, and contact options.

Find out how distance learning at FERNFH is structured, and use the Distance Learning Check and the introductory course on the Online Campus to see if the FERNFH study model fits your lifestyle. You can also learn about our counseling services here: from online information sessions to in-person counseling sessions. 

Or are you ready to apply? If so, you'll find all the information you need about the application and admission process right here.

Using the quick links in the site's menu bar, you can go directly to the four main sections: Learn, Test and Try, Get Advice, Apply, and Enrollment. This way, you can quickly find exactly what you need and take it step by step on your path to distance learning at FERNFH.

Get Information

What does distance learning at FERNFH entail?

A distance learning program at FERNFH means: You study digitally, largely on your own terms, and in a structured way. You largely decide when and where you study, and we provide the right framework. You’ll meet in person with your fellow students and instructors up to three times per semester. In between: independent but guided study on our modern online campus. This way, the distance learning program adapts to your life—not the other way around.

Here's how your studies will work with us:

Flexible Online Learning:
—learn at your own pace, whenever and wherever you want

Few days of in-person attendance: "
"—compact, predictable, and unifying

  • Moodle Environment: Your Digital Online Campus with Everything You Need for Your Studies
  • Work-Life Balance: Juggling School, Work, and Family
  • Affordable education without financial worries: Our tuition is only €363.36 per semester plus the ÖH membership fee, since we are a federally funded university of applied sciences

Testing and Trying Things Out

Is the FERNFH program right for you?

Do you want to advance your career without giving up your job? Are you curious, organized, and motivated? Then distance learning is right for you.

Take the distance learning quiz now and find out if distance learning is the right study model for you and fits your lifestyle.

Start the Distance Learning Check

Try Out College

Would you like to see how our online campus works?

Click here to access our introductory course, where you can learn about the features of our Moodle learning platform. To do so, you'll need to create a trial account there.

Try Out College

Consult 

Information Sessions.

Live, real, personal.

Online and hassle-free: At our regular online information sessions, you’ll get all the information you need about distance learning directly from program directors or the FERNFH team. Ask your questions, clear up any uncertainties, and see if it’s the right fit for you. These sessions give you the opportunity to participate live and speak with faculty and program directors who will guide you along your journey.

Trade shows.

Come meet us in person.

Would you like to talk to us directly and interact in person with our students and FERNFH staff? Then why not stop by one of the many fairs where we’ll be exhibiting?
Whether it's BeSt, Master an More, or Bachelor and More, we look forward to meeting you in person! Take this opportunity to learn more about our degree programs and continuing education courses and to speak with us directly.

Upcoming Events & Trade Shows

All dates

We'll give you personalized advice.

Do you have questions about the program or the application process?
No problem—we're here for you personally and are happy to help!

Barbara Hager,
Information Desk, Mon–Fri from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Information for Applicants | Team Member
+43 2622 32600-600studieninfo@fernfh.ac.atAbout Me
Paul Lindorfer
Information for Applicants | Team Member
+43 2622 32600-600studieninfo@fernfh.ac.at

Apply

Admission requirements? Here's what you need to bring.
Before you apply, it’s worth taking a look at the admission requirements. There, you can immediately see whether your desired bachelor’s or master’s program at FERNFH aligns well with your educational background and whether you meet the requirements. 
More Info
Studying Without a High School Diploma?
Yeah, why not?
Do you want to take the next step in your career by pursuing a degree, but don't have a high school diploma or a certificate of academic equivalency? No problem! With a vocational qualification and the appropriate supplementary exams, you can still pursue a degree even without a high school diploma. 
More Info
Want to study at FERNFH and earn an international degree?
Did you earn a degree abroad? And are you unsure whether it will be recognized here? We'd be happy to review your documents on a case-by-case basis. 
Contact us
Are you ready to apply?
Then double-check which documents you'll need for the online application.

Bachelor's degree

For your bachelor's degree program , you'll need ...

  • A copy of your passport (the information page of the passport; alternatively: a birth certificate and proof of citizenship)
  • Certificates, documents:
    • High school diploma and final report card from the last school year, or
    • or a certificate of completion of the university entrance qualification exam, or a diploma from a vocational middle school, or a certificate of completion of an apprenticeship
  • Confirmation of Current Employment
  • a digital passport photo (700×900 pixels, file format: jpg, file size: 50–150 KB)
  • other certificates (e.g., university, university of applied sciences),
  • Name change documents, etc.
  • Resume
  • Letter of Motivation. It should include the following information: 
    • Development Goals (Related to Education and Careers)
    • Personal self-assessment (qualifications, skills) and the resulting motivation to pursue higher education
    • Assessment of one's own resources (time, social support) for managing a distance learning program while working
FERNFH Checklist – Bachelor's Degree Program

Master's degree

For your master's program, you'll need...

  • A copy of your passport (the information page of the passport; alternatively: a birth certificate and proof of citizenship)
  • Certificates, documents:
    • High school diploma and final report card from the last school year, or
    • or a certificate of completion of the university entrance qualification exam, or a diploma from a vocational middle school, or a certificate of completion of an apprenticeship
    • Diploma, bachelor's degree transcript, and cumulative transcript from previous higher education studies (when applying to a master's program)
  • Confirmation of Current Employment
  • a digital passport photo (700×900 pixels, file format: jpg, file size: 50–150 KB)
  • other certificates (e.g., university, university of applied sciences),
  • Name change documents, etc.
  • Resume
  • Letter of Motivation. It should include the following information: 
    • Development Goals (Related to Education and Careers)
    • Personal self-assessment (qualifications, skills) and the resulting motivation to pursue higher education
    • Assessment of one's own resources (time, social support) for managing a distance learning program while working
FERNFH Checklist – Master's Program

APPLICATION PROCESS

Register

First, open our application system.
Register there with your name, date of birth, and email address. 

Email

You will then receive an email with your login information for the system.

Access to the System

Click the link in the email to go to the system.

Information & Data

Fill out the information about yourself. Select the program you're applying for. Upload the required documents.

Formal Review

Your application will be reviewed to ensure that all formal requirements are met.

You will then be invited to participate in the admissions process. 

Apply Online
Apply now for your distance learning program!
Apply Now

Recording

The Admissions Process: Your Path to College—Simple and Transparent

Want to know how the admissions process works? No problem—we’ll show you how it works. Our admissions process isn’t about rigorous exams; it’s about working together to see if studying at FERNFH is a good fit for you and your goals.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: The Aptitude Test

It's not a complicated exam, but rather a structured aptitude test that gives both you and us an idea of how you approach certain topics. The content of this test varies depending on the degree program.

You'll usually take the test online—within a specified time frame. To help you prepare, you'll receive information and sample questions well in advance. That way, you'll know what to expect.

Step 2: The Intake Interview

Your aptitude test will be followed by a personal online admissions interview with a faculty member or the director of your future degree program. The focus of this interview is on getting to know each other as equals.

To help you prepare, ask yourself the following questions: Why do I want to go to college? What do I expect from my college experience? What skills do I already have, and how do I want to grow through this program? How would I integrate a FERNFH program into my life?

And yes, you can—and should—ask questions, too! This conversation isn't a one-way street; it's the starting point of a potential journey we can take together.

Depending on the degree program, the format, content, and weighting of the various parts of the admissions process vary slightly. That’s why we’ve summarized them again for you, program by program, to ensure transparency.

Nothing stands in the way of your distance learning program now!
Additional questions are answered in the FAQs

Step 1 of 16

Here's how the test works:

If you can't decide between two possible answers:

  • Select the option that best applies to you.
  • Think about your experiences over the past few months— not about an ideal or one-time situation.
  • If you really can't decide, choose the middle answer (B)— it often reflects a neutral assessment.

Here's an example based on the first question:
Question: "How well can you organize yourself?"

  • If you're usually well-organized but sometimes struggle with procrastination, then option B ("Most of the time, but I need a little nudge now and then") would be the best choice.
  • If your performance fluctuates a lot—sometimes very good, sometimes very bad—then you can think about which one is more accurate.

READY?

TAKE THE TEST NOW!

ANALYSIS

What kind of student are you?
First things first: This test doesn't determine what's "better" or "right." Everyone has their own specific preferences, so any type is fine. The result simply shows which study style suits you best.

DISTANCE LEARNING TYPE

Independent, flexible, and digitally savvy

You're the type of person who thrives on distance learning—which means you have the ideal qualities to succeed in a flexible, digital learning environment. But what exactly makes you the perfect candidate for a distance learning program? 

1. Independent Learning as the Key to Success

Distance learning requires initiative and self-discipline. Since you’ll be studying without set class times, you’ll need to be able to,

  • to structure your own study plan,
  • to work regularly and diligently, and
  • manage their own deadlines and exam periods.

This ability sets you apart from traditional students, who are provided with a fixed structure through regular in-person classes.

2. Discipline & Motivation – The Driving Force Behind Your Studies

Without direct supervision from professors or fellow students, it can sometimes be hard to motivate yourself to study. But you have the discipline needed to engage with the material regularly, even without external pressure.

A distance learning program is right for you because:

  • You can motivate yourself, even when things get tough.
  • You are used to working on tasks independently.
  • Keep your goals clearly in sight and stay the course over the long term.

3. Flexibility – Learn at your own pace

One of the biggest advantages of distance learning is the flexibility it offers in terms of time and location. Since you aren't tied to fixed class schedules or a specific location, you can tailor your studies to fit your daily routine.

Whether you study early in the morning, in the evening after work, or on the weekend— you decide when and where you study! That’s what makes distance learning particularly appealing for:

  • Working people
  • Parents
  • People with caregiving responsibilities
  • People who live in rural areas
  • People who travel a lot
  • People who want to be flexible
  • People whose lifestyle requires independence
  • People with mobility impairments
  • People who are pursuing further education while working
  • People who consider the long commutes to traditional lecture halls a waste of time
  • People with irregular work schedules
  • People who, for health reasons, are unable to attend classes on campus regularly
  • And many others

For all of you—and, of course, many others as well—distance learning offers the right conditions.

4. Digital learning—it's right up your alley!

Distance learning relies heavily on digital tools like these:

  • Online Lectures & Webinars
  • Digital Learning Platforms & Course Materials
  • Virtual Group Work & Forums

Since you’re comfortable in a digital environment, you can use these tools efficiently and take advantage of the wide range of opportunities offered by modern online education. At FERNFH, these digital tools are centrally organized through the online campus, so you always have everything at a glance. And best of all, they’re combined with in-person sessions on campus, which allow you to have direct contact with your instructors and fellow students.

🎯 Conclusion: A distance learning program is the perfect fit for you!

You have the right attitude, the necessary discipline, and an affinity for digital learning to succeed in a distance learning program. Your independent learning style makes you the ideal candidate for this flexible form of study.

FLEXIBLE PROGRAM TYPE

Between Structure and Freedom

You’re a flexible learner, which means you need both structured routines and a certain amount of freedom to learn successfully. Distance learning might be a good fit for you—but only if you’re willing to take charge of your own schedule. Let’s take a closer look at what that means for you.

1. Structure gives you security—but not too much of it

It's important to you that your studies have clear guidelines and a common thread. Completely free, unstructured learning isn't your thing, but rigid guidelines aren't your style either.

For you, this means:

  • You'll benefit from predefined modules and study plans that guide you through your studies.
  • You like deadlines and clear exam periods because they help you stay organized.
  • You need regular check-ins or online seminars to monitor your learning progress.

2. Freedom is important to you—but within certain limits

You appreciate being able to decide for yourself when, where, and how you study. The ability to flexibly adapt your studies to your daily routine is a major advantage for you.

For you, this means:

  • You don't want to sit in lectures at set times every day.
  • You want to decide for yourself whether you study in the morning, in the evening, or on the weekend.
  • Digital learning platforms and online materials give you the freedom to study from anywhere.

So you'll need a bit of self-discipline to make the most of that freedom and avoid procrastinating or losing track of things.

3. Self-organization is the key to your success 🔑

Since you need a balance of structure and freedom, self-organization is especially important to you. A distance learning program can work for you if you’re willing to:

  • Create your own study plans so you don't lose sight of your academic goals.
  • To exercise self-discipline when there are no set class times.
  • Use digital tools to make your daily learning routine more efficient.

It helps you set realistic weekly goals and make the most of your community of fellow students and study groups to stay motivated! This is, of course, part of your studies at FERNFH.

🎯 Conclusion: A distance learning program is right for you if …

… you find a good balance between freedom and structure! You need a study program that provides you with a framework but still remains flexible.

A distance learning program is right for you because:

  • You can expect clear modules, work packages, and deadlines
  • Throughout the semester, you’ll regularly attend live seminars, lectures, or online meetings for orientation and to interact with your fellow students and instructors.
  • The online campus connects you with your knowledge, your fellow students, and your instructors.  

TRADITIONAL ON-CAMPUS STUDY PROGRAM

Traditional Form of Study

On-campus study is the traditional way of studying: You attend lectures, participate in seminars, and learn through direct interaction with professors and fellow students. If you’re the on-campus type, then you prefer a structured learning environment, direct contact with faculty, and a strong academic community. Let’s take a closer look at what defines an on-campus student.

Characteristics of a Typical On-Campus Student

1. Prefers structured learning environments

  • You learn best in structured courses with regular lectures and seminars.
  • You need a clear schedule that sets the pace for your day.
  • It's easier for you to stay motivated when you're physically at the university.

2. Benefit from direct interaction with instructors

  • You like to ask questions directly during lectures or office hours.
  • Personal explanations and discussions help you understand complex topics.
  • You need close support to feel confident in your studies.

3. Enjoy learning in groups and through social interaction

  • You benefit from learning in groups or by exchanging ideas with others.
  • You enjoy discussing things with your classmates, studying, and motivating each other.
  • Everyday university life—with the cafeteria, library, and campus life—is important to you.

4. Requires an external structure for effective learning

  • You find it difficult to organize yourself without clear guidelines.
  • Exams and regular assessments help you stay on track.
  • A set course of study provides you with security and guidance.

5. Use digital learning methods as a supplement, not as the main source

  • You use online materials, but prefer to use them as a supplement rather than as your primary method of learning.
  • You'd like to learn the material in a classroom setting rather than just through self-study.
  • You benefit from being physically present in libraries or study groups.

6. Is willing to commute to college regularly or move there

  • You have no problem attending classes at the university every day.
  • You are willing to accept a longer commute or to move to attend college.
  • You appreciate the atmosphere of campus life with direct access to all resources.

On-campus study program?
Here's how to succeed in FERNFH's hybrid study model!

So, do you prefer to learn within a structured environment, value direct interaction with professors and fellow students, and benefit from a clear class schedule? If so, a purely online program might be a challenge for you at first.

But FERNFH's hybrid study model combines the best of both worlds:

👉 Flexible online learning for most of the semester
👉 3 short in-person sessions per semester for direct interaction and in-depth study

The following 5 strategies will help you successfully master this model :

Strategy 1: Make the most of the in-person sessions

The three in-person sessions per semester give you the opportunity to interact in person with professors and fellow students. To help you get the most out of them:

  • Preparation: Read through the relevant material beforehand, make a note of any questions you have, and bring them with you.
  • Get actively involved: Take advantage of this opportunity for group work, discussions, and in-depth exercises.
  • Building Stronger Connections: You don’t study alone; instead, in many courses you’re part of a team of students—especially during the online phases. But during the in-person phases, you have direct contact with one another and can also discuss topics beyond the course material. FERNFH students value this highly.

Strategy 2: Create a clear study plan for the online phases

Since you prefer set schedules, you should create your own structure for online learning:

  • Schedule set study times —set specific days and times for your studies.
  • Keep a to-do list – Write down what course material you want to complete by the next in-person session.
  • Working with Deadlines – Set interim goals to avoid falling behind schedule.

Strategy 3: Keep in touch with professors and fellow students

You can stay in touch with others even when you're not on campus:

  • Use online forums and group chats to ask questions and discuss the material together.
  • Create digital study groups to review content regularly.
  • Be active in online seminars —ask questions, participate in discussions, and stay visible.

Strategy 4: Consciously Shape Your Learning Environment

Since you're used to studying in lecture halls or libraries, you should also create a good study environment for yourself at home:

  • Set up a quiet study area that's free from distractions.
  • Use technical aids, such as a second monitor for online lectures.
  • Use both analog and digital methods, such as taking notes on paper and using online tools for summaries.

Strategy 5: View the online phases as an opportunity for flexibility

Even if you feel more comfortable in a more structured learning environment, you can still take advantage of the flexibility of the hybrid model:

  • Plan your studies around your other commitments —it’ll be easier to balance work, family, and free time.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to learn at your own pace if you want to review or explore topics in greater depth.
  • Consciously combine online and in-person learning by specifically gathering questions during the online sessions to ask during the in-person sessions.

🎯 Conclusion: You can succeed in a hybrid degree program!

With the right organization, you can make the most of the hybrid model:

  • In-person sessions for in-depth discussion and networking
  • Online Modules for Flexible and Independent Learning
  • A Clear Structure and Time Management for Optimal Learning Outcomes

This way, you can combine the best of both worlds— flexible online study and focused time on campus —and successfully complete your degree!

If you’re interested in our approach to studying, feel free to stay in touch with us: Through our FERNFH newsletter, we’ll keep you regularly updated on new degree and continuing education programs, dates for information sessions, insights into student life, and the latest developments at FERNFH.

This way, you won't miss a single opportunity to make your dream degree a reality, step by step.

Subscribe to the newsletter now