Funding

Tertiary A (higher education, academic)

There is no automatic claim for state subsidy based on the granting of a permission for the foundation and management of a higher education institution. Such state subsidies are given on a legal basis to specific higher education institusion (e.g. University of Liechtenstein) or on the basis of a performance agreement between a higher education institution and the government provided that there is a public interest and the institution fulfills a need.

Also, institutions of research conducting research that is relevant to Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Institute) can be supported within the framework of a performance agreement.

As a foundation under public law the University of Liechtenstein is subsidized or rather carried by the state. The state assigns the movable assets necessary for the management of the University of Liechtenstein and puts the rooms necessary for university operations at their disposal free of charge. The state also pays a state contribution based on financial decisions. Liechtenstein maintains agreements with Switzerland and Austria that secure college places at national terms for residents of Liechtenstein.

Tertiary B (higher professional education)

Financing vocational education is regulated by the Law on Vocational Education and Training. The state bears the costs for school fees (e.g. training colleges and vocational upper secondary schools), for the compulsory training courses of the vocational trainers, for the exams and other qualification procedures, for remedial courses and optional courses at training colleges etc. The state also makes contributions e.g. to external courses, to preparatory actions for the basic vocational training, for international coordination in the field of vocational education etc..

Fees within public higher education

The tuition fee at the University of Liechtenstein is CHF 950 per semester for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals or CHF 1,250 for other nationals. Erasmus students pay the tuition fees at their home university. Tuition fees at the Private University in the Principality of Liechtenstein are considerably higher, depending on the type of degree programme. 

Financial support for the families of students

In principle, the legal guardians are obliged to pay for the costs incurred until their children complete their initial education. In case of limited financial means, students can apply for scholarships or educational grants.

Financial support for students

The awarding of educational grants is regulated by the Scholarship Law. The state grants educational support in the form of scholarships (which do not have to be repaid) and interest-free loans (which must be repaid). In principle, persons residing in Liechtenstein who can prove that they have had their ordinary residence in Liechtenstein for at least 3 years without interruption or for a total of at least 5 years at the time of commencement of their education are entitled to apply for educational support. The amount is determined according to the principle of subsidiarity (depending on the income and assets of the legal guardians).

For applicants aged 18 and over, the financial circumstances of the applicant and, if married, the potential contributions of the spouse are taken into account. For applicants up to the age of 25, the contributions of both parents are taken into account, regardless of marital status. From the age of 25, an education grant in the form of a scholarship and interest-free loan can be obtained (regardless of the income of the legal guardians). This expires upon completion of the education.

Support is provided for initial and further school and vocational education leading to a qualification recognised in Liechtenstein, as well as recognised further training..

Private and state-supported educational institutions 

Tuition fees are set by the private institutions. 

Educational grants can also be applied for to attend a private institution. However, only if the degree is state-recognised. The same conditions apply for education grants or tax deductions as for public institutions.