American International School Vienna

Vienna, Austria

About the American International School Vienna: American International School Vienna (AISV) in Austria was founded in 1959. It has a strong reputation for high achievement and accommodates 800 students from pre-kindergarten to Year 12.

School Mission: To empower each student with the skills and character strengths necessary to be positively impactful global citizens who strive for personal growth and excellence in an ever-changing world.

School Vision: A community of innovative learners realising their chosen futures with courage, curiosity, and joy.

Head to the school website for more details.

ITF Review
(Based on Independent Research)

Would you recommend this school to other teaching families?

Yes – if you’re looking to work in Europe then AISV is a fantastic, family-friendly choice. While benefits aren’t as strong as Asian or Middle Eastern schools, for Europe you can expect a high quality of life and excellent community for your family.

Overall compensation package rating

Very competitive for the region – especially for experienced teachers who can earn more. Your salary is subject to income tax in Austria, which ranges from 0% to 55% depending on your income level – so check with HR if you receive an offer to confirm.

Tuition benefits

100% tuition coverage is provided for staff children.

Housing

While there is no housing allowance included in the teacher package, the school does provide assistance with finding accommodation.

Flights

A flight allowance is provided for staff at the beginning and end of contract.

Healthcare

A private healthcare scheme is included in your teaching package.

Adjustment for kids

The majority of students are international – representing over 80 countries. The school places a big emphasis on helping their global mobile community feel at home, so it’s likely that teacher’s children will adjust quite easily at the school. Teaching languages include English, Spanish, German and French.

Average class sizes

The maximum class size at the school across all age levels is 21, but the average is around 18 students per class.

Teaching experience required

Teachers are required to have at least two years formal teaching experience before working at this school. You’ll also need a Bachelor or Masters degree, and a formal teaching certification or qualification.

Curriculum

American and International Baccalaureate (DP)

Retirement/pension benefits

The school contributes to a private pension scheme, which is matched by the teacher (10% each).

School history & stability

The school has a strong history in Vienna and has been open since 1959.

American International School Vienna – Additional Benefits

  • Laptop allowance
  • Relocation allowance (start and end)
  • Flight allowance (start and end)
  • School pension contributions
  • Assistance finding accommodation
  • Professional development

What Teachers are Saying About American International School Vienna

The school offers a supportive and positive environment for teachers – you’ll be joining part of a great community at AISV.

INTERNATIONAL TEACHER, AISV

I heard that teachers who have been there a long time are on a good contract, but new teachers are on a different contract with far less benefits. 

INTERNATIONAL TEACHER IN EUROPE

If you are only comparing to Europe, it’s probably one of the best places you could land a job.

EX-TEACHER AT AISV
  • Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna in Austria on a sunny day - what you might choose to visit if you teach at Danube International School
  • Scenic view of St Francis of Assisi Church on the river at sunset in Vienna, Austria - a site you could see if working at the American International School Vienna
  • View of St Charles Church in Vienna, Austria

The pay is significantly higher than other international schools in Austria and with enough experience you can still save and have a high standard of living.

INTERNATIONAL TEACHER, AISV

The school is a great place to work. Your colleagues will be friendly, professional and supportive.

INTERNATIONAL TEACHER, AISV

There are some excellent teachers at AISV. The package is competitive and the onboarding support is strong for new teachers.

EX INTERNATIONAL TEACHER AT AISV

Safety, Adaptability & Cost of Living

  • Safety: High – Vienna is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. Crime rates are typically low and most expat families feel very secure living in the city. Popular residential districts for international families include Döbling, Hietzing, and Währing, which are well connected and family friendly.
  • Adaptability: High – Vienna is a cosmopolitan capital with a strong international community, excellent infrastructure, and plenty of green spaces. Families can enjoy world-class museums, music, and cultural events alongside outdoor activities in the Vienna Woods and nearby Alps. English is widely understood in professional and expat circles, though learning some German helps with daily life and integration. Language lessons are readily available.
  • Cost of Living: High – Compared to many European cities, Vienna is more expensive, particularly for housing and dining out. However, public transport, healthcare, and education are of very high quality and reasonably priced. With the allowances provided by the school, families can live comfortably and enjoy Vienna’s excellent standard of living.

General Overview for Teaching Families

The American International School Vienna (AISV) is a well-established, not-for-profit international school in Austria, founded in 1959. It serves a diverse community of students from early childhood through Grade 12, with more than 80 nationalities represented. The school offers an American-style curriculum leading to the High School Diploma, alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. AISV has a reputation for high academic standards and empowering students to become thoughtful, globally minded citizens.

The campus is located in the leafy 19th district of Vienna, with views of the Vienna Woods and excellent access to the city. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, arts and music spaces, a theatre, and extensive outdoor sports areas. The school promotes a holistic education focused on academics and creativity, athletics, service learning, and personal growth.

To work at AISV, you’ll need to hold recognised teaching qualifications and have at least two years of teaching experience. Contracts are typically for two years, and the school recruits internationally each year. Staff benefits include competitive salaries, medical insurance, help to find accommodation, tuition discounts for dependent children, PD opportunities, and good relocation support.

Vienna is regularly ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world. It offers families a safe environment, excellent public transport, rich cultural life, and easy access to the outdoors. For teachers with families, AISV combines the benefits of a supportive school community with the high quality of life.

Do you currently work at AISV? If so please get in touch to let us know your thoughts. Or complete our teacher survey to share more insights about your experience.

Latest from the Blog (For Teachers)