Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany: Top Universities, Courses, Cost, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Germany has long been recognized as the global hub of engineering, attracting thousands of international students every year who aspire to pursue advanced studies in mechanical engineering.  

The country’s strong industrial base, particularly in the automotive, manufacturing, robotics, and aerospace sectors, provides students with unique opportunities to gain practical training and research exposure while studying in Germany. Combined with affordable living costs, scholarship opportunities, and access to an 18-month post-study work visa, Germany ensures that international graduates are well-prepared to launch successful global careers. 

In the following sections, we’ll explore eligibility, fees, scholarships, top universities, job opportunities, and everything you need to know about pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Germany. 

What is a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany (MS) degree? 

A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (MS) in Germany is a postgraduate program typically lasting 2 years, focused on advanced concepts in design, production, thermodynamics, robotics, and industrial automation.  

Germany is globally recognized as an engineering hub, with leading universities and strong ties to industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, making this degree highly sought after by international students. 

How does a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany differ from other engineering degrees? 

A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Germany may sound similar to other engineering programs, but it offers a more specialized pathway. While courses like civil, electrical, or computer engineering focus on their own domains, mechanical engineering is designed for students who want to work on machines, manufacturing, robotics, and industrial systems. 

What makes it different is its practical orientation—German universities often connect students with leading automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries, giving them hands-on skills. 

Why is the MS in Mechanical Engineering degree gaining popularity among international students? 

Over the last decade, Germany has seen a steady rise in the number of international students pursuing engineering degrees, with mechanical engineering being one of the top choices. This trend is driven by several academic and career-oriented reasons. 

• Global Reputation: QS World University Rankings 2026 lists universities like TUM, RWTH Aachen, KIT, and Stuttgart among the world’s best in Mechanical Engineering. 
• Affordable Education: Most public universities charge no tuition fees, except a semester contribution. This makes Germany far more affordable compared to the US or UK. 
• Career Prospects: Germany’s strong industrial sector actively hires mechanical engineers, making it one of the high-paying engineering specializations. 

Why should you study a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Pursuing an MS in Mechanical Engineering in Germany offers affordability, and strong employability outcomes. German universities are globally recognized for their academic excellence, and the country’s industry ties ensure that students graduate with both theoretical expertise and practical skills. The program also serves as a gateway to work opportunities in Germany’s booming engineering sector, as international graduates are eligible for an 18-month post-study work visa. 

With tuition fees at public universities close to zero, plus multiple scholarships available for international students, Germany is one of the most affordable for advanced mechanical engineering studies. 

What makes Germany a top choice for MS in Mechanical Engineering? 

While many countries provide good engineering programs, Germany has built its reputation as the “Engineering Hub of Europe.” This is due to several structural advantages. 

• QS Rankings: Universities like TUM (#22), RWTH Aachen (#99), and KIT (#98) consistently rank in the global top 100 for engineering. 
• Strong Industry Linkages: Companies like Bosch, BMW, Audi, and Siemens are headquartered in Germany, giving students unmatched exposure. 
• Practical Curriculum: German universities emphasize hands-on labs, industrial projects, and thesis collaborations. 
• Post-Study Opportunities: The Blue Card visa system allows mechanical engineers to easily settle and work in Germany after graduation. 

Is Germany better choice for MS in Mechanical Engineering compared to other countries? 

Germany stands out as one of the top global destinations for mechanical engineering, thanks to its low tuition fees at public universities, strong industry partnerships, and high employability in fields like automotive, robotics, and renewable energy.  

However, countries like the USA, UK, and Canada also offer competitive programs with unique advantages. Comparing tuition, living costs, program length, and job prospects helps students decide the best fit for their academic and career goals. 

Factor	Germany	USA	UK	Canada
Tuition Fees	Mostly 0–€3,000/year (INR 3.09 L) (public universities)	$20,000–$50,000/year   (INR 17.63 L – 44.08 L)	£15,000–£35,000/year   (INR 17.86 L – 41.69 L)	CAD 18,000–CAD 40,000/year (INR 11.47L - 25.49L)
Cost of Living	€10,000–€15,000/year (INR 10.32 L – 15.49 L)	$12,000–$18,000/year (INR 10.58 L – 15.87 L)	£10,000–£15,000/year (INR 11.91 L – 17.86 L)	CAD 12,000–CAD 18,000/year (INR 7.64 L – 11.47 L)
Program Duration	2 years	2 years	1–2 years	2 years
Eligibility	Bachelor’s in Mechanical/related field, IELTS/TOEFL, GRE usually not required	Bachelor’s, GRE (often), IELTS/TOEFL	Bachelor’s, IELTS/TOEFL (GRE rarely)	Bachelor’s, IELTS/TOEFL
Scholarships	DAAD, Erasmus+, university grants	Fulbright, university scholarships	Chevening, Commonwealth, university funding	Vanier, university funding
Job Opportunities	High demand in automotive, manufacturing, robotics, renewable energy	Very strong in aerospace, automotive, robotics, R&D	Good in automotive, energy, design	Good in manufacturing, aerospace, energy
Post-Study Work Visa	18 months	3 years (STEM OPT)	2–3 years	3 years
PR/Settlement Options	Possible through job route (Blue Card → PR)	Complex & long	Moderate	Easier PR pathway
Best For	Affordable education + world-class engineering hub	Research, innovation, global exposure	Shorter programs, global recognition	Affordable compared to US/UK, PR route

What are the eligibility criteria for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Admission into a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Germany is competitive, and requirements vary slightly across universities. Generally, applicants need a strong academic background in engineering or related fields, proof of language proficiency, and a good GPA. Some programs also consider professional experience, research work, or additional coursework to assess readiness for advanced study. 

Do you need an engineering background to apply for MS  in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Most German universities require applicants to have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (e.g., automotive, production, mechatronics, or aerospace). A few programs may admit students from physics, mathematics, or material science, provided they complete bridging courses. 

• Mandatory: Solid background in mathematics, mechanics, and engineering fundamentals. 
• Flexibility: Some universities allow conditional admission if a student is missing 1–2 prerequisite courses. 
• DAAD Database: Most program descriptions clearly list subject-specific prerequisites, ensuring transparency for applicants. 

What GPA is required for MS in Mechanical Engineering admissions in Germany? 

German universities usually set minimum grade requirements based on the local system. International students must often convert their scores into the German GPA system (1.0 = best, 5.0 = fail). 

• Typical Requirement: Minimum GPA equivalent to 2.5 on the German scale (roughly 65–70% or above). 
• Highly Ranked Universities (TUM, RWTH, KIT): Prefer GPAs closer to 2.0 or better (75% or higher). 
• Exceptions: Some universities consider professional experience or research projects if the GPA is slightly lower. 

Tip: Use official GPA conversion tools provided by DAAD or uni-assist to avoid any misinterpretation. 

What standardized tests are required (GRE/GMAT/TOEFL/IELTS)? 

Germany offers programs in both English and German. The language requirements vary accordingly: 

• For English-taught programs: 
• IELTS: 6.5–7.0 (no band less than 6.0) 
• TOEFL iBT: 85–95+ 
• PTE Academic: 60+ 
• For German-taught programs: 
• TestDaF: Level 4 in all sections 
• DSH: Level 2 or 3 
• Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or higher 

Tip: Even if you choose an English-taught program, basic German proficiency (A1–A2) is highly recommended for daily life and internships. 

How can international students apply for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Students usually apply through the university’s online portal or Uni-Assist platform. 

To pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Germany, students must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field such as industrial engineering, materials science, or automotive engineering. Most German universities require: 

• A minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). 
• Completion of relevant coursework in mathematics, physics, thermodynamics, and design. 
• Strong academic transcripts with consistent performance in core engineering subjects. 

Some universities also require students to have completed an undergraduate thesis or research project, which helps demonstrate research aptitude. 

What documents are required for the MS application process? 

Most programs ask for: 

• Bachelor’s transcripts/degree certificate (with official translations if needed) 
• CV/Resume + Motivation letter/Statement of Purpose 
• 2–3 Letters of recommendation (academic/professional) 
• Language scores (IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH) 
• Passport, passport-size photo 
• Proof of application fee (if applicable); uni-assist VPD if required by the university 

What is the application timeline and intake season for MS in Mechanical engineering in Germany? 

Germany primarily has Winter Semester (starts Oct) and Summer Semester (starts Apr). Many international deadlines cluster around mid-July (winter) and mid-Jan (summer) for uni-assist universities, but top technical universities may have earlier windows to start 10–12 months ahead.  

Stage	When	What to do
Research universities & programs	12–14 months before (Jun–Aug, previous year)	Compare curricula, medium (EN/DE), labs, city
Language tests & GRE (if needed)	10–12 months before	Book IELTS/TOEFL; GRE only if your target program requires
Prepare docs & uni-assist VPD	8–10 months before	Arrange academic transcripts, LORs, SOP; get VPD if needed
Submit applications	6–9 months before (Nov–Feb typical)	Check each portal deadline carefully
Offers & enrolment	3–5 months before	Upload final docs; pay semester fee
Visa & blocked account	2–4 months before	Apply for National Visa (D) with proof of funds
Travel & housing	1–2 months before	Book tickets; apply for dorms/private housing

Which are the top universities for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Germany is home to some of the world’s most prestigious engineering universities, many of which rank among the global top 100. These institutions combine strong theoretical foundations with practical exposure, often collaborating with leading industries such as automotive, robotics, aerospace, and renewable energy. For international students, studying Mechanical Engineering in Germany means access to cutting-edge research facilities, tuition-free or low-cost education at public universities, and excellent post-study work opportunities. 

Top Universities in Germany for MS in Mechanical Engineering 

University	QS World University Ranking 2026
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	#22
RWTH Aachen University	#105
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	#98
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)	#145
University of Stuttgart	#310
Darmstadt University of Technology (TU Darmstadt)	#253
Leibniz University Hannover	#433
Ruhr University Bochum	#395
University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU)	#232

How much does it cost to study for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Studying a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Germany is far more affordable compared to destinations like the USA or UK. Most public universities charge little to no tuition fees, apart from a semester contribution of €250–€350 (INR 25,821– 36,150). The main expense for international students is living costs, which usually range between €10,000–€15,000 (INR 10.32 L– 15.49 L ) per year, depending on the city. 

What is the average tuition fee for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Moat public universities in Germany, such as RWTH Aachen, TUM, Stuttgart, and KIT, do not charge tuition fees for most students. Instead, international students pay a semester contribution (around €300–€350) which covers administration, student union, and public transport. However, states like Baden-Württemberg charge €1,500 per year for non-EU students. 

Here are the average annual tuition fees of dome of the top universities in Germany for Masters in Mechanical Engineering: 

University	Approximate Annual Tuition Fee
RWTH Aachen University	Semester fee €300 (INR 30,985)
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	Semester fee €300–€350 (INR 30,985- 36,150)
University of Stuttgart	€1,500/year for non-EU students (INR 1.54 Lakh)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	€1,500/year for non-EU students (INR 1.54 Lakh)
Technical University of Berlin	Semester fee €310–€350 (INR 32,018 – 36,150)
Leibniz University Hannover	Semester fee €380 (INR 39,248)
TU Darmstadt	Semester fee €300–€350 (INR 30,985 – 39,248)

Note: Tuition fees and semester contributions in Germany may vary slightly depending on the university, program structure, and fluctuating exchange rates. 

 How much are living expenses for international students in Germany? 

The cost of living depends on the city, lifestyle, and type of accommodation. On average, international students need €900–€1,200 (INR 92,957 – 1.23 L)  per month.  

Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly costs: 

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (EUR/INR)
Accommodation (rent)	300 – 600 (INR 27,018 – INR 54,036)
Food & Groceries	200 – 300 (INR 18,012 – INR 27,018)
Health Insurance	110 – 120 (INR 9,906 – INR 10,807)
Transportation (public)	80 – 100 (INR 7,204 – INR 9,006)
Utilities & Internet	50 – 100 (INR 4,503 – INR 9,006)
Miscellaneous	100 – 150 (INR 9,006 – INR 13,509)
Total	900 – 1,200 (INR 81,054.00 – INR 1.08 L)

Students are also required to open a blocked account with around €11,208 per year (INR 11.57 L) to prove financial ability for their student visa. 

What scholarships are available for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Studying MS in mechanical engineering in Germany is relatively affordable and scholarships also help ease many additional living and academic costs. There are various scholarships for MS programs provided by government bodies, universities, and external organizations. Many of them cover tuition, health insurance, living allowances, and travel grants, making Germany an attractive destination for international students. 

Which government-funded scholarships can international students apply for? 

Germany has many government-funded scholarships that support international students in technical fields like mechanical engineering. These scholarships not only reduce financial burdens but also enhance career opportunities through networking and research grants. 

Scholarship Programme	Provider	Coverage	Eligibility
DAAD Scholarship for M.Sc. programs	DAAD	Full or partial funding, monthly stipend, travel allowance	Strong academic record, research interest in Mech Eng
Deutschlandstipendium	German Federal Government + Sponsors	€300/month (INR 30,985) merit-based scholarship	Available at many universities, open to top performers internationally
Erasmus+ (if applicable)	European Commission	Tuition waiver, travel, living grant	For students enrolled in Erasmus exchange/joint programs

What university-specific scholarships are available for MS in Mechanical engineering in Germany? 

Many German universities offer their own funding programs tailored for international students in mechanical engineering. These scholarships can include tuition fee waivers, monthly stipends, or short-term financial support. The table below highlights some of the well-known university-specific scholarships available to MS applicants in Germany. 

University	Scholarship Name(s)	Coverage
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	TUM Graduate School Scholarships	Partial funding, monthly stipend
RWTH Aachen University	RWTH International Academy Scholarships	Partial tuition / monthly stipend
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	KIT Scholarship Programs	Tuition fee waiver, possible stipend
University of Stuttgart	Central Assistance Fund	Short-term support, occasional grants
TU Berlin	Berlin International Scholarships	€1,200/month (INR 1.23 L)  stipend

How can Indian students apply for MS in mechanical engineering scholarships in Germany? 

Indian students can apply for scholarships through DAAD, university portals, or external funding bodies. Applicants should start preparing early, as most scholarships have deadlines 6–9 months before the program begins. 

The following steps should be kept in mind: 

• Research university-specific scholarships while applying for admission 
• Apply online through DAAD or university portals 
• Prepare supporting documents (SOP, transcripts, LORs, proof of language skills) 
• Meet early deadlines (usually November–March for winter intakes) 

Also Read: Top Germany Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025 

What are the popular specializations in Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany? 

Germany is one of the top global destinations for mechanical engineering due to its strong industrial base, world-class universities, and demand for skilled engineers. Popular specializations in MS are offered in many universities in Germany in various sectors like automotive, manufacturing, robotics, and renewable energy. Many programs are taught in English, which also makes them easily accessible for international students. 

Which MS in mechanical engineering specializations have the highest career scope in Germany? 

Germany is well-known for its automotive sector, advanced robotics, aerospace innovation, and renewable energy transition. These fields are not only expanding but also supported by strong research and industry partnerships.  

Here are some of the most in demand MS in Mechanical Engineering specializations with higher career scope:  

• Automotive Engineering  
• Mechatronics & Robotics 
• Aerospace Engineering  
• Renewable Energy Systems  
• Production Engineering  
• Manufacturing Engineering  

How do specializations in Germany MS programs compare with other countries? 

Germany’s specializations often focus on practical training and industry integration, which makes them stand out compared to programs in the US, UK, or Canada. German universities collaborate directly with leading companies, offering real-world exposure. 

Country	Popular Specializations	Program Length	Key Highlights
Germany	Automotive, Robotics, Renewable Energy, Manufacturing	2 years	Strong industry tie-ups (BMW, Siemens, Bosch), affordable tuition, practical training
USA	Aerospace, Computational Mechanics, Nanotechnology, Thermal Systems	2 years	High research intensity, diverse specialization options
UK	Thermal Systems, Fluid Mechanics, Manufacturing Management, Industrial Design	1 year	Shorter programs, faster entry into jobs, higher living costs in major cities
Canada	Mechatronics, Sustainable Design, Industrial Engineering, Robotics	1.5–2 years	Strong in applied research, post-study work visa benefits
Australia	Energy Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace, Robotics	1.5–2 years	Focus on sustainability and applied projects, higher tuition fees
Netherlands	Sustainable Energy, Mechanical Systems, Robotics, Automotive Tech	2 years	Strong emphasis on sustainability and R&D

What are the career opportunities after completing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in ? 

Graduates of mechanical engineering programs in Germany benefit from the country’s strong industrial base, particularly in automotive, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors. Opportunities extend across multinational corporations, research institutes, and emerging technology firms, offering both stability and scope for innovation-driven careers. 

What are the average salaries for MS in mechanical engineering graduates in Germany? 

Salary prospects vary depending on specialization, location, and experience level. Entry-level roles provide competitive packages compared to other European countries, while senior engineers and specialists in high-demand industries can command significantly higher pay. The table below outlines typical salary ranges for common roles. 

Role / Specialization	Typical Average Salary (EUR/INR)
Mechanical Engineer (national average)	€53,500–€65,000 (INR 48.18 L – INR 58.54 L)
Mechanical Design Engineer	€63,000 (INR 56.74 L)
Production/Manufacturing Engineer	€55,000–€65,000 (INR 49.53 L – INR 58.54 L)
Automotive Engineer (regional hotbeds)	€60,000–€78,000 (INR 54.04 L – INR 70.25 L)

Source: Glassdoor and Stepstone 

Which job roles are common for MS in mechanical engineering graduates in Germany? 

After completing an MS in mechanical engineering in Germany, graduates can find a wide variety of job opportunities in Germany as well as abroad. Most roles are linked to the country’s strong industrial base, ranging from automotive and robotics to energy and R&D. 

Here are some of top job roles along with their average annual salaries: 

Job Role	Approximate Annual Salary (EUR/INR)
Mechanical Design Engineer	€50,000 – €65,000 (INR 45.03 L – INR 58.54 L)
Production/Manufacturing Engineer	€55,000 – €70,000 (INR 49.53 L – INR 63.04 L)
Robotics Engineer	€58,000 – €72,000 (INR 52.23 L – INR 64.84 L)
Aerospace Engineer	€60,000 – €75,000 (INR 54.04 L – INR 67.55 L)
R&D Specialist	€62,000 – €80,000 (INR 55.84 L – INR 72.05 L)

Which industries hire MS graduates in Germany? 

Germany is home to various top global companies as well as creative startups that actively hire MS graduates .  

Here is the list some of the top recruiters and their industry sectors: 

Industry	Leading Companies	Approximate Annual Salary (EUR/INR)
Automotive	BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi	€55,000 – €70,000 (INR 49.53 L – INR 63.04 L)
Aerospace	Airbus, Lufthansa Technik, MTU Aero Engines	€60,000 – €75,000 (INR 54.04 L – INR 67.55 L)
Robotics & Automation	KUKA Robotics, Siemens, Bosch Rexroth	€58,000 – €72,000 (INR 52.23 L – INR 64.84 L)
Renewable Energy	Siemens Gamesa, Vestas, Enercon	€55,000 – €68,000 (INR 49.53 L – INR 61.24 L)
General Manufacturing	BASF, Thyssenkrupp, Schaeffler	€52,000 – €66,000 (INR 46.83 L – INR 59.44 L)

How do visa and post-study work opportunities look for MS in Mechanical Engineering students in Germany? 

Germany not only offers world-class education but also a student-friendly visa system that opens the door to long-term career opportunities. International students can easily get a residence permit for studies, work part-time during their degree, and later transition to full-time jobs in Germany’s thriving engineering sector.  

The country’s strong demand for skilled engineers makes it one of the best destinations for those who want both quality education and stable career growth. 

What visa do you need to study MS in mechanical engineering in Germany? 

International students planning to pursue a master’s degree in Germany generally need a German Student Visa (National Visa – Category D). This visa allows you to: 

• Enter Germany and enroll in your MS program. 
• Apply for a residence permit for study purposes upon arrival. 
• Work part-time (up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year) during your studies. 

Key requirements to apply: 

• University admission letter. 
• Proof of financial resources (generally through a blocked account of ~€11,208 per year as of 2025). 
• Valid health insurance. 
• Academic documents (degree certificates, transcripts, language test scores). 

Can MS graduates in Germany transition to a long-term work visa or Blue card after completing their studies? 

Germany is considered one of the most welcoming countries for international graduates, especially in high-demand fields like mechanical engineering. The government has designed clear pathways that allow students to remain in the country after their studies, search for suitable jobs, and eventually secure long-term residency.  

This makes pursuing an MS in Mechanical Engineering not only an academic opportunity but also a strong career move for those seeking stability in Europe. 

• After completing your MS, you can apply for an 18-month Job-Seeker Residence Permit, giving you time to find a job related to your degree. 
• Once you secure employment, you can transition to either: 
• A German Work Visa/Residence Permit, or 
• The EU Blue Card, if your job meets the salary threshold (approx. €45,300 annually in 2025; lower for shortage occupations like engineering, around €41,000).