Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany: Top Universities & Programs

Do You Know? Employment for mechanical engineers is expected to grow by 11% between 2023 and 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Germany is emerging as a top choice for masters students. Over 4.69 lakh international students are enrolled in German universities, a 2.4% increase from last year. The country’s strong academic reputation, affordable education system, and growing industry demand make it an attractive option for students worldwide.

Germany’s engineering services market will grow 4.7% annually from 2025 to 2030, creating demand in software, civil, and mechanical fields. A Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany prepares you for roles like design engineer in industries such as automotive and energy.

This blog covers top universities in Germany, fees, and career options to help you plan your masters study in Germany.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany: Overview

A masters in mechanical engineering in Germany takes 1 to 2 years, covering areas like design, manufacturing, and automation. Graduates qualify for roles like design engineer, automation specialist, and R&D engineer across industries.

Before you explore the program details, let’s have an overview of masters in mechanical engineering in Germany.

Parameter	Details
Duration	1.5 - 2.5 years
Intakes	Winter (October) Summer (March - April)
Course Level	MSc in Mechanical Engineering Post Graduate Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
Top Universities	Technical University of Munich SRH University of Applied Sciences Heidelberg University Ludwig Maximilians University
Average Annual Tuition Fee	€290.8 - €6,000 per semester (INR 28.8K - INR 5.9L)
Entrance Exams Required	TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.5 GRE: 300 Cambridge English Test: C1 and C2 proficiency
Eligibility Criteria	GPA: 2.5 - 3.0 on a 4.0 scale Bachelor’s Degree: Related to mechanical engineering Work Experience: Some courses may require 1-2 years of relevant work experience.
Career Opportunities	Design Engineer Systems Engineer Quality Control Engineer Aerospace Engineer
Popular Specializations	Robotics Aerospace Engineering Energy Systems Automotive Engineering

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Why Pursue Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany?

Germany is known for its quality education, with low fees at public universities like RWTH Aachen. It also offers excellent job opportunities, particularly in the automotive sector. Additionally, you can benefit from post-study work opportunities and the potential for permanent residency in the future.

Here’s why pursuing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany can be beneficial.

• Affordable Cost

Germany offers low tuition fees at public universities, usually between €100 (INR 9.9K) and €350 (INR 34.8K) per semester. This makes it an affordable option for international students.

• Global Career Opportunities

With top companies like Siemens and BMW, a Masters in Mechanical Engineering opens doors to global roles in quality control, design, and manufacturing.

• Access to World-Class Education

German universities, such as RWTH Aachen and TUM, offer the latest programs and research, giving you hands-on experience and technical expertise.

• High Salary Potential

Engineering graduates in Germany earn an average of €70,000 (INR 69.7L) annually, particularly in industries like automotive and energy.

• Diverse Cultural Exposure

Studying in Germany lets you connect with students from around the world, expanding your cultural awareness and professional network.

• Linguistic Skills

While many programs are in English, learning German will boost your chances of securing internships and jobs with major German companies like BMW.

• Networking Opportunities

Germany’s strong engineering sector hosts events like Hannover Messe, offering great chances to network with professionals and employers.

After discussing the benefits of a masters in mechanical engineering in Germany, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities Offering Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Germany offers a Masters in Mechanical Engineering mainly as a Master of Science (MSc) degree. Renowned institutions like the Technical University of Dresden and the University of Stuttgart are globally recognized for their strong engineering programs. 

Below are some of the top universities offering a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany, along with their respective tuition fees.

University	Program	Semester Tuition Fees	Duration & Deadline
RWTH Aachen	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€298.06 (INR 29.6K)	1.5 years Deadline: 1 September 2025 (Summer)
Leibniz University Hannover	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€434.91 (INR 43.3K)	2 years Deadline: 1 July 2025 (Winter)
University of Duisburg-Essen	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€320 (INR 31.8K)	2 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
University of Stuttgart	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€1,500 (INR 1.4L)	2 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
Technical University of Darmstadt	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€331.18 (INR 32.9K)	2 years Deadline: 15 September 2025 (Winter)
Technical University of Dresden	Postgraduate Diploma in Mechanical Engineering	€290.48 (INR 28.8K)	2.5 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
Technische Universität Kaiserslautern	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€700 (INR 69.6K)	1.5 years Deadline: 31 May, 2025 (winter)

In addition to these universities, there are other popular institutions offering a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Popular Universities for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Knowing alternative universities expands your options and helps you select the best fit based on your personal preferences and goals. For example, universities like the University of Mannheim are well-known for their reputable Masters programs in Mechanical Engineering. 

Below are some popular universities offering a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

University	Program	Semester Tuition Fees	Duration & Deadline
Technical University of Munich	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€6,000 (INR 5.9L)	2 years Deadline: 30 November 2025 (Summer)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€1,500 (INR 1.4L)	2 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
Braunschweig University of Technology	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€383.20 (INR 38.1K)	2 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
University of Mannheim	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€1,500 (INR 1.4L)	1.5 years Deadline: 15 July 2025 (Winter)
University of Erlangen-Nuremberg	MSc in Mechanical Engineering	€72 (INR 7.1K)	2 years Deadline: 31 May 2025 (Closed) (Winter)

After exploring the top universities offering a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for applying.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Eligibility criteria help students avoid delays by ensuring all requirements are met in advance. Generally, you need a minimum GPA, academic documents, and proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS). 

Some universities like TUM may also require German language skills (TestDaF) and GRE scores, especially for universities like the Technical University of Munich.

Here are the key eligibility requirements to study for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Criteria	Sub-Criteria	Details
Academic Requirements	Educational Qualification	A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a field related to mechanical engineering.
	Academic Score	2.5 - 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
	Academic Transcripts	Official documents showing all completed courses and grades from your previous degree.
Standardized Tests	GRE	300
English Language Proficiency	IELTS	6.5
	TOEFL	90
	Cambridge English Test	C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
Visa requirements	Passport	Must be valid for at least 3 months after the visa duration.
	University Admission Letter	Confirmation of acceptance from a recognized university in Germany.
	Proof of Funds	€11,904 (INR 11.8L) for the first year
	Health Insurance	Valid health insurance policy covering the stay in Germany.
	Academic Transcripts	Official documents from previous courses and grades.
	Visa Application Form	Completed visa application form for study purposes.
	Visa Fee	€90 (INR 8.9L)
Miscellaneous	Statement of Purpose	A well-written SOP explaining your goals and motivation.
	Letter of Recommendation	Typically 2-3 letters from professors or employers.
	Resume/CV	Current resume/CV with details of education and experience.
	Work or Internship  Experience	Relevant experience preferred but not always mandatory.
	German Language Proficiency	Basic German knowledge (A1 or A2 level) may be required for some universities.

Now that you’ve seen the admission requirements to study a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany, let’s check out the application process.

Application Process for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Universities like the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have a highly competitive acceptance rate of around 8% to 10%. To increase your chances, it is essential to understand the requirements in advance.

The application process involves submitting your application through the university portal with documents like academic transcripts and English language proficiency level proof. If selected, apply for a German student visa with documents like your passport. 

Below are the steps to apply for a Master's in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

• Step 1: Research Program Requirements: Research specific requirements such as work experience, GRE scores, and language proficiency needed to apply for the program.
• Step 2: Complete the Online Application: Fill out the online application on the university’s website and submit required documents such as:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
  • GRE scores (if required)
  • English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS or Cambridge)
  • Resume/CV
  • Proof of funds (for international students)
• Step 3: Attend Interview: Some universities, such as the University of Stuttgart, may require interviews as part of the selection process. Be ready to discuss your academic background, work experience, and career goals in engineering.
• Step 4: Check Application Status: After submission, monitor your application status through the university’s portal. Ensure all additional documents, if any, are submitted on time.
• Step 5: Accept Admission Offer: Once you receive the offer, confirm your admission and follow the university’s guidelines to secure your spot.
• Step 6: Apply for Student Visa: After acceptance, fulfill German student visa requirements by submitting the following documents:
  • Admission letter
  • Proof of funds (financial support)
  • Health insurance
  • Visa application form

The Masters in Mechanical Engineering degree in Germany will equip you with advanced skills in the field. Let’s take a closer look at the details of the program.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany: Course Details

A Masters course will cover core subjects like thermodynamics and advanced designing, helping you gain practical skills in areas like machine design and fluid dynamics. 

Apart from these, you can specialize in emerging fields like aerospace engineering and robotics. German universities also offer practical experience through capstone projects and internships, allowing you to collaborate with leading companies like BMW, Siemens, Volkswagen, and Airbus. 

Below are the course details of a Master's in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Course Type	Programs
Core Subjects	Heat Transfer Structural Analysis Fluid Dynamics  Thermodynamics Manufacturing Processes Materials Laboratory Advanced Designing  Control Theory Machine Design Systems, Dynamics, and Control Combustion Science
Electives or Specialization	Robotics Energy Systems Aerospace Engineering Automotive Engineering Materials Science and Engineering
Other Offerings	Internship: Provides hands-on experience in industries like automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing. Co-op program: Offers the chance to apply your skills in areas like machine design, fluid dynamics, and systems control. Capstone Project: Involves a final project focusing on solving complex engineering problems in fields like thermodynamics.

Now that you’ve explored the courses and specializations, let’s discuss the costs involved in studying for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Cost of Pursuing Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Cost of study in Germany depends on the type of university. For public universities, tuition fees typically involve a semester contribution ranging between €100 (INR 9.9K) and €350 (INR 34.8K). However, tuition fees at private universities range from €5,000 (INR 4.9L) to €20,000 (INR 19.9L) annually.

For a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, tuition fees can cost as low as €290.48 (INR 28.8K) per semester to €6,000 (INR 5.9L) per semester, depending on the university.

Apart from tuition fees, there are additional expenses like accommodation and food. Here are the other costs involved.

Purpose	Monthly Expenses (Euro)	Monthly Expenses (INR)
Tuition Fees	€290.8 - €6,000 per semester	INR 28.8K - INR 5.9L
Housing	€410	INR 40.8K
Food and Groceries	€198	INR 19.7K
Books and Course Materials	€31	INR 3K
Transport	€49	INR 4.8K
Health Insurance	€120	INR 11.9K
Miscellaneous Cost	€144	INR 14.3K

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Studying in Germany can be financially challenging. However, you can apply for both internal and external scholarships to make your journey more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany: Scholarships for Students

The German government spends €839.3 million annually on scholarships through DAAD. These scholarships can reduce your living costs by 20% - 100%, helping you manage expenses while studying for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships available for students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded through the university’s resources and endowments. For a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, you can apply for scholarships like the Humboldt Research Scholarship, which provides €3,200 (INR 3L) along with additional benefits.

Here are some internal top scholarships in Germany for Indian students.

Scholarship	Type	Details
Scholarship for Particularly Involved International Students (RWTH Aachen University)	Merit-based	Eligibility: High-performing international students enrolled in the university. Benefits: Monthly stipend of €300 (INR 28.7K) for six months.
Scholarship for International Students (Technical University of Munich (TUM)	Merit-based	Eligibility: High-performing students who are not eligible for German scholarships. Benefits: €500 (INR 47.9K) and €1,800 (INR 1.7L) per semester
Humboldt Research Scholarship (Humboldt University of Berlin)	Merit-based, Need-based	Eligibility: Post-doctoral researchers with above-average qualifications. Benefits: €3,200 (INR 3L) plus additional benefits

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Master's in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

External Scholarships

In German universities, students can also apply for external scholarships funded by the government or foundations. You can apply for scholarships like DAAD, which covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance of €934 (INR 89.4K) for international students.

Below are some external scholarship options.

Scholarship	Type	Details
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship	Foundation-Based	Eligibility: International students from countries in the Global South. Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living expenses of €934 (INR 89.4K), child allowance, and health insurance.
DAAD Scholarships	External, Merit-based	Eligibility: International students with a strong academic record. Benefits: Full tuition coverage, living stipend of €992 (INR 97K), travel allowance, and health insurance.
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship	Foundation-Based	Eligibility: Admission to a Masters degree course at a state or state-recognized institution. Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living expenses of €934 (INR 89.4K), and travel allowances
Evangelisches Studienwerk Villigst Scholarship	Foundation-based	Eligibility: Students from all disciplines and subjects who wish to start a degree course. Benefits: Base amount of €812 (INR 77.7K) per month, supplementary allowance of €300 (INR 28.7K), and additional financial support.

After a detailed look at scholarships, let’s explore the job opportunities available for graduates with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Job Opportunities After Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

A Masters in Engineering could lead to a salary increase of 20%-30% over time. It opens career opportunities in roles like systems engineer and project manager, in industries like automotive and aerospace.

Below are the popular job roles for graduates after a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (Euro)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Design Engineer	€58,500	INR 58.2L
Project Manager	€70,000	INR 69.7L
Automotive Engineer	€65,000	INR 64.7L
Manufacturing Engineer	€62,000	INR 61.7L
R&D Engineer	€70,000	INR 69.7L

Source: Glassdoor

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Now, let’s take a look at the top recruiters hiring graduates with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering.

Top Recruiters Hiring Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany Graduates

Germany is well-known for its strong industries in automotive, aerospace, and energy. It is home to top companies like Audi, BMW, and Siemens. After completing your Masters in Mechanical Engineering, you can join leading companies like Siemens for roles such as Energy Systems Engineer or Design Engineer.

Here are the top recruiters hiring graduates after a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

Top Recruiter	Job Role	Average Annual Salary
Mercedes-Benz	Systems Engineer	€50,000 (INR 49.8L)
Caterpillar	Design Engineer	€80,000 (INR 79.6L)
Honeywell	Project Manager	€73,000 (INR 72.7L)
Siemens	Energy System Engineer	€75,000 (INR 74.7L)
Bosch	Quality Control Engineer	€84,000 (INR 83.6L)

Source: Glassdoor

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

After exploring potential job roles, let’s see how upGrad can assist you in pursuing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany?

Pursuing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering abroad can be challenging due to the complex application processes, visa requirements, and financial planning. upGrad simplifies the entire process by offering expert support, making your journey smoother and more manageable.

upGrad provides personalized mentorship, visa and scholarship assistance, English test preparation, and career counseling. With upGrad’s guidance, you can confidently begin your study abroad journey and secure your future in mechanical engineering.

Ready to take the next step? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts, apply with confidence, and start your masters journey at a top university in Germany!