Best Engineering Universities in Germany 2025: Latest Update

Written by

Amitaanshu Midha

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Oct 06,2025

Best Engineering Universities in Germany: Latest Update - TerraTern

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Germany is an engineering education centre of the world and has some of the finest engineering universities. Innovation and the focus on academic excellence also make the country a leader, with prestigious institutions like TUM, RWTH Aachen, and KIT constantly ranked within the top 100 in the world. The most significant advantage to the student is that the tuition in most programs offered by public universities is free. Therefore, the international students can receive the best education. German universities have also initiated close industry ties with global giants like BMW, Siemens, bosch, Volkswagen, and SAP.

In this way, their graduates are well exposed to the practical experiences and the job market. Specialisations of students are numerous; there exist over 3,600 engineering courses (in English and German). The education system integrates theory, research, and practical training, giving students skills in high demand worldwide. Moreover, international graduates can secure a career in Europe because there are post-study work visas. Overall, Germany is the most popular choice of engineering education in Europe.

 

Which Universities Rank in The Top 10 Engineering Universities in Germany?

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German Rank

University

City

QS Score

Global Rank

Top Specializations

Semester Fee (€)

Tuition (Non-EU)

1

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Munich

84.6

19

Mechanical, Aerospace, CS

~140

Free

2

TU Berlin

Berlin

79.9

45

Electrical, Mechanical, Civil

~300

Free

3

Karlsruhe Institute of Tech. (KIT)

Karlsruhe

79.2

53

Mechanical, Chemical, Energy

~153

€1,500/sem (Non-EU)

4

RWTH Aachen University

Aachen

78.1

65

Mechanical, Industrial

~300

Free

5

TU Dresden

Dresden

74.9

97

Electrical, Civil, Env. Eng.

~280

Free

6

University of Stuttgart

Stuttgart

70.5

182

Automotive, Aerospace

-

€1,500/sem (Non-EU)

7

TU Darmstadt

Darmstadt

70.3

187

Electrical, Computer Eng.

~220

€1,500/sem (Non-EU)

8

Humboldt University Berlin

Berlin

68.7

225

Computer Science, Eng. Sci.

~315

Free

9

LMU Munich

Munich

64.2

237

General Sciences/Engineering

-

Free

10

FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg

Nuremberg

67.6

254

Process, Energy, Materials

~127

Free

 

These universities rank in the top 10 engineering universities in Germany:

  • Germany has several engineering schools.

  • The ranking is done using QS World University Rankings 2025.

  • These attributes are the reputation of the school, the reputation of employers, and research influence.

  • The top 10 engineering universities in Germany 2025 are the following:

Also Read: Civil Engineering Jobs in Australia: Latest Guide

1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Here are all the details about TUM from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 84.6

  • Global Rank: 19

  • Location: Munich, Bavaria

  • Strengths: Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, Computer Science.

  • Part of the Excellence Initiative of Germany.

  • Availability of top-level research funding.

  • BMW, Siemens, Audi.

  • Bachelor's, master's, and PhD taught in English.

  • Semester fee: ~€140 only.

  • Strong startup ecosystem.

2. TU Berlin

Here are all the details about TU Berlin from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 79.9

  • Global Rank: 45

  • Location: Berlin

  • Proficiency in Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering.

  • Industry connects to the tech centres of Berlin.

  • Nearly half a dozen interdisciplinary inquiry centres.

  • Free tuition for foreign learners.

  • Semester contribution: €300.

3. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

Here are all the details about KIT from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 79.2

  • Global Rank: 53

  • Location: Karlsruhe

  • Helmholtz Associate.

  • Good in Mechanical, Chemical, and Energy Engineering.

  • Entrepreneurship Centre supports innovation.

  • Non-EU tuition: 1500 per semestre.

  • Semester fee: ~€153.

4. RWTH Aachen University

Here are all the details about RWTH Aachen University from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 78.1

  • Global Rank: 65

  • Place of residence: Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia.

  • The technical university is one of the largest in Europe.

  • An industry research joint venture with world-class labs.

  • Good at Mechanical and Industrial Engineering.

  • Tuition-free programs.

  • Semester fee: ~€300.

5. TU Dresden

Here are all the details about TU Dresden from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 74.9

  • Global Rank: 97

  • Location: Dresden, Saxony

  • Primary subject: Electrical, Civil, and Environmental Engineering.

  • Strong EU projects and research-oriented.

  • Free state education.

  • Semester contribution: ~€280.

Also Read: Electrical Engineering Jobs in Germany: Opportunities

6. University of Stuttgart

Here are all the details about the University of Stuttgart from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 70.5

  • Global Rank: 182

  • Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Wurttemberg

  • Well-known in Automotive and Aerospace Engineering.

  • Intimate cooperation with Daimler, Porsche, and Bosch.

  • Provides state-of-the-art labs and simulation centres.

  • Tuition-free for EU students.

  • Non-EU tuition: €1,500 per semestre.

7. TU Darmstadt

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Here are all the details about TU Darmstadt from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 70.3

  • Global Rank: 187

  • Location: Darmstadt, Hesse

  • Excellent in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

  • Experienced in research on digital technology.

  • Intense industry consularization.

  • Non-EU tuition: €1,500 per semestre.

  • Semester fee: ~€220.

8. Humboldt University Berlin

Here are all the details about Humboldt University Berlin from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 68.7

  • Global Rank: 225

  • Location: Berlin

  • Close interdisciplinary concentration of research.

  • Co-operates with TU Berlin and Charité.

  • Good Computer Science and Engineering Sciences.

  • Tuition-free.

  • Semester contribution: €315.

9. LMU Munich

Here are all the details about LMU Munich from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 64.2

  • Global Rank: 237

  • Location: Munich, Bavaria

  • Historically good sciences.

  • Building reputation in Engineering Sciences.

  • Strong connections with TUM to collaborate.

  • Free higher education.

10. FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg

Here are all the details about FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg from the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • QS Score: 67.6

  • Global Rank: 254

  • Location: Nuremberg, Bavaria

  • Good in Process, Energy, and Materials Engineering.

  • Excellent research culture.

  • Provides Master's courses in English.

  • Semester contribution: ~€127.

What Are the Complete Rankings and Scores of German Engineering Universities?

Here are all the complete rankings and scores of the best engineering universities in Germany:

German Rank

Institution

City

QS Score

Global Rank

1

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Munich

84.6

19

2

TU Berlin

Berlin

79.9

45

3

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

Karlsruhe

79.2

53

4

RWTH Aachen University

Aachen

78.1

65

5

TU Dresden

Dresden

74.9

97

6

University of Stuttgart

Stuttgart

70.5

182

7

TU Darmstadt

Darmstadt

70.3

187

8

Humboldt University Berlin

Berlin

68.7

225

9

LMU Munich

Munich

64.2

237

10

FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg

Nuremberg

67.6

254

Also Read: Find Chemical Engineering Jobs in Germany From India

 

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How Much Do Engineering Programs Cost at German Universities?

aaerial view of people working on a table;  Best Engineering Universities in Germany -  TerraTern

This section covers how much the best engineering universities in Germany cost:

Public Universities

In the public sector, the best engineering universities in Germany cost this much:

  • Free tuition fees for both EU and non-EU students.

  • Semester fees are the only fees paid, including administration, transport, and student services fees.

Semester Fees (per term):

  • TUM: ~€140

  • RWTH Aachen: ~€300

  • KIT: 153 + 1500 tuition fee to non-EU students.

  • TU Berlin: ~€300

  • Mean price: €140-650 concerning the university and the state.

Private Universities (Engineering Programs):

In the private sector, the best engineering universities in Germany cost this much:

  • Annual tuition fees: €9,000–€20,000.

  • Often have smaller classes, newer facilities, and stronger international ties.

Monthly Costs of Living (Estimated):

  • Average in Germany: €800–€1,200

  • Munich: more than 1200 (among the most expensive cities)

  • Berlin: €1,000+

  • Vat of Smaller Cities (e.g. Dresden, Karlsruhe): €750- €900.

  • Food, school supplies, health insurance, and rent.

Scholarship Options:

  • DAAD Scholarships are very common among international students.

  • Erasmus+ Programs - incoming and outgoing mobility students.

  • University Grants- need-based or merit-based.

  • Scholarships Funded by Industry- Scholarships provided by the industry, such as Siemens, Bosch or Volkswagen.

Cost Comparison Table: Public vs Private Universities & Living Expenses:

Type

Tuition Fees (per year, €)

Semester/Service Fee (€)

Living Costs (€/month)

Scholarships

Public Universities

Free (mostly)

140–650

800–1,200

DAAD, Erasmus+, University

Private Universities

9,000–20,000

Incl. in tuition

Similar

Some merit-based

Munich (city)

-

-

1,200+

 

Smaller Cities (Dresden)

-

-

750–900

 

 

What Are the Admission Requirements for International Students?

 

These are the admission requirements for international students in the best engineering universities in Germany:

Category

Requirement

Details/Accepted Tests

Academic

Equivalent to Abitur, JEE Adv/Studienkolleg

APS (India/China/Vietnam)

Language (German prog.)

TestDaF (level 4), DSH-2, C1

 

Language (English prog.)

IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 90+, Duolingo 110+

Cambridge C1/C2 possible

Documents

Transcripts, CV, Motivation Letter, Passport

APS, Recommendation if req’d

Application Portal

uni-assist or direct

Varies by university

Financial Proof

€11,000+ in a blocked account

Required for visa

Academic Requirements

These are the academic requirements for the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • Should be parallel to the German Abitur (high school leaving certificate).

  • Indian students: JEE Advanced or Studienkolleg (qualification of a foundation year).

  • Applicants from India, China, and Vietnam require an APS Certificate.

Language Requirements

These are the language requirements for the best engineering universities in Germany:

1. German-Taught Programs: C1 proficiency with TestDaF (level 4) or DSH-2.

2. English-Taught Programs:

  • IELTS: 6.5+
  • TOEFL iBT: 90+
  • Duolingo English Test: 110+
  • Cambridge English Certificates are also accepted at some universities.

Application Process

These are all details for the application process for the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • The majority of the applications pass through the uni-assist portal.

  • Direct applications might also be accepted in some universities.

Documents Required

  • Certified records of past training.

  • APS Certificate (when the country is eligible).

  • New CV and Motivation Letter.

  • Evidence of language proficiency (German / English).

  • Valid passport copy

Which Engineering Specialisations Are Strongest at German Universities?

Two people building something;  Best Engineering Universities in Germany - TerraTern

 

Specialization

Leading Universities

Industry/Job Examples

Mechanical Engineering

TUM, RWTH Aachen, Stuttgart

Robotics, Manufacturing, Automation

Automotive Engineering

Stuttgart, TUM, KIT

BMW, Daimler, Vehicle Design

Electrical/Computer Eng.

TU Berlin, TU Darmstadt

AI, Embedded Systems, Semiconductors

Civil Engineering

TU Dresden, TU Darmstadt

Smart Cities, Sustainable Construction

Aerospace

TUM, Stuttgart

Propulsion, Satellite, Aerodynamics

Chemical/Process Eng.

KIT, TU Darmstadt

Materials, Pharma, Energy

Bioengineering/Biotech

TUM, Freiburg

Medical Devices, Genetic Engineering

Energy & Sustainability

KIT, TU Dresden

Wind, Solar, Hydrogen

 

These engineering specialisations are the strongest at the best engineering universities in Germany:

Mechanical Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for mechanical engineering:

  • Specialisation in Germany.

  • Best Universities: TUM, RWTH Aachen, University of Stuttgart. I  specialise in design, robotics, manufacturing, and industrial automation.

Automotive Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for automotive engineering:

  • Germany is home to leading car manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Porsche.

  • Strong courses at the University of Stuttgart, TUM, and KIT.

  • Design of vehicles, electric mobility, and autonomous driving are the topics of courses.

Electrical and Computer Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for electrical and computer engineering:

  • The demand is significant due to increased electronics, semiconductors, and AI.

  • The best higher education facilities are TU Berlin, TU Darmstadt, and RWTH Aachen.

  • These are embedded systems, microelectronics, and computer networks.

Civil Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for civil engineering:

  • Specialising in urban infrastructure, smart cities, and sustainable construction.

  • Good programmes at TU Dresden and TU Darmstadt.

  • Students enjoy the advantages of research on green and digital construction technologies.

Also Read: Aeronautical Engineering in Germany- Latest Guide

Aerospace Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for aerospace engineering:

  • Close relations with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the aviation industry.

  • Best universities: TUM and University of Stuttgart.

  • Major in aerodynamics, propulsion, and satellite systems.

Chemical and Process Engineering

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for chemical and process engineering:

  • Primary emphasis is on materials science, process design, and industrial chemistry.

  • Top courses in KIT and TU Darmstadt.

  • Good research prospects associated with the pharmaceutical and energy industries.

Bioengineering and Biotechnology

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for bioengineering and biotechnology:

  • Major programs in biology, medicine, and engineering.

  • Available at TUM and the University of Freiburg.

  • It is used in medical devices, drug development, and genetic engineering.

Sustainability in Energy Systems

These are the best engineering universities in Germany for sustainability in energy systems courses:

  • Increased demand as a result of the renewable energy movement across the globe.

  • Deep research interest in KIT and TU Dresden.

  • It includes wind, solar, hydrogen, and sustainable energy technologies.

What Are the Career Prospects for German Engineering Graduates?

Career Path

Opportunity

Starting Salary (€)

Mid-Career (€)

Major Employers

Bosch, Siemens, BMW, Volkswagen, SAP

45,000–60,000

70,000–90,000

Internships

Mandatory, strong tie to industry

Post-study Options

18-month job-seeker visa, EU Blue Card possibility

Top Specialisms

IT, AI, Data Science (may start higher than €90,000)

60,000–90,000+

90,000+

Career Mobility

EU/Worldwide job market via degree recognition

 

These are the best career prospects after graduating from the best engineering universities in Germany:

Engineering Job Market in Germany

This section covers all details on how the engineering job market in Germany looks:

  • It is one of the world's best, with a high international demand.

  • The growth industries include automobiles, information technology, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and robotics.

Opportunities

  • Direct work in Siemens, Bosch, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and SAP.

  • A compulsory internship in school provides actual industry experience.

  • Successful entrepreneurship and innovation.

Post-Graduation Pathways

  • An 18-month job-seeker visa to seek employment in Germany.

  • The option of obtaining an EU Blue Card and having steady employment.

  • Opens a career mobility door to other parts of the world.

Salary Expectations

  • Starting Salaries: €45,000–€60,000 annually.

  • Mid-level Engineers: average salary of between 70,000 and 90,000 euros, specialisation.

  • Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science experts: often more than 90,000, and rapid promotion.

How To Apply To the Best Engineering Universities in Germany?

This section outlines how to apply to the best engineering universities in Germany:

Timeline

Here are all the details about the timeline of the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • 15 Months Prior: Compare programs, research universities, and begin preparing to take language proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or TestDaF).

  • 12 Months Prior: Gathering academic transcripts/ requesting recommendation letters (where applicable), and gathering the APS certificate (necessary for India, China and Vietnam students).

  • 9 Months Prior: Apply via the uni-assist portal/university. Be ready with several applications.

  • Six Months Earlier: Accept admissions, make visa papers, and collect evidence of funds. Begin to research accommodation.

  • 3 Months Prior: Finalise enrollment procedures, secure accommodation, purchase travel ticket,s and other pre-departure orientation programs.

Key Documents

These are the key documents you’ll need for applying to the best engineering universities in Germany:

  • Certified academic transcripts (school + bachelor’s in case of applying to a master's program).

  • APS Certificate (for applicants in some countries).

  • Evidence of language skill: IELTS /TOEFL for English courses or TestDaF/DSH for German classes.

  • A Motivation Letter is a statement of what you want to do and why you selected the program.

  • Revised CV with focus on academics, internships and skills.

  • Copy of passport (validity of study).

  • Evidence of means of livelihood (approximately 11,000 years in a blocked account).

Also Read: Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Canada Salary & Insights

What Support Services Do German Universities Offer International Students?

German flag infront of a building;  Best Engineering Universities in Germany  - TerraTern

Here are the support services offered by the best engineering universities in Germany for international students:

Orientation Programs

Here are details of orientation programs:

  • Extra welcome weeks for new students.

  • Some activities are campus tours, cultural introductions, and networking activities.

Language Support

Here are details of language support:

  • German universities have language classes starting with the basic and moving to 3thed third-level classes.

  • Most of them offer free or subsidised courses to enable students to adjust.

International Offices

Here are details of international offices:

  • Exceptional personnel help with visa issues, accommodation, course enrollment and adapting to life in the academic world.

  • They serve as an initial point of contact for the needs of international students.

Career Services

Here are details of career services:

  • Services provided are job fairs, career counselling, CV/resume workshops and mock interviews.

  • A lot of universities collaborate with firms in terms of internships and placements.

Academic Support

Here are details of academic support

  • Availability of tutoring programs, writingcentress, and study groups.

  • Additional assistance with acculturation into the German education system and exam type.

Peer Mentoring

Here are details of peer mentoring:

  • Senior students do mentoring of newcomers voluntarily.

  • They advise on research, urban life, and integration into culture.

Support Service

What’s Included

Benefit for Students

Orientation

Arrival events, city tours, cultural integration

Network, get settled early

Language Courses

Free/subsidised German classes, all levels

Integrate, succeed academically

International Office

Help with visa, accommodation, registration

Smooth transition

Career Services

Job fairs, resume/interview workshops, placements

Employability, internships

Academic Support

Tutoring, study groups, writing centres

Excel in coursework/exams

Peer Mentoring

Guidance from senior students

Cultural/friendship support

 

Conclusion

The best engineering universities in Germany are among the highest-ranking in Europe, so it will be the best destination for international students in 2025. TUM, RWTH Aachen, KIT and TU Berlin are the prominent participants in the high ranking of the most successful and powerful ones in the world, providing high-quality education and close relations to the industry. The most significant opportunity is that a majority of the public universities in Germany are free, and students must pay minimal semester fees, making access to education very affordable.

Mechanical, automotive, electrical, and IT engineering specialities are strong in the country, with Germany's global reputation in innovation and technology. Graduates are well placed in their careers, at least in terms of their salaries, beginning with an average of €45,000 per year, not excluding other benefits such as the 18 months post-study working visa and EU Blue card that allows them to work in Europe in the long term. Also, German universities have a wide range of student care services, making international students fit smoothly into academic and social life. Germany is the most promising location in global engineering education in 2025, with more than 3600 programs to offer. Contact TerraTern for more information.

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At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality, and relevance. Our content is curated by experienced industry professionals, and reviewed by editors to ensure high standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked engineering universities in Germany for 2025?

universities in Germany for 2025? The best engineering universities in Germany for 2025 include Technical University of Munich (QS score 84.6), TU Berlin (79.9), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (79.2), and RWTH Aachen University (78.1), all ranking within the global top 100.

Are German engineering universities tuition-free for international students?

Yes, most public universities in Germany offer tuition-free engineering programs for international students, requiring only semester fees of €140-€650 covering administrative costs and student services.

What language requirements exist for German engineering programs?

English-taught programs require IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 90+, while German-taught programs require C1 level certification through TestDaF or DSH exams.

How competitive is admission to top German engineering universities?

Admission is highly competitive, particularly for tuition-free programs, with requirements including equivalent to German Abitur, strong academic performance, and meeting specific program prerequisites.

What career prospects do German engineering graduates have?

German engineering graduates enjoy excellent career prospects with high employment rates, starting salaries of €45,000-€60,000, and strong recruitment by leading global companies including Siemens, BMW, and Bosch.

Which engineering specializations are strongest at German universities?

German universities excel in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, and electrical systems, with particular strength in traditional engineering disciplines supported by strong industry partnerships.

How long does the application process take for German universities?

The application process requires 12-15 months preparation, including document gathering, language certification, uni-assist application processing, and visa arrangements.

What support services are available for international engineering students?

German universities provide comprehensive support including Welcome programs, language courses, academic advising, career services, and dedicated International Offices for personalized student guidance.

Can I work in Germany after graduating from an engineering program?

Yes, Germany offers 18-month post-study work visas for graduates to seek employment, with strong industry demand for qualified engineers and excellent long-term career prospects.

What are the living costs for engineering students in Germany?

Living costs range from €800-€1,200 monthly depending on city location, with Munich and Berlin higher than smaller university towns, while students benefit from subsidized accommodation and transportation.