RWTH Aachen University: Rank, Fees, Life & More for Indians 2025

RWTH Aachen University is Germany’s largest technical university and one of Europe’s top engineering universities. With almost 45,000 students and 260 institutes across 9 faculties, it’s always in the top 100. The university has a very selective admission rate of 10-15% and is tuition-free for domestic and international students. Located in Aachen, Key highlights:

• World Top 100: RWTH Aachen University appears in the top 100 universities across the world, as ranked by QS World University Rankings 2025 (#99) and THE World University Rankings 2025 (#92).

• Super Competitive Admission: The university is highly competitive, and its rates of admission are about 10-15%.

• Engineering/Technology: It is a leading engineering and technology university and is ranked 36th in the world in the 2025 THE Subject Rankings.

• Large Indian Community: More than 2400 Indian students are already studying in it, which makes it a more popular choice in STEM education in Germany.

• Industry Relations: The university is well-connected to industry, and thus, the college curriculum is applicable, and career opportunities are immense among the graduates.

RWTH Aachen University: Latest 2025 Overview

RWTH Aachen University is a state-owned research university in Aachen, Germany, and one of the best universities in Europe in the field of science and engineering. Among Indian students, it is known to have RWTH Aachen University ranking highly in its programmes, particularly in mechanical engineering, computer science, and electrical engineering. It is established as a worldwide brand with its 2025 QS World University Ranking of #99 and a very selective RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate of approximately 10-15 per cent.

Also Read: Germany Student Visa Requirements for Indian: Update

Why is RWTH Aachen University a Top Choice for Indian Students in 2025?

For many years, the USA and Canada used to be the top destinations of Indian students searching for overseas education in STEM. But Germany has risen to become a leading competitor, and RWTH Aachen University has been at the forefront of this transformation. Being a part of TU9, a group of the nine biggest technical universities in Germany, RWTH Aachen University is a University of Excellence: a designation that recognises the university as an exceptional researcher and provider of education.

• TU9 Explained: TU9 is the name of a conglomeration of the nine most recognised, biggest, and oldest technical universities in Germany. These universities are characterised by stringent engineering and science programmes and good industry ties that make them very desirable to employers.

• As a University of Excellence, RWJ has garnered a lot of government funding for its research projects. This investment draws the best faculty and enables the university to invest in modern state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, which present the students with an unmatched academic environment. The curriculum is also usually made with the process of the partnership with industries such as Siemens and BMW; thus, the school graduates emerge with skills that are highly related to the employment market. This is a very practical way of education, which attracts Indian students in search of an international career.

What is the RWTH Aachen University World Ranking 2025?

One of the reasons that the RWJ Barnabas University is attractive to international students is its international academic reputation. The university has been performing very well in the major international RWTH Aachen University ranking exercises, which indicates its level of academic performance and the impact of its research. The rankings offer an objective and clear picture of the status of the university on the global platform. Let’s know more about the RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate.

What is The Ranking of RWTH Aachen in The QS World University Rankings?

One of the most popular RWTH Aachen University rankings is the QS World University Rankings. RWJ Aachen has been doing relatively well in such RWTH Aachen University ranking and has demonstrated an increasing trend over the last few years, but it declined slightly in the 2026 RWTH Aachen University world ranking.

As well as its general position, RWJ is specifically indicated with regard to its performance in subjects. It has consistently ranked high in engineering and technology, which are highly sought after among Indian students.

Also Read: Germany Student Visa Process: New Steps, Fee & More

In Which Positions Does it Feature In The Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings in 2025?

Another metric with a great reputation, although on different parameters, is the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, which concentrates on teaching, research, and industry income. The good score in this area shows the overall excellence of RWJ in academics.

• Overall Rank 2025: 92

• Subject-Specific Rankings 2025:

• Engineering: 36

• Computer Science: 60

The ideal result of the university with 100 points in the Research funding by industry section of the THE RWTH Aachen University ranking indicates its extensive integration with the industrial sector, which is an essential benefit to students in need of internship experience and employment.

Compared To Other Leading German Universities?

When Indian students think of Germany as a higher education destination, they tend to make a comparison between RWTH Aachen and other top higher education institutions, especially those that are members of the TU9. The following is a comparison snapshot in terms of recent RWTH Aachen University world ranking.

Although other universities might enjoy a greater overall RWTH Aachen University world ranking, RWTH has a strong and well-established standing in engineering and its industry-specific ties that make it the best choice in technical disciplines.

What is RWTH Aachen University's Acceptance Rate for International Students in 2025?

The RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate is a very important indicator of the selectivity and academic standards of a university. RWJ Aachen University is a competitive university to join because of its strict admissions policy. Its selectivity in its admissions is a way of showing the good quality of its student body and the nature of its academic programmes.

What Is The Level of Difficulty of Admission to RWTH Aachen?

The general RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate is approximated to be 10-15. This number is very low, and it is an indication that the admissions are competitive and only those who are the most qualified are to be selected by the university.

Nevertheless, it is a very international university, as more than 34 per cent of the total population of students is international. Among the most popular and accessible to deserving Indian applicants are the international students, including those from India, which provides an excellent source of them.

Does The Master's Programme Have a Higher or Lower Rate of Acceptance?

In the case of Indian students, applications are mostly for master's degree programmes, especially in engineering and technology. The RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate of these highly demanded master's degrees is also quite competitive, and the rate is usually around 15 or even less. This can be attributed to the number of applications made by well-qualified candidates across the globe. The university evaluates the applicants using a combination of academic record, language proficiency, and, in some instances, a motivation letter or GRE scores.

What Are The Minimum Requirements For Indian Students for RWTH Aachen University, Germany, 2025?

Indian students have to fulfil certain requirements in order to sail through the competitive application process. These are essential and indispensable to a successful application.

• Good School History: You need a good GPA in a related bachelor's degree. The minimum GPA on the German grading system is usually 2.5.

• Language Proficiency: The language level will be based on the particular programme. In the case of English-taught programmes, an IELTS or TOEFL score is required. In the case of German-taught programmes, a B2 or C1 is required.

• APS Certificate: Indian students will need to have an Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) certificate. This certificate certifies the academic documents of a student and is a compulsory requirement for application to German universities.

What are the Programmes of RWTH Aachen University?

The scope of academic programmes offered by RWJ Aachen University is vast since it has more than 185 courses of study, which are distributed in nine faculties. The university is known especially for the engineering- and technology-related degrees that are research-based and shaped to fit the requirements of the contemporary industry.

What Are The Popular Master's Programs for International Students?

The master's programmes of RWJ attract great international students, and most of their programmes are even conducted in English to attract a global audience. These are just a few of the most popular master's programmes taught in English amongst Indian students.

• M.Sc. Data Science: A highly desirable course that is based on big data, machine learning, and data analytics.

• M.Sc. Automotive Engineering: This is a flagship programme that builds on the close networks that the university has with the German automotive industry.

• M.Sc. Computer Science: This course is general and encompasses a wide variety of subjects, from software engineering all the way to artificial intelligence.

• Master's Degree – Biomedical Engineering: This is an interdisciplinary education that incorporates engineering concepts with both medical and biological sciences.

• M.Sc. Robotic Systems Engineering: A state-of-the-art degree programme available to learners who wish to study robotics, automation, and intelligent systems.

Are There Any Bachelor's Programmes Taught in English?

Most of the bachelor's programs in RWTH Aachen University are conducted in German. This led to the situation in which students who are applying for programmes at a bachelor's degree need to show a high proficiency in the German language, usually at the C1 level. Although it may have some exceptions or certain modules given in English, a majority of the undergraduate studies require German proficiency.

What Are The Most Popular Engineering Programmes at RWTH Aachen University, Germany, 2025?

RWJ Aachen is equated with engineering perfection. Its engineering courses are also well rated and always get the best talent globally.

• Mechanical Engineering: being one of the best programmes in Germany, the M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering is one of the best programmes.

• Computer Science: The computer science department is an innovation and research centre of the university with a wide range of specialisations.

• Electrical Engineering and Information Technology: Students in this programme are equipped to work in areas from telecommunications to power engineering.

• Aerospace Engineering: This is a special course that takes advantage of the strong aerospace sector of Germany.

How Much Are the Fees and Living Costs of Indian Students in Germany?

The most appealing aspect of Germany to other students is the fact it offers tuition-free higher education in most public universities. RWTH Aachen is not an exception, and it provides a great financial opportunity to prospective students.

Does RWTH Aachen Levy Tuition Fees?

Being a state-owned university in North Rhine-Westphalia, RWTH Aachen University has not been imposing tuition fees on most of its courses. This is true for both local and foreign students. But there is a semester contribution fee required among students. This is a fee that is usually between 300 and 350, and includes a mobility ticket, offering students free access to the whole state of public transport. It also gives support to student services and the student union.

What Is The Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Aachen?

While tuition fees are minimal, students must account for their living expenses. Aachen is a student-friendly city with a relatively affordable cost of living compared to major German cities like Munich or Berlin. A realistic estimate for monthly expenses for an international student is between 900 and 1100.

Here is a typical breakdown of estimated monthly costs.

This breakdown shows that a student can manage their expenses effectively in Aachen without a major financial burden, making it an excellent option for Indian students.

Also Read: Is Germany Good for Indian Students? Experts' New Guide

How to Apply to RWTH Aachen University as an International Student?

The application process for RWTH Aachen University is a structured, step-by-step procedure that requires careful attention to detail. Indian students must meet specific documentation requirements and adhere to strict deadlines to ensure their application is considered. The entire process is conducted online through the university's portal.

What Documents are Required for the RWTH Aachen Application?

A comprehensive and well-organised application is crucial for success. Indian applicants must prepare a specific set of documents, with the APS certificate being a key requirement.

• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous universities or colleges.

• Bachelor's Degree Certificate: A copy of the degree certificate.

• Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) Certificate: A mandatory certificate for all Indian applicants to German universities, verifying the authenticity of academic documents.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume outlining educational history, work experience, and any research or projects.

• Motivation Letter/Statement of Purpose: A letter explaining the reasons for choosing the programme and the university.

• Proof of Language Proficiency: Official score reports from IELTS, TOEFL, or a German language certificate.

• Letters of Recommendation (if required): Two letters from professors or employers.

• GRE Score (for some programmes): A competitive GRE score is required for certain master's programmes.

What Are the English Language Requirements?

While many master's programmes are taught in English, applicants still need to demonstrate a high level of language proficiency. The general requirements are as follows.

• IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher.

• TOEFL: An overall score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).

• PTE Academic: A score of 65 or higher.

It is important to check the specific requirements for each programme, as some may have higher score thresholds.

Industry and Academic Outlook for RWTH Aachen University (2025)

Latest RWTH Aachen University ranking (QS 2026): RWTH Aachen University is No. 105 in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

• Recent Position (THE 2025): The university is ranked the 92nd best university in the world in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.

• Industry Funding: In engineering, the university has a score of 100/100 in research funding by industry, which indicates that it has an extremely strong relationship with industry. AI in Education Trend (2025): RWTH is beginning to incorporate AI into its curriculum and teaching approaches and is establishing the AI in Teaching and Learning event series in 2025 to equip students with skills to work in an AI-driven job market.

• Scholar Guide: Indian students remain highly and increasingly interested in RWTH Aachen University, with many opting first and foremost to study in Germany, says Himanshu Chawla, RWTH India Office Head.

Conclusion

RWTH Aachen University represents an exceptional opportunity for Indian students seeking world-class technical education in Germany. With its top 105 global ranking, highly competitive yet achievable RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate, and the significant advantage of tuition-free education, RWTH offers tremendous value for international students.

The university's strong industry connections, excellent placement rates, and diverse international community make it an ideal choice for ambitious engineering and technology students looking to advance their careers in Europe's largest economy. By understanding the rigorous admission standards and preparing a comprehensive application, Indian students can position themselves for a successful future at one of the world's most prestigious technical universities. Visit TerraTern to learn more!