Where is the best place to study mechanical engineering in Germany

Mechanical engineering (Maschinenbau) is one of Germany’s hallmarks. Automotive, machine tools, energy, aviation, and robotics all generate huge demand for engineers, and a German engineering degree is highly regarded worldwide. Design engineers and quality engineers are among the professions with the highest starting salaries for graduates.

But where exactly should you study? In Germany, dozens of universities offer mechanical engineering, and they differ significantly in terms of specialization, workload, and connections to industry.

Want to find out which university offers the best chances for you? We will review your documents and select the programs for you.

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How the study is organized

  • Bachelor's degree: usually 6–7 semesters, awarded the degree of Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering
  • Master's degree: 3–4 semesters, Master of Science or Master of Engineering
  • The first semesters are the foundation: higher mathematics, mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and design
  • then specialization: automotive engineering, energy, aircraft engineering, production technologies, mechatronics and others
  • The practice in the company is mandatory in many programs.

University or University of Applied Sciences

Mechanical engineering can be studied in two types of universities.

University (Universität, TU):

  • strong theoretical and scientific base
  • more mathematics and fundamental disciplines
  • A good start for a research career and postgraduate studies

University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule, HAW):

  • Emphasis on practice and applied tasks
  • small groups, close contact with teachers
  • Compulsory practical semesters in companies

Both diplomas open the door to the industry. The choice depends on who you see yourself as five years from now: an explorer, a developer, or an engineer in production.

We will select a university that suits your profile: by score, language of instruction, specialization, and city.

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Technical universities TU9

Nine leading technical universities in Germany have formed an alliance called TU9. All of them are strong in mechanical engineering:

  • RWTH Aachen
  • TU Berlin
  • TU Braunschweig
  • TU Darmstadt
  • TU Dresden
  • Leibniz University Hannover
  • Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
  • Technical University of Munich (TUM)
  • Universität Stuttgart

German universities in the QS 2026 ranking in mechanical engineering (ranking in the world):

  • 19 — Technical University of Munich (TUM)
  • 25 — RWTH Aachen
  • 32 — Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
  • 42 — Technical University of Berlin
  • 68 — Universität Stuttgart
  • 109 — Technische Universität Dresden
  • 113 — TU Darmstadt

Admission for foreigners

  • To enroll in bachelor's programs from some countries, you need a Studienkolleg (T-Kurs) or one to two years of university studies in your home country
  • Most programs are in German: usually a DSH-2 or TestDaF 4×4 is required
  • There are programs in English for the master's degree.
  • Many programs are not competitive, but popular universities select based on average scores.

What we help with

  • matching specialties and universities to your profile
  • submission of applications, including through uni-assist
  • verification and preparation of documents, certified translation of the certificate
  • resume and motivation letter
  • Appeals against refusals uni-assist
  • Visa support, blocked account, medical insurance
  • Applications to dormitories
  • Support after moving

Start with a consultation: we’ll discuss where you’d be better off studying mechanical engineering and how to get there.

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