If you want to study mechanical engineering in Germany, you can usually choose between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree. The main things to check are your school or university entry level, language, costs, and the exact programme page of each university.
Germany is a strong choice for engineering, but the process is not the same everywhere. Rules can change by university, state, and programme, so always check the university admissions page and the official information from the national recognition or immigration authority if you need a visa.
Study levels: bachelor's and master's
Most students start with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, then move on to a master's if they want deeper study or a more specialised field.
- Bachelor's - usually for students who have finished secondary school and meet direct university entry requirements.
- Master's - usually for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a close subject.
- Some programmes include internships, lab work, or a thesis with industry contact.
Mechanical engineering programmes can also have focus areas such as energy systems, robotics, automotive engineering, production, materials, or design. The exact title may differ by university.
Typical admission requirements
For a bachelor's, universities usually ask for a school leaving certificate that gives university entry in Germany, or a recognised equivalent. If your certificate is not fully accepted, you may need a preparatory course or to study first in your home country. The exact rule depends on the German recognition database and the university's admissions office.
For a master's, you usually need:
- a relevant bachelor's degree
- transcripts and diploma
- proof of language ability
- a CV and sometimes a motivation letter
- sometimes a portfolio, project list, or internship proof
Some universities also check your grades in maths, physics, or core engineering subjects. If you studied in another country, the admissions office may ask for translated and certified documents.
Language options: German and English
Many mechanical engineering bachelor's programmes in Germany are taught in German. English-taught options exist, but they are less common at bachelor's level. At master's level, you are more likely to find English-taught programmes, especially in technical universities and international tracks.
Common language proof can include:
- German tests such as TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe certificates
- English tests such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programmes
Do not assume that a programme is open to English speakers just because the university has an English website. Check the teaching language on the programme page and the exact score they ask for.
Tuition and other costs
Tuition in Germany is often low compared with many other countries, but the real cost depends on the university and your nationality. Public universities often charge no tuition for many bachelor's programmes, especially for EU students, but you still usually pay a semester fee.
For non-EU students, some states and universities have tuition or special fees, while others do not. Private universities usually charge much more. Because rules change, always check the programme page and the university fees page before you apply.
Typical cost items include:
- semester contribution - often a few hundred euros per semester
- tuition - may be zero at some public universities, or several thousand euros per year in some cases
- living costs - housing, food, health insurance, transport, books, and personal costs
For living costs, many students should plan for roughly 900 to 1,300 euros per month, but the real amount depends heavily on the city. Big cities are usually more expensive than smaller university towns. Check the official student cost guidance and your university's cost-of-living page.
Timeline and application steps
Start early. A realistic plan is to begin 9 to 12 months before the semester starts, especially if you need document recognition, translations, language tests, or a visa.
- Choose a level and a few universities.
- Check entry requirements and language rules on each programme page.
- Collect transcripts, diploma, passport, translations, and test results.
- Submit the application through the university portal or the correct application service.
- If accepted, use the admission letter to start your visa process if you need one.
Deadlines vary. Some programmes close much earlier than others, and master's deadlines can differ from bachelor's deadlines. Do not rely on general internet lists. Use the university admissions page for the final date.
How universities find candidates
German universities and their admissions offices usually find international candidates through official application systems, university portals, fairs, and search tools. Some also use profile-based platforms where students describe their field, education, language level, and documents.
If you want to be easier to find, make your profile clear and complete. Include:
- mechanical engineering as your field
- your current education level
- your English and German level
- your transcripts and test documents
- the country where you studied
That does not replace a real application, but it can help universities contact you first when they search for matching students.
Common questions
Can I study mechanical engineering in Germany in English?
Yes, in some programmes, especially at master's level. You still need to check the exact teaching language and test requirements on the programme page.
Do I need German for mechanical engineering?
Not always, but German is common, especially for bachelor's studies and for daily life. Even in English-taught programmes, basic German can help with internships, housing, and part-time work.
How much money should I plan for?
Plan for tuition if your programme charges it, plus semester fees and monthly living costs. Check the university fees page and the official student or immigration guidance for the most reliable budget view.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay in control, and you can compare interest from different universities before you decide where to apply.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.