Automobile Engineering in Germany for International Students (2025)

Are you passionate about designing cars and other automobiles? Do you have a knack for creative thinking? Then pursuing a career abroad in Automobile designing is what you can aim for! Though available in an array of universities across the world, Germany leads the list when it comes to studying automobile-related courses.

Home to the leading automobile companies like Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagon, Germany is revered not only for being the leader in manufacturing the finest technologies but also for the quality education it offers in this field through state-of-the-art infrastructure, experienced professors, and a healthy study environment.

So, if you are wondering which is the best country for automobile engineering then Germany can be on your top list! Here is a blog that highlights the salient features of pursuing Automobile Engineering in Germany.

Study in Germany: The Guide To Your German Dream!

Automobile Engineering in Germany: Overview

Automobile courses or a degree in Automotive Engineering deals with the designing and manufacturing of cars, trains, tanks, etc. It relies heavily on innovations and finding newer ways to enhance contemporary machine technology. Being a subset of Mechanical Engineering, Automobile Engineering has its routes spread over other engineering branches such as Electrical and Electronics, Information Technology, Mechatronics, Material Science, etc. Further, with courses structured to cater to industrial needs, there are innumerable opportunities to explore after graduating in this field from Germany.

Here is an overview of the Automobile course in Germany for you:

Aspect	Details
Degree Offered	Automobile Engineering in Germany
Course Type	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs
Degree Types	Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Course Duration	1.5 to 2 years for Master’s; typically 3-4 years for Bachelor’s
Language	Programs available in German and English
Key Subjects Taught	Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Development, Safety Engineering
Tuition Fees	Generally low; ranges from EUR 500 to EUR 3,000 per year
Top Universities for Automotive Engineering in Germany	RWTH Aachen University University of Stuttgart Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Technical University of Berlin
Career Opportunities	Automotive Engineer, Research & Development roles in major companies like BMW and Volkswagen EUR 54,000 to EUR 60,000 annually
Industry Significance	The automotive sector accounts for about 5% of Germany’s GDP and offers over 820,000 jobs.

Why Study Automobile Engineering in Germany?

1. Strong Industry Presence: Germany is home to some of the world’s most renowned automobile manufacturers including BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz. This strong industrial base offers students unparalleled opportunities for internships and employment.
2. High-Quality Education: German universities are known for their rigorous academic standards and practical approach to learning. Many programs are designed in collaboration with industry leaders to ensure that students are equipped with relevant skills.
3. Affordable Tuition: Many public universities in Germany offer low or no tuition fees for international students, making it an economically viable option for higher education.
4. Research and Development: The automotive sector in Germany is a significant contributor to research and development (R&D), accounting for about one-third of the country’s total R&D expenditure. This focus on innovation creates a vibrant environment for students interested in cutting-edge technologies.
5. Cultural Experience: Studying in Germany also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich cultural environment, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Also Read: Best Automotive Engineering Universities in Germany

Now that we know all the basics about the Automobile Engineering course in Germany. Let us look at some of the top universities in Germany offering both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Automobile Engineering. We will also be listing out the basic course structure that is taught to the students.

Automobile Engineering in Germany: Undergraduate Program

If you wish to become an automobile or automotive engineer, the student needs to be equipped with all the basics. This is where the role of the undergraduate course in Automobile Engineering comes in. The coursework of Automobile Engineering in Germany combines theory with practice within its study modules along with internships and assignments.

To further know about this program, let us start with an overview.

Duration	Typically 3 to 4 years
Degree Types	Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc)
Language of Instruction	Primarily German, with some programs offered in English
Internship Opportunities	Many programs include internships or practical training as part of the curriculum

Here is a basic course structure that is taught to the students in this program:

Diploma in Automobile Engineering	Bachelor in Automotive Engineering
BEng in Vehicle Engineering (Hons)	Bachelor in Transportation Design
BTech in Automotive and Vehicle Technology	Bachelor in Measurement & Control Technology and Instruments (Robot Technology)
Bachelor in Engineering Technology (with emphasis on CAD/CAM)	Bachelor in Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

If you wish to pursue an undergraduate degree in Automobile Engineering in Germany, you must look at some of these top universities offering this course, which are:

Top Universities for Undergraduate Program in Automotive Engineering	QS World Ranking 2025	Program	Program Fees
RWTH Aachen University	#99	B.Eng in Automotive Engineering	EUR 729
University of Stuttgart	#314	B.Sc in Automotive and Engine Engineering	EUR 3000
Esslingen University of Applied Sciences	#435	B.Eng in Automotive Engineering	EUR 1,500 (per semester)
Technical University of Munich	#28	B.Sc in Automotive Engineering	EUR 2000 – EUR 3000 (per semester for international students)
HAW Hamburg	#191	B.Eng in Automotive Engineering	EUR 331 (no fees, semester contribution)
Technical University of Ingolstadt	NA	B.Eng in Automotive Engineering	Around EUR 2000 – EUR 3000

Also Read: Diploma in Automobile Engineering

Automobile Engineering in Germany: Postgraduate Program

To gain advanced knowledge of various facets of the Automobile sector, pursuing a postgraduation program is necessary. Master-level courses not only help in skill development but also provide a platform to specialise in a particular area. To enable students to handle emerging next-generation technologies, colleges in Germany use contemporary methods and techniques to train them for the fast-paced industry.

Before we find more information about the postgraduate program in detail, let us look at the overview of this course:

Duration of the program	1.5 to 2 years (3 to 4 semesters)
Degree Types	Master of Science (M.Sc), Master of Engineering (M.Eng)
Language of Instructions	Primarily English, some programs available in German
Tuition Fees	EUR 600 to EUR 12,000 per year, with many public universities charging minimal fees
Core Subjects	Automotive Design, Vehicle Dynamics, Powertrain Systems, Automotive Electronics, Sustainability in Mobility
Career Opportunities	Positions in automotive companies like Volkswagen, BMW, Daimler, and Bosch; roles in R&D, design engineering, project management

Enlisted are some of the popular postgraduation courses for Automobile Engineering in Germany:

MSc in Composites- Focus Aviation	Master in Automotive Computing and Communications
MS Automotive Engineering	MEng Automotive Engineering
Master in Intelligent Manufacturing and Control Engineering	Master in Automotive Mechatronics and Management
MEng in Automation and Manufacturing Systems	MEng in Automotive Designs
MEng in Design and Development for Mechanical and Automotive Engineering

Let us now look at the list of top universities which are offering Postgraduation in Automobile Engineering in Germany along with the QS World Ranking and course fees.

Top University for Postgraduation in Automobile Engineering in Germany	QS World Ranking 2025	Program Offered	Degree Type	Course Fees
RWTH Aachen University	#99	M.Sc. Automotive Engineering	Master of Science (M.Sc)	EUR 729
Technical University of Munich	#28	M.Sc. in Automotive Engineering	Master of Science (M.Sc)	EUR 12,000
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	#102	M.Sc. in Automotive Engineering	Master of Science (M.Sc)	EUR 1,500 per semester
University of Stuttgart	#314	M.Sc. in Automotive Engineering	Master of Science (M.Sc)	EUR 1,500 per semester (for non -EU students)
Technical University of Berlin	#147	M.Sc. in Automotive Systems	Master of Science (M.Sc)	No Tuition Fees
Esslingen University of Applied Sciences	NA	M.Eng. in Automotive Systems	Master of Engineering (M.Eng)	EUR 15,000 (for non-EU students)
Technical University of Ingolstadt	#1201–140	M.Eng. in Automotive Production Engineering	Master of Engineering (M.Eng)	No fee for Non-EU students but they do need to pay a student union membership fee of EUR 67.
Dresden University of Technology	#234	M.Sc. in Automotive Technology	Master of Science (M.Sc)	No Tuition Fees
University of Bayreuth	#527	M.Sc. in Automotive Components Engineering	Master of Science (M.Sc)	No fee for Non-EU students

You can also explore Car Designing courses as they’re equivalent to kickstarting a career in this field.

Quick Read: TUM to Increase Tuition Fees for International Students

Automobile Engineering in Germany Eligibility Criteria

To pursue automobile engineering in Germany, students must meet specific eligibility criteria depending on whether they are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. Below is a detailed overview of the eligibility requirements for both levels:

Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Programs

Educational Qualifications	Completion of 10+2 from a recognized board of education. Equivalent qualifications may be accepted, but they must be recognised by the German education system.
Language Proficiency	For programs taught in German: Proficiency demonstrated through tests such as TestDaF or DSH. For programs taught in English: Proficiency demonstrated through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Subject Proficiency	A strong background in Mathematics and Physics is essential, as these subjects form the foundation of engineering studies.
Additional Requirements	Some universities may require an aptitude test (e.g., TestAS) for international students. Application documents typically include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume.

Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Programs

Educational Qualifications	A relevant Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related field.
Language Proficiency	Proficiency in English is essential for most programs taught in English. This can be demonstrated through standardised tests like TOEFL or IELTS. If the program is in German, proficiency must be proven through tests like TestDaF or DSH.
Work Experience	Some programs may require proof of relevant work experience, although this is not universally mandated.
Additional Requirements	Applicants typically need to submit official transcripts, a letter of motivation, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses.
Standardized Tests	Some universities may also require GRE scores for admission.

Must Read:

Study in Germany Without IELTS

Requirements To Study In Germany For Indian Students

Engineering Colleges in Germany

Career Opportunities after Automobile Engineering in Germany

Take a look at this table to find all the latest information on the career opportunities one can expect after pursuing a degree in Automobile Engineering in Germany.

Category	Details
Career Paths	1. Automotive Engineer: Design, develop, and improve automotive systems and components. 2. Automotive Designer: Create vehicle designs focusing on aesthetics and functionality. 3. Quality Control Engineer: Ensure products meet quality standards through testing. 4. Production Engineer: Optimise manufacturing processes for efficiency and cost reduction. 5. Research and Development Engineer: Work on innovative projects, including EVs and autonomous systems.
Current Job Market Overview	Over 1,000 English-speaking jobs are available in the automotive sector in Germany as of January 2025. Key employers include Volkswagen, BMW, and Bosch, especially in electric vehicles and smart technologies. Specialised roles like PhD positions in Automotive Network Security and IT Systems Engineers are in demand.
Skills in Demand	Knowledge of electromobility (electric vehicles) and autonomous driving technologies. Proficiency in software tools related to automotive engineering (e.g., CAD software). Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts is beneficial.

Also Read: Production Engineer Resume

What to Do After Your Admission is Accepted?

After securing admission to an automobile engineering program in Germany, there are several important steps to follow to ensure a smooth transition into your studies and life in Germany. These steps include: Confirming your admission, financial arrangements, applying for a student visa and making all the necessary accommodation arrangements.

Let us look at all the steps in detail below:

Confirm Your Admission

Once you get an admission letter from the university, you will have to confirm the same. This will be done by following two steps:

1. Acceptance Letter: Review and confirm your acceptance by following the instructions provided in the admission letter.
2. Enrollment: Complete any required enrollment forms and submit them as per the university’s guidelines.

Financial Arrangements

• Tuition Fees: Be prepared to pay tuition fees as outlined by your university. Ensure you understand the payment deadlines.
• Open a Blocked Account in Germany: If you are a non-EU student, you may need to open a blocked account to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies (approximately EUR10,332 per year).
• Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities that may help ease financial burdens.

Some of the most popular scholarship options which students can look at are:

Scholarship Name	Eligibility
DAAD Scholarships	Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Deutschlandstipendium	Open to all students enrolled in German universities.
BMW Scholarship for International Students	Enrolled in an automotive engineering program.
Technical University of Munich Scholarships	Must be enrolled at TU Munich.
Studienabschluss-Stipendium	Final year students at TU Munich.
German Chancellor Fellowship	For international researchers with a project plan.
EBS Scholarship	Open to EBS University students.

Also Read:

Can I Study in Germany Without Blocked Account?

What is Declaration of Commitment for German Visa?

Apply for a Student Visa

1. Visa Application: Apply for a German study visa at the nearest German consulate or embassy. Required documents typically include:

• Admission letter from the university
• Proof of financial means (blocked account)
• Health insurance coverage
• Valid passport
• Passport-sized photographs

2. German Health Insurance: Obtain health insurance that meets German requirements, as it is mandatory for all students.

Also Read:

Updated Germany Student Visa Fee

German Student Visa Checklist

Requirements To Study In Germany For Indian Students

Germany Student Visa Processing Time

Accommodation Arrangements

• Housing Options: Research and secure accommodation before arriving in Germany. Options include:
  • University dormitories
  • Private apartments
  • Shared flats (WGs)
• Rental Agreements: Understand the rental agreements and ensure you have all necessary documents ready.

Must Read: How to Find Accommodation in Germany?

Automobile Engineering in Germany Costs to Incur

When arriving in Germany, you must prepare yourself mentally and financially for all the costs that you will have to incur during your stay in the country. Here is a rough breakdown of the estimated amount you will have to spend in the process of going to Germany.

Pre-Arrival Costs 

The table below shows the pre-arrival expenses in Germany: 

Expenses	Fee (in EUR)
TOEFL Fees	136-224
IELTS Fees	166-170
GRE Fees	183-206
GMAT Fees	143
German Test Fees	100
Student German Visa Application	60-75
Airfare	600-1500
Insurance	80

Tuition Fee

The table below shows the program fee for a Master in Automobile course at German universities: 

University	Total Program Fee (in EUR)
TUM	516
TU Berlin	1230
RWTH Aachen University	873
Universitat Stuttgart	6000
TU Braunschweig	1432
HAW Hamburg	1005
THI	1350
Hochschule Esslingen	4500

*Note: All the fees and costs mentioned above are not fixed and will vary as per time and location.

Must Read: Cost of Studying in Germany

Cost of Living 

The estimated cost of living in Germany is:

Expenses	Cost per Month (in EUR)
On-campus accommodation	300
Off-campus accommodation	400-420
Book and Supplies	30
Meals and Beverages	165-200
Internet and Telephone	35
Transportation	82
Miscellaneous	70

*Note: All the costs mentioned above are not fixed and will vary as per time and location.

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