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RWTH Aachen University

7.8(26)
VerifiedPublicEstd. 1870
Founded
1870
Type
Public

About RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University is a public research university located in Aachen, Germany. Founded in 1870, it is one of the largest and most prestigious technical universities in Europe, with over 45,000 students enrolled. It is ranked #105 as per QS World University Ranking and #92 as per THE World University Ranking. The University is home to 9 facilities which offers more than 144 study programs to the students. Some of the most popular programs among international students include MSc in Computer Science, MSc in Data Science, MSc. in Material Engineering and MSc. in Automotive Engineering.

Additionally there is no tuition fees at RWTH Aachen University for national as well as international students. However, the acceptance rate of the university is only 10%, highlighting the competitive nature of getting in, as many students from around the world apply for limited spots. Students also rated the University as overall 7.6/10 with higher rankings for Academic 9.1/10 and 9.0/10 for faculty. Moreover, RWTH Aachen provides various scholarship opportunities for international students, such as the RWTH Education Fund (Deutschlandstipendium), which helps support talented students with financial aid.

Also Check: Study in Germany for International students


RWTH Aachen University Ranking

The QS Ranking for RWTH Aachen University rose from 99th in 2024 to 105th in 2025. Employer Reputation (93.7), International Research Network (86.1), International Students Ratio (85.5), and Sustainability (84.8) are the important factors that determine these rankings. Since 2023, the university's QS worldwide ranking has been steadily rising.

Additionally, the university rose from 92th in 2024 to 92th in 2025 in THE World University Rankings. These rankings' key determinants are International Outlook (71.2), Research Quality (78.9), and Industry (100). The following are the university's worldwide rating patterns as reported by a number of credible agencies:

Ranking System 2026 2025 2024 2023
QS World University Ranking #105 #99 #106 #147
THE World University Ranking #92 #92 #90 #99
ARWU World University Ranking - #201 #201 #201
US News Best Global University Ranking - #225 #218 #199

RWTH Aachen University Popular Courses

The table below highlights some popular Courses at RWTH Aachen University for international students:

Program Name Duration Language Core Focus Areas
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science 4 semesters English Theoretical and applied computer science, software and communication, data and information management.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Data Science 4 semesters English Data analysis, systems engineering, interdisciplinary applications across various fields.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Materials Engineering 4 semesters English Materials science and engineering, addressing challenges in power generation, mobility, and sustainability.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Automotive Engineering 3 semesters English Vehicle technology, combining compulsory and elective courses, culminating in a Master's thesis.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemical Engineering 4 semesters English Process engineering, materials science, catalysis, and energy systems.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Robotic Systems Engineering 4 semesters English Development and programming of intelligent robotic systems, integrating AI and cyber-physical systems.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Management and Engineering 3–6 semesters English Technology, innovation, marketing, and entrepreneurship, combining management with engineering.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Civil Engineering 4 semesters German Structural engineering, construction management, and infrastructure development.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Aeronautical Engineering and Astronautics 3 semesters English Aeronautics and astronautics, focusing on research and development in aerospace technologies.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology 4 semesters English Electrical engineering principles, information technology, and related systems.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Data Analytics and Decision Science 4 semesters English Operations research, analytics, and decision-making processes in business contexts.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Mechanical Engineering 7 semesters German Fundamental engineering principles, thermodynamics, and materials science.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in General Mechanical Engineering 3 semesters English Broad mechanical engineering education with options for specialization.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business Administration 4 semesters German Business management, economics, and organizational studies.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Digital Media Communication 4 semesters German Digital communication strategies, media design, and public relations.

Note: RWTH Aachen University does not charge tuition fees, even for international students. However, students are required to pay a semester fee of around €304, which covers administrative services and public transport.


RWTH Aachen University Campus

If you are interested in pursuing your research degrees from the RWTH Aachen University campus, then you will find it interesting to know that the next-generation research infrastructure is continuously growing at this university. Under the campus of the RWTH Aachen University, 16 thematic research clusters are developing. Some of the clusters are:

  • Bio-Medical Engineering Cluster
  • Construction Cluster
  • Smart Logistics Cluster
  • Sustainable Energy Cluster
  • Photonics Cluster

Along with that, the campus Melaten and campus West are the 2 research campuses of this university. The public life on this campus is incorporated by the initiation of the shopping facilities, restaurants and other service providers. If you are interested in studying at the RWTH Aachen University, then you need to know the cost of living in Germany. Also, the students should know that 285 temporary student housing units have been developed on Campus Park since fall 2015. The students are provided accommodation through the facilities provided by Studierendenwerk (STW) in Germany.​


RWTH Aachen University Admission

RWTH Aachen offers open (do not have a fixed number of seats) and Restricted Admission (limited number of spots available) options for its students.

RWTH Aachen University Master’s Admission Deadlines

Type of Admission Winter Semester 2026 Summer Semester 2026
Open Admission Programs March 1, 2026 September 1, 2026
Restricted Admission (NC) July 15, 2026 January 15, 2026

RWTH Aachen University UG Admission Deadlines

Type of Admission Winter Semester 2026 Summer Semester 2026
Open Admission Bachelor Courses July 15, 2026 January 15, 2026
Restricted Admission (NC) Bachelor Courses May 15, 2026 – July 15, 2026 November 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026

RWTH Aachen University Graduate Admissions

RWTH Aachen University admission requirements for international students requires several criteria. A GPA score above 3.0 is mandatory for Indian as well as other international students. To get admission in a graduate course in, the following requirements must be fulfilled by the students:

Application Portal: Online Application

Application Fees: Not required

Admission Requirements:

  • A bachelor's degree
  • English language proficiency requirements:
    • IELTS - 5.5-6.5
    • TOEFL IBT - 90-95
  • German language proficiency requirements:
    • TestDaF - level 4
    • DSH - Stage 2
  • Letters of recommendations
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Resume or CV

RWTH Aachen University Undergraduate Admissions

RWTH Aachen University undergraduate courses are offered in accounting, biology, athletic training, chemistry, communication and others. Given below are RWTH Aachen university requirements for international students for undergraduate courses:

Application Portal: Online Application RWTH

Application Fees: Not required

Admission Requirements:

  • High school transcripts
  • GPA or aggregate: 3.0-3.5
  • English language proficiency scores:
    • IELTS- 5.5
  • German language proficiency requirements:
    • TestDaF - level 4
    • DSH - Stage 2
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Letter of intent
  • Work experience proof
  • Passport copy
  • Health insurance

RWTH Aachen University MBA Admissions

RWTH Aachen University MBA program is offered as a full-time MBA in digitalization & industrial change and Executive MBA technology Management through the RWTH Business School. While pursuing the full MBA at RWTH Aachen University, the students will learn to develop new business strategies and improve their relationships with the customer using the data analytics. Indian students can apply for RWTH Aachen MBA program till August 31, 2024. RWTH Aachen university admission requirements for Indian students are given below:

Application Portal Online Application
Degree requirements Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
ELP Scores IELTS: 5.5 | TOEFL IBT: 90
Test scores GRE: 160 in quantitative section
Work experience 1-2 years
Documents required LORs | SOP | Resume or CV

Also Check: English Speaking Jobs in Germany for 2025


Cost of Living at RWTH Aachen University

The table below highlights the cost of Living for international students at the RWTH Aachen University to help international students with planning ahead of time:

Monthly Expenditure / Category Amount in EUR Amount in INR
Accommodation and associated costs €400 – €600 ₹36,000 – ₹54,000
Food €200 – €300 ₹18,000 – ₹27,000
Health insurance €100 – €150 ₹9,000 – ₹13,500
Study materials (books, printing, etc.) €20 – €40 ₹1,800 – ₹3,600
Internet and mobile phone €20 – €50 ₹1,800 – ₹4,500
Additional costs (clothing, hygiene, etc.) €50 – €200 ₹4,500 – ₹18,000

Additionally, To stay in Germany as a student, you must show that you have at least €992 (around ₹89,280) per month to cover your living expenses. For visa purposes, this means maintaining a blocked account with a yearly balance of €11,904 (about ₹10.7 lakhs). On top of that, students also need to pay a semester contribution fee of €298.06 (around ₹26,825), which covers student services and public transport.


RWTH Aachen University Scholarships

Tabulated below are some popular scholarships for international students who are looking to ease their financial burden:

Scholarship Name Eligible Level Eligibility Criteria Benefits
RWTH Education Fund (Deutschlandstipendium) Master’s Open to all nationalities. Based on academic excellence, personal achievements, and social commitment €300/month (₹27,000/month) for 1 year
Scholarship for Completing Studies (International Students) Master’s Final-year international students at RWTH with GPA ≤ 2.5. Expected to graduate within a year and must be residing in Germany €500/month (₹45,000/month) for 5 months
Scholarship for Completing Studies (Doctoral Candidates) PhD International PhD students at RWTH nearing dissertation completion. Requires strong academic progress and supervisor’s support €500/month (₹45,000/month) for 5 months
Scholarship for Particularly Involved International Students Master’s International students with at least 2 semesters at RWTH. Must have a good GPA and active involvement in intercultural or student engagement activities €300/month (₹27,000/month) for 6 months
Equal Opportunity Scholarship Master’s & PhD Enrolled students facing personal, family, or financial hardship. Priority to those with caregiving responsibilities or refugee background €250–€934/month (₹22,500–₹84,060/month) and up to €2000 (₹1,80,000) for PhDs
RWTH–IIT Madras Junior Research Fellowship Master’s & PhD RWTH-enrolled students undertaking a 3–6 month research stay at IIT Madras. Requires strong academic standing and project proposal €900–€1250/month (₹81,000–₹1,12,500/month)
High Potential Student Grant Master’s Admitted students to RWTH International Academy Master’s programs. Selection based on academic excellence and motivation Up to 25% tuition reduction
Global Talent Scholarship Master’s Applicants from select countries including India. Must be admitted to eligible RWTH International Academy Master’s programs with strong academic profile Up to 35% tuition reduction

Also Check: Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

RWTH Aachen University offers several student services to support international students, including assistance with accommodation, orientation programs, and language courses to improve German skills. The university also provides counseling services, visa support, and career guidance for internships and job placements. Additionally, there are various student networks and associations that help international students connect and integrate into campus life. Students are advised to stay active and engage in these opportunities to fully benefit from their time at the university.

FAQs

Ques: How hard is it for an Indian student to get into RWTH Aachen?

Ans: Getting into RWTH Aachen University as an Indian student can be quite challenging, with an acceptance rate of around 10%. The university is highly competitive, especially for its engineering and technology programs, which attract applicants from around the world. To increase your chances, a strong academic record, high GRE/TOEFL scores, and relevant work experience or internships are crucial. Furthermore, the application process is rigorous, requiring thorough documentation and sometimes a high level of proficiency in the German language, depending on the course.

Ques: What are the pros and cons of studying at RWTH Aachen University?

Ans: As per student reviews, the pros and cons of studying at RWTH Aachen University are listed below:

Pros Cons
Specialization Flexibility: Offers flexibility in choosing specializations based on your selected courses, allowing students to tailor their studies. Lack of Practical Projects: Courses often focus more on theoretical knowledge rather than hands-on, practical projects.
Hybrid Learning: The hybrid class program allows students to study at their own pace, offering flexibility and a good work-life balance. No Central Campus: The university buildings are spread across the city, making navigation and building a campus community more difficult.
Industry-Funded Projects: Provides ample opportunities to work on industry-funded projects, enhancing practical knowledge and real-world experience. No Campus Placements: RWTH Aachen doesn’t offer campus placement opportunities, so students need to find jobs independently.
Subject Expertise of Professors: Professors are highly specialized and dedicated to their subjects, bringing in-depth expertise to their teaching. Language Barrier: There could be challenges with the German language, especially when finding accommodation or communicating with locals.
Student-Friendly City: Aachen is a student-friendly city with a lower cost of living compared to major cities like Munich and Frankfurt. Tuition Fees: Unlike other German universities that offer zero tuition fees, RWTH Aachen charges tuition fees, which may be a financial burden for some students.
Sports Facilities: Excellent sports facilities with access to around 100 different types of sports. Accommodation Issues: Finding affordable accommodation can be challenging, particularly on-campus housing, and private housing requires more effort.
Research and Industry Collaboration: Strong collaborations with companies like KUKA and Fraunhofer, giving students exposure to cutting-edge industrial tech. Strict and Challenging Examinations: Exams are tough and require solving complex problems, which can extend the time required to complete a Master's degree.
Teaching Methodology: Some students feel the teaching methodology could be improved, as some professors assume students already have extensive prior knowledge

Ques: What is life like as an international student at RWTH Aachen?

Ans: Life as an international student at RWTH Aachen is both enriching and well-supported. The university hosts over 160 student clubs, including cultural, academic, and recreational organizations, allowing students to engage in a wide range of activities. With more than 100 sports offered on campus, students can easily participate in extracurriculars alongside their studies. The Aachen International Students' Association (AISA) helps international students integrate, with events and support services for smoother transitions. The city is home to around 45,000 students, making it vibrant and affordable, with student-friendly housing options ranging from €300 to €450 per month.

Courses & Fees

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Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.

Courses

155

Fee from

₹77,163.54

Exams

TOEFL · IELTS

Showing 5 of 60 bachelors

Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration3 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageGerman
Fees
Tuition Fee₹77163.54
Native FeeEUR 717
Living Expense₹1020238
Estimated Total₹1097402
Official Program Page

Admission Process

RWTH Aachen University admissions are offered in both open and restricted programs for the Winter Semester 2026 and Summer Semester 2025/26. For Master’s programs, the application deadlines are March 1, 2026 (open admission) and July 15, 2026 (restricted admission) for the winter intake, and September 1, 2026 (open) and January 15, 2026 (restricted) for the summer intake. For Bachelor’s programs at RWTH Aachen University, deadlines range from July 15, 2026 (open) to May 15–July 15, 2026 (restricted) for the winter intake, and January 15, 2026 (open) to November 1, 2025–January 15, 2026 (restricted) for the summer intake. MBA applications are open until August 31, 2026, for the October intake.

RWTH Aachen University acceptance rate is 10%. UG applicants need a high school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur (min. GPA 2.5), German (TestDaF 4/DSH 2) and English (IELTS 5.5) proficiency. PG applicants need a relevant degree, German (B2/C1), English (IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 90), and in some cases, GRE. MBA applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, GRE (Quant 160), 2 years of experience, SOP, LORs, and resume. RWTH Aachen University admission results are released 1–2 months after the deadline.

See More: RWTH Aachen University Reviews and Ratings


RWTH Aachen University Application Deadline 2025-26

RWTH Aachen University offers two types of admission for its degree programs:

  • Open Admission Programs: No limit on the number of applicants admitted.
  • Restricted Admission (NC) Programs: Limited seats available; admissions are competitive.

International students must apply online via the official application portal and ensure that all required documents are submitted before the respective deadlines.

Program Level Type of Admission Winter Semester 2025 Summer Semester 2025/26
Master’s Open Admission March 1, 2026 September 1, 2026
Restricted Admission (NC) July 15, 2026 January 15, 2026
Bachelor’s Open Admission July 15, 2026 January 15, 2026
Restricted Admission (NC) May 15 – July 15, 2026 Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026

Must Read: Application Deadline for German Universities in 2025


RWTH Aachen University Admissions Requirements

RWTH Aachen offers over 140 programs through its 9 faculties. MSc in Computer Science, MSc in Data Science, MSc. in Material Engineering and MSc. in Automotive Engineering are some of the most popular programs of this university. The admission requirements for these programs are as follows.

Explore: RWTH Aachen University Courses and Fees

RWTH Aachen University UG Admissions Requirements

RWTH Application Portal: Online

Application Fee: Not Required

  • Eligibility and Academic Qualifications:
    • Applicants must hold a higher education entrance qualification equivalent to the German Abitur (high school-leaving certificate) with an overall grade equivalent to at least a German grade of 2.5 on the grading scale.
  • German language proficiency:
    • TestDaF level 4
    • DSH Stage 2
  • English proficiency:
  • Required documents include:
    • High school transcripts and certificate (HZB)
    • Tabular resume (CV)
    • Passport or identity card copy
    • Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
    • Letter of intent or motivation letter
    • Proof of language proficiency (German and/or English)
    • Health insurance proof (for international students)

See More: RWTH Aachen University Undergraduate Courses


RWTH Aachen University Graduate Admission Requirements

  • Academic Qualifications:
    • A relevant first university degree (such as a Bachelor's degree, Diploma, or Staatsexamen)
  • German Language Proficiency:
    • German at B2 or C1 level is required.
  • English Language Proficiency:
  • IELTS 6.5
  • TOEFL scores of 90

Additional Requirements:

  • Some Master's programs have restricted admission (Numerus Clausus, NC), requiring competitive grades and submission of a study placement acceptance letter or admission letter.
  • Practical achievements or language skills may be required as per the examination regulations of the specific program.
  • For non-EU/EEA applicants or those who completed their education outside Germany, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) may be required for certain programs, such as Electrical Engineering.

Explore: RWTH Aachen University Masters Courses


RWTH Aachen University MBA Admissions Requirements

RWTH Aachen University offers a full-time MBA in Digitalization & Industrial Change and an Executive MBA in Technology Management.

Application Portal: Online

Application Fee: Not Required

Application Deadline: August 31, 2025, for program starting in October 01, 2025

  • Academic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
  • English Language Proficiency (ELP):
    • IELTS: Minimum 5.5
    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
  • Standardized Test Score: GRE with at least 160 in the Quantitative section
  • Work Experience: At least 2 years of relevant experience
  • Required Documents:
    • Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
    • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
    • Resume or CV

RWTH Aachen University Admissions Decision Dates

RWTH Aachen University admissions decisions are communicated shortly after the application and document submission deadlines. For restricted admission programs, the lottery or selection process takes place between August 1–31 for the winter semester and February 1–28/29 for the summer semester. Admission or rejection letters are uploaded to the applicant’s RWTHonline self-service portal once the selection process is complete.

Note: According to student reports, admission decisions can be received roughly 1 to 2 months after the application deadline, e.g., winter semester applicants applying by mid-July may receive decisions by late August or early September.

RWTH Aachen University, with an acceptance rate of around 10%, offers both open and restricted (NC) admission programs for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and MBA degrees. Application deadlines range from March 1 to September 1, 2026 for open master’s programs and May 15 to July 15, 2025 for restricted bachelor’s programs. Admission requirements include a minimum GPA of 2.5, IELTS scores (5.5–6.5), and GRE (Quant 160) for select programs. MBA applicants must also have 2 years of experience. Admission results are typically released 1–2 months after deadlines via the RWTHonline portal.

FAQs

Ques: Is it difficult to get admission in RWTH Aachen University?

Ans: Yes, RWTH Aachen University is competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 10%. Admission to restricted (NC) programs especially requires strong academic performance, relevant qualifications, and language proficiency. Meeting all eligibility criteria and submitting complete documents on time improves your chances.

Ques: Is Aachen expensive for students?

Ans: Compared to other major German cities, Aachen is relatively affordable for students. On average, international students may spend around EUR 850–1,100 per month on living expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and insurance.

Ques: What CGPA is required for RWTH Aachen?

Ans: For undergraduate programs, applicants need a GPA equivalent to a German grade of 2.5 or better (usually around 70–75% or 7.5/10 CGPA, depending on the Indian grading system). For master’s programs, competitive CGPAs are required, especially for restricted programs.

Ques: What is restricted admission in Germany?

Ans: Restricted admission (Numerus Clausus or NC) means there are limited seats for a particular program. Applicants are selected based on merit and additional criteria. These programs are more competitive, and deadlines must be strictly followed to be considered.

Placements & Recruiters

RWTH Aachen University Placement Details

RWTH Aachen University in Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.

Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

Recruiters
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Salary Metrics
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Placement Metric

Highest Package

N/A

Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.

Placement Metric

Average Package

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Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.

Placement information is currently limited.

More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.

Rankings over the years

Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.

2022

Highlights
2022
  • Best overall country rank: #6
  • Mechanical Engineering: #1 in country
  • Top source: ARWU
  • 26 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Mathematics
  • 5 ranking records in 2022

2023

Highlights
2023
  • Best overall country rank: #7
  • Architecture: #2 in country
  • Top source: THE
  • 24 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 3 ranking records in 2023

2024

Highlights
2024
  • Best overall country rank: #5
  • Mechanical Engineering: #1 in country
  • Top source: QS
  • 23 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Humanities
  • 3 ranking records in 2024

2025

Highlights
2025
  • Best overall country rank: #5
  • Mechanical Engineering: #1 in country
  • Top source: QS
  • 21 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 3 ranking records in 2025

2026

Highlights
2026
  • Best overall country rank: #5
  • Engineering: #2 in country
  • Top source: Collegedunia
  • 6 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 3 ranking records in 2026

Contact Information

Templergraben 55, 52062 Aachen

+49-241-80-1

Student Reviews & Ratings

Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary

Overall score

7.8/10
Top Rated

Based on 26 ratings

Rating Breakdown

Visual summary of rating distribution and categories

Live Summary
Academic
9.0/10
Faculty
9.1/10
Infrastructure
9.3/10
Accommodation
7.3/10
Placement
8.2/10
Extracurricular
8.8/10