RWTH Aachen University Summary
RWTH Aachen University is one of Germany’s most renowned public research universities and one of Europe’s leading institutions for engineering, technology, natural sciences, medicine, computer science, architecture and business and applied research. The university in Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, is known for industry-connected education, scientific innovation, technical excellence and research that supports real-world problem solving. It is especially suitable for students seeking a German public university with a strong technical profile and good links to the automotive, manufacturing, energy, materials, electronics, medical technology, sustainability and digital industries.
Since its foundation in 1870 RWTH Aachen has developed from a college of technology into a full research university with a broad spectrum of subjects. It is especially known for mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, civil engineering, materials science, architecture, physics, chemistry, mathematics, medicine, industrial engineering, business administration, economics, energy systems, mobility and production technology, The university’s proximity to Belgium and the Netherlands gives it a strong European and international character.
Many RWTH Aachen programs are taught in German at the undergraduate level. International applicants should carefully check the German language requirements before applying. Undergraduate fields of study are: mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, civil engineering, architecture, mathematics, physics, chemistry, materials engineering, georesources, environmental engineering, business administration, economics, industrial engineering, medicine, biology, teacher education and humanities-related routes. Many technical programs require strong preparation in math and science.
RWTH Aachen is highly attractive for international students at master’s level because of its broad spectrum of advanced technical and scientific programs. Some master’s programmes are taught in German and selected programmes are offered in English. Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Production Systems Engineering, Sustainable Energy Supply, Robotic Systems Engineering, Software Systems Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Management-related technical routes are popular areas for postgraduate study. Admission is competitive and based on academic fit, previous coursework, grades, language proof and program specific requirements.
At doctoral level RWTH Aachen offers major research opportunities in engineering, natural sciences, medicine, computer science, architecture, business, economics, sustainability, mobility, energy, materials, robotics and interdisciplinary technology fields. Doctoral candidates usually work within faculties, institutes, chairs, graduate programmes or research projects. RWTH’s excellent research infrastructure and strong industry links make it a good choice for students who want careers in research, R&D, technical leadership or further specialization in industry.
RWTH Aachen does not charge tuition fees for regular degree programs normally. Students pay a semester contribution, which is used for student services and transport-related benefits (depending on rules for the current semester). Additional tuition may be charged for some private, executive, international academy or continuing education programs. Students should also budget for living costs such as accommodation, health insurance, food, transport, books, study materials and personal expenses. Aachen is usually cheaper than Munich, but students still have to plan their finances carefully.
Overall, RWTH Aachen University is best for students who want a high level technical university with strong research and industry exposure, applied learning and excellent career value. It is particularly suited to students with an interest in engineering, computer science, AI, robotics, mobility, energy, manufacturing, medicine, materials, consulting, research and doctoral study.

