MBA in Germany: Top Universities, Cost, Eligibility and Admissions

MBA programs are becoming a popular choice for students all around the world who wish to increase their skills and understanding of business. International students hold Germany’s MBA programs in high regard due to their wide range of specializations. There are options for both full- and part-time study, which lasts between 12 to 24 months on average. Are you someone aspiring to join an MBA in Germany? Learn more about top universities for MBA in Germany, the costs, eligibility requirements for admission and the admissions process.

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MBA in Germany: Introduction

Fees for a Master of Business Administration in Germany are reasonable. The specific course fees are determined by the chosen program and institution. English is the medium of instruction. International students can thus readily integrate into the German educational system and grasp the business environment of the nation. Learning by doing is another opportunity available to students pursuing an MBA in Germany. Establishing a robust professional network is facilitated by numerous opportunities.

MBA in Germany: Top Universities, Cost, Eligibility and Admissions

According to the QS rating system, the best MA universities in Germany are listed below.

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Why Pursue an MBA in Germany?

Germany’s economy is the biggest in Europe and the fourth largest in the world, according to the World Bank. After graduation, there are a plethora of work prospects, and according to Foreign Student Statistics 2020, around 69.2% of foreign students would want to stay in Germany and look for employment. In addition, the population of overseas students has increased by 53% since 2010. Let us see the reasons behind the booming preference for MBA in Germany.

MBA from A Top Ranked University

German universities are among the best in the world according to rankings like the QS rating. Germany is home to prestigious universities that attract students from all around the world. This nation has the greatest higher education system in the world. Germany has been a popular destination for overseas students due to its legacy of upholding high standards of education and depending on the practical application of knowledge.

Universities Offering a Variety of MBA Specialisations

Germany is regarded as the top country for higher education, with more than 450 state-accredited universities offering 17,500 programs and degrees nationwide. In the case of the MBA itself, German universities offer so many specialisations that are particularly helpful in specialised professions.

Multiculturalism and Large International Community

Every year, tens of thousands of students travel to Germany to get admitted to various universities and courses. You won’t ever feel alone in this country because there are so many international students studying there from different cultures. Students can even get in touch with and join these global groups. Academics can learn from people of all ethnic origins and introduce other students to Germany’s rich cultural past because of the country’s dynamic and diverse student body.

Affordable Tuition Fee

The German government is the pioneer globally in offering free master’s and doctoral programs to foreign students. Other courses have extremely affordable tuition for both domestic and foreign students, making them a popular option for students looking to travel and enrol in postgraduate programs.

Reasonable Living Costs

When compared to other foreign nations such as the USA and the UK, living expenses in Germany are extremely reasonable and economical. Rent, groceries, and other living expenditures are all reasonably priced and close to the EU average. In addition, foreign students are eligible for the nation’s student discounts.

Availability of Scholarship Programs

International students who want to study in Germany and have outstanding academic records can apply for several assistance programs. There are many scholarships available for international students through the German Academic Exchange Service, or DAAD.

Also Read : DAAD Scholarship in Germany : All you Need to know

Shorter Term for MBA Courses

The duration of the MBA program in German business schools is typically one year, which is shorter than that of other prestigious business schools worldwide. For example, an MBA program at Harvard, Stanford, or Kellogg requires two years of full-time study, but programs like ESMT Berlin or Mannheim business schools are only one year long.

Compared to American business schools, the majority of European business schools offer MBA programs that are shorter in length. Therefore, you can choose between a one- or two-year MBA program based on your future aspirations.

Smaller Class Size

One of the main differences between German universities and the best in the US or Canada is the smaller class sizes. The MBA program’s smaller class sizes foster a close-knit environment that allows you to engage with your classmates more deeply. Additionally, the faculty is better able to attend to your unique needs for development.

Opportunities After Graduating

Germany is renowned for its innovative and technologically advanced culture. Being an MBA student in Germany exposes you to a wealth of networking chances given the nation’s home to numerous well-known corporations. This indirectly means that there are a lot more career opportunities and better pay if a student chooses to stay in Germany rather than return to their home nation.

German business schools report that MBAs can find employment in a wider variety of industries, including manufacturing, technology, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, energy, and financial services, compared to most other top business schools in the world, where a large percentage of students choose to pursue careers in consulting.

In terms of MBA salary, Germany is also among the top nations. You will receive a total compensation of $94,000 per year plus a bonus of about sixteen thousand dollars.

Easy to Get a Visa

Germany is the second easiest country to obtain a work visa after graduation. In Germany, you have an extra 18 months after receiving your MBA to find work. You can apply for an EU blue card when you get employment.

Non-EU nationals having professional expertise and a job contract in the nation, with a minimum salary of approximately $67,000 annually, are eligible for the EU Blue Card, which grants residence and a work permit.

Germany has less restrictive permanent residency laws and procedures than the US and the UK, except for the work permit. You are eligible to apply for a German permanent visa if you have been residing in Germany for five years with a German residence permit. You can apply to become a German citizen after eight years of residence there.

How Much Does It Cost for an MBA in Germany?

In Germany, the average cost of tuition and MBA fees ranges from EUR 10,400 to EUR 49,500, that is INR 9.1 Lakhs to INR 43.4 Lakhs. The following table shows the cost of tuition for Germany’s top MBA schools:

Top German Public Universities

Public universities have some of the hardest requirements and almost no tuition fees. Some of the top German public universities are discussed below.

Ludwig Maximilian University

Germany’s first and among the top institutions in the country is Ludwig Maximilian University, established in 1472. This university is ranked in the top 100 worldwide. Forty Nobel laureates, including Max Planck, Otto Hahn, and Wilhelm Rontgen, are listed among the alumni. This is one of the cheapest institutions in Germany for MBA programs, as well as one of the largest in the world in terms of student enrollment, with over fifty thousand learners enrolled.

Technical University of Munich

One of Germany’s top public universities for MBA studies is the Technical University of Munich. Up to 5000 overseas students are invited to this university each year. In addition to producing a steady stream of highly successful leaders, the university has generated up to fifteen Nobel Laureates among its alumni.

University of Heidelberg

The institution, which was established in 1386, is the oldest in Germany with 30,898 overall enrollment, including more than 6000 international students. Heidelberg University has maintained its high standards for liberal arts education with its hands-on approach to learning and helpful instructors. It is presently listed as one of the top 60 colleges in the world.

Humboldt University Berlin

In 1811, Friedrich William III of Prussia approved Wilhelm von Humboldt’s proposal to build Humboldt University Berlin. The University is widely acknowledged as the forerunner of all prestigious public MBA universities in Germany due to its ground breaking work, impact, and competence in higher education. The university has a total of 33,033 student enrolments. It also has 41 Nobel laureates among alumni.

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

It is among the most extensive research and educational institutions in Germany. The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is a major institution renowned for its engineering and natural science programs. In addition, the university enjoys a solid reputation and is ranked 26th in the world for computer science. Up to 25,000 students are enrolled at KIT across 11 faculties.

Technical University of Berlin

Another well-known university in Europe with a stellar reputation for engineering programs is the Technical University of Berlin. This institution, often known as TU Berlin, was established in 1879. It’s one of the best MBA schools in Germany for Indian students and has the largest percentage of international students.

Free University of Berlin

Germany’s most prestigious free MBA university is the Free University of Berlin, which is situated in the nation’s capital. It is also highly renowned for its research in the humanities, natural sciences social sciences, and life sciences. It can accommodate up to 6300 international students out of its 31,500 total enrollment.

RWTH Aachen University

It is a research facility located in Aachen, Germany. Attracting more than 40,000 students annually, RWTH University is among the leading free technical MBA programs in Germany. The institution offers about 140 educational programs and courses. Although its main focus is technology, the institution also provides courses in the humanities, business, medicine, and the arts. Academic costs are practically non existent when attending this prestigious university because tuition was waived by the institution in 2011.

University of Mannheim

The University of Mannheim is one of the top universities and research centres in the nation. It is situated in the lively German city of Mannheim. The institution was established in 1967 and has a long history of academic innovation and achievement. It provides a variety of programs in many different fields. Students at the University of Mannheim can pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctorate degrees, and they will receive an unrivalled education that will equip them for success in their chosen disciplines and beyond.

Top German Private Universities

If you’re looking for a private MBA college in Germany, check out our list of the top institutions provided here.

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management is a famous business college based in Leipzig, Germany. This School was founded in 1898 and is one of Europe’s oldest business schools.

European School of Management and Technology

The European School of Management and Technology, also known as ESMT Berlin, is a prestigious business school that focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology. ESMT was established in 2002 by prominent international corporations. It provides a highly customized learning experience and offers a variety of esteemed MBA, Master’s, and PhD programs. The school attracts students from all around the world.

GISMA School of Business

GISMA Business School, part of the prestigious Gisma University of Applied Sciences, isn’t your typical business school. They give aspiring leaders the tools they need to succeed in the dynamic corporate environment. Founded in Germany and with campuses in Potsdam and Berlin, they offer postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in business, engineering, and technology in addition to an AMBA-accredited Global MBA program.

BSBI – Berlin School of Business and Innovation

Germany’s central business district is home to the international business school Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI). With an emphasis on practical learning through business visits, guest speakers, and real-world projects, their programs are practical and industry-focused.

WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management

WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, a famous German business college with campuses in Vallendar and Düsseldorf, cultivates a dynamic worldwide community of future business leaders. WHU is known for its top-ranked programs in Germany (Financial Times 2023). It provides a dynamic learning environment based on academic achievement, entrepreneurship, and a global perspective.

 EBS University

EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht (EBS) is a renowned private institution with a focus on business and law, tucked away among the picturesque German vineyards. It is renowned for its tough academics, international perspective, and emphasis on leadership development.

Frankfurt School of Management

Frankfurt, Germany is home to the private Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, sometimes referred to as Frankfurt School. The Frankfurt School holds accreditation from the “triple crown” of business school accreditation organizations: EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA. The Financial Times Global MBA Ranking places it in the top 100 business schools worldwide.

Munich Business School

Munich Business School, located in the heart of Germany’s lively metropolis, is a leading private university focused on business education. This Business School prepares its graduates to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.

Eligibility Criteria to Pursue MBA in Germany

The following table lists the university-specific criteria for Indian students looking to pursue an MBA in Germany:

Attaining Required German Proficiency 

You can see that many universities have German language proficiency test scores as a mandatory requirement for eligibility for admission.  But how do we prepare for these exams? Are you worried that your German university ambitions are in vain because your town doesn’t have a German language learning institute? No need for such worries! Entri app is offering an online German language course. Entri offers training from A1 level German to C2 level German and provides training for the Goethe exam.

German University Scholarships for MBA

Those who want to study for an MBA in Germany can apply for several scholarships to help pay for their studies. Here are some of the most popular MBA scholarships in Germany:

Salary after MBA in Germany

In Germany, the typical income for an MBA graduate is between 35,000 and 80,000 EUR that is 31 lakhs and 71 lakhs Indian rupees. Following your MBA in Germany, some of the best positions you can choose from, together with their average yearly salary, are given below.

MBA graduates from German universities frequently find jobs within three months of completing their MBA program. They begin with salaries that are at least 55,000 euros on average. Germany is also ranked in the top 10 countries in the world by QS for MBA wages.

Work Permit After MBA in Germany

Students who have finished their Master’s degree in Germany (MS in Germany) are eligible to work in Germany following graduation. As part of their post-study work visa, international students are permitted to work in Germany for a maximum of 18 months. In Germany, this extra 18-month period is referred to as a post-study work permit. To support themselves over these eighteen months, candidates are free to work independently and on any kind of project. However, a student can apply for an “EU Blue Card”—a residence permit—as soon as two years after obtaining their work visa if they wish to remain in Germany permanently.

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Conclusion

The German MBA program is a hands-on, research-focused curriculum aimed mostly at working individuals who want to become managers. Furthermore, students can expect to receive both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience from German MBA schools. Germany offers a wide variety of long-term job options, making it an ideal location for business education.