Top Universities in Germany for MBA: A Comprehensive Guide

Did You Know?

• Employability among Indian MBA graduates in 2025 was about 78 percent, an increase from 47 percent in 2021.
• The percentage of Indian students applying for a management degree course in a domestic college in 2024 increased to 53% from 41% in the previous year.
• The preference of GMAT takers to study in India to study in India has grown to 26% from 18% in 2024.

Germany welcomed nearly 379,900 international students, a 3% rise from the previous year. While the country is globally known for engineering and science, its MBA programs are now making a strong impression on the world stage. Institutions like Frankfurt School of Finance & Management (#40) and Mannheim Business School (#47) feature in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, with ESMT Berlin (#69) also gaining ground.

With tuition fees 20–25% lower than in the US, and career opportunities at companies like BMW, Allianz, and Siemens, Germany offers an excellent value proposition for MBA aspirants. This guide takes you through the top MBA universities in Germany, scholarships you can apply for, and career options after graduation.

Top Universities in Germany for MBA: Best Picks to Consider in 2025

German universities are a strong choice for MBA aspirants due to affordable tuition, globally ranked programs like Frankfurt School, and integrated internships with strong career support

Additionally, the 18-month post-study work visa lets MBA graduates apply their skills in real roles at companies like Allianz. This makes Germany a good choice for career-focused students.

Here are the top universities in Germany for MBA based on QS University Rankings 2025:

1. ESMT Berlin 

ESMT Berlin offers a full-time MBA with a focus on innovation, analytics, and leadership in global markets. Located in Germany’s startup hub, it connects students to companies like Siemens, Zalando, and Delivery Hero. 

Over 74% of graduates secure jobs within 3 months, often in tech, consulting, and sustainability-driven roles.

Here’s an overview of ESMT Berlin:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	2002
Number of MBA specializations	4
Popular Specializations	Innovation and Entrepreneurship Managerial Analytics Strategic Leadership Global Strategic Management
Annual Tuition Fee	€50,000 (INR 47L)
Acceptance Rate	16%
Eligibility Criteria	At least 3 years of postgraduate professional experience. A bachelor’s degree of at least 3 years duration Score in tests like GMAT or GRE, GMAC, or ESMT. English Language Test Score
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL: 95 minimum PTE: 64 minimum IELTS: 7.0 minimum
QS World Ranking 2025	27 (executive MBA)

2. Technical University of Munich (TUM)

TUM offers three part-time Executive MBA programs, with a focus on technology, innovation, and business-IT integration. Its Innovation & Business Creation track is co-developed with UnternehmerTUM, Germany’s leading startup incubator. 

The university has close ties with companies such as BMW, Allianz, and Google Germany.

Here’s an overview of MBA at Technological University Munich:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1868
Number of MBA specializations	6
Popular Specializations	Organizational Change & Communication. Finance & Accounting. Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Digital Transformation. Stakeholder Management. Leadership & Cooperation.
Annual Tuition Fee	€39,000 (INR 36.7L)
Acceptance Rate	8 - 10% (varies based on program)
Eligibility Criteria	Bachelor equal to the German system, Diploma, Magister, “Staatsexamen”) 3 years of full-time professional work experience Proficiency in English
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL: 88+ IELTS: 6.5+
QS World Ranking 2025	28

3. Frankfurt School of Finance and Management 

Frankfurt School offers a full-time MBA ranked #45 globally (QS 2025), with a strong focus on finance, leadership, and strategy. Located in Germany’s financial capital, it has close ties to firms like Deutsche Bank, PwC, and Commerzbank. 

Over 82% of MBA graduates secure employment within 3 months, often in finance, consulting, or tech roles.

Here’s an overview of Frankfurt School of Finance and Management:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1957
Number of MBA specializations	2
Popular Specializations	Advance Management Finance & technology
Annual Tuition Fee	€42,000 (INR 39.5L)
Acceptance Rate	30-39%
Eligibility Criteria	GMAT/GRE or Business Methods Test English Language Test Score Minimum 3 years of work experience after bachelor’s degree
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL: N/A IELTS: N/A
QS World Ranking 2025	45

Note: Please contact the university directly for specific English proficiency test score requirements.

4. Mannheim Business School

Mannheim Business School offers a full-time MBA ranked #47 globally (QS 2025), with strengths in strategy, analytics, and international business. Located near corporate hubs like SAP, BASF, and Roche, it has a 95% placement rate within 3 months. Graduates can expect job roles in consulting, pharma, and tech sectors.

Highlight of Manheim Business School:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	2005
Number of MBA specializations	11
Popular Specializations	Banking & Finance Data Analytics Operations Management Entrepreneurship
Annual Tuition Fee	€45,000 (INR 42.3L)
Acceptance Rate	17%
Eligibility Criteria	An internationally recognized academic degree in any discipline.  A minimum B+ average in undergraduate degree. 3 years of postgraduate work experience.  GRE or GMAT (minimum 600) score.  APS required for applicants with a first degree from China, Vietnam and India.
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL iBT: 95 IELTS: 7.0
QS World Ranking 2025	47

5. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LUM)

LMU Munich offers MBA pathways through Munich Business School, featuring a strong focus on global business, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship. A key highlight is the International Week, where students attend courses at partner schools like Boston University. 

Here’s an overview of Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1472
Number of MBA specializations	NA
Popular Specializations	Finance & Accounting International Marketing Entrepreneurship & Startups
Annual Tuition Fee	€ 100 as semester contribution (INR 9.3K)
Acceptance Rate	10%
Eligibility Criteria	Certificate for completing a university degree in economics Proof of a successfully completed German language test. English Language Test Score GMAT Score of minimum 600
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL (iBT): 100
QS World Ranking 2025	59

6. HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management 

HHL Leipzig offers a full-time MBA in streams like entrepreneurship, leadership, and digital transformation. Known for its startup ecosystem and personalized mentoring, it actively supports venture building through its SpinLab accelerator. 

With 92% of graduates employed within 3 months, alumni often join firms like Roland Berger and EY.

Highlights of HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1898
Number of MBA specializations	8
Popular Specializations	Marketing Management Leadership Innovative Business
Annual Tuition Fee	€41,600 (INR 39L)
Acceptance Rate	49%
Eligibility Criteria	A bachelor’s degree in any discipline Minimum of 3 years of post-graduate work experience Competitive GMAT/GRE/HHL Entry Test score Proof of English language skills
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL iBT:  90+  TOEFL Essentials: 9+ IELTS: 7.0+ TOEIC: 850+ Cambridge ESOL: Level C Bachelor´s program in English
QS World Ranking 2025	86

Also Read: Study in Leipzig: Everything You Need to Know

7. RWTH Aachen University 

RWTH Aachen (QS rank of #99) offers a technology-focused MBA through RWTH Business School, combining management with engineering and data analytics. The program connects students with companies like Bosch, E.ON, and Ford Germany. It provides hands-on experience through real industry projects and Aachen’s strong research ecosystem.

Here’s an overview of RWTH Aachen University:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1870
Number of MBA specializations	2
Popular Specializations	Digitalization and Industrial Change Technology Management
Annual Tuition Fee	€30,000 (INR 28.1L)
Acceptance Rate	15%
Eligibility Criteria	Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as business, STEM, or economics. 2 years of work experience English language test score APS certificate for applicants from India, China and Vietnam.
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.0
QS World Ranking 2025	99

8. WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management 

WHU offers a full-time MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship, finance, and leadership. A key feature is its mandatory international module at partner schools like Kellogg or SMU. With 94% of graduates placed within 6 months, WHU alumni join firms like McKinsey, Henkel, and Amazon.

Highlights of Otto Beisheim School of Management:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1984
Number of MBA specializations	15
Popular Specializations	Marketing Financial Accounting Operations Management
Annual Tuition Fee	€48,500 (INR 45.4L)
Acceptance Rate	15%
Eligibility Criteria	University entrance qualification Undergraduate degree (Bachelor or equivalent) Minimum of two years postgraduate work experience Proof of English proficiency GRE / WHU Admissions Test (BAT) or CFA Level II
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL iBT: (min. 100 IELTS:  (7.0)
QS World Ranking 2025	134

Note: These can also serve as entry criteria instead of GRE/GMAT test:

• A PhD or doctorate degree
• A business degree with 3+ years of work experience
• Top 5% of class in a non-business degree with 3+ years in a business role
• Exceptional achievements as evaluated by WHU

9. EU Business School

EU Business School offers an internationally focused MBA taught in English, with campuses in Munich, Barcelona, and Geneva. The program features specializations in International Business, Digital Business, and cloud computing. With a 96% placement rate, graduates often land roles in companies like Nike, Nestlé, and Facebook.

Highlights of the EU business school: 

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1973
Number of MBA specializations	9
Popular Specializations	International Business Sports Management Digital Business Project Management
Annual Tuition Fee	€14,600 (INR 13.6L)
Acceptance Rate	73%
Eligibility Criteria	A certified bachelor's degree from an accredited institution GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 A satisfactory score on the GMAT or GRE An interview with the academic dean English language test score
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL iBT: 93  IELTS: 6.5 CAE C1: 176 PTE-A: 58
QS World Ranking 2025	151-200

10. Universität Hamburg 

Universität Hamburg’s Executive MBA focuses on sustainability-driven leadership and public-private sector management, tailored for mid-to-senior professionals. 

A key strength is its strong ties with Hamburg’s port logistics and healthcare sectors, offering applied learning through partners like Hamburg Port Authority and Asklepios Group.

Here’s an overview of Universität Hamburg:

Criteria	Details
Founding Year	1919
Number of MBA specializations	7
Popular Specializations	Marketing  Healthcare Management Auditing and Taxation Business Analytics
Annual Tuition Fee	€340 as semester contribution (INR 31.8K)
Acceptance Rate	24%
Eligibility Criteria	A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field  Proof of proficiency in mathematics (24 ECTS) English language test scores
Required English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL: 95 IELTS: 7.0 Cambridge English Qualification: C1 Advanced UNIcert: III
QS Ranking 2025	191

Worried about managing expenses while studying in Germany? Get a detailed breakdown of tuition fees, living costs, and hidden expenses in our blog Cost of Study in Germany in 2025. Plan your budget with confidence!

While the cost of living in Germany can be significant, scholarships can reduce your overall expenses. Let’s explore some popular scholarships to study in top universities in Germany for MBA.

MBA Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Most public universities in Germany, such as the University of Hamburg, charge minimal tuition fees. 

However, scholarships play a key role in covering living expenses and private MBA tuition, especially at institutions like ESMT Berlin and WHU Otto Beisheim. Two types of scholarships are usually available: internal and external.

Below is a breakdown of scholarships for international students:

Internal Scholarships for MBA in Germany

Internal scholarships are financial aid offered by universities specifically for their students. Internal scholarships reduce the financial burden and increase accessibility to top programs by offering funding directly from the university.

Universities like ESMT Berlin, WHU, and Frankfurt School reduce tuition costs based on merit, diversity, or professional background.

Here are some internal scholarships:

Scholarship	Type of Scholarship	Details
TUM Scholarship	Funded by the Bavarian Government	Eligibility: Meritorious international students with low family income. Benefits: Financial aid between €500 - €1,800 (INR 47.1K - INR 1.6L)  per semester
Industry Diversity Scholarship at Manheim Business School	Internal	Eligibility: The first three accepted applicants per industry group (e.g., banking) Benefits: Financial award of €2,000 (INR 1.8L) towards tuition fee.
Entrepreneur & Leadership Scholarship by Frankfurt School of Finance and Management	Internal	Eligibility: Students with proven entrepreneurial skills and achievements, planning to establish their own business.  Benefits: Covers up to 30% of the tuition amount.
Impact Scholarship at ESMT Berlin	Internal	Eligibility: Students who have created positive social impact by addressing UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Benefits: Financial award of €5,000 (INR 4.7L)

While universities or private endowments typically fund internal scholarships, external scholarships are supported by government bodies and public foundations. Now, let’s take a closer look at some major external options available for international students.

External Scholarships for MBA in Germany

External scholarships like DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium are government-funded and offer monthly financial support to qualified students, including internationals.

Foundation-based scholarships such as the Heinrich Böll Foundation also provide funding based on academic merit and social engagement.

Here are some major external scholarships:

Scholarship	Type of Scholarship	Details
DAAD	Government-funded	Eligibility: Minimum 2 years of work experience, bachelor's degree, and motivation for development work. Benefits: Monthly stipend of €934 (INR 88.1K), travel allowance, insurance
Deutschlandstipendium	Government-funded	Eligibility: High academic performance, community involvement, and leadership potential. Benefits: Financial award of €300 (INR 38.3K) per month for one year.
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship	Trust-based	Eligibility: Academic achievement, social commitment, and alignment with foundation values. Benefits: Financial award of €934 (INR 88.1K) per month along with additional allowances.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters	EU Government-funded	Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree holder applying for a master’s degree in Europe. Benefits: Financial award that covers tuition, living allowance, visa, and travel.

Note: DAAD funding applies only to development-focused MBA programs.

To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, present a focused application with strong academics, relevant experience. Add a good motivation statement aligned with the scholarship’s purpose.

Also Read: Top Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students

After exploring financial aid options for studying at top universities in Germany for MBA, let’s look at the top career opportunities available after graduation.

Top Recruiters and Career Opportunities in Germany After an MBA

An MBA in Germany builds expertise in European business strategy, financial modeling, and supply chain optimization. This may vary for general MBAs. Graduates can apply these skills to roles such as Strategy Manager at Siemens or Supply Chain Analyst at BASF, depending on their specialization and experience. 

Hands-on projects and exposure to Germany’s regulatory and business frameworks make graduates stand out to top recruiters.

Here are some top recruiters and popular career options for MBA in Germany:

Company	Job Role	Average Annual Salary (Euro)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Siemens	Product Manager	€90K	INR 84.8L
SAP	Operations Manager	€100K	INR 94.3L
Bosch	HR Manager	€75K	INR 70.7L
BMW	Business Analyst	€66K	INR 62.2L
Deutsche Bank	Risk Analyst	€55K	INR 51.8L
Adidas	Senior Strategy Manager	€86K	INR 81.1L

Source: Glassdoor

Note: The exact amount may vary based on currency exchange rates.

Also Read: MBA Jobs in Germany – Opportunities & Average Salary

To get high-paying roles at top companies like BMW, choosing the right university and MBA program is essential. Let’s explore how to make the right choice!

How Do You Select the Best MBA University in Germany?

Choosing the right MBA university is a crucial decision that influences your salary potential, long-term salary potential, and professional network. Beyond rankings, consider factors like accreditation, reputation, return on investment, and long-term career prospects.

The best university provides strong industry exposure, high post-MBA employability, and a curriculum that builds expertise in your target sector, such as marketing.

Here’s how you can select the best MBA university:

• Accreditation & Global Recognition
  • Accreditations from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS validate a program’s global recognition and academic performance. 
  • Schools like ESMT Berlin and Mannheim Business School hold all three certifications.
  • This improves their credibility and graduates’ employability in multinational firms. 
• Industry Reputation & Rankings
  • Rankings from Financial Times or QS provide a perspective on a university’s performance and employer perception. 
  • For instance, WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management (#134 in QS Ranking) ranks high in Europe for its finance and consulting placements.
  • High ranking is not enough to analyze the school’s industry connections, placement record, and graduate outcomes. 
• Return on Investment (ROI)
  • An MBA is a significant investment, so ensuring the cost is justified by the benefits is essential.
  • Public universities like the University of Hamburg offer minimal tuition fees, making them ideal for cost-conscious students.
  • Private institutions such as ESMT Berlin provide stronger placement support, higher post-MBA salaries, and better corporate exposure.
  • To assess ROI, compare tuition fees with median post-MBA salaries, employment rates, and career acceleration opportunities.
• Specialization & Program Structure
  • Some MBAs focus on general management, while others offer specializations in finance, technology, or innovation. 
  • If you aim for investment banking, an MBA from Frankfurt School of Finance & Management offers direct access to Germany’s financial hub. 
  • Choose a program that not only matches your interests but also integrates real-world applications, consulting projects, and leadership development.
• Location Advantage
  • Location shapes access to job markets, salary levels, and networking opportunities.
  • Berlin suits digital economy roles and startups, while Munich offers tech and automotive exposure.
  • For example, EU Business School’s presence in finance hubs enables access to banks and asset managers.
  • Choosing the right city can directly impact internships and post-MBA job offers.
• Alumni Network & Career Services
  • A strong alumni network boosts access to referrals in competitive fields like consulting and finance.
  • Schools like ESMT Berlin offer connections to firms like McKinsey and BMW.
  • Active alumni engagement and mentorship can improve job outcomes.
  • Evaluate career services for recruitment events, employer ties, and resume support.
• Work Visa & Post-MBA Employment Prospects
  • University, such as Mannheim Business School, reports a 93% employment rate within six months of graduation.
  • Universities with structured placement support boost job outcomes through recruitment drives and alumni referrals.
  • Germany offers an 18-month post-study work visa, allowing time to find full-time employment.
  • Programs aligned with in-demand sectors like consulting, tech, and manufacturing improve employability during the visa period.

Also Read: Germany Post Study Work Visa – Types, Process & Other Key Points

After exploring strategies to choose a university that aligns with your career goals and interests, let’s explore how upGrad can support your MBA journey in Germany.

How Can upGrad Help You Pursue an MBA in Germany?

Planning to pursue an MBA in Germany? From shortlisting universities to preparing your visa and planning your career after graduation, upGrad supports every step of your journey with expert guidance, personalized mentorship, and career services.

Here’s how upGrad can help you:

• University Shortlisting: upGrad offers personalized university recommendations based on factors like career aspirations, budget, and eligibility criteria. 
• Application Assistance: You can get one-on-one mentorship to help draft compelling LORs, SOPs, and resumes, increasing your chances of securing admission to top MBA programs.
• Visa Guidance and Documentation Support: upGrad’s visa support team ensures that you prepare and submit error-free applications while offering guidance on visa interviews and document verification to avoid rejections.
• Language and Cultural Preparation: Understanding basic German can enhance daily interactions and job prospects. upGrad provides language training and cultural orientation sessions that help students adapt quickly during study and work in Germany.
• Career Services for Post-MBA Opportunities: You get personalized career counseling, job fair access, resume-building workshops, and interview coaching to boost employability.

Still have doubts about applying to MBA universities in Germany? Book a free one-on-one counseling session with upGrad and get expert guidance on selecting universities, applications, scholarships, and career planning!