GRE for MS in Germany: the short version
There's no national entrance exam for German master's programmes. Each programme sets its own rules, and only some ask for the GRE, GATE or GMAT. But the ones that do include several of the programmes Indian students apply to most, and they often apply the rule only to applicants with degrees from outside the EU or from India specifically.[1][2]
Key takeaways
- TUM computer science master's (Informatics, Data Engineering and Analytics, Robotics, Cognition, Intelligence) ask applicants with a degree from India for the GRE (Quant 164, Writing 4.0) or a GATE score.[1][3][4]
- RWTH Aachen asks non-EU applicants for the GRE for many master's: 145/160/3.0 for mechanical-type programmes, percentile minimums for computer science and electrical engineering.[2][5]
- Saarland computer science needs the GRE or GATE from non-EHEA applicants, with no minimum score.[6]
- Business: TUM's Master in Management requires a GMAT at the 65th percentile from Indian graduates; at Mannheim the GMAT and GRE are optional but earn ranking points.[7][8]
- The dMAT doesn't replace the GRE or GATE. It's part of APS for engineering, commerce and business graduates; RWTH's Battery Science master's asks non-EU applicants for both.[9][10]
- Most other programmes don't ask for the GRE at all. LMU's Data Science master's, for example, says plainly that it isn't required.[11]
GRE, GATE, GMAT or dMAT: which test do you need?
| Test | Who asks for it | What it's for |
|---|---|---|
| dMAT | APS India, for engineering, commerce, accounting, finance, economics, business and management graduates, from the summer 2027 intake[9] | Part of your APS certificate; universities decide whether to use the score. It isn't a pass/fail test. See our dMAT test guide. |
| GRE General Test | Specific programmes, often only for non-EU or Indian degree holders: TUM computer science, RWTH engineering and computer science, Saarland computer science, some economics programmes | Admission to that programme; below the minimum, you're not eligible |
| GATE | Accepted instead of the GRE by TUM's computer science master's and Saarland's computer science master's[1][6] | Lets engineering graduates use a test they may already have |
| GMAT | Management master's: required at TUM's Master in Management for Indian graduates; optional bonus at Mannheim; private business schools[7][8] | Admission and ranking for business programmes |
| IELTS / TOEFL | Almost every English-taught programme | English proof. See the IELTS score for MS in Germany. |
One rule of thumb: don't take the GRE by default. Build your shortlist first, then check each programme's page. Take the GRE if at least one programme you really want asks for it. To build that shortlist, compare the best universities in Germany by subject.
Which German universities require the GRE (and the minimum scores)
These are the requirements as the universities publish them for 2026–27. Scores are scaled scores (130–170 for Verbal and Quant, 0–6 for Writing) unless a percentile is given; percentiles are printed on your official score report.[12]
TUM (Technical University of Munich)
| Programme | Who needs a test | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Informatics M.Sc. | Applicants with a degree from Bangladesh, China, India, Iran or Pakistan | GRE Quant 164 and Writing 4.0 (Verbal isn't considered; lower scores aren't accepted), or GATE Computer Science at least at that year's qualifying score. ETS codes: institution 7806, department 5199[1] |
| Data Engineering and Analytics M.Sc. | Same countries | Same: GRE Quant 164 and Writing 4.0, or a GATE CS scorecard at the qualifying score[3] |
| Robotics, Cognition, Intelligence M.Sc. | Same countries | GRE Quant 164 and Writing 4.0, or a GATE score sheet[4] |
| Management (Master in Management) M.Sc. | Applicants with a first degree from China, Egypt, India, Pakistan or Bangladesh | GMAT (classic or Focus) at the 65th percentile or higher; can't be waived[7] |
RWTH Aachen
RWTH publishes one GRE list for its master's programmes. Its computer science department applies it to applicants whose first degree is from outside the EU and says that if you don't meet it, you shouldn't apply; the mechanical engineering department asks applicants from non-EU countries for it.[2][5][13]
| Programmes | Verbal | Quant | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science (Informatik), Data Science, Software Systems Engineering, Human-Centered Intelligent Systems, Management Science & Mathematics | 15th percentile | 75th percentile | 3.5 |
| Media Informatics | 15th percentile | 75th percentile | – |
| Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Computer Engineering | 15th percentile | 85th percentile | – |
| Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Automation, Robotic Systems Engineering, Production Engineering, Smart Production Engineering, Product Development, Energy Engineering, Aerospace, Computational Engineering Science, Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Battery Science and others | 145 | 160 | 3.0 |
| Biomedical Engineering (score no older than 2 years) | – | 160 | – |
RWTH's list is dated March 2025 and says the examination regulations of each programme are legally binding. The mechanical engineering department exempts Simulation Sciences. RWTH's ETS institution code is 8504.[2][13]
Other universities
| Programme | Rule |
|---|---|
| Saarland University, Informatics Campus master's (Computer Science, Data Science and AI, Cybersecurity, Embedded Systems and others) | Applicants without a degree from the EHEA, Switzerland or the UK must upload the GRE General Test or GATE. No minimum score; at-home editions accepted.[6] |
| LMU Munich, Quantitative Economics | GRE Quant at the 75th percentile or higher; without a GRE you take a written admission test at LMU in Munich.[14] |
| Goethe University Frankfurt, GSEFM economics | Strongly encouraged, not required: GRE Quant, benchmark in the upper 20–25%; scores older than 4 years don't count.[15] |
| University of Mannheim, Mannheim Master in Management | GMAT and GRE optional, but worth up to 60 ranking points (from GMAT Focus 555 for 1 point up to 685 for 60).[8] |
| LMU Munich, Data Science | GRE not required.[11] |
Private business schools
- WHU Master in Management: GMAT, GRE or GTEBS; minimum scores GMAT 555, GRE 158 Verbal and 158 Quant, GTEBS 102. You can apply without a score but may get a conditional offer.[16]
- Frankfurt School Master in Management: a valid GMAT or GRE score, or the school's own admission test.[17]
- ESMT Berlin Master in Global Management: not obligatory if you can prove quantitative skills in other ways; GMAT below 600 or GRE below 304 is "not considered competitive".[18]
Private schools charge tuition, so compare them with tuition-free public options first.
dMAT vs GRE: does the dMAT replace the GRE or GATE?
No. The dMAT is "an additional element in the APS documentation" for Indian master's applicants in engineering, commerce and business, from the summer 2027 intake.[9] APS India says it is not a stand-alone pass/fail test and doesn't guarantee admission; each university decides how to use the score.[9]
- No university we checked accepts the dMAT instead of the GRE or GATE. TUM's computer science master's still ask Indian applicants for the GRE or GATE, and RWTH's GRE list is unchanged.[1][2]
- Some programmes ask for both. RWTH's Battery Science and Technology master's selects on a study-aptitude test (dMAT), weighted 80%, plus your grade, and non-EU applicants must also submit the GRE General Test.[10]
- Subject modules matter. Göttingen's Data Science master's strongly encourages applicants to take the dMAT Data Science module.[19] The module you take for APS may not be the one a programme wants, so check before you book.
- The dMAT certificate doesn't expire, according to the test provider; the fee is €150.[20][9]
Need the dMAT? Prepare with our dMAT preparation course or the dMAT crash course.
Free GRE score checker for German universities
Do my GRE scores meet the minimums?
Enter your GRE scores (or your target scores). For RWTH's computer science and electrical programmes, also enter the percentiles from your score report. You'll see which published minimums you meet.
Minimums as published by the universities for 2026–27. Meeting a minimum makes you eligible; it doesn't guarantee admission. The programme's own regulations are binding.
GRE, GMAT and GATE: format, fees and validity for Indian students
| GRE General Test | GMAT (Focus Edition) | GATE 2027 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | About 1 hour 58 minutes[21] | 2 hours 15 minutes, 64 questions, plus an optional 10-minute break[22] | One paper per session (30 papers)[23] |
| Sections | Analytical Writing (1 task, 30 min), 2 Verbal sections (12 + 15 questions), 2 Quant sections (12 + 15 questions)[21] | Quant (21 questions), Verbal (23), Data Insights (20), 45 minutes each[22] | Subject paper, e.g. Computer Science (CS) |
| Scores | Verbal and Quant 130–170; Writing 0–6 in half points[12] | 205–805[24] | Score and qualifying mark per paper |
| Validity | Reportable for 5 years[12] | Check mba.com | 3 years from the results[23] |
| Fee | $249 (outside China) from 1 August 2026, including 4 score reports; ETS India shows the rupee price[25] | Varies by country: see mba.com | ₹2,000 per paper (₹1,000 for female, SC, ST and PwD candidates); ₹2,500 / ₹1,500 in the extended period[26] |
| Dates | At test centres or at home[12] | See mba.com | Exams on 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 February 2027; results on 19 March 2027 (organised by IIT Madras)[23][27] |
GATE 2027 registration, including the extended late-fee period, closed on 12 October 2026, so if you didn't register, plan on the GRE for the 2027 intakes. A GATE 2025 or 2026 score is still valid if it's within 3 years of its result.[23]
When to take the GRE for a German master's
- Shortlist first (6–9 months before the deadline).Check which of your programmes ask for the GRE, GATE or GMAT, and the minimum scores. If none do, skip the test.
- Diagnose (5–6 months before).Take a full-length practice test. For TUM computer science, Quant is what matters: you need 164 and a Writing score of 4.0.[1]
- Test (3–4 months before).Leave time for a retake and for official score reporting before the deadline. Scores stay reportable for 5 years.[12]
- Send scores with the right codes.TUM: institution 7806, department 5199 ("all other departments"). RWTH: 8504. Mannheim (MMM): 2620.[1][13][8]
- Engineering, commerce or business graduate?Book the dMAT for APS as well, in time for your APS application.[9]
6 GRE mistakes Indian students make for Germany
- Taking the GRE "just in case". Most German master's don't use it. Spend the time on German or your motivation letter instead, unless a target programme asks for it.
- Aiming for a US-style total score. German minimums are per section: TUM wants Quant 164 and Writing 4.0 and ignores Verbal.[1]
- Ignoring Writing. RWTH's computer science list needs 3.5 and TUM's 4.0; a high Quant doesn't make up for it.[2][1]
- Confusing scores and percentiles. RWTH sets percentiles for computer science and electrical engineering; check the percentile on your score report.[2]
- Thinking the dMAT replaces the GRE. It doesn't, at any programme we checked.[10]
- Applying below the minimum. RWTH's computer science department says applicants who don't meet the GRE requirement shouldn't apply.[5]
How Yastudy helps with tests for Germany
We start with your shortlist, so you only take the tests your programmes actually need.
- A counsellor checks every programme's test rules as part of each Germany master's plan.
- Engineering, commerce or business graduate? Our dMAT preparation course and dMAT crash course prepare you for the APS dMAT.
- English proof for almost every programme: IELTS coaching with computer-based mocks.
Let Yastudy do this with you: Germany master’s plans
This step is part of every Yastudy plan for public universities in Germany. Pay online and your counsellor calls you within one working day with a dated plan for APS, the dMAT, tests, applications and the visa.
Essential
For self-starters who want an expert to check every step
- Profile evaluation and grade conversion
- Shortlist of 6 programmes (reach, match, safe)
- Up to 4 university applications reviewed
- APS document check (you file, we check)
- dMAT guidance: whether you need it and how to register
- Motivation letter and CV editing (2 rounds each) and LOR guidance
- Visa file check before you submit
Advantage
Done with you: we file alongside you, with German included
- Everything in Essential, plus:
- Up to 10 university applications
- Full APS filing support
- dMAT registration help and a prep plan with practice sets
- Live German A1 course included (worth ₹14,000)
- Consular Services Portal form filled in with you, plus a mock visa interview
Premium
Two intakes, unlimited applications and support after you land
- Everything in Advantage, plus:
- Unlimited applications across 2 intakes
- Live German A1 + A2 + B1 course included (worth ₹29,500)
- 1:1 dMAT coaching
- Scholarship and education-loan application support
- Arrival support: address registration, bank account, insurance and residence-permit appointment
Secure online payment through Razorpay. All prices in ₹ per student; GST as applicable. Plan terms, including what happens if you change your mind: Terms & Conditions. Third-party fees (APS, dMAT, uni-assist, visa) are not included; see full plan details. Applying only to private universities that work with us? Counselling is free: ask about free counselling.
GRE for MS in Germany: 12 questions Indian students ask
Do I need it?
Is the GRE required for MS in Germany?
Not in general. Most German master's programmes don't ask for it. Some popular ones do, mostly for non-EU or Indian degree holders: TUM's computer science master's (GRE or GATE), many RWTH Aachen engineering and computer science master's, and Saarland's computer science master's (GRE or GATE).
What GRE score is needed for TUM?
For Informatics, Data Engineering and Analytics, and Robotics, Cognition, Intelligence, applicants with a degree from India need Quant 164 and Analytical Writing 4.0; Verbal isn't considered. A GATE score is accepted instead.
What GRE score is needed for RWTH Aachen?
For most mechanical-type master's: Verbal 145, Quant 160, Writing 3.0. For computer science and data science: Verbal 15th percentile, Quant 75th percentile and Writing 3.5. For electrical engineering: Verbal 15th and Quant 85th percentile.
Can I use GATE instead of the GRE in Germany?
At TUM's computer science master's (with the qualifying score of that year) and at Saarland's computer science master's, yes. We found no RWTH page that accepts GATE instead of the GRE.
Does the dMAT replace the GRE?
No. The dMAT is part of APS for engineering, commerce and business graduates. No programme we checked accepts it instead of the GRE or GATE, and RWTH's Battery Science master's asks non-EU applicants for both.
Do I need the GMAT for a management master's in Germany?
At TUM's Master in Management, yes: Indian graduates need a GMAT at the 65th percentile or higher. At Mannheim it's optional but earns ranking points. Private business schools such as WHU and Frankfurt School ask for the GMAT, the GRE or their own test.
The tests
How much does the GRE cost in India?
ETS lists the GRE General Test at $249 (all areas outside China) from 1 August 2026, including four score reports. ETS India shows the price in rupees when you register.
How long is the GRE score valid?
Five years. Some programmes set their own limit: RWTH's Biomedical Engineering wants a score no older than two years.
When is GATE 2027?
On 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 February 2027, organised by IIT Madras, with results on 19 March 2027. GATE scores are valid for three years.
Is the at-home GRE accepted by German universities?
Saarland's computer science master's explicitly accepts the at-home GRE and GATE. For other programmes, check the programme page.
Which GRE section matters most for Germany?
Quant and Analytical Writing. TUM ignores Verbal; RWTH's Verbal minimums are low (145, or the 15th percentile).
What are the GRE codes for TUM and RWTH?
TUM: institution 7806, department 5199 ("all other departments"). RWTH Aachen: 8504. University of Mannheim (MMM): 2620.
About this guide
Who wrote it
The Yastudy Germany Desk, who check test rules for every student's shortlist.
How we checked the facts
Checked on 12 October 2026 against TUM, RWTH Aachen, Saarland University, LMU, Goethe University Frankfurt, Mannheim, Göttingen, WHU, Frankfurt School, ESMT, ETS, GMAC, IIT Madras, APS India and g.a.s.t.
When we update it
Each January, and when universities change their test rules.
Our standards
- We quote minimum scores exactly as the universities publish them.
- We tell you when a test isn't needed.
- Spotted something out of date? Email admission@yastudy.com.
Get your free MS in Germany eligibility check
In 15 minutes, a counsellor will tell you:
- Your converted German grade and realistic programmes
- Whether you need the dMAT, and your best intake
- Your first-year budget in rupees
- Whether you need a paid plan at all
Prefer to talk now? WhatsApp +91 76678 96481
Sources
All checked on 12 October 2026. Where a source has a publication date, it's shown.
- TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology: Informatics M.Sc.: application requirements (GRE/GATE for degrees from India and other countries) (2026)
- RWTH Aachen University: GRE requirements for master’s programmes (Mar 2025)
- TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology: Data Engineering and Analytics M.Sc. (2026)
- TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology: Robotics, Cognition, Intelligence M.Sc. (2026)
- RWTH Aachen, Department of Computer Science: Master Informatik: application procedure (GRE for degrees from outside the EU) (Feb 2026)
- Saarland Informatics Campus: FAQ: master’s application (GRE or GATE, no minimum score) (Aug 2026)
- TUM School of Management: Master in Management: how the assessment procedure works, WS 2026/27 (GMAT 65th percentile) (2026)
- University of Mannheim, Business School: Mannheim Master in Management: application information (GMAT/GRE optional)
- APS India: dMAT: information for master’s applicants (updated 13 Jul 2026)
- RWTH Aachen University: Battery Science and Technology in Engineering M.Sc.: study-aptitude test and GRE (Jan 2026)
- LMU Munich: Data Science M.Sc.: pre-application FAQs ("GRE is not required")
- ETS: GRE Information Bulletin 2026–27 (Jul 2026)
- RWTH Aachen, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering: Master’s application for applicants from non-EU countries (GRE 145/160/3; ETS code 8504) (Apr 2026)
- LMU Munich: Master in Quantitative Economics: required documents (GRE)
- Graduate School of Economics, Finance, and Management (GSEFM): Requirements and deadlines (2026)
- WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management: Master in Management: application and admissions
- Frankfurt School of Finance & Management: Master in Management
- ESMT Berlin: Master in Global Management: admissions
- University of Göttingen: Data Science M.Sc.: dMAT recommendation (Jun 2026)
- g.a.s.t.: dMAT – digital Master Admission Test (certificate validity)
- ETS: GRE General Test structure
- GMAC (mba.com): GMAT exam structure
- IIT Madras: GATE 2027: official website (dates, papers, validity) (2026)
- GMAC (mba.com): Understanding your GMAT score
- ETS: GRE General Test fees (effective 1 August 2026) (Aug 2026)
- IIT Madras: GATE 2027 application fees (2026)
- IIT Madras: Press release: IIT Madras to organise GATE 2027 (20 Jul 2026)
