RWTH Aachen University

About RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University or Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen is a research university located in Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With more than 42,000 students enrolled in 144 study programs, it is the largest technical university in Germany.

The university maintains close links to industry (one in five board members of German corporate groups has studied in Aachen) and accounts for the highest amount of third-party funds of all German universities in both absolute and relative terms per faculty member. In 2007, RWTH Aachen was chosen by the DFG as one of nine German Universities of Excellence for its future concept RWTH 2020: Meeting Global Challenges and additionally won funding for one graduate school and three clusters of excellence. RWTH Aachen is a founding member of IDEA League, a strategic alliance of four leading universities of technology in Europe. The university is also a member of TU9, DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft) and the Top Industrial Managers for Europe network.

History of RWTH Aachen University

On 25 January 1858, prince Frederick William of Prussia (later German emperor), was presented with a donation of 5,000 talers for charity, raised by the Aachener und Münchener Feuer-Versicherungs-Gesellschaft, the precursor of the AachenMünchenerinsurance company. In March, the prince chose to use the donation to found the first Prussian institute of technology somewhere in the Rhine province. The seat of the institution remained undecided over years; while the prince initially favored Koblenz, the cities of Aachen, Bonn, Cologne and Düsseldorf also applied, with Aachen and Cologne being the main competitors. Aachen finally won with a financing concept backed by the insurance company and by local banks. Groundbreaking for the new Polytechnikum took place on 15 May 1865 and lectures started during the Franco-Prussian War on 10 October 1870 with 223 students and 32 teachers. The new institution had as its primary purpose the education of engineers, especially for the mining industry in the Ruhr area; there were schools of chemistry, electrical and mechanical engineering as well as an introductory general school that taught mathematics and natural sciences and some social sciences.

The unclear position of the new Prussian polytechnika (which officially were not universities) affected the first years. Polytechnics lacked prestige in society and the number of students decreased. This began to change in 1880 when the early RWTH, amongst others, was reorganized as a Royal Technical University, gained a seat in the Prussian House of Lords and finally won the right to bestow PhD (1898) degrees and Diplom titles (introduced in 1902). In the same year, over 800 male students enrolled. In 1909 the first women were admitted and the artist August von Brandis succeeded Alexander Frenz at the Faculty of Architecture as a "professor of figure and landscape painting", Brandis became dean in 1929. 

World War I, however, proved a serious setback for the university. Many students voluntarily joined up and died in the war, and parts of the university were shortly occupied or confiscated.

While the (then no more royal) TH Aachen (Technische Hochschule Aachen) flourished in the 1920s with the introduction of more independent faculties, of several new institutes and of the general students' committee, the first signs of nationalist radicalization also became visible within the university. The Third Reich's Gleichschaltung of the TH in 1933 met with relatively low resistance from both students and faculty. Beginning in September 1933, Jewish and (alleged) Communist professors (and from 1937 on also students) were systematically persecuted and excluded from the university. Vacant Chairs were increasingly given to NSDAP party-members or sympathizers. The freedom of research and teaching became severely limited, and institutes important for the regime's plans were systematically established, and existing chairs promoted. Briefly closed in 1939, the TH continued courses in 1940, although with a low number of students. On 21 October 1944, when Aachen capitulated, more than 70% of all buildings of the university were destroyed or heavily damaged.

After World War II ended in 1945 the university recovered and expanded quickly. In the 1950s, many professors who had been removed because of their alleged affiliation with the Nazi party were allowed to return and a multitude of new institutes were founded. By the late 1960s, the TH had 10,000 students, making it the foremost of all German technical universities. With the foundation of philosophical and medical faculties in 1965 and 1966, respectively, the university became more "universal". The newly founded faculties in particular began attracting new students, and the number of students almost doubled twice from 1970 (10,000) to 1980 (more than 25,000) and from 1980 to 1990 (more than 37,000). Now, the average number of students is around 42,000, with about one third of all students being women. By relative terms, the most popular study-programs are engineering (57%), natural science (23%), economics and humanities (13%) and medicine (7%).

Recent developments

In December 2006, RWTH Aachen and the Sultanate of Oman signed an agreement to establish a private German University of Technology in Muscat. Professors from Aachen aided in developing the curricula for the currently five study-programs and scientific staff took over some of the first courses.

In 2007, RWTH Aachen was chosen as one of nine German Universities of Excellence for its future concept RWTH 2020: Meeting Global Challenges, earning it the connotation of being an elite university. However, although the list of universities honored for their future concepts mostly consists of large and already respected institutions, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research claimed that the initiative aimed at promoting universities with a dedicated future concept so they could continue researching on an international level.Having won funds in all three lines of funding, the process brought RWTH Aachen University an additional total funding of € 180 million from 2007-2011. The other two lines of funding were graduate schools, where the Aachen Institute for Advanced Study in Computational Engineering Science received funding and so-called "clusters of excellence", where RWTH Aachen managed to win funding for the three clusters: Ultra High-Speed Mobile Information and Communication (UMIC), Integrative Production Technology for High-wage Countries and Tailor-Made Fuels from Biomass (TMFB).

Application requirements and admission process at RWTH Aachen University

To apply to RWTH Aachen University, prospective students must meet specific academic and language requirements. Applicants holding a university entrance qualification recognized in Germany, such as the Abitur or an equivalent international qualification, are eligible to apply. International students must submit proof of their secondary school leaving certificate along with certified translations if necessary. For bachelor’s degree programs, applicants must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in German or English, depending on the language of instruction. For programs taught in German, a DSH-2 or TestDaF with at least TDN 4 is generally required. For programs conducted in English, evidence of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL (minimum score varies by program, typically around 90 iBT) or IELTS (minimum score around 6.5), must be provided.

The application process typically involves submitting an online application via the university’s portal. International students may also need to apply through UNI-ASSIST, an external agency that pre-evaluates international certificates to ensure they meet the German standards. All necessary documents—including academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a copy of passport or ID, motivation letter, and CV—must be uploaded by specified deadlines. For certain programs, additional requirements such as entrance examinations or interviews may be necessary.

Admission to RWTH Aachen University is competitive and depends on the availability of places in each program. The selection process considers academic performance, motivation, and sometimes practical experience relevant to the field of study. Applicants are advised to check the specific requirements and deadlines for their chosen program on the official university website, as these can vary significantly across different faculties.

Once admitted, students should complete the enrollment process by submitting the necessary documents in person or via mail, paying any required fees, and registering for courses. International students may also need to apply for a student visa and health insurance before arriving in Germany.

In summary, the admission process at RWTH Aachen University requires meeting academic and language prerequisites, submitting an online or external application with all required documents before deadlines, and fulfilling any additional program-specific requirements. Full detailed information and specific requirements are available on the official RWTH Aachen University admissions webpage to assist prospective students throughout the application process.

Accreditation

Institutional Accreditation or Recognition - Ministerium für Innovation, Wissenschaft und Forschung des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen

Year of first Accreditation - 1870

Rankings

University student life at RWTH Aachen University offers a vibrant and diverse environment for students. Located in Germany's historic city of Aachen, RWTH provides a dynamic academic setting combined with numerous extracurricular activities. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, modern lecture halls, and extensive research centers that foster innovation and learning. The campus community is international, with students and staff from over 120 countries, creating a multicultural atmosphere. RWTH supports a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and sports teams, encouraging active participation and social engagement. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work on cutting-edge projects across engineering, science, and humanities disciplines. Housing options include university dormitories and private accommodations, easing the transition for international students. RWTH also provides comprehensive support services including counseling, career guidance, and language courses to enhance student success. Cultural and leisure activities, including theater, music, and festivals, enrich student life outside academics. The city of Aachen itself offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it ideal for student living. Overall, RWTH Aachen University aims to create a stimulating and supportive environment that prepares students for successful careers while promoting personal growth and cultural exchange.

Services of RWTH Aachen University

The preparedness to help other people, gather practical experience, and to be involved in associations or organizations is not only important for our society, but also for shaping your social skills and preparing you for professional life. It also makes you feel good. Here you will find an overview of student initiatives, organizations, and recreational activities.

 Representatives and Governance of the Student Body

• AStA
• ESP ErstsemesterInnenprojekt der Fachschaften
• Student Representative Councils
• Studierendenparlament

Accredited Student Initiatives

• Aachen hat Ausdauer
• Aachener Studentenchor der Katholischen Hochschulgemeinde
• AEERA
• AEGEE Aachen e.V.
• AIESEC Aachen
• Aixsolution e.V.
• Albanischer Studierendenverein in Aachen (AlbAix)
• Akzeptanz Performing Arts & Photography Association
• Amnesty International Hochschulgruppe Aachen
• Association of Indian Students in Aachen (AISA)
• Board of European Students of Technology (BEST)
• Biotechnologische Studenteninitiative e.V (btS)
• Bitcoin
• Bonding Aachen
• Deutsch-Griechischer Wissenschaftsverband Aachen
• Ecurie Aix Formula Student Team
• FAQ Film Aachen
• Flugwissenschaftliche Vereinigung Aachen 1920 e.V.
• Freunde der Medizinstudierendenschaft Aachen e.V. (FdMSA)
• Gaming Group Aachen
• Global Brigades Aachen
• GPM Young Crew Localgroup Aachen
• IAESTE Aachen
• Ingenieure ohne Grenzen
• Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)
• Interkulturelles Centrum Aachener Studierender (INCAS)
• Iranisches Kulturzentrum Rahaward e.V.
• Iranische Studenten Aachen (ISA)
• Jugend- und Auszubildendenvertretung (JAV)
• Kamerunischer Chor: LesVoix De L'Harmonie
• KarlMUN – Model United Nations in Aachen
• Kiron
• Kolumbianische Studierendenvereinigung (ColAachen)
• Koreanische Studentenvereinigung (KSV)
• Kreis Integrative Medizin
• Herencia Latina – Lateinamerikanische Tanzgruppe
• Hochschulgruppe des Deutsch-Vietnamesischen Freundeskreises e.V. (HDVF)
• Mexikanische Aachener Studierende (MexAS)
• Mongolischer Studentenverein in Aachen (MoStA)
• Muslimischer Studentenverein Aachen e.V. (IMSU)
• Nightline Aachen e.V.
• Pakistan Student Association (PSA)
• Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia (PPI Aachen)
• Philou
• ROCK YOUR LIFE! Aachen e.V.
• Sonnenwagen Aachen
• SchülerNavi e.V.
• STARRING Aachen
• Student Family with Children Group (SFCG e.V.)
• Studentischer Besuchsdienst
• Studieren ohne Grenzen Aachen
• Studis heißen Willkommen
• TEDxClub RWTHAachen e.V.
• Tunesian Relations' Window/ Tunesisches Fenster (TunRW)
• Türkisch-Muslimischer Studierenden- und Akademikerbund (MUSAB)
• Unihandball Aachen
• Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik e.V. (VDE)
• Verband der Chinesischen Wissenschaftler und Studenten in Aachen (VCWSA)
• Verein kamerunischer Studenten in Aachen (ACA e.V.)
• Verein kurdischer Studierender Aachen (KSA)
• Vereinigung Russischsprechender Studenten Aachens (VeRSA)
• Vietnamesische Studierendenvereinigung in Aachen (SVA)
• vdla Gewerkschaft, Fachgruppe RWTH Aachen
• VWI Hochschulgruppe Aachen

Business and Management

• AC.E Aachener Entrepreneurship Team e.V.

Culture, Communication and Media

• Aachener Studentenchor der katholischen Hochschulgemeinde
• Aachener Studentenorchester
• BigBand der RWTH Aachen
• Collegium Musicum
• Debattierclub an der RWTH Aachen e.V.
• Filmstudio an der RWTH Aachen e.V.
• Hochschulradio für Aachen
• Junges Sinfonieorchester Aachen
• Kármán-Zeitung
• Theatergruppe Poetischer Anfall
• Theatergruppe Actor's Nausea

International

• Deutsch-Kamerunisches Forum
• Hochschulgruppe des Deutsch-Vietnamesischen Freundeskreises

Politics and Social Commitment

• Arbeitskreis Sicherheitspolitik an der RWTH Aachen
• Enactus RWTH Aachen
• ESG - Evangelische Studierendengemeinde
• HELP e.V.
• hêvî e.V.
• Katholische Studierende Jugend - Hochschulring (KSJ-HSR)
• KHG - Katholische Hochschulgemeinde Aachen
• Navigatoren e.V. Aachen
• Queerreferat
• SMD-Aachen
• Studis helfen Kids
• UNI und KIND e. V.
• UNICEF-Hochschulgruppe Aachen

Unternehmensgründung und Wirtschaft

• AC.E Aachener Entrepreneurship Team e.V.

Science and Technology

• Aachen Programming Club
• Amateurfunkgruppe der RWTH Aachen
• EESTEC Aachen e.V.
• Energie Forum Aachen e.V.
• Energybirds e.V.
• EUROAVIA
• IG Metall Hochschulgruppe Aachen
• Roboterclub Aachen e.V.
• VDI Aachen

Sports

• Akademischer Seglerverein in Aachen e.V. (ASV)
• Hochschulsportzentrum
• Rallyesportverein an der RWTH Aachen e.V.

Academic Initiatives

• Akademischer Seglerverein der RWTH Aachen
• Akademischer Verein D'Letzebuerger, the association of luxembourgish students in Aachen
• Akademischer Yachtclub (AYC)
• Computer-Club an der RWTH Aachen e.V.
• Fliegergruppe an der RWTH Aachen e.V.
• proRWTH – Freunde und Förderer der RWTH Aachen e. V.
• K.A.V. Alcuinus, Vereniging Nederlandse Studenten en Afgestudeerden T.H. Aken
• THESIS e.V.

RWTH Aachen University is renowned for its strong focus on engineering, technology, and natural sciences, making it one of the leading technical universities in Germany and Europe. It offers a rigorous academic environment with innovative research facilities, fostering advancements in fields such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. The university maintains close collaborations with industry leaders, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities, as well as real-world project experience. Its international community promotes diversity and intercultural exchange, enriching the educational experience. RWTH Aachen emphasizes practical learning through labs, workshops, and industry-sponsored projects, preparing students effectively for their careers. The university’s commitment to research excellence is reflected in numerous funded projects and partnerships, positioning students at the forefront of technological progress. Additionally, RWTH’s central location in Aachen places students near large industrial hubs, facilitating networking and employment prospects. The university provides a vibrant student life with various extracurricular activities, support services, and multicultural events, contributing to personal growth and community engagement. Its alumni network includes successful professionals and researchers worldwide, attesting to the university’s high standards and reputation. Overall, students choose RWTH Aachen for its outstanding academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, strong industry links, international environment, and vibrant campus life, all of which prepare them for successful careers and global challenges.