How to Work at BMW, Audi, or Mercedes: What to Study in Germany

Germany is home to some of the most iconic car brands in the world, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volkswagen. If you dream of working on cutting-edge automotive technology, Germany might just be the place to start that journey. But how do you get there? It often starts with the right degree.

Top Car Companies in Germany That Lead the World

Germany’s automotive sector is not just big, it’s world-class. Here are some major names you’ve definitely heard of:

• BMW Group – Known for its high-performance passenger cars, design, and innovation

• Mercedes-Benz – A symbol of luxury and advanced engineering

• Audi – A tech-forward automotive company known for sleek design and cutting-edge R&D

• Volkswagen (VW) – One of the largest automotive companies in Germany and globally

• Porsche – High-performance sports cars that are leaders in automotive engineering

• MAN & Daimler Truck – Leaders in commercial vehicle innovation

• Bosch & Continental – Not car makers, but essential parts of the automotive supply chain

These top car companies in Germany offer real-world job opportunities, internships, and student programs across fields like computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and manufacturing.

Want a Job at BMW, Audi, or Mercedes? Here’s What You Can Study

If you’re wondering how to work at BMW Germany as a student or get a job at Mercedes after studying in Germany, it starts with choosing the right degree at a German university.

Automotive Engineering in Germany

Automotive engineering in Germany is focused on designing, testing, and improving modern vehicles, including electric vehicles and high-performance systems.

• Learn about combustion engines, EV systems, safety technologies, and mobility innovation

• Many courses are taught in English and designed for international students

• Ideal for entering the automotive industry in Germany

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Mechanical Engineering in Germany

Mechanical engineering covers a wide range of skills and is the backbone of most careers in the German automotive industry.

• Focus on thermodynamics, materials science, and machine design

• Available at top universities like RWTH Aachen University

• Opens doors to both research and full-time industry roles

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Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and More

German car companies are looking for talent beyond just traditional engineering.

• Electrical Engineering is key for work on EVs, charging systems, and smart mobility

• Computer Science plays a huge role in software, AI, and autonomous driving systems

• Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering connects with real-world production lines, supply chains, and quality assurance

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Internship Opportunities in German Car Companies

Students can find internships and entry-level roles in many German manufacturing companies. These positions give you real-world experience and increase your chances of landing a full-time job after graduation.

• BMW Internship Germany programs often include R&D, design, and manufacturing roles

• Mercedes-Benz student jobs Germany cover everything from logistics to vehicle software

• Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen also offer international student internships

Some roles may require German language proficiency, but many companies offer English-speaking opportunities for engineering jobs in Germany for international students.

You can find these opportunities by:

• Visiting the career sections of each company’s official website (e.g., BMW Group Careers, Daimler Jobs, VW Group Careers)

• Exploring portals like DAAD Internship Database, LinkedIn, StepStone, and Glassdoor Germany

• Checking with your university’s career center or job board, which often lists internships offered by partner companies

• Applying to university-industry collaboration programs or dual study programs where companies reserve slots for international students

Starting with a student internship is a great way to enter the German automotive industry and build a strong professional network while studying.

Study in Germany, Work in Germany

Many international students who study in Germany go on to work in Germany's automotive companies. With an 18-month post-study work visa, you can apply for full-time jobs, internships, and even research roles at companies like the BMW Group, Mercedes, and VW.

German universities often have partnerships with these companies through:

• Internships and cooperative education (dual study programs)

• Thesis projects with industry supervision

• Career fairs and job placement support

Your First Step: Apply to a University in Germany

Your journey starts with applying to the right university in Germany. You can explore:

• StudyBuddy All-in-One Quiz - Take the quiz to get personalised suggestions of the degrees you can do based on your previous skills, qualifications, and study preferences. 

• StudyBuddy Program Database - If you want to do a more manual search, head over to the database and search for courses in Germany and filter by tuition fees, city and more to find your ideal degree in Germany. 

• Application Process - Curious about the application progress to start your student journey in Germany? Find out all the crucial steps you need to take for a successful start.  

Whether you're aiming for an internship at BMW or a long-term career in the German automotive industry, your academic path can help you get there. Studying in Germany gives you access to world-class education, hands-on training, and real opportunities in top automotive companies.

💡 Not sure what to study to land a role at BMW, Mercedes, or Audi?
Explore all study programs in Germany in engineering, business, computer science, and more. You can also visit our Study in Germany hub for step-by-step guidance on how to turn your study plans into a successful career.

Take the first step today, start with the application process and find a program that matches your passion and career goals.