7 Best Countries to Study MS in Mechanical Engineering Abroad

The best countries to study MS in Mechanical Engineering are Canada, United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden, and Singapore. These study-abroad countries are recognized for their universities which have consistently secured positions in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Among various engineering specializations, Mechanical Engineering holds unique value, as it is one of the oldest and most diverse disciplines that require more than just a degree for a prospective career and high salary. MS in Mechanical Engineering degree abroad focuses on offering advanced study and research in areas such as mechanics, material science, thermodynamics, robotics, kinematics, manufacturing, etc. International students who want to pursue Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) courses in top-ranked universities worldwide can gain practical knowledge and skills and benefit from the research facilities, labs, and internship opportunities. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, outlining the best countries, top universities, and job prospects for aspiring Mechanical Engineers.

Check the infographic below to learn about the 7 best countries to study mechanical engineering.

Let's dive deep into each country and know why studying mechanical engineering is best in that country.

1. Canada

Canada is the best country to study Master's in Mechanical Engineering due to its top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, wide range of programs, and excellent research facilities. Canada was positioned as a top choice for international students, having 1,028,850 individuals with active study permits. According to QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, 21 Canadian Universities have secured positions globally. The popular specializations of Mechanical Engineering in Canada are Product Design, Machine Design, Power Systems Design, Manufacturing Methods, Tooling, Robotics, Fluid Mechanics, Production, etc. The cost of studying MS in Mechanical Engineering in Canada ranges from INR 7,10,762 to INR 39,48,680 along with the average living cost of 6 L per year.  International students seeking admission to Mechanical Engineering programs at Canadian universities are required to take the IELTS or TOEFL tests. The GPA required to study in Canada is typically equivalent to 65–70%, or a CGPA of 7.0–7.5 as per Indian standards. 

Canada's favourable immigration policies make it easier for international students to stay and work post-graduation. Notably, the nation has a thriving mechanical engineering industry, providing ample opportunities for hands-on learning and research. The top mechanical companies in Canada are SNC-Lavalin Inc., Stantec, Jacobs, AECOM, and Pratt & Whitney. According to Randstad, mechanical engineers will be in high demand in Canada in 2024. 

Check the below table to know the top universities in Canada to pursue Mechanical Engineering.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in Canada	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition Cost Per Year	GPA for Admission
32	University of Toronto	MS Mechanical and Industrial Engineering	CAD 58,680	3.0 out of 4.0
38	McGill University	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	CAD 15,576	3.2 out of 4.0
58	University of Waterloo	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	CAD 27,792	3.0 out of 4.0
62	University of British Columbia	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	CAD 23,913	3.3 out of 4.0

2. United States

The United States stands out as the best country to pursue a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, as it has 1,126,690 international students studying in the academic year 2023/24, according to Statista. USA has also been recognized for its 85 mechanical engineering schools in the top 100 list according to the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024. US Universities specialize in offering state-of-the-art labs and facilities, research opportunities and internships, hands-on experiences, and real-world project involvement. Recognized worldwide, degrees from reputable Universities in USA carry significant weightage. American universities cover diverse specializations, from traditional areas like thermodynamics and mechanics to cutting-edge fields such as renewable energy and robotics. The cost of studying MS in Mechanical Engineering in USA is upto 100,000 USD (~82.91 lakhs INR). Scholarship opportunities further make education in the United States financially feasible for eligible students. Criteria for Mechanical Engineering master's programs typically include demonstrating English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL test results, GRE, and a Bachelor of Engineering degree. 

The country's popularity and the abundance of mechanical engineering jobs make it an attractive choice, enhancing students' profiles for the job market. Some of the top companies paying high salaries for mechanical engineers in the US are Apple, L&T, Rivian Automotive, Cyient, and Cummins. The US Bureau of Labour Statistics projects a 10% increase in employment for mechanical engineers from 2022 to 2032. With a strong emphasis on academic and employer reputation, the USA is recognized as one of the best countries to study mechanical engineering degree.

Check the table below to study in USA.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in USA	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost per year	GPA for Admission
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	MS Mechanical Engineering	USD 57,590	3.5 out of 4.0
2	Standford University	MS Mechanical Engineering	USD 52,160	3.0 out of 4.0
7	University of California (Berkeley)	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	USD 58,024	3.0 out of 4.0
15	University of Michigan	MS Mechanical Engineering	USD 50,800	3.0 out of 4.0
14	Georgia Institute of Technology	MS Mechanical Engineering	USD 42,690	3.3 out of 4.0

3. Germany

Germany is the most sought-after study destination to pursue a master's degree in mechanical engineering as it has 379,939 international students as of 2023/2024, according to the newest edition of Wissenschaft Weltoffen. Notably, Europe's top engineering universities are located in Germany. The country holds a prominent position in mechanical engineering education, with 17 universities recognized globally according to QS World University Subject Rankings 2024. The relatively low tuition fees, and in some cases, free tuition education in public universities, made international students study in Germany. The cost of studying mechanical engineering in private universities in Germany is 11,000-17,000 EUR/ INR 8,77965-13,56,855. The top mechanical engineering degrees in Germany are General Engineering, Energy and Process Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Material Sciences, Mechatronics, and Production and System Technology. Although German universities offer the best course specializations, the only reason why it is in 3rd spot is because of the language barrier. Many students choose the USA over Germany, as it requires the German language for communication outside of class, even if the classes are taken in English.

The country's historical excellence in engineering education and research, with internationally acclaimed programs, positions Germany as the top choice for mechanical engineering studies. With mechanical engineering ranking as the second-highest degree in the country, Germany's demand for well-educated engineers increases year by year. Germany's status as a manufacturing hub, housing renowned companies like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Siemens, allows students to grab internships and jobs. With the largest automobile sector in the world, Germany employs more than 8.2 lakh people from various countries.

Check the table below to find the top universities that offer the best mechanical engineering programs in Germany.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in Germany	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost per year	GPA for Admission
19	RWTH Aachen University	MS General Mechanical Engineering	$11,000	2.5 out of 4.0
21	Technical University of Munich	MS Mechanical Engineering	$14,400.00	2.5 out of 4.0
-	University of Stuttgart	MS Mechanical Engineering	$3,000.00	2.5 out of 4.0

4. United Kingdom

UK is the top choice among international students to pursue a mechanical engineering master’s degree because of the country's global reputation for high-quality education, research opportunities, short-duration programs, and emphasis on innovation. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the total number of international students in the UK is 679,970. With 38 universities on the list according to QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, the UK stands out for its excellent mechanical engineering programs. Completing a master's degree at renowned universities in UK such as Oxford, Cambridge, or Imperial provides additional benefits, including a six-month job-hunting window after graduation. Students can develop their skills by exploring the core specializations such as materials science, mechatronics, automation, and robotics. The average fee for studying MS in Mechanical Engineering in the UK is INR 23.06 lakh per year. To gain admission to study in UK, students typically need to clear exams like GMAT or GRE and TOEFL or IELTS. 

The UK's strong presence in engineering and technology sectors opens up job prospects for graduates. Notably, the country is home to leading companies in the manufacturing and engineering sectors such as Thales, Tata Steel, AECOM, and RWDI Group. According to National Career Service UK, the average salary of Mechanical Engineers ranges from £26,000 to £52,000. According to Statista, approximately 85,700 mechanical engineers working in the United Kingdom as of the second quarter of 2024, compared with 74,800 in the previous quarter.

Check the table below to explore the top universities in UK offering mechanical engineering programs in masters.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in UK	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost per year	GPA for Admission
11	Imperial College London	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	GBP 38,600	3.0 to 3.25 out of 4.0
24	University of Manchester	MSc Mechanical Engineering	GBP 15,500	3.3 out of 4.0
53	University of Nottingham	MSc Mechanical Engineering	GBP 27,200	3.6 out of 4.0
151-200	Newcastle University	MSc Mechanical Engineering	GBP 27,600	4.5 out of 7.0

5. Australia

Australia stands out as one of the top 5 best countries to study MS in Mechanical Engineering for its innovative approaches to engineering education, offering hands-on learning experiences through practical projects and industry placements. As of 2024, over 622,000 international students chose to study in Australia. According to QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, 20 universities were ranked globally for the top-notch mechanical engineering programs. Some of the top mechanical engineering specializations that are in demand in Australia are manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, defense, and renewable energy. The average cost of studying MS in Mechanical Engineering in Australia ranges from 35,000 to 50,000 AUD (18.7 to 26.7 lakhs INR). The Master's in Mechanical Engineering in Australia is typically a two-year postgraduate program, requiring applicants to hold an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering with relevant work experience.

The country's thriving engineering industry and top companies such as WSP, ResMed, Arup, UGL, etc make it a top destination for students seeking career prospects post-graduation. As per the data of Jobs and Skills Australia, there are 22,900 mechanical engineers employed. Similar to Canada, Australia's welcoming immigration policies and universities that provide a safe and supportive environment for international students also make it an ideal choice for those pursuing a master's degree in mechanical engineering.

Check the table below to explore the best universities in Australia to study mechanical engineering in Australia.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in Australia	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost per year	GPA for Admission
59	University of Melbourne	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	AUD 126,907	3.0 out of 4.0
67	University of Sydney	MSc Mechanical Engineering	AUD 49,000	4.5 out of 7.0
97	University of Queensland	MEng. Mechanical Engineering	AUD 47,264	2.0 out of 4.0
151-200	University of Adelaide	MSc Mechanical Engineering	AUD 49,500	4.5 out of 7.0

6. Sweden

Sweden emerges as a top choice for pursuing a Master's in Mechanical Engineering, driven by its progressive and tech-savvy environment. The number of foreign students pursuing studies in Sweden has increased slightly to 25,500 by 2022-23, according to Statista. Swedish universities ranked in the list of QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, offer Mechanical Engineering programs at a more affordable tuition compared to the United States. You can expect to pay between 11,250 and 13,600 EUR/year for a Master’s program in Engineering. The country also extends various scholarships and financial aid programs, making it a top preference for students seeking a cost-effective education in Mechanical Engineering. International students can pursue courses such as aerospace engineering, mechatronics, manufacturing engineering, material science, etc in Sweden. Swedish universities provide extensive resources, emphasizing practical learning over theoretical aspects, engaging in group discussions and social activities, and developing collaboration between industry and schools. This unique approach enables students to interact with industry representatives, gaining valuable insights from their experiences. Moreover, Sweden offers a diverse cultural scene, a rich history, and an excellent work-life balance, making it an ideal place to live and study. 

Sweden recorded 106,565 job vacancies across all regions. The European Labour Authority (EURES) identifies healthcare, education, IT, engineering, construction, skilled trades, manufacturing, and machine operations sectors facing a scarcity of workers. Thus, there is a huge demand for mechanical engineers in Sweden. Graduates can get into some of the top mechanical engineering companies in Sweden such as Polestar, Wematter, Alfa Laval, Sally R, and Cascade Drives. 

The following table includes the top-ranked universities to pursue an MS in mechanical engineering.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in Sweden	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost per year	GPA for Admission
127	Lund University	MSc Mechanical Engineering	SEK 190,000	2.3 out of 4.0
-	Uppsala University	MS Mechanical Engineering	SEK 145,000	3.0 out of 4.0
-	University of Gothenburg	MS Mechanical Engineering	SEK 182,837	2.8 out of 4.0
-	Umea University	MS Mechanical Engineering	SEK 158,261	2.8 out of 4.0

7. Singapore

Singapore is one of the top countries to study mechanical engineering with 65,400 international students studying in Singapore according to the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The country is recognized as a leading hub for business and education. Singapore universities ranked in the top 20 in the list of QS World University Subject Ranking 2024 for offering an exceptional Mechanical Engineering course. Students learn the fundamentals of mechanics, machinery, manufacturing technology, etc, with hands-on applications that help them to integrate theoretical knowledge. A master's degree in Singapore will cost around 35,000 to 45,000 SGD ( 19.34 lakh to 24.8 lakh per annum). Students can work in companies such as Halliburton, SLB, HP Inc., Continental, Micron Technology, and Philips in Singapore after graduation.

Check the table below to know the top universities in Singapore that offer mechanical engineering degrees.

QS World University Ranking By Subject 2024	Top Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering in Singapore	Mechanical Engineering Program	Tuition cost	GPA for Admission
7	National University of Singapore	MS in Mechanical Engineering	S$51500	3.0 out of 4.0
12	Nanyang Technological University	Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering	S$40500	3.50 out of 4.0

Future Career Prospects for the Mechanical Engineering Field

The mechanical engineering field opens up diverse career paths, such as research and development, design, testing, automation, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Graduates can also get into roles like management, entrepreneurship, or education. According to Job Bank, mechanical engineers earn an average salary of $122,048 annually.

The mechanical engineering jobs that pay high salaries are:

• Automation engineer - $90,024 per year
• Research and development engineer - $92,781 per year
• Senior mechanical engineer - $99,376 per year
• Senior design engineer - $100,882 per year
• Powertrain engineer - $102,363 per year
• Instrumentation engineer - $107,881 per year

Source: Indeed

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining the best country to study Master's in Mechanical Engineering depends on individual preferences and requirements. However, you need to consider key factors such as university reputation, tuition and living costs, scholarships, research opportunities, job prospects, and cultural exposure before deciding on the destination to study mechanical engineering. By considering these, you can make informed decisions for a successful future in the field of Mechanical Engineering.

Also Read: Best countries to study Engineering

FAQ

1. Which is the best country to study mechanical engineering?

The best countries to study mechanical engineering are:

• Canada
• United States
• Germany
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Sweden
• Singapore

2. Is mechanical engineering on demand?

Yes. Despite the significant surge in automated AI over the past decade, the presence of mechanical engineers remains essential for promptly addressing issues. Additionally, an understanding of mechanical engineering is crucial for troubleshooting and repairing various everyday items. The continuous technological advancements demand more people with expertise in both traditional mechanical engineering and the evolving field of AI.

3. Which are the popular courses in MS in Mechanical Engineering?

MS in Mechatronics, MS in Manufacturing Engineering, MS in Automobile Engineering, MS in Nanotechnology, MS in Robotics, and MS in Aerospace Engineering. are the popular courses in MS in Mechanical Engineering.

4. Which country pays the highest salary for mechanical engineers?

The United States pays the highest salary for mechanical engineers with an average annual salary of $80,094.

5. Which country is the cheapest for engineering?

Germany stands out as an excellent and affordable choice for international students to pursue engineering with the majority of colleges being state-funded. Moreover, many programs in Germany are taught entirely in English, making proficiency in the German language not a prerequisite.

6. Which country has the highest demand for mechanical engineers?

The countries with the highest demand for Mechanical Engineers are China, the United States of America, Germany, and France. Mechanical Engineers are in high demand in these countries because of the rise in the need for professionals in designing and constructing machinery and other essential equipment for their business.

7. What are the ways to pursue mechanical engineering abroad?

Studying mechanical engineering at foreign universities can be done in two ways. The first involves pursuing undergraduate studies directly after the 12th grade. The other way is by completing a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in the home country and then pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in Mechanical Engineering at abroad universities.

8. What factors are considered when selecting the country to study mechanical engineering?

The factors to consider when choosing the country to study Mechanical Engineering are:

• Quality of Education
• Universities Reputation
• Research Opportunities
• Living cost
• Job prospects
• Visa requirements
• Scholarships Availability
• Cultural and Social Climate
• Language requirements
• Safety and Political Stability