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TUM admission 2027: tuition, German proof and how to apply

To start at TUM in the 2027 winter semester you apply through TUMonline, with a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) from uni-assist if you did not obtain your entrance qualification in Germany, and lectures begin on 18.10.2027. Confirm the application deadline on TUM's dates page. The real bar is a diploma that gives access to German universities, German proof for German-taught programmes (for example at least DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4 in all sections), and an aptitude assessment for the majority of applicants, and non-EU/EEA students pay 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester for a Bachelor's starting in the 2027 winter semester.

Jakub AndreWritten byJakub AndreFounder, College Council
Verified 18 Oct 2026against official pages
Updated 18 Oct 202619 chapters + FAQ
71 official sourceslisted at the end
Lectures begin 18.10.2027Non-EU tuition 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros a semesterGerman proof, for example at least DSH-2 or TestDaFBachelor's length 6 to 8 semesters

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Three answers, checked against TUM's published admission rules.
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Contents
01

TUM admission at a glance

If you come from outside the EU/EEA and start at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in the 2027 winter semester, you pay 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester for a Bachelor's degree, and lectures begin on 18.10.2027. Whether you can apply directly depends on your school-leaving certificate, and German-taught programmes need proof of German before the end of the application period.

MI-Gebäude der TU München Magistrale2
MI-Gebäude der TU München Magistrale2

TUM tells international applicants to check direct access to a German Bachelor's with the DAAD admission database and with anabin. If your certificate is not comparable to the German entrance qualification, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination. Bachelor's programmes use one of four admission procedures: unrestricted, restricted by Numerus Clausus, aptitude assessment, or aptitude recommendation (SOV). Which one applies depends on the programme, so you look it up per degree. These rules are according to the university's pages as of October 2026.

Three rules catch international applicants out. First, for degree programmes taught in German, proof of German must be submitted before the end of the application period, not after admission. Second, applicants who have not obtained their higher education entrance qualification in Germany or have not completed the German Abitur must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist before submitting an application to TUM, according to the university's page as of October 2026. Third, for non-EU/EEA students, enrolment in a Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's.

Who counts as international at TUM

For the application, TUM counts you as international if you completed your secondary school education outside of Germany or with something other than a German Abitur. Tuition is a separate question; see the tuition chapter.

For entry in the 2027 winter semester, non-EU/EEA Bachelor's tuition is 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester. A one-time study grant of 500 to 1,800 euros per semester is available to international students (under the 2026/2027 scholarship rules from the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester, and only for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality), and the TUM Deutschlandstipendium pays 300 euros per month in the 2026/2027 funding year. For students with German statutory health insurance, the cost is usually between 120 and 150 euros per month.

Older guides describe TUM as free of tuition for everyone; that is outdated for non-EU/EEA applicants, who pay 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester for a Bachelor's from the 2027 winter semester.

Five facts to check firstPages as of October 2026
QuestionWhat TUM states
Tuition, Bachelor's, non-EU/EEA2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester
Tuition, Master's, non-EU/EEA4,600 or 6,800 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester
German proof for German-taught programmesFor applicants without an entrance qualification from a German-speaking institution: at least DSH-2 or TestDaF with level 4 in all sections
Lecture period18.10.2027 to 11.02.2028
Bachelor's length6 to 8 semesters standard duration
Source: TUM tuition, dates and language-certificates pages
Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
02

TUM rankings and reputation

TUM reports 25th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, among the world's top 25 in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, and 45th in the ShanghaiRanking (ARWU) latest edition. These positions come from TUM's own pages, not from the ranking publishers, so check the lists themselves before you quote them. The QS 2025 position quoted in older guides is out of date.

TUM states that within the European Union it is the number 1 in both QS and THE.

Subject rankings

In a March 2026 news item, TUM reports that in the QS World University Rankings by Subject it ranks 16th in engineering and 19th in natural sciences. TUM also reports that in the ShanghaiRanking subject rankings it is among the best 20 universities in agricultural sciences, medical technology, remote sensing and robotics, and it ranks first in Germany in 22 disciplines.

What TUM's reputation rests on

Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, founded today's Technical University of Munich on April 12, 1868. TUM reports that 20 scientists and alumni of the TUM have received the Nobel Prize (as of 2026). Named laureates on TUM's Nobel page include Gerhard Ertl, who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2007.

TUM in numbers

TUM in numbersLatest TUM figures
MeasureFigure
Founded1868
QS World University Rankings position, per TUM25th
ShanghaiRanking (ARWU) position, per TUM45th
Nobel Prizes for TUM scientists and alumni, as of 202620
Disciplines where TUM ranks first in Germany (Shanghai subject rankings)22
Bachelor's standard duration6 to 8 semesters
Source: TUM rankings, history and degree-programme pages
Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
03

TUM acceptance rate

Your chances at TUM depend on the admission procedure of your programme rather than on one university-wide percentage. According to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment, so the rules of that assessment are what you prepare for.

In an aptitude assessment, your grade point average and subject-specific grades will be evaluated using a point system first. Applicants who are not immediately admitted on points are invited to a 20 minute admissions interview conducted by the department or school, according to the university's page as of October 2026. Informatics, for example, lists Aptitude Assessment for Bachelor as its admission category.

Why competition differs by admission category

TUM lists several admission categories for Bachelor's programmes: restricted programs (Numerus Clausus), programs subject to an aptitude assessment (Bachelor), unrestricted programmes such as Physics and programmes with an aptitude recommendation (SOV) such as Mathematics. Master's programmes can also be subject to an aptitude assessment. Check your own programme page for its category and selection rule; the programmes chapter shows the category of several programmes.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
04

How TUM selects students: aptitude assessment and NC

TUM regulates Bachelor's admission through one of four procedures depending on the programme, and according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, across its Bachelor's and Master's programmes the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment. The procedure for your programme decides what you submit and how you are ranked, so check it before anything else.

The four Bachelor's admission proceduresAs of October 2026
ProcedureHow it works at TUM
UnrestrictedAn admission category listed on programme pages, for example Physics, Civil Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
Restricted (Numerus Clausus)Restricted programs (Numerus Clausus) are a separate admission category; example: Bioinformatics, where you apply online via LMU and the admission category is Restricted Admission (NC)
Aptitude assessmentAcross Bachelor's and Master's programmes, the majority of applicants are subject to it: a point system on grades first, then a 20 minute admissions interview for applicants not immediately admitted on points
Aptitude recommendation (SOV)The recommendation is no mandatory requirement for admission; example: Mathematics
Source: TUM Bachelor's application and programme pages, according to the university's page as of October 2026

Which category your programme falls into is shown on its programme page, and TUM's degree-programme filter has separate labels for Aptitude Assessment for Bachelor and for Restricted Admission (NC).

How the aptitude assessment works

For programmes with an aptitude assessment, TUM states that your grade point average and subject-specific grades will be evaluated using a point system first. Depending on the points, Bachelor's applicants are either immediately admitted, rejected or invited to a 20 minute admissions interview conducted by the department or school. For programmes with an aptitude recommendation (SOV), the recommendation is no mandatory requirement for admission. These rules are according to the university's page as of October 2026. Read your programme page for its own procedure before you plan.

Which grades count

Some programmes name the grades they assess. For Management and Technology, TUM assesses your final Abitur grade (or GPA) and four individual half-year grades in German or English, Mathematics and an Advanced Natural Science including Informatics; applicants who do not provide these grades are assessed on their GPA and their performance in the admission test. For Management and Data Science, the half-year grades are in English, Mathematics and an Advanced Natural Science, and applicants without them are assessed on their GPA and their performance in the admission interview. These rules apply to those two programmes only, according to the university's page as of October 2026.

What else counts

Some programmes add their own requirements. Aerospace requires proof of a pre-study internship of at least eight weeks, according to the university's page as of October 2026.

After a rejection or for a later start

Declining a place in a degree program does not revoke the admission. To start later you re-apply for the semester you want to commence your studies in and re-submit a complete set of documents. If the admission criteria have not changed substantially, you are admitted directly without having to re-submit to aptitude assessment, and admission usually remains valid for all subsequent applications. For the 2027 winter semester the term runs 01.10.2027 to 31.03.2028 and lectures start on 18.10.2027.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
05

TUM test requirements: SAT, ACT, AP and aptitude tests

With a US diploma or another foreign certificate, direct admission to study at TUM depends primarily on whether the school leaving degree obtained abroad is equivalent to the German university entrance qualification, so check in anabin and with uni-assist whether SAT, ACT or AP results are part of that equivalence for you. The tests TUM names for Bachelor's applicants are narrower: an AP exam in German as language proof, the aptitude assessment with its interview, and an admission test or interview for two management programmes.

For applicants with a US high school diploma, TUM's language page lists a US Advanced Placement Exam (AP Exam) in German as German-language proof, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

Your first check is anabin, the recognition database for foreign qualifications, which is available in German only. If a school-leaving degree is not comparable to the German university entrance qualification, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination. These rules are according to the university's pages as of October 2026.

Aptitude assessments and entrance interviews

According to the university's pages as of October 2026, the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment. For Aerospace the aptitude assessment is a two-part procedure. In general a point system on your grades comes first, and applicants who are not immediately admitted are invited to a 20 minute admissions interview conducted by the department or school. Follow your programme page for interview dates and format.

Entrance tests and interviews TUM names for Bachelor's programmesBachelor's, as of October 2026
WhereWhat TUM says
Programmes with an aptitude assessment20 minute admissions interview for applicants not immediately admitted on points
Programmes with an aptitude recommendation (SOV)The recommendation is no mandatory requirement for admission
AerospaceAptitude assessment as a two-part procedure; English skills are usually verified as part of the aptitude assessment
Management and TechnologyWithout the named grades, assessment on your final grade (GPA) and your performance in the admission test; without half-year grades in English, an admission interview conducted in English; under the statutes in force since winter semester 2026/2027, the test may be conducted online and its questions are asked in German and English
Management and Data ScienceWithout the named half-year grades, assessment on your performance in the admission interview
ChemistryHere the aptitude recommendation (SOV) is a mandatory part of the application process: after a point stage, applicants are either immediately admitted or invited to a mandatory interview
Sustainable Engineering for Materials and ProcessesOrientation procedure (SOV) under the statutes in force since winter semester 2026/2027: a written test of 20 minutes with about 20 to 25 questions; participation counts as successful at 50 points or higher
Life Sciences NutritionApplicants are either immediately admitted, rejected or invited to take an online test
Political ScienceApplicants who earned their entrance qualification at a non-German-language school in another country and whose native language is not German must take part in an admissions interview to assess their subject-specific language skills
Sustainable Management and TechnologyWithout evidence of half-year grades in English for the last two years of secondary school, applicants are invited to an admission interview conducted in English
Source: TUM Bachelor's application and programme pages, according to the university's page as of October 2026

How to submit scores and certificates

You upload authentic documents to TUMonline for both application and enrolment, and TUM states that notarised copies are not required; authentic documents from China, Georgia or Iran that must be uploaded for enrolment after admission follow special rules. Documents must be in German or English, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

For reference, lectures in the 2027 winter semester start on 18.10.2027.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
06

TUM admissions step by step: TUMonline, uni-assist and deadlines

For entry in winter semester 2027/28 you apply through TUMonline, and if you did not obtain your entrance qualification in Germany you first must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist; lectures start on 18.10.2027. Confirm the TUMonline application window and deadline for 2027 entry on TUM's dates page before you plan.

Timeline for winter semester 2027/28

Your application steps
Bachelor's, international applicants
Before applying
Check access and get the VPD
Check your certificate in anabin or the DAAD admission database. With a foreign certificate, apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist before you apply to TUM.
Prepare
Application period
Apply in TUMonline
Check TUM's dates page for the 2027 window, closing date, time and time zone.
Apply
After the offer
Accept and enrol
Accept your place and complete enrolment in TUMonline before the enrolment deadline.
Enrol
Five weeks after lectures start
Enrolment deadline
TUM sets the deadline at five weeks after the start of lectures.
Enrol
Lectures begin
The semester itself starts on 01.10.2027.
Study
Source: TUM dates, international applicant and visa pages

The application file: TUMonline and uni-assist

Your application runs through TUMonline, where you upload authentic documents. All applicants who have not obtained their higher education entrance qualification in Germany or have not completed their German school-leaving examination (Abitur) must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist before submitting an application to TUM, according to the university's page as of October 2026. If you apply with a VPD from uni-assist, it informs applicants whether they qualify to study all subjects (general qualification), only certain subjects (subject-restricted qualification) or postgradual studies (Master's). Students seeking admission to the Studienkolleg must apply directly to TUM, not through uni-assist.

Documents and special country rules

Documents usually count as authentic when they bear the signature and seal of the issuing official body, alternatively a digital seal, a verification code or a QR code. Notarised copies are not required for admission or enrolment; authentic documents from China, Georgia or Iran that must be uploaded for enrolment after admission follow special rules. Documents must be in German or English; any other language needs translation by a sworn translator, authenticated with an official seal. These rules are according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

Master's and routes with their own procedure

Master's applicants need a first degree at least equal to a German Bachelor's of 3 years (6 semester). Confirm Master's application periods on TUM's dates page. The windows that do appear on tuition pages belong to tuition-waiver applications for non-EU/EEA students, not to admission, so do not read them as deadlines: 1 January to 31 May for Master's applicants, and 15 May to 15 July for Bachelor's applicants seeking a waiver based on financial need, each for the following winter semester, with the year not stated on the page, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026. Several teacher-training programmes are dedicated exclusively to training teachers for German schools. TUM Campus Heilbronn offers Bachelor's programmes such as Information Engineering.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
07

TUM language requirements: German and English certificates

For a German-taught programme at TUM, applicants without a higher education entrance qualification from a German-speaking institution can prove their German with a DSH result of at least DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4 in all sections, according to the university's page as of October 2026, and the proof must be submitted before the end of the application period. For an English-taught programme, take the accepted English certificates and scores from your programme page.

German proof for German-taught programmesAs of October 2026
CertificateStandard minimumAerospace and Information Engineering Bachelor's
DSHDSH-2DSH-1 or higher
TestDaFlevel 4 in all sectionslevel 3 in all sections or higher
DSDDSD II, Level B 2 in all four sectionsDSD I or higher
telc DeutschC1 HochschuleA2 or higher
Goethe-ZertifikatC2A2 or higher
ÖSDC2A2 or higher
Source: TUM language certificates page, according to the university's page as of October 2026; applies to applicants without a higher education entrance qualification from a German-speaking institution

According to the university's page as of October 2026, several alternatives count as German proof. These are the Zeugnis über die Feststellungsprüfung after the Studienkolleg, IB German A Higher Level for applicants with an International Baccalaureate Diploma, a European School certificate with a successful examination in German as a first or second language, a US AP Exam in German for applicants with a US high school diploma, and a Bachelor's degree of which more than 50% was taught in German. For German-taught programmes, in some cases an alternative form of proof of language proficiency may be submitted in place of a language certificate.

When the proof is due and who is exempt

German proof must be submitted before the end of the application period for all degree programmes taught in German. If your proof is a diploma from a German-language educational institution, preliminary certificates and transcripts are not sufficient. Applicants with a German university entrance qualification do not need to verify their German. German citizens with an international entrance qualification who spent at least two school years at a German school may submit two annual school certificates instead.

English proof for English-taught programmes

Routes TUM names for English proof at Bachelor's level include an entrance qualification where the language of instruction is explicitly English and an International Baccalaureate Diploma where the language of instruction was English, according to the university's page as of October 2026. For a Master's, a Bachelor's degree of which more than 50% was taught in English counts, and some Master's programmes accept a sufficient amount of credits acquired in English modules, but only where the programme regulations say so. For certificates and minimum scores, check your programme page.

Programme pages add their own English rules. For Aerospace, the verification of your English language skills is usually carried out as part of the aptitude assessment, or by providing a language certificate of at least level B2; Aerospace also needs a German language certificate (minimum A2 level). Management and Data Science lists English as its required language proficiency, and Management and Technology applicants without half-year grades in English are invited to an admission interview, which will be conducted in English. These rules are according to the university's page as of October 2026.

Two English-taught Bachelor's programmes ask for no certificate, according to the university's page as of October 2026. For Sustainable Engineering for Materials and Processes, you do not need to provide proof of language proficiency, although applicants should have a good command of English. For Sustainable Management and Technology, applicants don't need to provide a language proficiency certificate, because proof of language skills is provided via the aptitude assessment.

What TUM does not accept

Language certificates from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) or language tests for admission to other universities cannot be recognized. As German proof for German-taught programmes, German-language education at a Mittelschule, a Realschule or a vocational school is also not sufficient.

German requirement by programme

Programme pages state the German requirement for each Bachelor's programme separately, according to the university's page as of October 2026. For each of these German-taught or mixed-language programmes, its own page says that you need sufficient German language skills: Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Health Sciences, Informatics, Life Sciences Biology, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics and Sport Science. The Political Science page, which lists German and English as languages of instruction, also says that you need sufficient German language skills. For Management and Technology, a German higher education entrance qualification (for example the Abitur) is accepted as proof of German language skills.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
08

TUM requirements for IB, A-levels, US and other diplomas

According to the university's page as of October 2026, whether your diploma opens the door to TUM depends primarily on whether it is equivalent to the German university entrance qualification, which you check first in the DAAD admission database and anabin. If it is, you apply for a Bachelor's; if it is not, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination.

Check your qualification path

TUM names the DAAD admission database and anabin, the recognition database that is available in German only, for a first assessment. Direct admission to study at TUM depends primarily on whether the school leaving degree obtained abroad is equivalent to the German university entrance qualification. As a rule, international applicants need a preliminary documentation (VPD) prepared by uni-assist. The statements on equivalence are according to the university's page as of October 2026.

Qualification and what TUM statesAs of October 2026
Your qualificationWhat TUM says
Any school-leaving certificate from abroadAdmission depends primarily on equivalence with the German university entrance qualification; a VPD from uni-assist is needed before you apply to TUM
International Baccalaureate DiplomaCounts as English proof where the language of instruction was English; German A (Higher Level) counts as German proof
A Levels and other national diplomasAdmission depends primarily on equivalence with the German university entrance qualification; applicants with a VPD from uni-assist can see in it whether they qualify for all subjects or only certain subjects
US high school diplomaA US AP Exam in German counts as German proof; check in anabin and with uni-assist whether SAT, ACT or AP results are part of the equivalence for your diploma
Not comparable to the German entrance qualificationDirect admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination
StudienkollegApplicants seeking admission to the Studienkolleg must apply directly to TUM, not through uni-assist; the Feststellungsprüfung certificate is also accepted as proof of German language skills
Electronics and Data Engineering (joint SIT-TUM programme, Singapore)With GCE A Levels: A/H2 Mathematics and an A/H2 Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics), and two language subjects, one of them at H1. With an IB Diploma: IB HL Mathematics and an IB HL Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics). All shortlisted applicants are interviewed
AbiBac (French-German bac)Together with the qualification certificate, AbiBac applicants must submit the certificate of general university entrance qualification to TUM
Source: TUM international applicant pages, according to the university's page as of October 2026

According to the university's pages as of 9 Oct 2026, the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment and some programmes are restricted programs (Numerus Clausus). For Management and Technology and Management and Data Science, named half-year grades are assessed; see the selection chapter.

IB, German proof and tuition

An IB subject can serve as German proof: German A at Higher Level. A mixed-language IB with a German focus counts with Biology, History or German as Higher Level. An IB Diploma also counts as English proof provided the language of instruction was English. These rules, according to the university's pages as of October 2026, concern the language certificate, not admission itself.

For non-EU/EEA students, enrolment in the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's. Tuition for non-EU/EEA students rises from winter semester 2027/28, so check the current amount on the tuition page.

What does not qualify

If you hold a VPD from uni-assist, it can show that your qualification is subject-restricted: it informs applicants whether they qualify to study all subjects (general qualification), only certain subjects (subject-restricted qualification) or postgradual studies (Master's). Subject-related qualification means that you are eligible to study certain subjects only. Extra requirements for specific programmes are on each programme page. The Bachelor's standard length is 6 to 8 semesters, and a Master's needs a first degree of at least 3 years (6 semester) in German terms.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
09

Studienkolleg: the route to TUM when your diploma is not enough

If the DAAD admission database or anabin says your diploma does not qualify for German university study, you cannot apply for a Bachelor's at TUM directly: according to the university's page as of October 2026, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination. If you are from outside the EU/EEA, enrolment in the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from the obligation to pay tuition fees in a subsequent Bachelor's: 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester.

From Studienkolleg to a TUM Bachelor's
As TUM describes it
Step 1
Check your diploma
Use the DAAD admission database and anabin, which is available in German only.
Check
Step 2
Pass the Studienkolleg final exam
The final exam is a qualification assessment examination, an aptitude test. Its certificate is the Assessment Exam Certificate (Feststellungsprüfungszeugnis).
Qualify
Step 3
Apply to TUM
You apply in TUMonline, and your Zeugnis über die Feststellungsprüfung counts as proof of your German language skills.
Apply
Step 4
Start with tuition
For non-EU/EEA students, the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's.
Enrol
Source: TUM international applicant and tuition pages

TUM describes the Assessment Exam Certificate as the certificate of an aptitude test that proves the ability of foreign applicants to take up higher education studies in Germany. After the Studienkolleg you can submit your Zeugnis über die Feststellungsprüfung as proof of your German language skills. Students seeking admission to the Studienkolleg must apply directly to TUM, not through uni-assist, according to the university's page as of October 2026.

Cost and tuition afterwards

For non-EU/EEA students, enrolment in the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from the obligation to pay tuition fees in a subsequent Bachelor's. For entry in the 2027 winter semester the rate is 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester for a Bachelor's.

Applying after the Studienkolleg

After the Studienkolleg you apply in TUMonline, and your programme's admission procedure applies; according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment, so check your programme page. Lectures in the 2027 winter semester begin on 18.10.2027.

Ask the Studienkolleg you are considering for its tracks, its German entrance level, its length and its application dates.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
10

What to study at TUM: Bachelor's programmes and schools

TUM groups its programmes in schools, among them the TUM School of Engineering and Design, the TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology and the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology. Its Bachelor's programmes have a standard length of 6 to 8 semesters. These details are according to the university's pages as of 9 Oct 2026.

110716031-TUM
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TUM's programme search lists campus locations including Weihenstephan (Freising), Campus Heilbronn and Campus München.

TUM's schoolsAs of October 2026
SchoolNotes from TUM
TUM School of Engineering and DesignNamed by TUM among its schools
TUM School of Computation, Information and TechnologyNamed by TUM among its schools
TUM School of Natural SciencesListed by TUM among the departments with double degree programmes for students at partner universities
TUM School of Life SciencesListed by TUM among the departments with double degree programmes for students at partner universities
TUM School of Medicine & HealthNamed on TUM's Project Weeks page among the schools a course is aimed at
TUM School of ManagementListed by TUM among the departments with double degree programmes; Management and Technology is listed at Campus Heilbronn and Campus München
TUM School of Social Sciences and TechnologyNamed by TUM among its schools
Source: TUM degree-programme and programme pages

Not just engineering: medicine, life sciences and management

Beyond engineering, TUM's Project Weeks page names a School of Medicine & Health among the schools a course is aimed at, and its double degree page lists a School of Life Sciences and a School of Management among the departments with double degree programmes for students at partner universities, according to the university's pages as of October 2026.

The programmes applicants ask about most

Aerospace is a B.Sc. of 6 semesters (3 years) that is fully taught in English. Management and Technology is a B.Sc. listed at Campus Heilbronn and at Campus München. Informatics, Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology are listed as Bachelor of Science programmes. The table below gives the admission category and the language of instruction as each programme page states them, according to the university's page as of October 2026. TUM states that restricted (Numerus Clausus) programmes exist and that the majority of applicants face an aptitude assessment.

Admission category and language by programmeAs of October 2026
Bachelor's programmeAdmission categoryLanguage of instruction
AerospaceAptitude AssessmentFully taught in English
Management and Data ScienceAptitude AssessmentRequired language proficiency: English
Information Engineering (Campus Heilbronn)Aptitude AssessmentGerman language certificate required
InformaticsAptitude AssessmentGerman
Informatics: Games Engineering (degree programme discontinued, application for admission no longer possible)Aptitude AssessmentGerman, some courses may be in English
Mechanical EngineeringAptitude AssessmentGerman
ArchitectureAptitude AssessmentGerman
Chemical EngineeringAptitude AssessmentGerman
Sport ScienceAptitude AssessmentGerman and English
Health SciencesAptitude AssessmentGerman and English
Electrical Engineering and Information TechnologyUnrestricted AdmissionUsually German
Civil EngineeringUnrestricted AdmissionGerman
PhysicsUnrestricted AdmissionGerman
MathematicsAptitude Recommendation (SOV)German
Life Sciences BiologyAptitude Recommendation (SOV)German
Source: TUM programme pages, according to the university's page as of October 2026; each row applies to that programme only

Teaching and workload

Module formats at TUM include Plug-in Modules and Project Weeks. In winter semester 2026/27, Project Weeks run from 11 to 15 January 2027, and the course listing for that semester gives the Plug-in Module Aligning Generative AI to Social Values 3 or 6 ECTS, as a lecture or as a lecture and seminar.

Double degrees, exchange and key skills

For TUM students enrolled in the corresponding Bachelor's or Master's programme, a double degree through TUM Global means two to four semesters at a partner university under bilateral agreements, and gives a second degree in addition to the TUM degree. The curriculum begins, as a rule, only in the winter semester. The EuroTeQ Engineering University offers courses at a joint virtual campus of six European engineering universities.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
11

Studying at TUM in English: Bachelor's, Master's and TUM Asia

TUM confirms Aerospace as a B.Sc. of 6 semesters (3 years) that is fully taught in English, and Management and Data Science lists English as its required language proficiency. Several other Bachelor's programmes are German-taught, so check the language of instruction on each programme page.

TUM states that courses are offered in two languages of instruction: German and English. Programme pages carry a Required Language Proficiency box; Management and Data Science, for example, lists English.

English-language options TUM namesPages as of October 2026
ProgrammeWhat TUM states
Aerospace, B.Sc.6 semesters, fully taught in English; for applicants without an entrance qualification from a German-speaking institution, lower German levels such as DSH-1 are accepted; a German language certificate (minimum A2 level) is required
Information Engineering, B.Sc., Campus HeilbronnListed at Campus Heilbronn; a German language certificate is required, as some elective modules are taught in German; DSH-1 or higher is accepted for applicants without an entrance qualification from a German-speaking institution
Management and Data Science, B.Sc.Required Language Proficiency: English
Sustainable Engineering for Materials and Processes, B.Sc.English-taught; you do not need to provide proof of language proficiency, although applicants should have a good command of English
Sustainable Management and Technology, B.Sc.English-taught; applicants don't need to provide a language proficiency certificate; proof of language skills is provided via the aptitude assessment
TUM Asia, SingaporeMSc in Aerospace Engineering: awarded by TUM, the program is conducted in Singapore
Source: TUM degree-programme search, language-certificates and programme pages, according to the university's page as of October 2026

If you plan on a German-taught programme and your entrance qualification is not from a German-speaking institution, the proof can be a DSH of at least DSH-2 or TestDaF with level 4 in all sections.

English-taught Master's programmes

English proof for a Master's can come from a Bachelor's degree of which more than 50% was taught in English, and some Master's programmes accept a sufficient amount of credits acquired in English modules, in an amount set per programme. Check the Required Language Proficiency box on the programme page.

TUM Asia in Singapore

At TUM Asia in Singapore, TUM states that the MSc in Aerospace Engineering is awarded by TUM and conducted in Singapore.

German alongside an English-taught degree

Even an English-taught Bachelor's can ask for German: Aerospace needs a German language certificate (minimum A2 level) and Information Engineering needs a German language certificate, as some elective modules are taught in German. The TUM Language Center offers courses in more than 15 languages, an Academic English Cluster and intercultural seminars. The German matters programme gives master's students in the TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology guaranteed places in German courses.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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Career prospects: what TUM graduates do next

The clearest career signal TUM reports is its start-up record: it calls itself one of the most successful start-up universities in Europe, and it ranks 4th among very large universities for start-ups founded by researchers.

Official start-up signals for TUM
Redstone University Startup Index, very large universities, as reported by TUM4th
Redstone ratio of start-ups to university budget, as reported by TUM5th
Financial Times 2026: UnternehmerTUM named Europe's leading startup hub, as reported by TUMEurope's leading startup hub
RobCo as TUM's unicorn number, TUM news 202624th
Source: TUM figures and news pages

Career service and recruiting

Master's students can join the SAP Student Training and Rotation (STAR) Program, which offers practical experience at SAP during the degree. TUM's own vacancy listings include jobs for students.

Entrepreneurship

TUM calls itself one of the most successful start-up universities in Europe. TUM reports that the Financial Times has named UnternehmerTUM Europe's leading startup hub and says that in the Redstone University Startup Index it ranks 4th among very large universities for start-ups founded by researchers. According to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, entrepreneurship courses are offered by TUM, UnternehmerTUM and the TUM Venture Labs. A TUM news item from 2026 names RobCo as TUM's 24th unicorn.

The alumni office is the TUM Global & Alumni Office. TUM counts 20 scientists and alumni of the TUM with a Nobel Prize.

Working in Germany after your degree

For post-study job-seeking permit rules, check the current rules with the German authorities or the Make it in Germany portal. Non-EU/EEA students also pay Bachelor's tuition: 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester, not the zero tuition older guides described.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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TUM tuition fees for non-EU students in 2027/28

A non-EU/EEA student who starts a Bachelor's at TUM in winter semester 2027/28 pays 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester, and a Master's student pays 4,600 or 6,800 euros. Older guides that say tuition is zero for everyone are wrong: tuition is charged to non-EU students.

Tuition per semester for non-EU/EEA studentsWinter semester 2027/28
LevelWinter semester 2027/28
Bachelor's2,300 or 3,400 euros
Master's4,600 or 6,800 euros
Source: TUM tuition fees page; each programme's rate is shown under Program details

The amount that applies to you depends on your programme and is shown under Program details on each programme page. For students already enrolled before the increase, the tuition rates in effect at the start of their studies continue to apply until they complete that programme.

Who pays tuition

Non-EU/EEA students newly enrolling in a Bachelor's or Master's programme pay.

TUM names a domestic connection under Section 8 BAföG among its exemptions: one route is to have legally lived and worked in Germany for a total of at least five years before starting your studies. For non-EU/EEA students, enrolment in the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's.

The semester fee

TUM also charges a semester fee, which covers the Student Union Fee and Semester Ticket Solidarity Contribution, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026. Check the amount on TUM's semester fee page. Tuition already paid for a semester is refunded on request if you are deregistered within five weeks after the start of lectures.

Fees outside the standard route

For executive programmes such as the Executive MBA in Business & IT, check the fee on the programme's own page. TUM Asia in Singapore offers a one-time grant of up to 50% of the tuition fees for listed Master's programmes. A one-time TUM study grant of 500 to 1,800 euros per semester is available to international students (under the 2026/2027 scholarship rules from the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester, and only for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality).

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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Cost of living in Munich: a TUM student's budget

For students with German statutory health insurance, the monthly cost is usually between 120 and 150 euros per month, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026. Non-EU/EEA students also pay tuition each semester.

Official cost figures
Health insurance, German statutory cover, per monthusually 120 to 150 euros
Health insurance, non-EU students without a social security agreement with Germany, per monthapproximately 120 to 130 euros
Tuition, non-EU/EEA Bachelor's, per semester, entry in the 2027 winter semester2,300 or 3,400 euros
Health insurance according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026. Non-EU/EEA students pay tuition.

For food, mobile, internet and mensa prices, use the current Studierendenwerk and city price lists.

First-year cost for non-EU/EEA students

A non-EU/EEA Bachelor's student pays 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester for entry in the 2027 winter semester. A Master's student entering in the 2027 winter semester pays 4,600 or 6,800 euros per semester. The semester fee is due in addition and covers the Student Union Fee and Semester Ticket Solidarity Contribution; check its amount before you add up your first year. International students can apply for a one-time study grant of 500 to 1,800 euros per semester (under the 2026/2027 scholarship rules from the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester, and only for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality).

Health insurance

If your insurance status must be transmitted digitally to TUM before enrolment, TUM advises contacting a statutory health insurance provider in Germany at least 2 weeks before the semester starts; processing usually takes 2 working days. For students with German statutory health insurance, the cost is usually between 120 and 150 euros per month. For students from a non-EU country with which Germany has no social security agreement, a home-insurance exemption is possible, but it is valid for the entire duration of your studies and cannot be revoked. Students who have reached the age of 30 are exempt from the obligation. These rules are according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

Proof of funds for a student visa

Take the proof-of-funds amount and the accepted forms of proof for a student visa from the German embassy page for your country.

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TUM scholarships and financial aid

TUM's own funding for non-EU students is a tuition waiver, a one-time study grant for international students of 500 to 1,800 euros per semester (under the 2026/2027 scholarship rules from the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester, and only for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality) and the Deutschlandstipendium of 300 euros per month. Because non-EU/EEA Bachelor's tuition is 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester from winter semester 2027/28, the waiver matters more than older guides suggest.

Main TUM funding for international studentsAs of 9 Oct 2026
FundingWhoAmount and timing
Need-based tuition waiver, Bachelor'sFirst-semester applicantsApply 15 May to 15 July for the winter semester
Need-based tuition waiver, Master'sFirst-semester applicantsApply 1 January to 31 May for the winter semester
High-achiever waiver, Master's1st or 2nd semesterTwo semesters; apply 1 January to 31 May
High-achiever waiver, Bachelor'sFrom the 3rd semesterApply 31 May to 30 June for the winter semester
TUM Scholarship for International StudentsFrom the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester, if not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality500 to 1,800 euros per semester, up to 36 months
DeutschlandstipendiumAll nationalities300 euros per month, at least two semesters
Source: TUM scholarship and tuition pages

Tuition waivers

The need-based waiver covers the tuition fees of non-EU/EEA students who receive the waiver scholarship based on financial need, for the standard duration of their degree programme. You document your finances with, among other things, bank statements from the past 18 months. The high-achiever waiver for Master's students is generally granted for two semesters; applicants who must send the original of the ranking certificate by post do so by 14 June for the winter semester. You may also be eligible for a waiver if you are experiencing financial hardship due to circumstances beyond your control. These rules are according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

TUM Scholarship for International Students

The scholarship is one-time financial aid. TUM's index page gives a range of 500 to 1500 euros; the scholarship's own page says 500 to 1,800 euros, so use the scholarship's page. Bachelor's students enrolled at TUM can apply as of the 3rd semester in their bachelor's studies and Master's students as of the 2nd semester in their master's studies, and the scholarship is for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality. For the 2026 winter semester the application window was 1 October to 15 October 2026, and the winter results will be sent out by mid-December. These rules are from the scholarship page for the 2026/2027 winter semester; check it for the window and the rules for the 2027 winter semester.

Deutschlandstipendium

The Deutschlandstipendium pays 300 euros per month, funded half by the federal government and half by a private sponsor. TUM awards around 800 each year. The next application period, for the 2027/28 funding year, is in the summer of 2027.

External funding

TUM lists online services that give an overview of external funding, foundations for outstanding talents, and student loans, among them the KfW student loan.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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Housing at TUM: student halls and private rooms

Start your housing search early, because it runs alongside your visa and enrolment. TUM listed an online info session with information, tips, and resources for students looking for accommodation on Thu 10/15/2026, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm; that date has passed, so ask TUM whether it runs another.

Garching-Forschungszentrum
Garching-Forschungszentrum

Check current rents and waiting times with the Studierendenwerk München Oberbayern and with housing portals when you apply, and plan a short-term room for your first weeks.

Housing help TUM listsAs of 9 Oct 2026
ItemWhat it says
Online info sessionThu 10/15/2026, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm (passed): information, tips and resources for students looking for accommodation
Exchange studentsTUM Global Network lists a Wohnraum-Service für Austauschstudierende and accommodation search tips for Erasmus exchange students at TUM (exchange students only)
Housing scholarshipTUM's other-scholarships page lists a Stahlmann Foundation housing scholarship for students who are younger than 25, among other conditions, extendable to a maximum of six semesters in total
Source: TUM events, TUM Global Network and TUM scholarship pages

Campuses and where to live

TUM teaches at several locations, among them Weihenstephan (Freising) and Campus Heilbronn, where Information Engineering (at TUM Campus Heilbronn) - Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) is listed. Look for a room near the campus your programme uses.

What TUM offers to help

Exchange students have their own channel: TUM's global network lists a Wohnraum-Service für Austauschstudierende and accommodation search tips for Erasmus exchange students at TUM.

Timing matters because of the visa. TUM says that even before you receive your letter of admission, you can apply for a visa for the purpose of seeking a university place, and processing at German missions abroad frequently ranges from several weeks to several months. For the 2027 winter semester, lectures begin on 18.10.2027, and the lecture-free period before them runs from 01.10.2027 to 17.10.2027. Start your housing search and visa at the same time.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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Student life at TUM and in Munich

TUM teaches at several sites, with its main entrance at Arcisstraße 21 in Munich, a site in Garching, Weihenstephan (Freising), and campuses in Straubing and Heilbronn.

München - TU München (Luftbild)
München - TU München (Luftbild)

Student life at TUM depends on which campus your programme uses, so check the campus on your programme page.

TUM campusesAs of 9 Oct 2026
CampusWhat TUM states
Munich main campusMain entrance at Arcisstraße 21, Room 0144 (Campus Munich service desk)
GarchingFraunhofer and Max Planck Institutes nearby; the Munich Research Reactor went into operation in 1957
Freising-WeihenstephanListed in the degree-programme search as Weihenstephan (Freising)
StraubingListed with a TUM Campus Straubing (Buddy Program)
HeilbronnInformation Engineering is listed there
Source: TUM chronicle and degree-programme pages

Student groups, clubs and sport

TUM's offer "Intercultural Competencies for your studies" is aimed at students who are active in a national student group, the AStA, the student councils, a tutoring or buddy program or another student association, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

Munich as a place to live

For accommodation in Munich, read the housing chapter for the help TUM lists.

Support for international students

International students are usually paired with a German partner who can answer study questions and give advice on everyday life in Munich. TUM's general student advising is available by phone Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.. According to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, the Language Center offers courses in 17 languages, an Academic English Cluster, mentored tandem partners and seminars on intercultural communication for international students, and the TUM Global & Alumni Office runs a Language Café. TUM's homepage listed Welcome@TUM, a party for first-semester students, for 12.10.2026 in Garching.

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Visa, residence permit and arrival in Germany

Non-EU students need a national visa issued specifically for Germany, because most study stays exceed 90 days. As a rule, you apply at the German diplomatic mission in the country where you live, and TUM warns that processing frequently takes several weeks to several months, so start early.

Visa path for a non-EU student
As TUM describes it
Before admission
Apply for a visa to seek a university place
Visa
Two weeks before term
Contact a statutory health insurer
If your insurance status is transmitted digitally to TUM, TUM asks you to contact a statutory health insurance provider in Germany at least 2 weeks before the semester starts; digital notifications usually take 2 working days.
Insurance
Autumn 2027
Arrive and enrol
According to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, the enrolment deadline is 5 weeks after the start of lectures, which begin on 18.10.2027.
Arrive
Source: TUM visa and residency and health insurance pages

EU citizens and citizens of certain privileged countries are exempt from the visa requirement. In many countries you can apply online through the German government's consular services portal. According to TUM's page as of 9 Oct 2026, visa applications at the German embassy in Tehran are not possible at present.

What TUM provides and what it cannot do

TUM offers an open online consultation hour on visa and residence permit matters: Every Friday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., limited to five students per session, with registration in advance and meant for complex cases or urgent issues. TUM cannot arrange appointments at embassies or immigration offices and cannot directly intervene in a visa or residence permit application. Students are personally responsible for applying in time. Confirm address registration in Munich and the residence permit appointment with the city and the immigration office.

According to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026, statutory health insurance for students usually costs 120 to 150 euros per month, and approximately 120 to 130 euros per month for students from a non-EU country without a social security agreement with Germany. Take the visa fee and the blocked-account amount for 2027 from the Federal Foreign Office or your embassy.

Working while you study

Check the number of days you may work as a non-EU student with the German immigration authority before you accept a job. TUM's own vacancy listings include jobs for students.

After graduation

For a residence permit to look for work and the EU Blue Card salary thresholds, use the Make it in Germany portal for the current figures. Plan your stay as a student first: the winter semester 2027/28 runs from 01.10.2027 to 31.03.2028.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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Who is TUM for? Summary

TUM suits applicants who can meet the German-language requirement for German-taught programmes, for example a DSH of at least DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4 in all sections, and can pay non-EU/EEA tuition of 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester for a Bachelor's from the 2027 winter semester. If you want an English-taught Bachelor's, check the language programme by programme: Aerospace is fully taught in English, while Mechanical Engineering, for example, is taught in German.

TUM in four facts
QS World University Rankings, latest edition, as reported by TUM25th worldwide
Shanghai Ranking, as reported by TUM45th worldwide
Tuition, Bachelor's, non-EU/EEA, per semester2,300 or 3,400 euros from the 2027 winter semester
Nobel Prizes for scientists and alumni20
Source: TUM ranking, tuition and history pages

TUM suits you if you can show a qualification that gives access to German universities, accept an aptitude assessment, which TUM says the majority of applicants face, and start your housing search early; statutory student health insurance costs about 120 to 130 euros a month if you come from a non-EU country without a social security agreement with Germany. These two points are according to the university's pages as of 9 Oct 2026. It suits you less if you cannot start German early, or if you expected zero tuition: non-EU/EEA students pay tuition.

TUM, ETH Zurich or Imperial College London?

To compare TUM with ETH Zurich or Imperial College London, use each university's own pages and look at the same three points: the language of Bachelor's teaching, the tuition for international students and the admission route. For TUM these are German proof for German-taught programmes, non-EU/EEA Bachelor's tuition of 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester, and an aptitude assessment for the majority of applicants, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

Next steps

Your checklist for winter semester 2027/28
Key dates
First
Check access
Look up your certificate in the DAAD admission database and anabin. If it does not qualify, plan a Studienkolleg.
Check
Early
Secure German proof
Prepare DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4 in all sections. TUM wants the proof before the end of the application period.
Language
Early
Request the uni-assist VPD
You must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist if your entrance qualification was not obtained in Germany. The TUMonline deadline for 2027 entry must be checked on TUM's dates page.
Documents
Before the semester
Apply for waivers and the visa
Waiver applications must be submitted before the semester they cover, and application periods vary depending on the option. A visa to seek a university place can be applied for before you receive your letter of admission, and processing frequently takes several weeks to several months.
Funding and visa
Autumn 2027
Arrive and enrol
The semester runs 01.10.2027 to 31.03.2028, with lectures from 18.10.2027.
Arrive
Source: TUM dates, tuition and visa pages

For an English-taught degree, take the accepted English certificates and scores from your programme page. Routes TUM accepts include an entrance qualification where the language of instruction is explicitly English and an IB Diploma where the language of instruction was English, according to the university's page as of October 2026.

Verified 18 Oct 2026Every number links to its official source.
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TUM: frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to study at TU München as an international student?

A non-EU/EEA student starting a Bachelor's in the 2027 winter semester pays 2,300 or 3,400 euros per semester, and a Master's student pays 4,600 or 6,800 euros. A semester fee also applies; it covers the Student Union Fee and Semester Ticket Solidarity Contribution. For non-EU/EEA students, enrolment in the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's.

2,300 eurosPer semester, non-EU Bachelor's

What is the acceptance rate at TU München for international applicants?

According to the university's pages as of October 2026, the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment, so your chances depend on your programme's procedure rather than on one percentage. In that assessment a point system on your grades comes first, then a 20 minute admissions interview for applicants not admitted on points.

Majorityof applicants face an aptitude assessment

Do I need to speak German to study at TU München?

For German-taught programmes, yes: you need proof of German, for example a DSH of at least DSH-2 or TestDaF with level 4 in all sections, and the proof must be submitted before the end of the application period. TUM confirms Aerospace as a Bachelor's of 6 semesters (3 years) that is fully taught in English, and Management and Data Science lists English as its required language proficiency. Even an English-taught Bachelor's can ask for German: Aerospace also needs a German language certificate (minimum A2 level), according to the university's page as of October 2026.

DSH-2Minimum DSH level for German-taught programmes

How does TU München recognise my secondary diploma?

TUM tells you to check direct access to a German Bachelor's with the DAAD admission database and with anabin, which is available in German only. Direct admission depends primarily on whether the school leaving degree obtained abroad is equivalent to the German university entrance qualification. Applicants who did not obtain their entrance qualification in Germany must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist before submitting an application to TUM, according to the university's page as of October 2026. If your diploma is not comparable, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination.

VPDDocument check by uni-assist

Which TUM departments are strongest, and which are hardest to enter?

TUM reports QS by Subject ranks of 16th in engineering and 19th in natural sciences. Admission categories differ by programme, and each programme page shows its category: Informatics and Mechanical Engineering list an aptitude assessment, while Physics lists unrestricted admission, according to the university's page as of October 2026.

16thEngineering, QS by Subject, per TUM

What scholarships are available at TU München for international students?

TUM offers need-based and high-achiever tuition waivers, a one-time TUM Scholarship for International Students of 500 to 1,800 euros per semester from the 3rd Bachelor's or 2nd Master's semester for students not eligible for BAföG due to their nationality (2026/2027 rules), and the Deutschlandstipendium of 300 euros per month. Waiver windows fall before the winter semester, for example 15 May to 15 July for the Bachelor's need-based waiver, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

500 to 1,800Euros per semester, one-time grant

How does TU München compare with ETH Zürich and Imperial College London?

Compare the three on the same points using each university's own pages. For TUM these are German proof for German-taught programmes, non-EU Bachelor's tuition of 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester from the 2027 winter semester, and an aptitude assessment for the majority of applicants, according to the university's page as of 9 Oct 2026.

2,300 eurosTUM Bachelor's tuition, non-EU, 2027

Can I work in Germany after graduating from TU München?

Use the Make it in Germany portal and the German authorities for the current post-study job-seeking permit rules and EU Blue Card thresholds. During your degree, check the annual work limit for non-EU students with the immigration authority before you accept a job.

Make it in GermanyFor post-study permit rules

When does the winter semester 2027/28 start at TUM?

The semester runs from 01.10.2027 to 31.03.2028, and lectures run from 18.10.2027 to 11.02.2028. The enrolment deadline is five weeks after the start of lectures. Confirm the application deadline on TUM's dates page.

18.10.2027Lectures begin, winter 2027/28

What if my diploma does not qualify me for TUM?

If the DAAD admission database or anabin says your diploma does not give access, you cannot apply for a Bachelor's at TUM directly: according to the university's page as of October 2026, direct admission can only be granted after attending a Studienkolleg (preparatory studies) and after having taken the university qualification assessment examination. For non-EU/EEA students, the Studienkolleg does not exempt you from tuition in a subsequent Bachelor's.

StudienkollegRoute when your diploma lacks access

How long is the wait for student housing at TUM?

Ask the Studierendenwerk München Oberbayern for current waiting times and rents for student halls when you apply. TUM listed an online info session for students looking for accommodation on Thu 10/15/2026, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm; that date has passed, so ask TUM whether it runs another. Apply early and arrange a short-term room for your first weeks.

StudierendenwerkAsk for current waiting times
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Where these numbers come from

Verified 18 Oct 2026, value by value, on official pages

Official pages of the Technical University of Munich. Rankings are shown as TUM reports them.

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Photos: TU München GO-2: photo Gras-Ober, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons · MI-Gebäude der TU München Magistrale2: photo TobiasK, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons · 110716031-TUM: photo Graf-flugplatz, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons · Garching-Forschungszentrum: photo Heedmane, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons · München - TU München (Luftbild): photo Maximilian Dörrbecker (Chumwa), CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons

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When does TUM start in autumn 2027?
College Council · from chapter 06, TUM admissions step by step: TUMonline, uni-assist and deadlines

For entry in winter semester 2027/28 you apply through TUMonline, and if you did not obtain your entrance qualification in Germany you first must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist; lectures start on 18.10.2027. Confirm the TUMonline application window and deadline for 2027 entry on TUM's dates page before you plan.

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College Council · from chapter 13, TUM tuition fees for non-EU students in 2027/28

A non-EU/EEA student who starts a Bachelor's at TUM in winter semester 2027/28 pays 2,300 euros or 3,400 euros per semester, and a Master's student pays 4,600 or 6,800 euros. Older guides that say tuition is zero for everyone are wrong for non-EU students.

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College Council · from chapter 03, TUM acceptance rate

At TUM your chances depend on the admission procedure of your programme rather than on one university-wide percentage. TUM states that the majority of applicants are subject to an aptitude assessment, in which your grade point average and subject-specific grades will be evaluated using a point system first.

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When does TUM start in autumn 2027?
From the TUM report · 06 TUM admissions step by step: TUMonline, uni-assist and deadlines

For entry in winter semester 2027/28 you apply through TUMonline, and if you did not obtain your entrance qualification in Germany you first must apply for a Preliminary Documentation (VPD) to uni-assist; lectures start on 18.10.2027. Confirm the TUMonline application window and deadline for 2027 entry on TUM's dates page before you plan.