Technical University of Munich (TUM) - Uni4edu

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Munich, Germany

Aerial wide-shot of the Technical University of Munich main campus on Arcisstrasse in Munich, classical stone facade with arched entrance, surrounded by tree-lined streets in the Maxvorstadt district, blue sky with scattered clouds

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Munich, Germany

Founded

1868

Institution Type

Public Research University

Total Students

52,000+

Nobel Laureates

19

Discover the Technical University of Munich

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is a public research university in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in engineering, technology, medicine, and applied and natural sciences. Established in 1868 by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as the Polytechnische Schule Munchen, TUM has grown into one of Europe's leading universities and holds the prestigious title of University of Excellence under the German Universities Excellence Initiative.

TUM is organized into seven interdisciplinary schools and is supported by numerous research centers and integrative research institutes. With over 52,000 students, including approximately 45% international students, and an annual budget exceeding EUR 2 billion, TUM ranks consistently among the top universities in the European Union and is the highest-ranked university in Germany across major international rankings.

Known as The Entrepreneurial University, TUM fosters a vibrant innovation ecosystem through its partnership with UnternehmerTUM, Europe's leading startup hub. The university's researchers and alumni include 19 Nobel laureates and 26 Leibniz Prize winners, and its graduates are ranked among the most employable worldwide, placing 13th in the Global University Employability Ranking.

Key Milestones

  • 1868: Founded by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as the Polytechnische Schule Munchen to advance technical and scientific education.
  • 1901: Granted the right to confer doctoral degrees, placing it on equal footing with traditional universities in Germany.
  • 1970: Renamed from Technische Hochschule Munchen to its current name, Technische Universitat Munchen (TUM).
  • 2006: Named a University of Excellence in the inaugural German Universities Excellence Initiative, a title it has won in every round since.

Academic Structure and Schools

TUM is organized into seven interdisciplinary schools that break away from traditional mono-disciplinary faculties. This structure, implemented as part of TUM's Agenda 2030, fosters cross-disciplinary research and teaching across the major domains of science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences.

TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology

Unites the disciplines of Mathematics, Informatics, and Electrical and Computer Engineering to shape the digital transformation through integrated research and degree programs.

  • Computer Science (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Data Engineering and Analytics (M.Sc.)
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering (B.Sc./M.Sc.)

TUM School of Engineering and Design

Connects technical, functional, and creative engineering skills to design solutions for a livable future, covering fields from aerospace to architecture.

  • Mechanical Engineering (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Aerospace Engineering (M.Sc.)
  • Architecture (B.A./M.A.)

TUM School of Natural Sciences

Focuses on fundamental research and education in the natural sciences, including physics, chemistry, and biosciences, with strong connections to applied technology fields.

  • Physics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Chemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Biochemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.)

TUM School of Medicine and Health

Located at the Rechts der Isar Hospital, this school combines clinical practice with cutting-edge medical research and offers programs in medicine, health sciences, and biomedical engineering.

  • Medicine (State Examination)
  • Health Science (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics (M.Sc.)

TUM School of Management

A Triple Crown accredited business school (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA) that integrates management education with TUM's strengths in technology and innovation, producing leaders for the global economy.

  • Management and Technology (B.Sc.)
  • Master in Management (M.Sc.)
  • Executive MBA

TUM School of Life Sciences

Based at the Weihenstephan campus in Freising, this school covers life sciences, agriculture, food science, and biotechnology, with a focus on sustainability and environmental research.

  • Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences (B.Sc.)
  • Nutrition and Food Sciences (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
  • Biotechnology (M.Sc.)

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate Admission

  • Academic QualificationHigher education entrance qualification (e.g., Abitur equivalent) recognized by German authorities
  • Language ProficiencyGerman: DSH-2, TestDaF 4x4, or equivalent; English: varies by program (TOEFL iBT 88+ or IELTS 6.5+)
  • Application PortalTUMonline or uni-assist depending on your country of origin
  • Aptitude AssessmentMany programs require a subject-specific aptitude assessment (Eignungsfeststellung)
  • Prerequisite CoursesSpecific subject prerequisites in math and sciences depending on the chosen program
Most undergraduate programs are taught in German. Some programs may require completion of a Studienkolleg preparatory course for international applicants.

Graduate Admission

  • Bachelor's DegreeRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field with strong academic performance
  • Language ProficiencyEnglish-taught programs: TOEFL iBT 88+ or IELTS 6.5+; German-taught: DSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4
  • GRE/GMATRequired for some programs (e.g., GMAT 65th percentile for certain Management programs)
  • Aptitude AssessmentMulti-stage evaluation process including academic record review and potential interview
  • Application PortalTUMonline portal with complete document upload required
Many master's programs are offered entirely in English. TUM does not publish an official acceptance rate, but admission is highly competitive with a rigorous evaluation process.
May 31
Winter Semester (International)

Primary deadline for most bachelor's and master's programs starting in October. Some programs may have earlier deadlines.

January 15
Summer Semester (International)

Deadline for programs with summer semester intake starting in April. Not all programs offer summer admission.

July 15
Winter Semester (Restricted Programs)

Extended deadline for certain restricted-admission undergraduate programs for the winter semester.

Year-Round
Doctoral Programs

PhD applications are generally accepted on a rolling basis. Contact your prospective supervisor directly to discuss opportunities.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Since the winter semester 2024/25, TUM charges tuition fees for international students from non-EEA countries who newly enroll in degree programs. Students from Germany, the European Economic Area, and those who obtained their higher education qualification in Germany continue to study tuition-free.

Fee CategoryEU/EEA Students (per semester)Non-EU/EEA Students (per semester)
Bachelor's TuitionEUR 0EUR 2,000 - EUR 3,000
Master's TuitionEUR 0EUR 4,000 - EUR 6,000
Semester Fee (Student Union)Approx. EUR 145Approx. EUR 145
Estimated Living CostsEUR 950 - EUR 1,200/monthEUR 950 - EUR 1,200/month
TotalApprox. EUR 145 per semester (fees only)EUR 2,145 - EUR 6,145 per semester (tuition + fees)

TUM Merit-Based Waiver Scholarship

High-achieving non-EU students enrolling in a master's program can apply for a full tuition fee waiver based on outstanding academic performance at their previous institution.

  • Award: Full tuition waiver for standard duration of study
  • Eligibility: Top-ranked graduates from accredited universities worldwide
  • Deadline: January - May (winter), November - January (summer)

Deutschlandstipendium

A federal scholarship program recognizing outstanding students regardless of financial background, providing monthly financial support and access to mentoring and networking events.

  • Award: EUR 300 per month
  • Duration: At least two semesters, renewable
  • Eligibility: All enrolled students with strong academic records and social engagement

Campus and Facilities

TUM operates multiple campuses across Bavaria and beyond, each offering specialized facilities for different academic disciplines. The historic Main Campus in central Munich, the expansive Garching research campus, and the Weihenstephan campus in Freising together create a dynamic and interconnected academic environment.

Housing and Student Services

Student Housing

TUM does not operate its own student housing, but the Studentenwerk Munchen manages affordable dormitories and shared apartments near all TUM campuses for both domestic and international students.

  • Studentenwerk dormitories across Munich and Garching
  • Private shared apartments (WG) widely available
  • TUM housing advisory service for new international students

Campus Facilities

TUM provides extensive facilities including modern libraries, high-performance computing centers, maker spaces, and a 45-hectare sports center built on the grounds of the 1972 Summer Olympics.

  • TUM University Library with multiple branch locations
  • Zentraler Hochschulsport sports center at Olympiapark
  • TUM Venture Labs and maker spaces for entrepreneurs

Student Life at TUM

TUM offers a vibrant and diverse student life with over 150 clubs and organizations, major career fairs, and a strong tradition of student-led innovation projects. The international community, representing approximately 45% of the student body, creates a truly global campus atmosphere.

Student Organizations and Clubs

With more than 150 student clubs and organizations, TUM students can engage in a wide range of academic, cultural, sports, and social activities throughout the year.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

TUM Entrepreneurship Club, UnternehmerTUM student programs, and TUM Venture Labs connect students with Munich's thriving startup ecosystem.

Engineering and Technology

WARR (Workgroup for Rocketry and Space Flight), TUM Boring, and TUM Autonomous Motorsport have won international competitions including SpaceX Hyperloop and autonomous racing leagues.

International and Cultural

ESN TUMi supports international students with orientation, social events, and cultural exchange programs throughout the academic year.

Academic and Professional

TEDxTUM organizes talks with prominent speakers, while IKOM hosts one of Germany's largest student-organized career fairs connecting students with top employers.

Sports and Athletics

Zentraler Hochschulsport (ZHS) at Olympiapark Munich

  • Football (Soccer)
  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Basketball
  • Climbing
  • Martial Arts
45-hectare sports complex on 1972 Olympic grounds

Munich: A Global Hub of Innovation and Culture

Munich city skyline panoramic view, Frauenkirche twin towers, Marienplatz town hall, Alps visible in the background, Isar River flowing through the city, warm golden hour light
Munich's iconic skyline blending historic architecture with modern innovation

Life in Munich

Munich is the capital of Bavaria and one of Europe's most dynamic cities, combining a rich cultural heritage with a thriving technology and business ecosystem. As home to major global companies, a vibrant arts scene, and easy access to the Bavarian Alps, Munich offers students an exceptional quality of life and outstanding career opportunities.

Technology and Industry Hub

Munich is headquarters to BMW, Siemens, Allianz, and numerous tech companies including Google and Apple's European offices, creating abundant internship and career opportunities.

Cultural Capital

World-renowned museums like the Pinakothek galleries, the Deutsches Museum, Bavarian State Opera, and the annual Oktoberfest make Munich a cultural destination.

Quality of Life

Consistently ranked among Europe's most livable cities, Munich offers excellent public transport, green spaces like the English Garden, and proximity to the Alps for outdoor recreation.

Transportation

Munich's efficient S-Bahn and U-Bahn network connects all TUM campuses. Munich Airport provides direct flights to destinations worldwide, and the semester ticket offers discounted public transport.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

#13
Global Employability Ranking
THE Global University Employability Ranking
EUR 52,000+
Average Starting Salary
Contact the university for the most current data
100,000+
Global Alumni Network
Active alumni in over 100 countries worldwide

Top Employers of TUM Graduates

BMW Group Siemens McKinsey & Company Google Boston Consulting Group Allianz SAP Microsoft

Practical Information for International Students

For International Students

TUM International Center

Provides comprehensive support for international students including visa guidance, orientation programs, buddy systems, and integration assistance throughout your studies at TUM.

German Language Courses

TUM and partner institutions offer intensive German language courses at various levels to help international students improve their language skills for daily life and academic purposes.

Career and Visa Support

TUM Career Service helps international students with job placement, CV workshops, and navigating Germany's post-study work visa (18-month job-seeking residence permit for graduates).

Key Contacts

General Student Advising
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

Worldwide University Rankings

The Technical University of Munich consistently ranks as the top university in Germany and among the leading institutions in the European Union across all major international ranking systems. TUM has been the number one German university in the QS World University Rankings for over a decade.

QS World University Rankings
#22
2026
Times Higher Education (THE)
#27
2026
US News Global Universities
#79
2025
Shanghai Ranking (ARWU)
#45
2025
SubjectRanking BodyRank
Engineering and TechnologyQS World Rankings by Subject#19
Natural SciencesQS World Rankings by Subject#18
Computer ScienceTimes Higher Education#14
EngineeringTimes Higher Education#19
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10000
Graduate Students
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7600
Academic Stuf
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46000
Students
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Public
Instution Type

Features

We inspire, promote and develop talents in all their diversity to become responsible, broad-minded individuals. We empower them to shape the progress of innovation for people, nature, and society with scientific excellence and technological expertise, with entrepreneurial courage and sensitivity to social and political issues, as well as a lifelong commitment to learning.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Accommodation service is available\n

Work While Studying

Work While Studying

Students can work while studying\n

Co-op/Internship Participation

Co-op/Internship Participation

There is an internship service\n

Featured Programmes

Bachelor's Degree

24 months

Management & Technology

location

Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany

Earliest Intake

May 2026

Gross Tuition

4170 €

Bachelor's Degree

24 months

School of Engineering and Design

location

Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany

Earliest Intake

May 2026

Gross Tuition

12000 €

Bachelor's Degree

24 months

School of Computation, Information and Technology

location

Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany

Earliest Intake

May 2026

Gross Tuition

10000 €

Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter

May - November

Location

Arcisstraße 21\nD-80333 Munich, Germany

Location not found

Map not found.

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