Technical University of Munich Admission Requirements – Step by Step

The Technical University of Munich (TUM), one of Europe’s leading research universities, is a dream institution for countless students across the globe. Renowned for its excellence in technology, engineering, natural sciences, and business, TUM ranks among the top 50 universities in the world according to the QS World University Ranking. As an international student, understanding the Technical University of Munich admission requirements is the first step toward securing a place at this prestigious institution.

This topic will cover everything you need to know from undergraduate and master’s admission requirements to language proficiency, IB, SAT, and more.

General Admission Requirements

Admission to TUM is competitive, with requirements varying based on the level of study (undergraduate or graduate) and the specific program. However, certain general requirements apply to all applicants:

1. Academic Excellence: TUM seeks students with strong academic backgrounds. For most programs, applicants should be in the top 30% of their graduating class.
2. Relevant Educational Qualifications: Applicants must possess qualifications that are recognized as equivalent to German educational standards.
3. Language Proficiency: Depending on the program’s language of instruction, proficiency in either German or English (or both) is required.
4. Program-Specific Requirements: Many programs have additional requirements such as entrance examinations, portfolios, or interviews.
5. Application Documents: Complete and accurate submission of all required application documents by the specified deadlines.

The Technical University of Munich admission requirements differ for bachelor’s and master’s programs, with specific criteria for international and IB students. It’s important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as many programs at TUM are highly competitive with limited spots available.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

International students applying to undergraduate programs at TUM must meet several key requirements:

1. University Entrance Qualification: International applicants must possess a secondary school leaving certificate that is recognized as equivalent to the German “Abitur.” The specific requirements vary by country of origin.
2. Qualification Assessment: TUM evaluates international qualifications through a process called “Hochschulzugangsberechtigung” (HZB) assessment. The university uses a database called “anabin” to determine the equivalence of foreign qualifications.
3. Preliminary Courses (Studienkolleg): If an applicant’s qualification is not deemed fully equivalent to the Abitur, they may need to complete a preliminary course at a Studienkolleg and pass the assessment examination (Feststellungsprüfung).
4. Subject-Specific Requirements: Some programs require specific subjects to have been studied at the secondary level, with minimum grade requirements.
5. German Language Proficiency: Most undergraduate programs are taught in German, requiring proof of German language proficiency (typically TestDaF or DSH).

Technical University of Munich Requirements for IB (International Baccalaureate) Students

For IB students, the Technical University of Munich admission requirements specify that Math, a science subject, and one language must be taken at Higher Level, with a minimum of 4 points in each subject. Students with an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma must meet the following criteria:

Specific IB requirements include:

1. IB Diploma Score: A minimum total score of 24 points is required for consideration, though competitive programs typically expect scores of 32-36 or higher.

2. Subject Requirements:

• At least three Higher Level (HL) subjects relevant to the program of application
• Mathematics at an appropriate level (Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches HL is recommended for most STEM programs)
• For engineering and science programs, relevant science subjects at HL

3. Grade Requirements: Minimum grades of 5 in relevant HL subjects, with an average of 6 for competitive programs.

4. Additional Points: The points awarded for the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge can be important for meeting the minimum total score requirement.

Some competitive programs (e.g., Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering) may require higher grades or additional tests.

IB requirements for selected TUM programs:

Technical University of Munich SAT Requirements

While the SAT is not a mandatory requirement for admission to TUM, students from countries with 12-year school systems (like the US or international curricula) may use SAT/ACT scores to demonstrate academic readiness.

1. SAT Score Requirements: TUM typically requires a minimum SAT score of 1300 (out of 1600) for most programs, though competitive programs may expect scores of 1400 or higher.

2. SAT Subject Tests: For technical and scientific programs, SAT Subject Tests in mathematics (Level 2) and a relevant science subject (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology) are often expected, with scores of 650 or above. No longer accepted post-2021.

3. SAT as a Complement: The SAT is used as a complement to the US High School Diploma. A strong SAT score can strengthen an application but does not replace the need for a solid academic record.

4. Alternative Tests: TUM also accepts ACT scores as an alternative to the SAT. A composite score of 28 or higher is generally expected.

5. Score Reporting: Official SAT scores should be sent directly to TUM using the institution code 7368.

Although Technical University of Munich SAT requirements aren’t strictly mandatory, strong scores can enhance your application. 

It’s important to note that while SAT scores are considered, they are just one component of the application. TUM takes a holistic approach to admission decisions, considering the entire academic profile.

Technical University of Munich Requirements for Master’s Programs

TUM offers over 100 master’s programs, many taught in English. Admission is highly competitive, with strict academic and language requirements.

1. Bachelor’s Degree: A completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field from a recognized institution (minimum 180 ECTS).
2. Academic Performance: A minimum grade point average equivalent to a German “good” (typically 2.5 or better on the German scale, which corresponds to approximately a B or 3.0 GPA in the US system).
3. Subject-Specific Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge in the core subjects relevant to the master’s program. This is often assessed through transcript analysis.
4. Language Proficiency: Depending on the program language, proficiency in either German or English is required.
5. Entrance Examinations: Some programs require additional entrance examinations or aptitude assessments.
6. APS Certification
7. Professional Experience: Certain professional master’s programs require relevant work experience.

The Technical University of Munich requirements for Masters programs typically include a bachelor’s degree in a related field and program-specific aptitude assessments. The admission process for master’s programs at TUM is typically two-staged:

1. Formal Eligibility Check: Verification that the applicant meets the basic requirements regarding degree, grades, etc.
2. Aptitude Assessment: A more detailed evaluation of the applicant’s academic qualifications, relevant experience, and motivation.

Additional Requirements

1. Certified transcripts and degree certificates
2. TUM online application via TUMonline
3. Preliminary Documentation (VPD) from uni-assist (for non-EU applicants)
4. GRE/GMAT (e.g., MBA, Computational Science & Engineering).
5. Motivation Letter & CV.
6. APS Certificate
7. Letters of Recommendation.
8. Entrance Exam/Interview (e.g., Architecture, Management).

Here’s an overview of requirements for some popular master’s programs:

For the highly competitive master’s programs like Management and Finance, the acceptance rate can be as low as 10-15%, with average admitted GPAs often significantly above the minimum requirements.

Also Read: English taught bachelors degree in Germany

German Language Requirements in Technical University of Munich

Since many programs at TUM, especially at the undergraduate level, are taught in German, proficiency in the German language is often a crucial requirement. Meeting the Technical University of Munich language requirements is crucial, with most programs requiring TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2 for German-taught courses. The recognized German language certificates and their required levels include:

• TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): Minimum score of TDN 4 in all four sections (reading, listening, writing, speaking).
• Goethe-Zertifikat: C1 or C2 level.
• DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): At least DSH-2 level.
• telc Deutsch: C1 Hochschule certificate.
• DSD (Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz): Level II certificate.

The following table shows the German language requirements by program level:

Also Read: how to get permanent residency in Germany

English Language Requirements in Technical University of Munich

For programs taught in English, which include many master’s programs and some international bachelor’s programs, proof of English proficiency is required. The accepted English language certificates include

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Overall band score of 6.5-7.0 (program dependent).

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

• Internet-based (iBT): Minimum score of 88-100 (program dependent)
• Paper-based (PBT): Minimum score of 570-600 (program dependent)

3. Cambridge English Certificates:

• Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): Grade C or better
• Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C or better

4. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): 

• Minimum score of 60-70 (program dependent).

Exemptions from English language requirements may be granted to:

• Native English speakers
• Applicants who completed their previous degree entirely in English at a recognized institution
• Applicants with specific internationally recognized qualifications taught in English

Also Read: Best studienkolleg in Germany

IELTS Requirements for TUM

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests at TUM. The specific IELTS requirements vary by program but generally fall within the following ranges:

1. Overall Band Score: Most programs require an overall band score between 6.5 and 7.0.
2. Individual Section Scores: Many programs also specify minimum scores for individual sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking), typically 6.0 or higher.
3. IELTS Type: The Academic IELTS test is required, not the General Training version.
4. Validity: IELTS test results are typically valid for two years from the test date.

The following table shows IELTS requirements for selected English-taught programs:

An IELTS score of 6.5+ (with no band below 6.0) is your golden key to TUM’s English-taught programs. For highly competitive fields like Computer Science, aim even higher to secure your spot

Application Process

The application process at TUM varies depending on the level of study and applicant’s nationality but generally follows these steps:

1. Research and Program Selection: Carefully research available programs and their specific requirements.

2. Online Application:

• Undergraduate applications are typically submitted through the TUM application portal or uni-assist (for international students)
• Graduate applications are submitted through the TUM application portal

3. Document Submission: Upload or mail all required documents, which typically include:

• Application form
• APS Certification is Mandatory
• Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
• Language certificates
• CV/resume
• Motivation letter (for master’s programs)
• Program-specific documents (portfolios, essays, etc.)

4. Application Fee: Pay the application processing fee (currently €50 for most programs).

5. Aptitude Assessment: Some programs require additional assessments, interviews, or entrance examinations.

6. Admission Decision: Wait for the admission decision, which is typically communicated via email.

7. Enrollment: If accepted, complete the enrollment process, which includes paying the semester fee and submitting additional documents.

8. Visa Application: International students from non-EU countries need to apply for a student visa.

Also Read: Blocked account in Germany

Deadlines and Important Dates

TUM operates on a semester system with two main intake periods: Winter Semester (October start) and Summer Semester (April start). Not all programs are available for both intakes, with many only accepting students for the Winter Semester.

Key application deadlines include:

1. Winter Semester (October start):

• EU applicants: May 31 for most undergraduate programs, varies for master’s programs (typically April 30 – May 31)
• Non-EU applicants: January 15 for programs with restricted admission, May 31 for programs without restricted admission
• Master’s programs: Varies by program, typically between January 15 and May 31

2. Summer Semester (April start):

EU applicants: January 15 for most undergraduate programs

Non-EU applicants: September 30 of the previous year

Master’s programs: Varies by program, typically between September 30 and January 15

Important dates in the TUM academic calendar:

• Winter Semester: October 1 to March 31 (lectures typically from mid-October to early February)
• Summer Semester: April 1 to September 30 (lectures typically from mid-April to late July)
• Examination periods: February/March and August/September

Also Read: Cost of studying in Germany

Tuition and Fees at the Technical University of Munich

As of recent stats, over 38% of students at TUM are international, which makes understanding Technical University of Munich admission requirements essential for global applicants aiming to join this diverse academic environment. As a public university in Bavaria, TUM charges relatively low tuition fees compared to universities of similar standing in other countries. The current fee structure includes:

1. Semester Fee: All students must pay a semester fee (currently approximately €144.40 per semester), which includes a student services contribution and a public transportation ticket for the Munich area.

2. Tuition Fees for Non-EU Students: Starting from Winter Semester 2023/24, TUM charges tuition fees of €3,000 per semester for students from non-EU/EEA countries. However, numerous exemptions exist, including:

• Students who obtained their university entrance qualification in Germany
• Students with a residence permit for humanitarian reasons
• Students with permanent residence in Germany
• Students from certain partner countries

3. Program-Specific Fees: Some specialized master’s programs, particularly executive education programs, charge additional tuition fees regardless of nationality.

Estimated total costs of studying at TUM (per year):

• Tuition and fees: €0-6,000 (depending on nationality and program)
• Housing: €4,800-9,600
• Health insurance: €1,200
• Food and personal expenses: €4,800
• Books and study materials: €600
• Total: Approximately €11,400-22,200 per year

Also Read: APS Certificate for Germany

Scholarships and Financial Aid

TUM and various external organizations offer numerous scholarships and financial aid options:

1. TUM Scholarships:

• Deutschlandstipendium: €300 monthly for outstanding students
• TUM Graduate School funding for doctoral candidates
• Program-specific scholarships for certain master’s programs

2. German Government Scholarships:

• DAAD Scholarships: Various programs for international students
• Erasmus+ for EU students
• Bavarian funding programs

3. External Scholarships:

• Country-specific scholarships from students’ home countries
• Industry-sponsored scholarships
• Foundation scholarships

4. Financial Aid and Work Options:

• BAföG (German federal financial aid) for eligible students
• Student jobs (limited to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year for non-EU students)
• Working as a student research assistant (HiWi) at the university

Tips for a Successful Application 

1. Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your application at least one year before your intended start date.
2. Focus on Language Preparation: Invest sufficient time in language learning (German or English depending on your program).
3. Understand the German Education System: Familiarize yourself with the German grading system and academic expectations.
4. Prepare a Strong Motivation Letter: For master’s applications, craft a compelling motivation letter that clearly connects your academic background, interests, and career goals with the specific program.
5. Seek Academic References: Secure strong academic references from professors who know your work well.
6. Enhance Your Profile: Participate in relevant extracurricular activities, internships, or research projects to strengthen your application.
7. Document Authentication: Ensure all academic documents are properly certified and translated as required.
8. Check Program-Specific Requirements: Pay close attention to any special requirements for your chosen program.
9. Prepare for Interviews or Tests: If your program requires an interview or entrance examination, prepare thoroughly.
10. Have a Financial Plan: Develop a realistic financial plan for your studies, including potential scholarship applications.

Conclusion 

Be sure to review the Technical University of Munich admission requirements early to avoid delays. For international students, the key challenges typically involve meeting the language requirements, securing proper documentation, and navigating the German higher education system. However, with proper preparation and planning, these challenges can be overcome.

Whether you’re considering undergraduate or graduate studies, TUM offers an academic experience that combines German educational traditions with forward-thinking approaches to addressing global challenges.

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