Getting into TU Munich: requirements, expected grades and how to apply

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Europe’s leading technical universities. To secure your TUM Munich admission, you need to understand the admission requirements, expected grades, proof of language proficiency and application process (TUMonline, and sometimes uni-assist for the VPD). This guide walks you step by step through how to apply to TU Munich for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

Why aim for TU Munich (TUM)?

Academic and industry strengths

• Excellence in engineering, computer science, AI & data, energy, aerospace and biotech.
• The Bavarian ecosystem (Munich): corporate headquarters, deep-tech start-ups, R&D centers and strong graduate employability.
• Many Master’s programs taught in English; Bachelor’s programs are mostly in German.

Overview: TUM Munich admission for Bachelor’s vs Master’s

Bachelor’s (BSc) at TU Munich

• Programs are often taught in German: aim for C1 level (DSH/TestDaF/Goethe), depending on the program.
• Demanding requirements in math and physics (and sometimes computer science). Some international applicants must provide a VPD via uni-assist (check the program page).
• Depending on the program: an aptitude test or interview, a self-assessment or specific tasks.

Master’s (MSc) at TU Munich

• A relevant Bachelor’s degree with very good grades (class rank and honors help) and course-specific prerequisites.
• English is required for English-taught programs (indicative thresholds are high; confirm for each program). Some departments require or recommend the GRE.
• Written application: CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and a portfolio or project where applicable.

Admission requirements: expected grades, languages and prerequisites

Grades and academic background

• High expectations: a strong overall GPA and excellent grades in the program’s core subjects (e.g. calculus, algebra, mechanics, programming).
• For a Master’s: enough relevant ECTS credits (fundamentals plus advanced modules) and a strong fit between your coursework and the TUM program you are targeting.

Language of instruction

• Bachelor’s: German is required for most programs (typically C1 level).
• English-taught Master’s: aim for competitive English scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE; thresholds vary by department).
• A career advantage in Munich: basic German makes it easier to find internships and jobs, even if your Master’s is in English.

Tests and additional requirements

• GRE: required or recommended for some highly selective programs (computer science, data, computational engineering).
• Portfolio or project for design, architecture and certain other fields; publications and GitHub are valued in computer science and data.

Application process: TUMonline, VPD and deadlines

Platforms and steps

1. Create your application on TUMonline and select your program.
2. Upload your transcripts and diplomas, language certificates, CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters and GRE scores if required.
3. If your profile requires it: obtain a VPD via uni-assist (preliminary document review) before final submission.
4. Pay any applicable fees and keep track of messages from the department (additional tasks or interviews).

Key dates

• Winter intake: applications in spring/summer, depending on the program and your status (visa).
• Summer intake (fewer programs): applications in the fall.
• Plan ahead for VPD processing times, translations and apostilles, and visa appointments.

Your TUM application documents: quality writing and evidence

A compelling statement of purpose

• A clear common thread: scientific or industrial problem → approach → what TUM offers (courses, labs, chairs) → intended impact.
• Name 2–3 specific TUM modules and research groups (no generalities) and link them to your projects.
• Quantify your results (class rank, publications, competitions, technical metrics).

CV and supporting documents

• A results-oriented CV with technical keywords and metrics (throughput, accuracy, efficiency, computation time, etc.).
• Include links to GitHub or your portfolio, reports, posters and demos, and spell out your exact role.

Costs, life in Munich and scholarships

Fees and contributions

• A public university: no standard tuition fees for many programs, but you should budget for a semester contribution (student services, local transport).
• Check the specific policies of the state and the university for non-EU students.

Cost of living in Munich

• Rents are high by German standards: plan ahead for a student residence or shared apartment in a well-connected area.
• A realistic monthly budget: housing, health insurance, transport and food.

Scholarships & funding

• Scholarships from TUM and its departments, foundations (Deutschlandstipendium), state funding and international programs.
• Start looking for scholarships at the same time as your academic application.

Admission strategy: how to stand out at TUM

Before you apply

• Map out your prerequisites (math, physics, computer science) and fill any gaps with documented courses or projects.
• Build a project portfolio (robotics, data, CAD/CFD, embedded systems) with quantified results.

During the application

• Tailor every document (CV, statement of purpose) to the specific TUM program you are targeting.
• Make your language certificate as strong as possible and, if relevant, get a competitive GRE score.
• Apply early so you have time to respond to additional requests (interviews, exercises).

Further reading

• UMCH: studying medicine in Germany (Hamburg campus)
• Bachelor’s admission abroad

FAQ: TU Munich admission

Is the uni-assist VPD always required?

No, it depends on the program and the country where you earned your diploma. Several Bachelor’s programs require it for international applicants; check the program’s official page.

What English level should you aim for when applying to an English-taught Master’s?

Thresholds vary; to stay competitive, aim for a high score (e.g. IELTS 6.5–7.0+ or TOEFL iBT ~90–100+, depending on the program). Refer to your department’s requirements.

Is the GRE mandatory at TUM?

It depends on the program: some require or recommend it, particularly in computer science, data and computational engineering.

Can you study for a Bachelor’s in English at TUM?

Most Bachelor’s programs are taught in German. However, many Master’s programs are offered in English.

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