TU9 universities in Germany: which to aim for and how to apply

The TU9 Germany alliance brings together nine leading universities of technology: engineering and applied science institutions recognized across Europe. Below you will find the list of TU9 universities, the key strengths of each one, a step-by-step approach to applying to a TU9 university (Bachelor’s/Master’s admissions, uni-assist, language requirements), as well as guidance on study costs and tips for success.

What is the TU9 Germany network?

Definition and positioning

• TU9 is the alliance of Germany’s nine largest public universities of technology.
• Strong research–industry culture (automotive, aerospace, energy, data/AI, robotics, materials).
• Bachelor’s programs are mostly taught in German, while there are many English-taught Master’s programs in STEM fields.

The list of TU9 universities

University (TU9)	City	Strengths (examples)
RWTH Aachen University	Aachen	Automotive & mechatronics, industrial processes, energy
TU Berlin	Berlin	Tech & digital, urban planning, innovation management
TU Braunschweig	Braunschweig	Aerospace, chemistry, smart mobility
TU Darmstadt	Darmstadt (Frankfurt Rhine-Main)	Electrical engineering, computer science, IT security
TU Dresden	Dresden	Microelectronics, materials, life sciences
Leibniz Universität Hannover	Hanover	Mechanical engineering, geodesy, civil & hydraulic engineering
KIT: Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	Karlsruhe	Energy & nuclear, data/AI, systems engineering
Technische Universität München (TUM)	Munich	AI & computer science, biotech, technology management
Universität Stuttgart	Stuttgart	Aerospace, automotive, computer simulation

Tip: target 2–3 TU9 universities that match your goals rather than an overly long list: coherence is what counts.

Which TU9 university should you aim for based on your profile?

Quick overview by field

• Aerospace: Stuttgart, Braunschweig, RWTH Aachen.
• Data/AI & computer science: TUM, KIT, TU Berlin, TU Darmstadt.
• Energy / process engineering / materials: RWTH Aachen, KIT, TU Dresden.
• Mobility & automotive: RWTH Aachen, Universität Stuttgart, TU Berlin.

Practical selection criteria

• Labs and research chairs directly related to your area of interest.
• Language of instruction (German/English) & prerequisites (math, physics, programming, technical portfolio).
• Local ecosystem (industrial clusters, internships, start-ups) and quality of life (cost of housing).

How do you apply to a TU9 university?

Where and how to apply

• Bachelor’s: apply directly through the university portal and/or via uni-assist (depending on the university and program).
• Master’s: apply on the university’s website (often through an internal platform); some programs also use uni-assist.

Timeline & application documents

• Typical intakes: winter semester (applications often submitted in spring–summer) and spring semester (applications in the fall). Exact dates vary by university and program.
• Standard application: transcripts/diplomas, CV, statement of purpose, a technical portfolio if relevant, letters of recommendation, proof of language proficiency.
• If you are applying from outside the EU, check the country-specific requirements (e.g. recognition certificates, APS, depending on your nationality).

Expected levels (for guidance)

• English (Master’s programs taught in English): typical thresholds of IELTS 6.5-7.0 / TOEFL iBT ~90-100 (check for each program). Useful comparison: IELTS vs TOEFL.
• German (Bachelor’s & some Master’s programs): a C1 level is often required (TestDaF / DSH / Goethe). Thresholds vary by university.
• Academic prerequisites: solid foundations in math/physics/computer science; for IT, you should master at least one programming language (C/C++/Java/Python) and algorithmic thinking.

Strengthening your TU9 application

Motivation strategy

• Build a clear narrative thread: scientific/industrial problem → skills to acquire → targeted TU9 labs → expected impact.
• Name 2–3 specific modules/research groups for each program (no generic statements).
• Quantify your achievements (class rank, projects, publications, engineering competitions, GitHub).

CV and supporting evidence

• A results-oriented CV with technical keywords and metrics (throughput, accuracy, computation time, efficiency, etc.). Useful guide: how to write a CV in English.
• Portfolio/GitHub: screenshots, a demo link, reports and your exact role in the team.

Study costs & budget for a TU9 university

Fees and semester contribution

• At most public TU9 universities, there are no tuition fees for Bachelor’s/Master’s programs, but you will need to pay a semester contribution (student services, local transport).
• Additional fees may apply depending on the federal state and your status (e.g. some states charge fees to non-EU students): check the program page.

Cost of living (guidelines)

• Housing is more expensive in industrial hubs (Munich, Stuttgart, Berlin) than in mid-sized cities.
• Plan a realistic monthly budget (housing, transport, health insurance, food). TU9 university websites and city pages provide local estimates.

Scholarships & funding

Options to explore

• University scholarships (graduate schools, research chairs, funded projects).
• Foundations/Deutschlandstipendium and support from federal states and local authorities.
• International programs (home country, companies, co-funding).

You can also strengthen your application with well-crafted essays: see examples and structures in our Personal Statement examples.

FAQ: TU9 Germany

Can you enroll in an English-taught Bachelor’s program at a TU9 university?

A few Bachelor’s programs are taught in English, but the majority are taught in German. English-taught Master’s programs, on the other hand, are plentiful.

Do you have to apply through uni-assist?

Often, yes, for international applicants, but not always. Some TU9 universities handle everything in-house. Always check the program’s admissions page.

What English scores are required?

Many Master’s programs require IELTS 6.5-7.0 or a TOEFL iBT ~90-100 (to be confirmed for each program). Compare the tests here: IELTS vs TOEFL.

Do TU9 universities charge fees?

They are public universities: tuition is often free, but a semester contribution is payable. Fees may apply to non-EU students depending on the federal state.

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Need a tailored TU9 plan? We help you target 2–3 programs, provide the right proof of language proficiency, structure your statement of purpose, optimize your CV and complete your application successfully (portals, deadlines, uni-assist).