Technical University of Munich

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Europe’s leading universities, recognized for its excellence in research, teaching, and innovation. Founded in 1868, TUM has consistently ranked among the top universities in Germany and worldwide. It is a member of the prestigious TU9 alliance, which represents Germany’s leading technical universities.

TUM has a strong focus on science, engineering, technology, and medicine, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach, fostering collaboration between different fields to address global challenges. With campuses in Munich, Garching, and Weihenstephan, as well as an international presence in Asia and other regions, TUM provides a dynamic and diverse academic environment.

Research at TUM is highly regarded, with numerous collaborations with industry leaders, research institutions, and government organizations. The university has produced multiple Nobel laureates and has been at the forefront of technological advancements in various fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable energy. TUM’s strong ties to industry make it a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with many startups emerging from its ecosystem.

TUM is also committed to internationalization, attracting students and researchers from all over the world. It offers numerous English-taught programs and maintains partnerships with leading universities globally. The university’s emphasis on practical experience, research-driven education, and strong industry connections ensures that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in academia, business, and beyond.

With a reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to societal impact, the Technical University of Munich continues to be a leader in shaping the future of science and technology.

• Department of Architecture

  The Department of Architecture at the TU München has 1.400 students and 180 members of academic staff working in 29 professorships, and takes a research-oriented approach to teaching also in cooperation with businesses and public institutions.

  The department, which was founded in 1868, is the only university-level educational institution in Bavaria to teach architecture and is embedded in one of the best universities in Europe. It has a diverse portfolio of subject areas and good infrastructure. Its inner-city location in the artistic quarter of Munich is ideal for a school of architecture.

  The department belongs to one of the top universities in Europe. As a university, the TUM is committed to excellence in research and teaching, interdisciplinary education and the active promotion of promising young professionals. It also forges strong links with businesses and academic institutions around the world. The TUM describes itself as an entrepreneurial university and was one of the first three universities to be appointed to the German Excellence Initiative program. With its “Emerging Field Policy”, the TUM explores new areas of development at the intersection of academia, the economy, and society.

• School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan

  The interdisciplinary synergies amongst all fields of the life science represented on the Weihenstephan Campus enable the exploration of the entire life cycle of foodstuffs and raw materials. Researchers at Weihenstephan examine the value chain from genetic and biological building blocks through production and processing to consumption. The close networking of research areas is what distinguishes the TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan.

• Department of Chemistry

  The Department of Chemistry at the Technische Universität München has taken great efforts to meet the requirements of a rapidly changing scientific environment.
  We offer a broad diversity of subjects: The traditional areas of Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry have been enriched by Chemical Technology, Radiochemistry, Food Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, and Hydrochemistry many years ago. The last years saw new expansions into the fields of Biochemistry and Construction Chemistry.

• Faculty of Civil, Geo and Environmental Engineering

  Subscribing to the mission statement "Construction – Infrastructure – Environment – Planet Earth", our Faculty is responsible for tuition and research in the field of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Surveying and Geology. The 8 institutes belonging to the faculty accommodate a total of 38 departments and research units, 2 junior professorships in addition to several research and development bodies like testing centers, external institutes and laboratories.

• Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

  The TUM Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering – one of Germany’s largest and leading engineering faculties – geared itself up for precisely that scenario at an early stage and is excellently equipped for the challenges of the years ahead. The close links between teaching and research, broad subject coverage, organization in efficient instructional and research units, and application of efficient methods of resource planning and allocation combine to put the faculty in a position to react fast and to pick up on new developments, while maintaining the continuity of this discipline with its rich tradition.

• Department of Informatics

  At one of the largest departments of informatics in Germany, you will have access to teaching and research in nearly all topics relating to the field of informatics. Whether you come here as an exchange student or as a degree-seeking bachelor’s or master’s candidate, you have a wide choice of study programs to choose from.

   International rankings confirm that TUM Informatics is one of the top German universities in the field of informatics. Moreover, Munich is a global hotspot for the IT and technology industries –and an exciting city with wonderful lakes and mountains nearby.

• Department of Mathematics

  A university consists of research and of teaching, and ideally connects both. Our thorough interest in the theory behind applications is reflected by our teaching profile. We offer a general mathematics bachelor and masters education as well as several master degrees with a specific applied profile. On top of that we also house the elite degree programs TopMath and FIM (Finance and Information Management). Treating students of all levels (bachelor, master, PhD) as individuals with different skill profiles and finding the best way to support and develop them is one of our core missions in education.

• Department of Mechanical Engineering

  The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the TUM has been at the forefront of achievements in engineering since 1868. The Department is now one of the most successful mechanical engineering departments in the world and has occupied top places in international rankings for the past several years. 

• School of Medicine

  „Knowledge creates cure“ – this is the guiding principle of the medicine at TUM. It represents the very close link between medical research and patient care: here, the patient will benefit as directly as possible from new discoveries by physicians and scientists. The patient needs experienced by physicians in their daily work in turn affect the objectives of research projects. Thus physicians and scientists of Klinikum rechts der Isar and TUM School of Medicine work hand in hand in being able to offer both patients of today and those of tomorrow the best possible help.

  With this philosophy, medicine at TUM is internationally successful: Klinikum rechts der Isar and TUM School of Medicine together stand for medicine with a worldwide reputation - in patient care, research and education.

• Physics Department

  The Faculty of Physics comprehends three research areas as well as many central services. It is complemented by partner and interdisciplinary research institutions and takes part in a number of major projects.

• Department of Sport and Health Sciences

  We offer a broad, interdisciplinary, scientific portfolio ofteaching and research in these two fields of science. The spectrum extends from the holistic support of top athletes, such as the National Ski Team, for instance, or in diagnosing the performance of professional soccer players from the record champions of FC Bayern Munich, and up to the prevention and rehabilitation in the context of civilization illnesses over the entire lifetime.

  For the training of students we offer a total of twelve courses of study for bachelor, master and teacher qualification. Included here are the two Bachelor's courses of study in "Sport sciences" and "Health sciences" (Bachelor of Science) as well as the Master's courses of studies in "Diagnostics and training" and in "Movement and health" (Master of Science). In addition, we also train athletic trainers for all forms of schooling. With "TUM Sport and Health for Life" and the Master's course in "Traditional Chinese Medicine", we offer diverse training and further-education possibilities.

• School of Education

  TUM School of Education is the thirteenth TUM faculty, and the very first faculty in Germany to be dedicated entirely to initial and further training of teachers in the 
  subjects of mathematics, computer studies, science and technology (the so-called MINT subjects). 

  The faculty calls itself a School as it is modeled on the professional schools at American universities. Like these, it has the following defining characteristics:

  • Interdisciplinary approach: teaching and research are carried out on a cross-disciplinary basis.
  • Practically oriented: since there is an extensive cluster of schools, students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom from the very beginning.
  • Joint appointments: professors from specialist subject departments can also be assigned to the TUM School.

  As a separate faculty, TUM School of Education retains its independence within the university and can therefore provide optimum support to meet the needs of trainee teachers.

• School of Management

  TUM School of Management at Technical University of Munich (TUM) carries out world-class research and teaching at the interface between management and technology. Established in 2002, we consistently top the rankings of business schools in Germany. 

  TUM School of Management's interdisciplinary approach is focused on the interface between management and technology. We have almost 30 full professors and 250 other staff members who work in the School's own departments. They are also active in interdisciplinary and interfaculty projects with other parts of the university and external partners. Our activities are structured around five academic departments: Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Operations & Supply Chain Management, Finance & Accounting, Marketing, Strategy & Leadership and Economics & Policy. Many of the professors working in these departments are internationally recognized leaders in their fields.

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) was founded in 1868 by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as the "Polytechnische Schule München." It was established to promote scientific and technical education in Bavaria, supporting the region’s industrial and economic development. Over time, the institution evolved into one of Germany’s leading universities, gaining the status of a Technische Hochschule in 1877 and later becoming the Technical University of Munich in 1970.

Throughout its history, TUM has played a crucial role in scientific and technological advancements. In the early 20th century, it became a hub for engineering, natural sciences, and architecture. The university contributed significantly to Germany’s industrial growth, particularly in fields such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemistry. During World War II, parts of the university were damaged, but it was quickly rebuilt in the post-war period, expanding its research and academic programs.

In the second half of the 20th century, TUM continued to grow, establishing new faculties and research centers. In 2006, it was recognized as one of Germany’s first Universities of Excellence, a title it has maintained through subsequent evaluations. The university expanded internationally, opening a campus in Singapore (TUM Asia) in 2002, making it the first German university to have a campus abroad.

Today, TUM is one of Europe’s leading universities, known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It has produced numerous Nobel laureates, pioneering scientists, and influential engineers. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, TUM continues to shape the future of science and technology, maintaining its reputation as a global leader in education and research.

The admission requirements for the Technical University of Munich (TUM) vary depending on the program and level of study. Below is a general overview of the application process and requirements for prospective students.

Undergraduate Admissions

For undergraduate programs, applicants must have a university entrance qualification that is recognized in Germany. This typically includes:

• A high school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
• Proof of language proficiency in either German or English, depending on the program. Most undergraduate programs are taught in German, requiring a TestDaF, DSH, or equivalent certification.
• Some programs may require additional entrance exams or aptitude assessments.

Graduate Admissions

For master's programs, applicants must hold a recognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Additional requirements include:

• Proof of language proficiency (German or English, depending on the program).
• A letter of motivation and sometimes a statement of purpose.
• Some programs require GRE or GMAT scores.
• Certain programs may have an aptitude assessment process.

Application Process

1. Online Application: All applications must be submitted through the TUMonline portal.
2. Submission of Documents: Required documents include transcripts, proof of language proficiency, CV, and letters of recommendation (if applicable).
3. Assessment and Admission Decision: Some programs require an interview or additional tests.
4. Enrollment: Once admitted, students must complete the enrollment process, including health insurance verification and payment of semester fees.

Deadlines

• Winter Semester: Applications typically open in April and close by July 15.
• Summer Semester: Applications open in November and close by January 15.

For international students, it is recommended to apply early and check specific program requirements on the official TUM website.

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Germany’s leading universities and holds multiple accreditations that ensure the quality of its education and research. TUM is officially recognized by the Bavarian State Ministry for Science and the Arts, which grants it the authority to award academic degrees. Additionally, TUM is a member of the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) and the TU9 alliance, a group of leading technical universities in Germany.

TUM’s degree programs are accredited by various national and international accreditation agencies. The university follows the accreditation standards set by the German Accreditation Council (Akkreditierungsrat), ensuring that its programs meet high academic and professional standards. Many of TUM’s engineering and technical programs are accredited by agencies such as ASIIN (Accreditation Agency for Degree Programs in Engineering, Informatics, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics), which is a recognized accreditation body in Germany and Europe.

Furthermore, TUM’s business school, the TUM School of Management, holds prestigious international accreditations. It is accredited by AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System), and AMBA (Association of MBAs), making it one of the few business schools worldwide to hold the "Triple Crown" accreditation. These accreditations confirm the high quality of TUM’s management education and its alignment with global business education standards.

TUM is also part of the European University Initiative and collaborates with international institutions to maintain high academic standards. The university’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its continuous participation in quality assurance processes, both at the national and international levels.

Overall, the Technical University of Munich maintains strong accreditation credentials that ensure the quality and global recognition of its academic programs. These accreditations reinforce TUM’s reputation as a world-class institution for higher education and research.

Student life at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) offers a vibrant and diverse experience, combining academic excellence with numerous extracurricular opportunities. As one of Germany’s leading universities, TUM provides students with a dynamic environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

TUM has multiple campuses, with the main ones located in Munich, Garching, and Weihenstephan. Each campus has its own unique atmosphere, with modern facilities, libraries, and research centers. The university offers a wide range of student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and sports teams. These organizations help students connect with peers, develop new skills, and engage in various activities outside of their studies.

Munich itself is a great city for students, offering a high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and numerous cultural and recreational activities. Students can explore museums, theaters, and music festivals, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Alps. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and student-friendly events.

TUM provides various support services for students, including career counseling, language courses, and mental health resources. The university also has strong connections with industry leaders, offering students opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking events.

Overall, student life at TUM is a well-balanced mix of academic challenges and social opportunities, making it an exciting and rewarding experience for students from around the world.

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their academic and personal lives. Apart from lectures and seminars, students have access to various resources that enhance their university experience.

TUM provides extensive library services, including multiple campus libraries with study spaces, digital resources, and research support. The university also offers IT services, such as free Wi-Fi, software access, and technical support. Students can use computer labs and printing facilities across campuses.

For career development, TUM has a Career Service that provides job placement assistance, career counseling, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. The university also organizes workshops and career fairs to help students prepare for the job market.

Health and well-being are prioritized at TUM. The university offers psychological counseling, health services, and sports facilities. The TUM sports center provides a variety of fitness courses, team sports, and outdoor activities.

Student life is enriched by numerous student organizations, cultural events, and international student support. The university has dedicated offices for international students, offering guidance on visas, housing, and integration into German culture.

Additionally, TUM provides dining facilities, including cafeterias and student restaurants, offering affordable meals. Housing support is available through student dormitories and assistance in finding private accommodation.

Overall, TUM ensures that students have access to essential services and facilities that contribute to their academic success and personal well-being.

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of the leading universities in Europe, known for its excellence in research, innovation, and teaching. Founded in 1868, TUM has consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, making it an attractive choice for students from all over the globe.

One of the key reasons to choose TUM is its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university collaborates with industry leaders such as BMW, Siemens, and Allianz, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience. TUM is also part of the German Excellence Initiative, which recognizes outstanding research institutions.

Another advantage of studying at TUM is its strong international orientation. The university offers numerous English-taught programs, making it accessible to international students. Additionally, TUM has partnerships with over 170 universities worldwide, allowing students to participate in exchange programs and gain global experience.

TUM is also known for its strong entrepreneurial culture. The university supports startups through its UnternehmerTUM center, one of the largest entrepreneurship centers in Europe. Many successful startups, such as Celonis and Lilium, have emerged from TUM, demonstrating the university’s commitment to fostering innovation.

Furthermore, TUM provides excellent facilities and resources for students. The university has state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and research centers, ensuring that students have access to the best tools for their studies. The main campus in Munich is located in one of Germany’s most vibrant cities, offering a high quality of life, cultural attractions, and numerous career opportunities.

In summary, TUM is an excellent choice for students who seek a world-class education, strong industry connections, international opportunities, and a thriving entrepreneurial environment. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, TUM continues to be a top destination for students worldwide.