GERMANY · DARMSTADT
Technische Universität Darmstadt
public · Founded 1877 · Languages: de, en
In short
Technische Universität Darmstadt is a leading German technical university offering strong programs in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences. International students benefit from low fees, autonomous governance, and a strategic location in the Rhine-Main region.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1877
- Students
- 25,840
- International students
- 5,700
- Acceptance rate
- 35%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–4k/yr
- Languages
- DE, EN
- Location
- Darmstadt, Germany
Technische Universität Darmstadt is a leading technical research university in Germany, renowned for its excellence in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences. Founded in 1877, it was the first university in the world to establish an electrical engineering department and today consistently ranks among Europe's top technical universities. TU Darmstadt became Germany's first autonomous university in 2004, giving it unique independence in governance and strategy. It is a key partner in the Rhine-Main Universities alliance and a recipient of Excellence Initiative funding from the German federal and state governments.
Why study here
- Study at one of Europe's top technical universities with a 145-year tradition of engineering and scientific excellence.
- Benefit from close proximity to a dense cluster of technology firms and research institutes in the Rhine-Main region.
- Access fully autonomous governance — TU Darmstadt sets its own strategic direction with exceptional flexibility.
- Join a vibrant international campus with over 5,700 international students and numerous English-taught master's programmes.
- Leverage partnerships with Goethe University Frankfurt and Mainz University through the Rhine-Main Universities alliance for interdisciplinary opportunities.
Student life
Campus life at TU Darmstadt is active and internationally flavoured. The Lichtwiese campus offers green spaces, sports fields, and the University Stadium, while the Stadtmitte campus is at the heart of a lively city. International students benefit from a dedicated Welcome Centre, buddy programmes, and German language courses. The student union (AStA) organises social events, cultural activities, and support services. Darmstadt's identity as Germany's City of Science means students are immersed in a technology and innovation ecosystem.
Fees
InternationalMost programmes carry only a semester administrative fee of approximately EUR 250–350 per semester (EUR 500–700 per year). Some Master's programmes in partnership with private institutions charge additional fees.
HomeGerman domestic students pay the same low administrative fee; no general tuition fee for EU students.
LivingEstimated monthly living costs in Darmstadt: EUR 800–1,100, covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses.
TU Darmstadt charges no general tuition fees for undergraduate or standard postgraduate programmes. The semester fee covers student services, public transport (Semesterticket), and administrative costs.
Admissions
Undergraduate (Bachelor)German Abitur or recognised international equivalent (e.g. A-Levels, IB, French Baccalaureate). Some programmes have numerus clausus (NC) restrictions.
Postgraduate (Master)Relevant Bachelor's degree with good academic standing; programme-specific prerequisites in mathematics and engineering subjects.
Doctoral (PhD)Master's degree in a relevant field; acceptance by a supervising professor; research proposal.
IELTS Academic6.5 or above (for English-taught programmes)
TOEFL iBT90 or above (for English-taught programmes)
TestDaF / DSHLevel 4 / DSH-2 for German-taught programmes
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024218
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024201–250
QS World Rankings by Subject – Electrical EngineeringTop 100
University scholarships
DAAD ScholarshipsEUR 850–1,200/month stipend
DeutschlandstipendiumEUR 300/month
TU Darmstadt Internal GrantsVaries by programme
Accreditation
Accredited under the Excellence Strategy of the German Federal and State Governments; member of Rhine-Main Universities (RMU); German Rectors' Conference (HRK) member.
For international students
GermanyStudent visa & funds
Non-EU/EEA students must obtain a national student visa (Type D) before arrival and then convert it to a student residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde). To prove financial self-sufficiency, most applicants open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding €11,904 — €992 per month for twelve months — an amount in effect since 2024 and unchanged for 2026. The blocked account caps monthly withdrawals at €992 so the funds last the year.
Working while you study
Non-EU international students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency — an allowance raised from the previous 120/240-day limit under the 2024 skilled-immigration reform. A shift of more than four hours counts as a full day. Student-assistant roles at the university (Hiwi positions) generally fall outside this cap, and hours during semester breaks count toward the same annual allowance.
After you graduate
After completing a degree at a German university, non-EU graduates are entitled to an 18-month residence permit to seek work under the Residence Act, during which any employment is allowed. Separately, the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), introduced in June 2024, lets qualifying non-EU nationals enter to look for work for up to a year using a points system, with limited part-time work permitted. Recent German graduates qualify for the 18-month post-study permit directly, without the points test.
English tests
- IELTS6.0–6.5 for English-taught bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for most master’s
- TOEFL iBT80–90 for most programs; competitive universities (e.g. TUM) 88–95
- German (TestDaF/DSH)German-taught programs require TestDaF level 4 (TDN 4) or DSH-2
Main intakes
OctoberApril
Typical living cost
€1,050/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionTechnische Universität Darmstadt · Germany
Engineering and Mechanics
The Bachelor of Science programme in Engineering and Mechanics offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, bridging the fields of physics, mathematics, and engineering. This programme is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and skills to tackle complex challenges in various scientific and technical domains. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to advancements in areas such as automotive safety, aerospace, biomechanics, structural engineering, nanotechnology, and more.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Technische Universität Darmstadt · Germany
M.Sc. IT Security
This Master of Science program equips you with the knowledge and skills to combat evolving cyber threats. TU Darmstadt's Department of Computer Science boasts an exceptional faculty with expertise in areas such as IoT security, Artificial Intelligence, and Quantum Computing. The program offers a wide variety of courses, allowing you to tailor your learning experience. You can pursue a comprehensive education across all aspects of IT Security or specialize in a particular niche, providing the flexibility to match your career aspirations.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Technische Universität Darmstadt · Germany
M.Sc. Mechanics
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Technische Universität Darmstadt · Germany
Mechanical Engineering (M.Sc.)
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program is designed for students who have completed a Bachelor's degree and wish to deepen their knowledge in mechanical engineering. This English-language program offers an application-oriented approach, integrating expertise from civil engineering and geodesy, mechanical engineering, mathematics, and physics. It focuses on bridging the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and practical engineering challenges. Students can choose specialized areas within the broad field of mechanics, and a dedicated mentor system provides guidance and support throughout their studies.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Germany
full fundingThe Software Lab (CISPA & University of Stuttgart)
CISPA & University of Stuttgart Software Lab PhD Scholarships
Open to applicants who hold or expect a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, with strong coding skills, an interest in large-scale software projects and the ability to write and present in English (no German required). Candidates should be passionate about high-quality academic research, willing to mentor undergraduate students, and have a long-term vision and persistence for deep research. Positions are filled on a rolling basis as suitable candidates are identified.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingMunich School for Data Science (MUDS)
Munich School for Data Science (MUDS) PhD Scholarships
Open to international students of all nationalities with a strong academic background in computer science, data science, or a related field, or a degree in a domain science (such as life sciences, medicine, health, earth observation, or robotics) or interdisciplinary fields (such as geoinformatics or bioinformatics) with a strong data science emphasis. Applicants need a passion for applying state-of-the-art data science techniques to real-world scientific challenges. Selection is based on academic record, research potential, and motivation.
full
Funding
€55k
Max
May 6, 2027
Deadline
full fundingHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Institute of Hydrogen Technology
Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon PhD Position in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering
Open to applicants who hold a Master's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of metallurgy, slip/twinning mechanisms and the mechanical behaviour of metals. Experience with magnesium (Mg) alloys, micro-compression or SEM techniques is an advantage. Candidates need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international environment. The post is a salaried PhD position open to international applicants.
full
Funding
€55k
Max
May 11, 2027
Deadline
full fundingLeibniz University Hannover
Leibniz University Hannover Soil Science PhD Scholarship
Open to applicants of all nationalities who hold a Master's degree in soil science, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field, are proficient in written and spoken English, and are physically fit for extended fieldwork in tropical regions (Ghana and India). Experience with soil analysis, spectral tools and drone operations is an advantage but not mandatory.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
19d left
Deadline
full fundingForschungszentrum Julich
Forschungszentrum Julich Funded PhD Positions
Open to international applicants who hold a master's degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a related field with strong academic performance, with experience in electrochemical modelling and simulation, knowledge of PEM and AEM electrolyser technology, skills in automation and data analysis (Python, LabVIEW), and proficiency in German and English.
full
Funding
€42k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAlexander von Humboldt Foundation
Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowships (for Postdoctoral and Experienced Researchers)
For researchers from abroad — postdoctoral (normally within 4 years of a PhD) or experienced (within 12 years of a PhD) — to carry out a long-term research stay in Germany with a host of their choice. Selection is on academic record and research potential; applications can be submitted at any time.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at TU Darmstadt?
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TU Darmstadt generally charges no tuition fees for undergraduate or standard postgraduate programs. International students typically only pay a semester administrative fee of approximately EUR 250–350 per semester.
What are the living costs for students in Darmstadt?
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Estimated monthly living costs in Darmstadt range from EUR 800 to EUR 1,100. This estimate covers essential expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and personal costs.
Does TU Darmstadt offer programmes taught in English?
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Yes, TU Darmstadt offers numerous master's programmes taught in English. Prospective students should check specific programme details for language of instruction and any potential additional fees for programmes in partnership with private institutions.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
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Admission requirements vary by degree level. For Bachelor's programmes, a recognized international equivalent to the German Abitur is needed, while Master's programmes require a relevant Bachelor's degree with good academic standing.
What is TU Darmstadt known for?
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TU Darmstadt is a leading technical research university renowned for excellence in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences. It was the first university globally to establish an electrical engineering department and is recognized for its autonomous governance and strategic focus on AI and Cognitive Sciences.
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