Last updated: March 2026

TL;DR: TUM charges non-EU international students EUR 2,000–3,000/semester for Bachelor's and EUR 4,000–6,000/semester for Master's programs (in effect since winter semester 2024/25). EU citizens, German education graduates, and up to 20% of students on hardship scholarships are exempt.

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Germany's top-ranked universities, known for excellence in research, engineering, and innovation. Since the winter semester of 2024/25, TUM charges tuition fees to non-EU international students, marking a significant shift in Bavaria's higher education funding model.

Why Has TUM Decided to Charge Tuition Fees?

In early 2023, the Bavarian government enacted the 'Higher Education Innovation Act,' giving universities the authority to levy tuition fees on non-EU students. TUM was the first to adopt this policy, with the Technical University of Deggendorf following suit.

The rationale centers on financial sustainability. TUM aims to reinvest tuition revenue into academic quality, infrastructure, and global competitiveness. The fees are exclusively allocated to improving teaching and student services.

Who Is Exempt from Paying Tuition Fees?

Not all international students have to pay. The following groups are exempt:

• Current students enrolled before WS 2024/25: Students who started their degree before the policy took effect are grandfathered in
• German education graduates: Students who earned their higher education entrance qualification (e.g., Abitur) in Germany or completed at least six semesters at a German university
• EU/EEA citizens: Citizens of Germany, EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway
• Established domestic connection: Students who lived in Germany for at least five years before starting studies, or whose parent resided in Germany for three of the last six years with regular employment
• Special cases: Doctoral students, asylum seekers, students with disabilities, exchange program participants, Studienkolleg students, and those in state examination programs

Note: Completing the Studienkolleg final exam does not count as a German university entrance qualification for exemption purposes.

What Are the Tuition Fee Amounts?

TUM sets tuition fees by subject area, typically announced each October:

| Program Level | Tuition Per Semester | |

---|

---| | Bachelor's programs | EUR 2,000 – 3,000 | | Master's programs | EUR 4,000 – 6,000 |

These fees are in addition to the regular semester contribution (EUR 150–400). If you are enrolled in two degree programs simultaneously, tuition fees apply to both.

For context, these amounts are still significantly lower than tuition at comparable universities in the US, UK, or Australia. You can estimate your total costs using our cost calculator.

TUM also appears in the Top 10 Universities for Master's in Mathematics in Germany.

What Are Tuition Fees Used For?

TUM allocates all tuition revenue to improving the student experience:

• Teaching staff and supervision: Recruiting and retaining high-quality professors and mentors
• Equipment and study areas: Upgrading labs, libraries, and co-working spaces
• Innovative teaching formats: Developing interactive and digital learning resources
• Student services: Expanding advisory, counseling, and career support
• Infrastructure: Building and renovating student housing and campus facilities

Scholarships and Fee Waivers

TUM offers waiver scholarships to offset tuition costs for up to 20% of fee-paying students. These are awarded based on:

• Financial hardship: Social or family circumstances that make paying fees a burden
• Academic merit: Strong academic performance can also qualify students for fee waivers

Beyond tuition waivers, TUM provides various other scholarships covering living expenses and study materials. Check TUM's scholarship portal for current offerings.

For broader scholarship options, see our guide on financing your studies in Germany.

Impact on Other Bavarian Universities

TUM's decision has set a precedent in Bavaria, but not all universities have followed:

• Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU): No plans to introduce non-EU tuition fees as of 2026
• Technical University of Deggendorf: Has implemented similar fees
• Other Bavarian universities: Ongoing discussions, with each institution evaluating the policy independently

Outside Bavaria, most German public universities remain tuition-free for all students, except in Baden-Württemberg (EUR 1,500/semester for non-EU students). See our comparison of public vs. private universities for a broader overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did TUM start charging tuition fees?

TUM introduced tuition fees for non-EU international students starting from the winter semester 2024/25. Students who enrolled before this date are not affected and continue studying without tuition fees.

How much are TUM tuition fees for Master's programs?

Master's program tuition at TUM ranges from EUR 4,000 to EUR 6,000 per semester, depending on the subject area. This is in addition to the regular semester contribution of around EUR 150–400.

Can I get a scholarship to cover TUM tuition fees?

Yes. TUM offers waiver scholarships for up to 20% of fee-paying students based on financial hardship and academic merit. Additional scholarships for living expenses are also available through TUM and external organizations like DAAD.

Are doctoral students required to pay tuition fees at TUM?

No. Doctoral students are explicitly exempt from tuition fees at TUM, regardless of their nationality or citizenship status.

Do EU citizens have to pay tuition fees at TUM?

No. Citizens of EU member states, EEA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), and Switzerland are exempt from tuition fees. Only non-EU/EEA international students are subject to the policy.

Are other German universities also introducing tuition fees?

As of 2026, only select Bavarian universities (TUM and TU Deggendorf) and Baden-Württemberg universities charge non-EU students. Most German public universities remain tuition-free for all students.