International Programmes 2026/2027

Preparatory Semester for Engineering Studies: PreBachelor Preparatory Semester for Engineering Studies: PreBachelor

Technical University of Darmstadt • Darmstadt

Course location
Darmstadt
Teaching language
  • German
Date(s)
  • 1 April - 30 September 2027 (registration deadline: 15 February 2027)
Mode of study
Less than 50% online
Phase(s) of attendance in Germany (applies to the entire programme)
Yes, compulsory
Pace of course
Instructor-led (Specific due dates for lectures/assignments/exams)
Additional information on dates, prices and mode of study

The preliminary mathematics course combines online and in-person learning. All other parts of the study preparation programme take place synchronously via video chat or in person.

Description/content

PreBachelor is a comprehensive preparatory semester for Bachelor's degrees in various engineering study programmes at TU Darmstadt. Participants acquire technical German language skills and methodological foundations, while becoming familiar with the university and student life in Germany prior to the start of their studies.

Subject-specific language training: During the intensive German course, you will acquire the technical language skills required for engineering studies at TU Darmstadt. The course develops language proficiency from general level B2 to subject-specific level C1.

Academic preparation: A preparatory mathematics course, consisting of lectures, tutorials, and guided self-study using multimedia materials, enables participants to refresh and strengthen their foundational knowledge in mathematics.

Study skills: Regular training sessions will introduce you to academic learning strategies and teaching methods commonly used in German higher education.

Orientation: The orientation phase will familiarise you with university facilities and learning resources. The programme includes introductions to student advisory services, departmental offices, research institutions (e.g. the European Space Operations Centre), and student organisations.

Social programme: A range of excursions, trips, and social activities is organised in cooperation with International Student Services to support intercultural exchange and integration.

Course components
  • Subject-specific preparation
  • General preparation for studies
  • Preparation for academic working methods
  • Intercultural training
  • Orientation "Living in Germany"
  • Excursions
  • Language course
Further information on the language course / language courses

The intensive German course will take you from level B2 to C1. The focus is on acquiring the technical language skills and subject-specific German required for a Bachelor's programme in engineering at TU Darmstadt.

Recognised language exams offered (e.g. DSH, TestDaF, TOEFL)
Yes
Average number of hours per week
30
Do course participants have student status?
Yes
Further information on subsequent admission to degree programmes/guaranteed admission

After completing the preparatory course, you can directly enrol in Bachelor's programmes with general entry requirements.

Integrated internships

None

Average number of participants per group/course
50
Costs
  • 380 EUR

  • As the project is still in its pilot phase, participation is currently free of charge. Please note that you have to pay a semester fee like any other student at TU Darmstadt. Upon enrolment in the PreBachelor programme, you will receive a semester ticket, which is equivalent to the "Deutschlandticket" and which allows you to use public transport throughout Germany (for a complete list of services, please check the Deutsche Bahn website before starting your journey). You can also have discounted meals at the university’s canteen and other benefits like free entrance to the Landesmuseum, free tickets to certain local theatres, and more.

Academic admission requirements

This programme is aimed at international applicants who are planning to, or have already, applied for a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Sciences (e.g. Business Administration and Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Sciences, Architecture, etc.) at TU Darmstadt. Applicants must have a recognised German-language university entrance qualification and German language proficiency at the B2 level.

German language skills
Minimum B2 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.:
  • Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH): DSH-1
  • Goethe-Zertifikat: Goethe-Zertifikat B2
  • ÖSD Zertifikat: B2
  • Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz (DSD): DSD II
  • Reading: B2
  • Listening: B2
  • Speaking: B2
  • Writing: B2
  • telc Deutsch: telc Deutsch B2
English language skills
No minimum language level required
Submit application via
Please check this website.
Is accommodation organised?
The organiser helps participants look for accommodation.
Accommodation

TU Darmstadt’s Housing International Office supports students in their search for a room or apartment. Please visit the website to register for assistance.

Non-profit student residences in Darmstadt are administered by the Studierendenwerk Darmstadt. Their shared flats, known as “Wohngemeinschaften” (WGs), are particularly popular, so early application is strongly recommended. The Studierendenwerk Darmstadt also offers a housing advisory service to assist with any questions regarding student accommodation.

In addition, a workshop for PreBachelor participants is offered on finding accommodation in Germany, with a particular focus on Darmstadt. The workshop provides an overview of housing options as well as practical tips for a successful search.

Meals

Meals are not provided, but participants can benefit from discounted prices at the university canteens, which offer student rates.

Is a social and leisure programme offered?
Yes
Description of social and leisure programme

You will explore Darmstadt and its surrounding areas with us, including the vibrant Rhine-Main metropolitan region with cities such as Frankfurt, Wiesbaden, and Mainz, as well as destinations beyond, such as Heidelberg and Mannheim.

With the Deutschlandticket that you receive upon enrolment, you can easily travel to these and other nearby cities throughout the semester.

In addition to these excursions, the programme offers a diverse range of cultural and social activities (e.g. with TUtor International) as well as parties and regular evening gatherings.

Free internet access
Yes
Support in visa matters
Yes
Pick-up service from train station/airport
Yes

Technical University of Darmstadt

Content Bild
TU Darmstadt — campus city centre © TU Darmstadt / Jannik Hoffmann

TU Darmstadt – Your Gateway to a Successful Engineering Career

As one of Germany’s leading technical universities, TU Darmstadt offers the perfect environment to begin your journey into engineering. Known for innovation, academic excellence, and international collaboration, TU Darmstadt is the ideal place to launch your future.

Why choose TU Darmstadt?

  • Top rankings: Among the top 15 universities in Germany (QS World University Ranking 2023)

  • Interdisciplinary programmes: Combine mechanical and industrial engineering disciplines for a truly unique learning experience.

  • Outstanding career prospects: TU Darmstadt graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide (QS Graduate Employability Ranking).

  • A hub for innovation: Ranked as one of Europe’s most innovative universities (Reuters Ranking), TU Darmstadt is the perfect place for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Studying at TU Darmstadt means gaining international recognition, shaping your future purposefully, and turning your academic and professional ambitions into reality—starting with the PreBachelor programme.

27.7% of all students at TU Darmstadt are international students.
100% of PreBachelor students who took the exam achieved C1 level in 2024 & 2025.

University location

Discover Darmstadt — A City of Science, Innovation, and Global Connections

Located in the heart of Germany, TU Darmstadt is based in the vibrant city of Darmstadt, just 30 minutes south of Frankfurt. As a recognised City of Science, Darmstadt blends academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a welcoming international atmosphere.

Why Darmstadt is the perfect location for your studies:

  • Excellent connectivity: Just a short train or bus ride from Frankfurt Airport (FRA) — one of Europe’s busiest international airports, offering direct flights to destinations all over the world

  • Centrally located in Europe: From Darmstadt, you can easily explore Germany and beyond. Historical cities like Heidelberg, Mainz, and Wiesbaden are just a short trip away, while charming nearby towns offer authentic glimpses into German culture and everyday life. You can use your student semester ticket to travel around Germany on public transport.

  • Innovation and tech hub: Surrounded by top-tier research institutes, global companies, and dynamic start-ups, Darmstadt is a driver of technological progress.

  • High quality of life: A safe, green, and affordable city with a lively student culture, diverse restaurants, parks, and cultural events all year round

  • Close to nature: Whether it's a stroll in one of Darmstadt’s many parks, a walk through the surrounding forests, or a weekend hike in the Odenwald hills, nature is always just around the corner — perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Darmstadt is more than a place to study — it's a gateway to new ideas, new cultures, and a future full of possibilities.

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