Applying to TU Delft
TU Delft has long attracted ambitious students looking to pursue degrees in technology and engineering. Applying involves much more than simply registering with Studielink: you need to check the entry requirements for your chosen programme, prepare the required documents and meet the application deadlines. For numerus fixus programmes, you will also need to complete a selection process. Planning each step carefully makes the whole process much easier to manage.
Applying to TU Delft: degrees, entrance exams and scholarships
Delft University of Technology, better known as TU Delft, is one of Europe’s most renowned technical universities. It attracts applicants interested in engineering, computer science, architecture, artificial intelligence, robotics, climate science and emerging technologies.
A TU Delft education combines a strong theoretical foundation with hands-on learning. Students work on team projects, analyse real-world problems, use modern laboratories and develop solutions with potential applications in industry, research and business.
Applying to TU Delft takes careful preparation. Depending on the degree level and programme, applicants need to check subject requirements, prepare documents, demonstrate language proficiency and, for the most competitive programmes, complete an additional selection process.
Our advisers can guide you through each stage of the application process and help you give your application the best possible chance of success. Our founder, Szymon Kasprzyk, studied at TU Delft on a scholarship and has spent years helping students apply to his alma mater.
Why choose TU Delft?
Global reputation
TU Delft has a strong reputation in engineering, architecture, computer science, environmental technology and the sciences. Its degrees are recognised by employers and research institutions worldwide.
A practical approach
Much of the curriculum involves team projects, laboratory work and prototyping. Students learn to tackle problems that do not always have a single right answer.
Modern facilities
The campus offers laboratories, design studios, wind tunnels, simulators, collaborative workspaces and extensive sports and student facilities.
An international environment
TU Delft attracts students from around the world, particularly at master’s level. This makes it easier to build an international network and prepares students to work in global teams.
Innovation and entrepreneurship
The university collaborates with companies, start-ups and research institutions. Students can develop their own ideas, take part in interdisciplinary projects and work on technologies that address real societal challenges.
A campus built around innovation
The campus brings together teaching spaces, laboratories, libraries, project workspaces, student organisations, sports, culture and a start-up community.
Dream Teams and student projects
In interdisciplinary Dream Teams, students develop hydrogen-powered vehicles, Hyperloop systems and exoskeletons, among other projects. These projects give students hands-on experience in design, teamwork and project management while they are still at university.
Bachelor’s degrees at TU Delft
Most bachelor’s programmes at TU Delft are taught in Dutch. International applicants can also choose from four programmes taught entirely in English.
Aerospace Engineering
The programme covers the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft and related systems. Students study subjects including aerodynamics, mechanics, structures, materials, propulsion and control systems.
Important: this programme requires a very strong foundation in mathematics and physics and is one of TU Delft’s most competitive programmes.
Computer Science and Engineering
Students study programming, algorithms, data structures, discrete mathematics, computer systems, software engineering and the fundamentals of artificial intelligence.
Previous programming experience is only part of the picture. Analytical skills, a solid grounding in mathematics, logical thinking and a readiness for demanding project work also matter.
Earth, Climate and Technology
This programme combines Earth sciences, climate, energy, data analysis and engineering. It is a good choice for those interested in climate change, natural resources, the energy transition and environmental technologies.
Nanobiology
Nanobiology combines biology, physics, mathematics and technologies used to study organisms at the cellular and molecular levels. The programme is jointly offered by TU Delft and Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Key subjects: mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology.
Subject requirements
TU Delft compares international school qualifications with the Dutch VWO diploma, which prepares students for university education. Each applicant must also meet the subject requirements of their chosen programme.
A strong background in advanced mathematics is particularly important for all English-taught bachelor’s programmes. Depending on the programme, requirements may also include:
- physics,
- chemistry,
- biology,
- proof of English language proficiency.
How does the application process work?
- Register with Studielink, the Dutch university application portal, and select TU Delft, your programme and the year you plan to start.
- Access TU Delft’s application system.
- Upload your documents and enter the details of your education.
- Complete the remaining tasks, including the selection process if it applies to your chosen programme.
If you apply before taking your school-leaving exams, you may receive a conditional offer. You will then need to submit your final results and meet the university’s requirements to secure your place.
Master’s degrees at TU Delft
Unlike the bachelor’s programmes, all master’s programmes at TU Delft are taught in English. The university offers more than 30 programmes.
What does the admissions committee assess?
The admissions committee considers what you studied during your bachelor’s degree, not just the qualification you hold. It may look at:
- your previous field of study,
- your grade point average,
- the courses you have completed,
- the number of ECTS credits in specific subject areas,
- your mathematical and technical background,
- academic projects and your final thesis,
- professional or research experience,
- English language proficiency.
Having a bachelor’s degree with a similar title does not automatically mean you meet the programme’s entry requirements. The committee examines the specific courses you have taken and the skills you have gained during your previous studies.
Application documents
The exact list depends on the programme, but commonly required documents include:
- a bachelor’s degree certificate or confirmation of expected graduation,
- a Transcript of Records listing your courses and grades,
- a CV,
- a motivation letter or personal statement,
- a language certificate,
- an identity document,
- a portfolio for architecture and design programmes,
- additional documents required by the specific programme,
- a strong GRE score.
Building a strong application
Your CV, motivation letter, project work and academic background should tell a consistent story about why you are well prepared for your chosen programme.
Your motivation letter should be tailored to the programme. Explain how your experience has prepared you for it and how it fits your academic or career goals. Simply changing the university’s name in a generic letter is not enough.
Master’s application deadlines
TU Delft does not have a single deadline for all master’s programmes. The deadline depends on factors including:
- your chosen programme,
- your nationality,
- the type of qualification you already hold,
- whether places are limited,
- whether you are applying for a scholarship.
For many programmes, EU applicants can submit their documents until early April. However, some programmes, including those requiring a portfolio or additional selection, may close applications as early as January.
Scholarship deadlines are usually even earlier and may fall at the beginning of December. It is worth starting your preparations in the spring or summer of the year before you intend to begin your studies.
Scholarships at TU Delft
The best-known funding programme is the Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship, intended for outstanding applicants to MSc programmes.
What can the scholarship cover?
The scholarship may cover tuition fees and provide support towards living costs. However, it is highly competitive, and applicants should be among the very best students in their bachelor’s programme.
A scholarship application should be treated as a separate process, rather than simply an extended version of a standard motivation letter.
What strengthens an application?
- academic projects and achievements,
- research experience,
- initiative and independence,
- impact on your community,
- clear career goals,
- a clear fit with your chosen programme and TU Delft’s values.
How much does it cost to study at TU Delft?
Statutory tuition fee for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Many students from Poland qualify for the Dutch statutory tuition fee, provided they meet the relevant conditions regarding nationality, status and previous education. Those who do not qualify pay significantly higher institutional tuition fees.
Other costs to budget for
- accommodation
- food
- insurance
- transport
- study materials
- a housing deposit
- everyday expenses
Common application mistakes
- Starting your accommodation search too late.Finding accommodation in Delft and other Dutch university cities can be difficult, so it is worth starting your search as early as possible.
- Starting your preparation too late.
- Assuming that good grades automatically guarantee admission.
- Assuming that registering with Studielink completes your application.
- Failing to check subject requirements.
- Submitting a generic motivation letter.
- Choosing a master’s programme that does not match your academic background.
- Leaving your language test until too late.
- Overlooking the earlier deadline for scholarship applications.
When should you start preparing?
For Numerus Fixus programmes, it is best to start preparing around a year before your intended start date. master’s applicants should also begin well in advance, particularly if they need a language certificate, references or a portfolio, or want to apply for a scholarship.
How we can help with your application
We support applicants to both bachelor’s and master’s programmes. We can help with:
- choosing the right programme,
- reviewing the requirements,
- planning your application schedule,
- registering with Studielink and TU Delft’s application system,
- preparing CVs and motivation letters,
- preparing a portfolio,
- applying for scholarships,
- preparing for entrance exams,
- keeping track of documents and deadlines.
Tuteer’s founder, Szymon Kasprzyk, graduated from TU Delft after studying there on a scholarship. Our knowledge of the university combines an understanding of its admissions requirements with first-hand experience of student life.