TU Berlin Exchange Programs USA Canada 2026

TU Berlin International Exchange Programs Overview

Technische Universität Berlin stands as one of Germany’s leading technical universities, and its international cooperation programs with universities across the United States and Canada represent some of the most comprehensive exchange opportunities available to German engineering and science students. Through bilateral agreements, consortium memberships, and foundation-funded scholarships, TU Berlin enables hundreds of students each year to gain invaluable international academic experience at prestigious North American institutions.

The International Affairs office (Internationales) at TU Berlin coordinates these programs, managing everything from partner university relationships to scholarship allocation and application processing. For the 2025-2026 academic year, TU Berlin offers exchange opportunities at more than 15 universities in the USA and Canada, covering fields from aerospace engineering and computer science to mathematics, economics, and even interdisciplinary humanities research.

What makes TU Berlin’s exchange portfolio particularly attractive is the combination of academic prestige and financial support. Most programs include full tuition fee waivers at the host institution, and many offer additional monthly stipends, travel allowances, or foundation-funded scholarships that can cover the majority of living expenses abroad. This comprehensive support structure removes many of the financial barriers that typically prevent students from pursuing international study experiences. For students comparing exchange programs across different European universities, TU Berlin’s offering is remarkably broad in scope.

Partner Universities in the United States

TU Berlin maintains bilateral exchange agreements with some of the most respected universities in the United States, each offering distinct academic strengths and cultural experiences for visiting students.

The University of California system provides access to all UC campuses through the UCEAP (University of California Education Abroad Program), making it one of the most versatile options. Students from all TU Berlin faculties can apply, though they enroll as undergraduates and need a minimum grade average of 2.5 on the German scale. Language requirements include TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5-7.0, or Duolingo 115. This breadth of campus options — from Berkeley to San Diego, Davis to Santa Barbara — allows students to match their specific academic interests with the strongest UC department in their field.

The Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta offers two distinct pathways for TU Berlin students. The standard exchange program is open to all subjects with enrollment as an undergraduate (TOEFL 79, IELTS 6.5), while the prestigious Naumann-Etienne Foundation scholarship targets students in computer science, biotechnology, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering with a higher bar (TOEFL 100) but substantially greater funding including full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend of approximately $1,000.

The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor represents the most competitive option, requiring “very good academic performance” and TOEFL 100 (with sectional minimums of 23 for listening and reading, 21 for speaking and writing). The exchange focuses on engineering sciences, particularly physical engineering, civil engineering, and transportation engineering. For students with the grades to qualify, Michigan provides access to one of the highest-ranked engineering programs in the world. Students interested in comparing Michigan’s offerings with other top programs can browse our complete university directory.

Other notable US partners include Emory University (mathematics Master’s students, with possible research assistantships), the University of Maryland (industrial engineering with focus on operations research and energy economics), Montana State University (all subjects, making it one of the most accessible options), and the University of Washington in Seattle (aerospace engineering, linked to the Reinhardt Abraham scholarship).

Partner Universities in Canada

TU Berlin’s Canadian partnerships offer equally compelling opportunities, with the added advantage of generally lower living costs compared to major US metropolitan areas and a welcoming immigration environment for international students.

McGill University in Montreal, consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offers exchanges for engineering science students through the Antje-Graupe-Pryor Scholarship program (excluding civil and chemical engineering). With TOEFL 90 (all scores minimum 20) or IELTS 6.5 as language requirements, McGill provides access to a world-class research environment in one of North America’s most vibrant and bilingual cities.

The University of British Columbia in Vancouver maintains a focused cooperation with TU Berlin’s Faculty II (Science), particularly through the Faculty of Science partnership. UBC requires TOEFL 90 with specific sectional scores (Reading 22, Listening 22, Writing 21, Speaking 21) or IELTS 6.5 with no section below 6.0. Vancouver consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, offering an exceptional quality of life during the exchange period.

The University of Calgary in Alberta provides opportunities in engineering sciences through the Antje-Graupe-Pryor Scholarship (excluding civil and chemical engineering) or through TU Berlin’s partial scholarship program. Calgary’s proximity to the Canadian Rockies and its strong energy sector create unique opportunities for engineering students interested in natural resource industries.

Carleton University in Ottawa focuses specifically on economics and Wirtschaftsingenieurwesen (industrial engineering and management), making it an ideal destination for students in those fields. Notably, engineering subjects are excluded from this particular exchange. École Polytechnique de Montréal offers engineering exchanges with a unique twist: classroom instruction is in French, making it the only program requiring French language certification, though final papers and research projects can be completed in English.

The University of Victoria rounds out the Canadian options with a specialized program focusing on interdisciplinary research, particularly in antisemitism studies through the Faculty of Humanities. This niche offering makes it an exceptional choice for students in TU Berlin’s Faculty I who wish to pursue humanistic research in a North American context.

TASSEP Transatlantic Science Exchange Program

The Transatlantic Science Students Exchange Program (TASSEP) represents a unique multilateral framework that has been facilitating scientific exchange between European and North American universities since its founding in 1994. Originally emerging from ERASMUS coordinator activities, TASSEP focuses specifically on natural sciences: chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology.

Through TASSEP, TU Berlin students can access the University of Florida in Gainesville (USA) and five Canadian universities: the University of Calgary, McMaster University in Hamilton, Université de Montréal, Queen’s University in Kingston, and the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. Each institution brings particular strengths in different scientific disciplines, allowing students to target the program that best matches their research interests.

TASSEP exchanges typically run for one or two semesters, starting in August or September and potentially extending through April or May of the following year. The program includes tuition fee waivers and possibly a merit scholarship from TU Berlin, though the monthly stipend is subject to budget availability. Students interested in TASSEP should note that it is also available for student research projects and final theses, making it a flexible option for different stages of academic study. The consortium approach of DAAD-supported programs ensures quality assurance across all participating institutions.

Scholarships and Financial Support Available

One of the strongest aspects of TU Berlin’s exchange programs is the comprehensive financial support available to participating students. Multiple funding sources can be combined to create packages that significantly reduce the financial burden of studying in North America.

The base scholarship package available to most exchange students includes a tuition fee waiver at the partner university (worth $15,000-$60,000 annually depending on the institution) and a merit scholarship from TU Berlin of approximately €450 per month. This monthly stipend is subject to budget availability but provides essential support for living expenses. Students receiving BAföG should apply for BAföG abroad at the responsible office immediately after nomination.

The Naumann-Etienne Foundation offers the most generous funding for Georgia Tech exchanges: up to two years of support including full tuition coverage, approximately $1,000 per month for living expenses, and an annual travel lump sum. Only 2-3 scholarships are awarded annually to TU Berlin students, making this extremely competitive but exceptionally rewarding for successful applicants.

The Reinhardt Abraham Scholarship Foundation (RASF), established in 1996 as a joint initiative of Boeing Company and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, provides two distinct programs. The Student Exchange Program at University of Washington covers travel costs and provides approximately $1,000 monthly for six months. The Boeing Trainee Program offers up to six months at Boeing facilities in Seattle with covered travel and visa costs plus an appropriate salary from Boeing.

The Antje-Graupe-Pryor Scholarship specifically supports engineering students (excluding civil and chemical engineering) at the University of Calgary and McGill University, providing an additional funding pathway for Canadian exchanges. Combined with the standard TU Berlin scholarship, this creates a comprehensive support package for Canadian-bound students.

Fulbright scholarships add another layer of funding possibility, with study grants up to $40,000 for nine months or $20,000 for four months at US universities. TU Berlin exchange participants can also access Fulbright travel scholarships of approximately €1,350 plus €650 for additional costs, specifically reserved for participants in TU Berlin’s USA programs.

Fulbright Scholarships for TU Berlin Students

The Fulbright Commission offers some of the most prestigious and well-funded scholarship opportunities for German students pursuing study in the United States. For TU Berlin students, Fulbright represents both a standalone pathway and a complement to existing exchange programs.

The Fulbright Study Scholarship provides up to $40,000 for two terms (approximately nine months) or up to $20,000 for one term (four months) of graduate studies at American universities. This substantial funding can cover a significant portion of tuition, living expenses, and incidental costs. However, scholarship holders should be prepared to contribute their own funds if total costs exceed the award amount, particularly at high-cost institutions in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Boston.

What makes Fulbright particularly valuable is its prestige in the United States. A Fulbright designation is widely recognized and respected across American academia and the professional world, providing networking opportunities and a credential that extends well beyond the financial support itself. The selection process is rigorous but rewards candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, clear research motivation, and genuine cultural curiosity.

For TU Berlin students already accepted into a bilateral exchange program, the Fulbright Travel Scholarship provides a targeted benefit: a travel allowance of approximately €1,350 plus €650 for additional costs, specifically reserved for participants in TU Berlin’s USA exchange programs. This scholarship operates on a separate timeline and should be applied for through the INT SB office.

Application deadlines for Fulbright differ from TU Berlin’s internal deadlines. The main Fulbright study scholarship application typically closes at the end of August for the following academic year, meaning students need to plan well in advance. All requirements, instructions, and documents are available through the German Fulbright Commission website.

Application Process and Required Documents

The application process for TU Berlin exchange programs follows a dual-submission system that requires both digital and physical copies of all documents. Understanding this process thoroughly is essential, as only complete applications submitted by the deadline are considered — there are no exceptions or late submissions.

All applications must be submitted digitally via Mobility Online, TU Berlin’s official application portal for international mobility programs. Simultaneously, a complete paper version must be sent by post to the Department of Student Mobility and International Students (Studierendenmobilität und Internationale Studierende) at Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin. Alternatively, paper applications can be handed in at the porter’s desk at the main building entrance or placed in the letterbox outside room H0041.

The standard application package consists of ten required documents that apply across most programs. These include the application form generated through the Mobility Online portal, a tabular CV in English (and/or French or German, 1-2 pages), a Statement of Purpose (1-2 pages covering academic and personal motivations), and a detailed Study Plan with proposed course lists or project descriptions including supervision confirmations.

Students applying to multiple universities must prepare separate Statements of Purpose and Study Plans for their second and third priority choices, demonstrating genuine interest in each institution rather than simply ranking preferences. This requirement ensures that partner universities receive applications from students who have thoughtfully considered what each institution offers.

Additional documents typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency certificates (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or ZEMS certificates depending on the program), two letters of recommendation from TU Berlin professors, and proof of enrollment. The specific combination varies slightly by program — for instance, the Boeing Trainee Program requires only one letter of recommendation rather than two. Students exploring other exchange program guides will find that TU Berlin’s documentation requirements are relatively standard among German technical universities.

Eligibility Requirements and Language Scores

Understanding the eligibility criteria and language requirements for each TU Berlin exchange program is crucial for applicants to target the right opportunities and prepare adequately. Requirements vary significantly across partner universities, and applying to programs for which one does not meet the minimum criteria wastes valuable time during the competitive application cycle.

The universal eligibility requirements apply to all exchange programs: enrollment at TU Berlin, completion of at least three successful semesters in a Bachelor’s program by the scholarship start date, above-average academic performance, and good English language skills. Master’s students face an additional constraint — most programs require them to apply by their second semester at the latest.

Language requirements vary dramatically across partner universities. At the most accessible end, Montana State University and the University of Kentucky require TOEFL 71, IELTS 6.0, or Duolingo 105-110. Mid-range requirements at institutions like the University of California (TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5-7.0) and McGill University (TOEFL 90, all sections minimum 20) represent the typical standard. At the top end, the University of Michigan demands TOEFL 100 with specific sectional minimums, and the Naumann-Etienne Foundation program at Georgia Tech also requires TOEFL 100.

Students should note that some universities accept Duolingo English Test scores in addition to TOEFL and IELTS, providing a more affordable and accessible testing option. The University of California accepts Duolingo 115, Montana State accepts 110, and the University of Michigan requires 130 with sectional minimums of 120. However, not all partner universities recognize Duolingo, so applicants should verify acceptance before choosing this test format.

For École Polytechnique de Montréal, the language situation is unique: classroom instruction is conducted in French, requiring a ZEMS French certificate for course attendance, while final papers and research projects may be completed in English. This program is ideal for students with strong bilingual capabilities or those specifically seeking a francophone academic experience.

Naumann-Etienne and Reinhardt Abraham Foundations

Two private foundations provide exceptional funding opportunities that elevate TU Berlin’s exchange programs well beyond standard scholarship offerings. These foundation-funded programs are among the most prestigious and well-supported exchange opportunities available to German engineering students.

The Naumann-Etienne Foundation scholarship targets students in four specific fields: computer science, biotechnology, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering (technical specialization only). This program funds completion of a one to two-year Master’s program at Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, making it fundamentally different from semester-long exchange programs. The scholarship covers full tuition fees (facilitated through participation as a teaching assistant), approximately $1,000 per month for living expenses and accommodation, and an annual lump sum for travel.

With only 2-3 scholarships awarded per year to TU Berlin students (and a small number from other European technical universities), the Naumann-Etienne Foundation is extremely selective. Candidates are evaluated on academic performance, English language skills (TOEFL 100), a convincing justification for their study project, and personality traits including communication and teamwork skills. Selected students may also need to pass Georgia Tech’s own admission criteria, which may include the GRE test.

The Reinhardt Abraham Scholarship Foundation (RASF), established in 1996 through a joint initiative of Boeing Company and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, honors the legacy of Reinhardt Abraham, a former Chairman of the Executive Board who studied physics, industrial engineering, and aeronautical engineering at TU Berlin. The foundation operates two programs.

The Student Exchange Program (SEP) at the University of Washington in Seattle funds six months (two trimesters) starting in September, covering travel costs in cooperation with Lufthansa and providing approximately $1,000 monthly for living expenses. Eligibility is restricted to students of aerospace engineering or related subjects who have completed their Bachelor’s and are enrolled in a Master’s program.

The Boeing Trainee Program (TP) provides up to six months of practical experience at Boeing Company facilities in Seattle, focusing on commercial aviation. This program covers travel and visa costs and includes an appropriate salary from Boeing. It targets Master’s students in engineering, economics, computer science, or related subjects with a focus on aerospace. Selection is conducted by representatives of Boeing and Lufthansa, and the application deadline (January) differs from the main November deadline for other programs.

Tips for a Successful TU Berlin Exchange Application

Based on the program structure and selection criteria outlined in TU Berlin’s official materials, several strategic approaches can significantly strengthen an exchange application.

Start language preparation early. Given that TOEFL scores are valid for two years, beginning preparation a full year before the application deadline is wise. This allows time for retaking the test if initial scores fall short of target requirements. For the most competitive programs (Michigan, Georgia Tech Naumann-Etienne), aiming for TOEFL 100+ requires sustained preparation that cannot be compressed into a few weeks.

Tailor each Statement of Purpose individually. The requirement to submit separate statements for priority universities is not merely administrative — selection committees at each partner university evaluate these documents. Generic statements that could apply to any institution are immediately apparent and significantly weaken an application. Research each university’s specific strengths, faculty research areas, and courses that align with your academic goals.

Secure strong letters of recommendation. Two professors from TU Berlin must support your application, and their letters should speak specifically to your readiness for an international academic experience. Approach professors well in advance of the deadline, provide them with information about the target university and program, and give them at least four weeks to write a thoughtful letter.

Develop a detailed and realistic study plan. Vague course selections or project descriptions signal lack of preparation. Review the partner university’s course catalog thoroughly, identify specific courses by number and title, and explain how they complement your TU Berlin curriculum. For thesis-related exchanges, having a preliminary research question and confirmed supervision from both institutions demonstrates serious commitment.

Apply for multiple funding sources simultaneously. TU Berlin’s scholarship can be combined with BAföG abroad, Fulbright travel grants, and in some cases foundation funding. Mapping out all available funding sources and applying for each one maximizes the chance of adequate financial support. The DAAD website is an excellent resource for identifying additional scholarship opportunities beyond what TU Berlin directly offers.