Established in 1842, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a leading public technical university located in Delft, the Netherlands. It is the largest and oldest technical university in the country, with a student population of approximately 26,500 students (latest official figures as of Dec 2025). Nearly 29%+ of the student community is international, reflecting its strong global appeal. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, TU Delft ranks #47 globally, while THE World University Rankings 2026 places it among the global top 60 universities. Internationally recognized for its excellence in Engineering & Technology, TU Delft consistently ranks among Europe’s most prestigious institutions for technical education.
TU Delft matters for international students due to the following reasons:
- Ranked among the top engineering universities in Europe
- Wide range of English-taught Master’s programs
- Strong research funding and innovation output
Key Statistics
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public technical university |
| Established | 1842 |
| Location | Delft, Netherlands (between Rotterdam and The Hague) |
| Campus Size | ~161 hectares (TU Delft Campus) |
| Student Enrollment | ~26,505 students (latest official) |
| International Students | ~28.4% of the student body (official) |
| Popular Courses | MSc courses in Data Science, Architecture, Urbanism & Building Sciences, Computer Science |
| Annual Tuition | - BSc: 19,906 EUR (21.70 lakhs INR) - MSc: 25,633 EUR (27.95 lakhs INR) |
Currency conversion used: 1 EUR= 107.14 INR as of March 3, 2026
TU Delft Rankings 2026
TU Delft is consistently ranked among the top engineering universities globally. It maintains national leadership and strong subject performance, especially in engineering, civil, and architecture disciplines.
Here’s how Delft University of Technology ranks in the most recognized global university tables for the latest cycles:
- QS World University Rankings 2026: #47 globally, and #1 in the Netherlands among all universities.
- Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026: #57 globally while still retaining the top spot nationally.
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2025: TU Delft is positioned in the 151-200 band globally.
TU Delft’s technical excellence shows strongly in subject-focused rankings, especially in core engineering domains. Visit TU Delft rankings to know more.
TU Delft Programs and Fees
From aerospace engineering to architecture, TU Delft offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across eight faculties. Its curriculum emphasizes practical learning, research, and innovation.
Popular MSc Programs at TU Delft
Most of the full-time MSc courses at TU Delft are 2 years long and start in September. As an Indian student (non-EU/EEA), you will pay the institutional tuition fee of 25,633 EUR (27.57 lakhs INR) for MSc programs, which is uniform across most programs. All programs are taught in English and require English proficiency from Indian students, as demonstrated by IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 100.
Entry requirements of a few popular MSc courses at TU Delft are tabulated below:
| Program | Entry Requirements | Tips for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|
| MSc Data Science and Technology | - Relevant BSc degree (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Math) with a minimum of 75% | - Popular choice - Focus on programming & AI experience in the motivation letter |
| MSc Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences | - Relevant BSc in Architecture/Design/Built Environment with 75% | - A digital portfolio is crucial. Prepare strong design work samples |
| MSc Computer Science | - BSc in computer science or related with 75% - Solid programming & algorithms knowledge |
- Highly competitive course - Highlight projects/internships in the motivation letter to stand out |
| MSc Mechanical Engineering | - BSc in Mechanical/related engineering with 75% | - Diverse program, good for research-focused students |
| MSc Aerospace Engineering | - BSc degree in Aerospace/Mechanical with 75%+ - Strong physics/math background preferred |
- Competitive course - Apply by Dec 1 for scholarship consideration |
| MSc Civil Engineering | - BSc in Civil/Structural with 75% | - Focus on infrastructure/sustainability in the motivation letter |
| MSc Construction Management and Engineering | - BSc in Civil/Construction/Engineering with 75% | - Good for students looking for a management + engineering blend |
| MSc Robotics | - BSc in Robotics/Mechatronics/Comp Sc/Electrical Eng with 75%+ - Strong programming & control systems knowledge |
- Emerging field - Highlight robotics projects (if any) in the motivation letter |
Popular BSc Courses at TU Delft
The bachelor’s courses at TU Delft are 3 years long and start in September. Unlike MSc courses, BSc courses are taught in both Dutch and English, with some courses taught solely in Dutch.
- For English-taught courses, Indian students must submit:
- IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
- For Dutch-taught courses, Indian students must submit:
- IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 70
- Proof of Dutch proficiency*
| Program | Entry Requirements | Numerus Clausus / Selection? | Tips for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSc Computer Science and Engineering | - Indian 12th (CBSE/ICSE/State) with 75% overall - Strong Math & Physics/Chemistry/Computer Science |
Yes | - Extremely competitive - Highlight coding projects, Olympiads, or internships.- Strong math/programming background is essential |
| BSc Aerospace Engineering | - 12th with high scores in Math & Physics | Yes- Strict numerus clausus (440 places for 2026-2027) | - One of the most prestigious & competitive BScs worldwide - Prepare for selection (academic aptitude test, essays) - Strong JEE-level preparation might help |
| BSc Applied Earth Sciences | - 12th with Math, Physics, Chemistry with 75%+ | - No (admission based on meeting requirements) | - Focuses on geology, environment, energy, & sustainability in SOP - Good for students interested in the climate/tech intersection. |
| BSc Nanobiology | - 12th with strong Biology, Chemistry, Math/Physics with 75% | - No (direct admission if requirements are met) | - Joint program with Erasmus University Rotterdam (Erasmus MC) - Ideal if you like biotech/nanotech - Prepare strong motivation for nano-bio. |
*Dutch proficiency: If you do not know Dutch, you must complete TU Delft’s one-year Dutch preparatory course. With limited knowledge of Dutch, you must take a placement test to determine which language courses are required. With advanced Dutch (B2 or higher), you must pass a language assessment. Applicants with specific Dutch-taught secondary diplomas (such as IB with Dutch A or European Baccalaureate with Dutch) are considered to meet the language requirement already.
Most Asked Question
Ques: What is Numerus Clausus (NC)?
Ans: At TU Delft, numerus clausus refers to a government-approved cap on the number of students who can be admitted to certain high-demand Bachelor’s programs. Instead of offering admission to all qualified applicants, TU Delft limits intake to a fixed number of seats and uses a competitive selection process to rank applicants. Applicants must participate in TU Delft’s selection procedure (which includes online tests, assignments, or assessments), and students are admitted based on ranking until all seats are filled.
TU Delft Admissions
TU Delft’s primary intake for both BSc and MSc programs is September, with applications opening in mid-October of the previous year. Classes for the first semester start in the first week of September for both study levels.
To apply to TU Delft for the September 2026 intake, all applicants must use the national Dutch university portal, Studielink, for their initial registration. After registering in Studielink, applicants complete their submission by uploading documents through TU Delft’s own application systems (Osiaan/online portal).
TU Delft Application Process
- Applications are made through Studielink (the Dutch national portal) and then through TU Delft’s online system.
- An application fee of 100 EUR (10,760 INR) is required for both BSc and MSc applicants.
- Application deadline:
- April 1, 2026, for BSc courses without NC and MSc courses
- January 15, 2026 (closed now) for BSc courses with NC and select MSc courses
- Indian students are treated as non-EU applicants and need a student residence permit/visa, which TU Delft helps arrange after admission.
- You must have a strong academic background in relevant subjects (especially Mathematics and Physics for engineering).
| Category | Key Requirements for Indian Students |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (BSc) | - Class 12 must be equivalent to Dutch VWO (pre-university level) - Many programs are numerus clausus (limited seats) with a selection process. |
| Master’s (MSc) | - Must have a relevant Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university - Degree must closely match the TU Delft program content - Some programs may require GRE or other additional tests. |
| English Language | IELTS or TOEFL required if prior education was not fully in English. Minimum scores are program-specific. |
| Key Documents | Academic transcripts and certificates, CV, motivation letter, proof of English, passport, and digital portfolio (for design/architecture programs). |
To know more about requirements, course-specific deadlines, visit TU Delft admissions 2026.
Reddit Discussions about TU Delft Admissions:
Admissions are seen as straightforward if you meet the requirements, but highly competitive for numerus fixus bachelor’s programs like Aerospace Engineering and Computer Science. Many international students, including those from India and Asia, discuss GPA cut-offs, early applications, and the need to apply early for housing. Check out the general application deadlines for the Netherlands for a clear picture.
In this video, the speaker is talking about the academic, social & financial fit of the university, including admission requirements and useful application tips.
TU Delft Cost of Living
The cost of living in Delft for international students is moderate compared to other major Dutch cities like Amsterdam. However, housing remains the biggest expense due to high demand and limited supply. According to the official website of TU Delft, the annual cost of living is estimated at 14,200 EUR (15.27 lakhs INR).
An estimated breakdown of monthly living costs for international students in Delft is as follows:
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Rent) | €500 - €1,350 | 52,500- 1.41 lakhs |
| Food / Groceries | €200 - €350 | 21,000- 36,750 |
| Health Insurance | €100 - €130 | 10,500- 13,650 |
| Transport | €50 - €100 | 5,250- 10,500 |
| Books / Study Materials | €30 - €70 | 3,150- 7,350 |
| Mobile / Internet | €20 - €40 | 2,100- 4,200 |
| Leisure / Personal / Miscellaneous | €100 - €200 | 10,500- 21,000 |
| Total Monthly Estimate | €900 - €1,300 | 94,500- 1.36 lakhs |
Student discussions on public forums such as Reddit suggest that securing accommodation at TU Delft is very difficult for international students due to the housing crisis in the Netherlands. TU Delft’s housing service is considered the most reliable option, but it is limited, not guaranteed, and fills up quickly. Many students have to live in nearby cities like The Hague or Rotterdam and commute. High rent, scams, and temporary housing are common concerns.
TU Delft Scholarships for International Students
TU Delft offers very limited scholarships for international students. MSc applicants are eligible for an excellence scholarship and faculty-specific scholarships (Applied Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science).
| Scholarship | Award Value | Eligibility | Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faculty Scholarship (Microelectronics) | Full tuition fees | International students with at least 80% marks in their bachelor’s from a recognized non-Dutch university. Must be (conditionally) admitted to the MSc in Electrical Engineering (Microelectronics). | MSc Electrical Engineering (Track: Microelectronics) |
| QuTech Scholarship | Full tuition fees | International students with at least 80% GPA in their bachelor’s from a recognized non-Dutch university. Must be (conditionally) admitted to specific MSc programs. | MSc in Quantum Information, Applied Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Embedded Systems |
| Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships | Full tuition fees per year for a TU Delft MSc course + living expenses | Excellent international applicants, conditionally admitted to one of the 2-year regular TU Delft MSc programs | All programs except the International Joint Education |
Note: International undergraduate students may be eligible for a study grant while studying at TU Delft. Contact your respective academic department for more information. Visit the scholarships in the Netherlands for external scholarships.
TU Delft Campus Facilities & Student Life
The TU Delft Campus is a vibrant, innovation-driven environment that blends education, research, entrepreneurship, and community living. It has modern academic buildings, shared workspaces, green outdoor areas, cafes, and facilities. The Stevin area on campus is a key hub with student housing, teaching spaces, supermarkets & cafés. Additionally, TU Delft has:
- One of Europe’s leading technical university libraries
- Extensive digital research databases
- Advanced engineering labs across all faculties
- “Living Lab” campus for sustainability & climate innovation
- Close collaboration with the European tech ecosystem
- Wide range of sports clubs (team + individual)
TU Delft vs Other Top Dutch Universities
A quick comparison between TU Delft and other Dutch universities is given below:
| Feature | TU Delft | Eindhoven University of Technology | University of Amsterdam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Public Technical University | Public Technical University | Public Research University |
| Established | 1842 | 1956 (technical roots 1912) | 1632 |
| QS World Ranking 2026 | #47 | #140 | #53 |
| THE World Ranking 2026 | #57 | #192 | #62 |
| Core Strength | Engineering & Technology | Engineering, Applied Sciences | Social Sciences, Business, Humanities, AI |
| Industry Focus | Strong European tech ecosystem | Strong high-tech & semiconductor ecosystem | Strong corporate & finance ecosystem (Amsterdam hub) |
| Research Intensity | Very High (STEM-focused) | High (Tech-focused) | Very High (Broad disciplines) |
| Best For | Aerospace, Civil, Robotics, Sustainable Tech | Embedded Systems, Automotive, Data Science | Economics, Psychology, AI, Communication |
Interpretation:
- TU Delft leads nationally in global engineering reputation and technical research depth.
- Eindhoven University of Technology is highly industry-integrated, especially in the Netherlands’ semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing ecosystem.
- The University of Amsterdam offers broader academic diversity with a strong global standing in social sciences and business fields.
From an academic standpoint, TU Delft’s strength lies in research intensity, selective admissions (especially numerus clausus programs), and strong STEM specialization. Programs such as Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, and Civil Engineering attract top-tier applicants, including Indian students.
Financially, tuition (EUR 25,633 for MSc) plus living costs (~EUR 14,200 annually) make TU Delft a premium European study option among the higher tuition public universities in the Netherlands for non-EU students. Though still more affordable than comparable US or UK engineering schools. However, scholarships are limited and highly competitive, meaning most students should be financially prepared.
FAQs
Ques: Is TU Delft hard to get into?
Ans: Yes, TU Delft is competitive, especially for numerus clausus programs like Aerospace Engineering and Computer Science. Admission is straightforward if you fully meet academic and subject prerequisites, but selection-based bachelor’s programs and popular MSc courses attract strong international applicants, making competition high for limited seats.
Ques: What GPA is required for TU Delft?
Ans: For most MSc programs, Indian students are expected to have at least 75% or equivalent in a relevant bachelor’s degree. Highly competitive programs (e.g., Aerospace, Robotics, Computer Science) often require strong subject alignment and academic consistency beyond the minimum threshold.
Ques: Is IELTS mandatory?
Ans: Yes, IELTS or TOEFL is generally mandatory if prior education was not entirely in English. Most MSc programs require IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100, while English-taught BSc programs require IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90. Requirements may vary slightly by program.
Ques: What is the tuition fee?
Ans: For non-EU students (including Indians), tuition is approximately €19,906 per year for BSc and €25,633 per year for MSc programs. Living expenses are estimated at around €14,200 annually, making total yearly costs roughly €34,000–€40,000 depending on lifestyle.
Ques: Is Delft good for Computer Science?
Ans: Yes. TU Delft is globally recognized for Engineering & Technology and offers a strong MSc in Computer Science. The program is competitive, research-driven, and closely aligned with AI, data science, and systems engineering, with strong links to the European tech ecosystem.
Ques: Does TU Delft offer scholarships for Indians?
Ans: Yes, but scholarships are limited and highly competitive. Indian students can apply for the Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship, faculty-specific awards (e.g., Microelectronics), and select research-based scholarships. Most awards cover full tuition, sometimes with living support.
Delft University of Technology Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | Grade: 75%+, Toefl: 5.0, Ielts: 7.0 | ||
Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | Grade: 75%+, Toefl: 5.0, Ielts: 7.0 | ||
M.S Computer Science 2 years | Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | 75% in bachelors, TOEFL: 5.0, IELTS: 7.0 | |
MS Mechanical Engineering 2 years | Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | Grade: 75%+, Toefl: 5.0, Ielts: 7.0 | |
M.S Aerospace Engineering 2 years | Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | 75% in bachelors, TOEFL: 5.0, IELTS: 7.0 | |
Confirmation Statement deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Jun 2026) Full Payment deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Jul 2026) | USD 23,091 /Yr EUR 19,906 /Yr | 100 | IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 5.0 | - | |
B.S Aerospace Engineering 3 years | Confirmation Statement deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Jun 2026) Full Payment deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Jul 2026) | USD 23,091 /Yr EUR 19,906 /Yr | 100 | IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 5.0 | - |
MS Civil Engineering 2 years | Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | 75% in bachelors, TOEFL: 5.0, IELTS: 7.0 | |
Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | 75% in bachelors, TOEFL: 5.0, IELTS: 7.0 | ||
M.Sc Robotics 2 years | Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) Payment deadline (1st Jul 2026) | USD 29,734 /Yr EUR 25,633 /Yr | 100 | 75% in bachelors, TOEFL: 5.0, IELTS: 7.0 |
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Important Alerts
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering Application Deadline for 2026 Intake | Closing in 20 days |
| Civil Engineering Application Deadline for 2026 Intake | Closing in 20 days |
| Construction Management and Engineering Application Deadline for 2026 Intake | Closing in 20 days |
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Delft University of Technology Reviews
6 Reviews Found
Likes
- Hands on approach: strong emphasis on practical, research based learning and real world problem solving
- International exposure that encourages collaboration and cultural exchange
- Excellent support from faculty and academic staff
Dislikes
- -You have to be a lot independent in your studies
- Limited feedback during some courses because of large class size
- Dutch language is a must if you want to work after
Campus Life
-
Faculties-
- Civil Engineering and Geoscience
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
- Architecture
- Aerospace
- Industrial Design Engineering
- Technology and Policy Management
- Then we have TU Delft Aula (Library), Sports Centre (X)
- Many student associations and clubs are there like study associations, energy clubs, etc.
Fees
- The fee structure is provided on the university’s website clearly. Around 21,000 euros per year for non-EU students. Extra 12,000 euros per year for accommodation if taken from university
- The fee is charged for the entire academic year. There is also option to pay in instalments (9 instalments)
- Estimated expenses: 120 - groceries
- 850- rent
- Transportation- 150
- Miscellaneous- 200
Likes
- International student community
- Good campus life
- Good curriculum
Dislikes
- Can get hectic at times.
- Weather in NL in general can be unpredictable.
Campus Life
- Just one campus in Delft, each faculty can have a student association which can organise events/bridge gap between prof and student. Also helps in networking with other colleagues.
- Very big library where you can work, excellent research facilities, very good sports complex too where you can play various sports.
Fees
- During my time it was 18375 euros for 1st year and 19000ish for second year. Now I think it has risen over 20k euros per year.
Overview
I did a bit of research. I also had a few seniors over here so, I knew about it.
Campus Life
We can get into sports, music, dance, everything is there. We have proper cultural calls to do a lot of co-curricular activities. We also have a lot of celebrations. We have an Indian Association. We celebrate Diwali, Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, etc. There are proper programs like dance and music programs. We have a lot of cultural activities over here especially Indian festivals.
Overview
Ranking within top 100 in the world, high research output, good professors who did PhD and post-docs in reputed colleges, including ivy league colleges, affordable education, competitive environment, international-friendly place to live in, no language barrier, large indian community, BSA requirement which increases the standard of education, courses taught in english, offers a challenging honours program in the second year and minor abroad opportunity in the third year for students with good study progress, courses are challenging and not a cake-walk
Overview
The university ranks no.1 in the QS world ranking for water management courses. That's the reason for my application to this university. Monetary-wise, the expenses are less when compared to the USA and Australia (Where I had my other admissions from). My interest always lied in wastewater treatment and reuse. Hence, I really wanted to do masters in this stream. Politically as well, The Netherlands has zero racism. You are allowed to be yourself without people judging you. The crime rates are so less that they are starting to close prisons. It was also one of the key parameters in choosing the university.
Fees
Lastly, the total fees for tuition and stay per year would be 30,000 euros per year. It is 18,000 for tuition and 12000 for stay and other expenses. Other expenses can change according to the lifestyle you wish to choose. (From 8500 euros/yr to 12000/yr)
Overview
Among the 'space' related specializations offered, this university had the top rank. I focussed on non-USA universities only, because space field coming under the purview of defence in USA, thus restricting job opportunities for non-citizens.
Campus Life
Plethora of clubs exist, ranging from very technical to very cultural. There's also a facility at the campus where you can get involved in sports, games, gym, arts, crafts, reflection & lifestyle related events, projects, daily activities. Each department has their own research facilities and relevant equipments that can be used by students. A huge library exist on campus. You can go and read / work there. There are also computer labs that you can use, minimizing the need to carry your laptop to the university. Their are quiet rooms, and also rooms where you can do meetings with fellow students for projects and assignments. All buildings have cafeterias and many have microwaves too.
Delft University of Technology Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TU Delft Holland Scholarship | Scholarship per student$5,445 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Scholarship per student$4,530 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Orange Knowledge Programme | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Holland Scholarship- Leiden University | Scholarship per student$5,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored |
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Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
Faculty
| Total Faculty | Full Time | Part Time | Graduate Assistants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1365 | - | - | 188 |
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Comments
Found 9 Comments
The application deadline for individuals with non-EU/EFTA citizenship and an international Bachelor's degree was January 15, 2024. So, you can try for 2026.
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