ETH Zurich Scholarship

Choosing the right postgraduate opportunity can redefine your academic future and open doors to global career possibilities.

The ETH Zurich Scholarship, formally known as the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP), offers outstanding international graduates the chance to pursue a Master’s degree at one of the world’s leading universities without worrying about financial constraints.

Established to attract the brightest minds from around the globe, this scholarship covers tuition and provides a living allowance, enabling scholars to immerse fully in ETH Zurich’s vibrant research community. Whether you aim to tackle climate change, advance the frontiers of machine learning, or pioneer new materials, the ETH Zurich Scholarship is your gateway to excellence and innovation.

About ETH Zurich Scholarship

ETH Zurich, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide, renowned for its cutting-edge research and rigorous academic standards. The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme is designed to support exceptional students pursuing a Master’s degree in any of ETH Zurich’s departments. Each year, a limited number of scholarships are awarded to highly qualified candidates whose previous academic achievements demonstrate not only mastery of their field but also the potential for future leadership and innovation.

The scholarship comprises two main components:

• Tuition fee waiver: Covers the full cost of tuition for the duration of the Master’s program.
• Monthly stipend: Provides CHF 12,000 per academic year (pro-rated monthly) towards living expenses.

Apply also: University of Lausanne Scholarship

By alleviating financial barriers, ESOP empowers scholars to focus entirely on their studies and research activities, join collaborative projects, and engage in ETH Zurich’s vibrant scientific community.

Advantages of ETH Zurich Scholarship

1. Financial Security
   Recipients receive a full tuition waiver and a generous living allowance, ensuring that financial concerns do not impede academic progress or limit involvement in extracurricular research activities.
2. Top-Tier Education
   ETH Zurich’s rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities equip scholars with both theoretical foundations and practical skills that are highly valued by industry and academia alike.
3. Research Opportunities
   Scholars gain access to world-class laboratories, interdisciplinary projects, and collaboration with leading researchers, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.
4. Global Network
   Joining ESOP means becoming part of an exclusive cohort of high-achieving peers and alumni, with opportunities to build lasting professional relationships and collaborations worldwide.
5. Career Prospects
   Graduates of ETH Zurich Scholarship programmes are highly sought after in academia, research institutions, and industry, with many securing prestigious PhD positions, postdoctoral fellowships, or leadership roles in global companies.

Requirements for ETH Zurich Scholarship

To be eligible for the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

• Citizenship: Open to all nationalities.
• Academic Background: A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution, completed with outstanding academic results.
• Enrollment Status: Must apply for admission to an eligible Master’s program at ETH Zurich.
• Language Proficiency: Sufficient proficiency in English (and/or German, depending on the program) as specified by the chosen Master’s program.

Apply also: University of Geneva Scholarship

Applicants should carefully check the specific requirements of their intended Master’s program, as some departments may have additional criteria or recommend further qualifications.

Admission Requirements and Required Documents

When applying for both the Master’s program and the ETH Zurich Scholarship, you will generally need to submit:

1. Online Application Form
   Complete the ETH Zurich Master’s admission portal with personal and academic details.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   A detailed academic CV highlighting education, research experiences, internships, publications, and relevant extracurricular activities.
3. Statement of Purpose (Motivation Letter)
   A clear, concise essay (usually 1–2 pages) explaining your academic background, research interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing ETH Zurich.
4. Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates
   Official transcripts and certificates for all post-secondary education, translated into English or German if necessary.
5. Letters of Recommendation
   Two to three academic references who can attest to your scholarly ability, research potential, and suitability for the chosen program.
6. Language Certificates
   Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) or German (if required by the department) with minimum scores as specified by ETH Zurich.
7. Additional Documents (if applicable)
   • GRE scores (if required by the department)
   • Portfolio (for Architecture and related programs)
   • Research proposal (for research-intensive tracks)

   Apply also: University of St. Gallen Scholarship

Ensure that all documents adhere to ETH Zurich’s formatting guidelines and deadlines; late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Admission Criteria and Required Grades

ETH Zurich maintains exceptionally high academic standards. While exact thresholds may vary by department, successful scholarship applicants typically demonstrate:

• Bachelor’s GPA: Top 10% of the graduating class or equivalent (often a minimum of 5.0 on ETH’s 6.0 scale, which corresponds to around a 3.7–4.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale).
• Exceptional Academic Performance: Consistently high grades in relevant core subjects, particularly the foundational courses aligned with the intended Master’s program.
• Research Experience: Demonstrated involvement in research projects, publications, or presentations at conferences can significantly strengthen your application.
• Strong Letters of Recommendation: Endorsements from professors or research supervisors who can highlight your analytical skills, creativity, and work ethic.
• Compelling Motivation: A well-articulated statement of purpose that clearly outlines your interests, objectives, and how ETH Zurich’s program aligns with your aspirations.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the selection process is highly competitive, and only the most outstanding candidates are awarded the scholarship.

How to Apply for ETH Zurich Scholarship

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of securing the ETH Zurich Scholarship:

1. Select Your Master’s Program
   Review the list of eligible Master’s programs on the ETH Zurich website and choose one that aligns with your academic background and research interests.
2. Prepare Your Application Materials
   Gather transcripts, certificates, test scores, and letters of recommendation well in advance. Draft and refine your CV and statement of purpose, tailoring them to emphasize your fit for ETH Zurich and your chosen field.
3. Submit the Master’s Application
   Complete and submit the online application form through ETH Zurich’s Admission portal by the specified deadline (usually mid-December for fall intake).
4. Apply for the Scholarship
   Indicate your interest in the ESOP scholarship directly within the Master’s admission portal—no separate scholarship application is required. Ensure you meet all scholarship eligibility criteria.
5. Track Your Application
   Monitor your email and the admission portal for updates. If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview (in person or via video call).
6. Accept the Offer
   If granted admission and the scholarship, follow the instructions to accept the offer, arrange your visa (if applicable), and plan your relocation to Zurich.
7. Prepare for Arrival
   Once your place is confirmed, organize housing, health insurance, and orientation plans to ensure a smooth start to your studies.

Conclusion

The ETH Zurich Scholarship represents an unrivalled opportunity for ambitious graduates to pursue a world-class Master’s education without financial burdens. From its comprehensive tuition waiver and living stipend to its integration into a dynamic international research community, ESOP equips scholars with the tools and networks needed to excel in their fields.

By submitting a meticulous application that highlights your academic excellence, research experience, and genuine motivation, you position yourself among the world’s elite scholars. Seize this chance to join ETH Zurich and embark on a transformative academic journey that will shape your future and contribute to global innovation.