Do you want to earn a master’s degree at one of the best universities in the world—without paying a single franc? If so, the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships could be your golden chance.
ETH Zurich ranks #7 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It also holds the #1 spot in Europe. On top of that, the school has produced 22 Nobel laureates, including Albert Einstein himself.
However, studying in Switzerland comes with high living costs. That’s where the Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP) steps in. It covers tuition fees and living costs and even gives you access to mentorship from top professors. As a result, you can focus fully on your studies and research.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about this scholarship—from what it covers to how you can apply.
What Is the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship?
The ESOP is a fully funded merit-based scholarship for master’s students at ETH Zurich. It is open to both national and international students from any country. The ETH Foundation supports this program through funding, mentorship, and networking.
Here’s what makes it so special:
- A grant of CHF 12,000 per semester to cover living and study costs.
- A full tuition fee waiver for the entire program.
- Personal mentorship from ETH faculty and industry experts.
- Access to the ETH Foundation’s professional network, linking you with global researchers and employers.
The scholarship lasts for the full duration of your master’s program. Depending on your field, that means three or four semesters of complete financial support.
For the upcoming cycle, ETH Zurich plans to award roughly 60 ESOP scholarships. However, the exact number depends on available funding each year.
Why Choose ETH Zurich for Your Master’s Degree?
- ETH Zurich is not just another university. Founded in 1855, it is one of the top science and technology schools on earth. Over 20,600 students from more than 120 countries study here, creating a truly global campus.
- Besides its strong rankings, ETH Zurich is known for its real-world impact. Each year, the school produces nearly 100 patents, 200 inventions, and 25 spin-off companies. Moreover, the school partners with industry giants like Google, IBM, and Disney Research.
- Master’s programs are mostly taught in English. You can study engineering, computer science, architecture, natural sciences, mathematics, and management. Because of this, the school draws top talent from every region.
- Regular tuition at ETH Zurich is also very affordable—just CHF 730 per semester for all students. However, from autumn 2025, international fees will rise to CHF 2,190 per semester. With ESOP, even this amount gets fully waived.
- Who Can Apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships?
The ESOP is highly competitive and targets the very best students. To be considered, you must meet these requirements:
- You must rank in the top 10% of your bachelor’s class (equal to a grade A based on self-assessment).
- You need to apply for a master’s program at ETH Zurich through the eApply portal.
- You must submit a pre-proposal for your master’s thesis—your own original work with proper scientific citations.
- If your program does not ask for references, you must provide two reference letters from professors.
- You cannot already be enrolled in a master’s at ETH Zurich. Likewise, you cannot hold an existing master’s degree.
Both local and international students from any country can apply. As a result, students from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas all have an equal shot.
What Fields of Study Does the Scholarship Cover?
ETH Zurich offers master’s programs across 16 departments. The ESOP applies to all of them. Below are the main areas you can study:
| Field of Study | Example Programmes |
|---|---|
| Engineering Sciences | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics |
| Computer Science | Data Science, Cyber Security, Machine Learning |
| Architecture & Civil Engineering | Architecture, Geomatics, Civil Engineering |
| Natural Sciences & Mathematics | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology |
| Management & Social Sciences | Management, Technology & Economics, Political Science |
| System-Oriented Natural Sciences | Environmental Sciences, Food Science, Agricultural Sciences |
Most programs run for three to four semesters. In addition, nearly all master’s courses are taught in English. A few may also require German, so always check the specific requirements.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps carefully to submit a strong ESOP application.
Step 1: Pick your program. Browse ETH Zurich’s master’s offerings and choose one that fits your goals. Then review its entry requirements.
Step 2: Apply online via eApply. Create an account and submit your application through the official portal. For multiple programs, send a separate application for each.
Step 3: Prepare your thesis pre-proposal. Write an original pre-proposal following ETH’s official guidelines. Most importantly, avoid plagiarism—it leads to instant rejection.
Step 4: Upload all documents. Submit your academic transcripts, CV, and reference letters alongside your master’s application. Make sure every file is complete.
Step 5: Submit before the deadline. The window usually opens on 1 November and closes on 30 November. Don’t wait until the last day—technical issues could cost you your spot.
Step 6: Wait for results. Shortlisted candidates may get a phone or video interview in February. After that, final decisions come out by the end of March.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Timing matters when applying for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships. Here’s a quick look at the key dates:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Window Opens | 1 November |
| Application Deadline | 30 November (11:59 PM MEZ) |
| Possible Interviews | February |
| Results Announced | End of March |
| Programme Starts | Autumn semester (September) |
Because the window is only one month long, prepare all documents well in advance. Therefore, start gathering transcripts and writing your thesis pre-proposal at least two months early.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
Competition for the ESOP is fierce. Here are proven tips to help you stand out.
- Aim for top grades. Since the scholarship targets the top 10%, your academic record is the first thing reviewers check. Consequently, strong grades are essential.
- Write an outstanding thesis pre-proposal. Pick a clear, focused topic and back it up with solid sources. In addition, follow the formatting guidelines exactly.
- Choose your referees wisely. Ask professors who know your work well. A generic letter won’t help. Instead, a detailed and personal reference carries much more weight.
- Prepare for the interview. Some candidates get called for a video chat. Because of this, practice talking about your research interests ahead of time.
- Don’t miss the deadline. The November window is very short. After all, even one day late means your application gets rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The ESOP covers CHF 12,000 per semester for living and study costs, plus a full tuition waiver. As a result, you can complete your master’s at no personal cost.
2. Can international students apply?
Absolutely. Students from any country are welcome. There are no limits based on nationality.
3. How many scholarships does ETH Zurich award each year?
About 60 ESOP scholarships are given out per cycle. However, the final number depends on available funds.
4. Do I need to speak German?
Not always. Most master’s programs are in English. On the other hand, a few may require German. Therefore, check your program’s language needs before applying.
Final Thoughts
The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships offer a rare chance to study at a world top-10 university for free. With full tuition coverage, a generous living grant, and access to leading mentors, ESOP removes every financial barrier.
However, the competition is strong and the window is short. Start early, polish your thesis pre-proposal, and submit everything on time.