Introduction: What This Scholarship Is About
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is one of Europe’s most prestigious fully-funded scholarships, designed to attract outstanding international students for Master’s studies in Switzerland. ETH Zurich, ranked among the top universities worldwide, offers this program to nurture future leaders, innovators, and researchers who want to make a global impact.
This scholarship does more than cover tuition – it provides living stipends, mentorship, and academic opportunities that allow scholars to fully dedicate themselves to their studies.
Details About ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
- University: ETH Zurich↗
- Program: Master’s degree programs in all available fields
- Scholarship Type: Fully funded (tuition + living costs)
- Duration: Standard duration of the Master’s program (1.5–2 years)
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025 (for 2026 intake)
Available Fields of Study
ETH Zurich offers a wide range of Master’s programs eligible for ESOP funding, including:
- Architecture & Civil Engineering
- Computer Science, Data Science & Robotics
- Mechanical & Process Engineering
- Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences)
- Mathematics & Computational Sciences
- Environmental Science & Sustainability
- Business, Management & Social Sciences
- Health & Life Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold an excellent academic record (usually GPA in the top 10% of their class).
- Have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent recognized by ETH Zurich.
- Demonstrate strong motivation and leadership potential.
- Provide a comprehensive study and career plan.
- Meet the admission requirements of the chosen Master’s program.
- Apply before the official deadline of 15 December 2025.
Financial Benefits
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship offers:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Living stipend of CHF 12,000 per semester.
- Mentorship and networking support from ETH professors.
- Access to exclusive academic events, workshops, and research opportunities.
- A world-class education at one of Europe’s leading research universities.
Required Documents
When applying, prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose.
- Academic transcripts (certified copies).
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Pre-proposal for Master’s thesis (if required by the program).
- English or German proficiency proof (depending on the program).
- Valid passport copy.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Visit the ETH Zurich admissions portal↗.
- Select your desired Master’s program.
- Create an account and submit your admission application online.
- Indicate in the application that you are applying for the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP).
- Upload all required documents including motivation letter, CV, transcripts, and references.
- Submit before 15 December 2025 to be considered for the 2026 intake.
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview.
- Receive confirmation of your scholarship award and prepare to begin studies in Switzerland.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Studying at ETH Zurich with the Excellence Scholarship gives students the chance to pursue world-class education without financial stress. It’s a life-changing opportunity for those who aim to contribute to cutting-edge research, global problem-solving, and innovation.
