Are you a top-tier international student looking to pursue a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)? The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships offer the perfect opportunity to fund your education and propel your career in a prestigious academic environment. With its globally recognized reputation for innovation and research, ETH Zurich is the ideal place for ambitious students eager to make an impact in their fields.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships, including the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) and the ETH-D Scholarship. From eligibility requirements and benefits to the application process, this comprehensive overview will help you understand how these scholarships can support your academic and professional aspirations.
Whether you’re interested in STEM master’s scholarships or need financial assistance to study abroad, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships can help you achieve your goals. Keep reading to discover how you can apply for one of these prestigious awards in 2026.
What Are the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships?
The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships are designed for highly talented international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich. These scholarships recognize exceptional academic performance and potential, supporting students in a range of Master’s programmes, including Quantum Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Data Science, and more.
See Also: Hatfield Lioness Scholarship at Durham University — A Complete 2026 Guide>The scholarships are offered under two main categories:
- Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- ETH-D Scholarship
Both scholarships offer a combined application process, making it easier for students to be considered for either award.
Funding & Benefits (ESOP vs. ETH-D)
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is the more comprehensive of the two, while the ETH-D Scholarship offers partial funding. Here’s a breakdown of what each scholarship offers:
Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- CHF 12,000 per semester: This stipend helps cover living expenses for the duration of your Master’s program.
- Tuition fee waiver: Your tuition fees will be fully covered for the duration of your Master’s degree.
- Duration: The scholarship is valid for the regular length of your Master’s programme (usually 3–4 semesters).
With ESOP, you will receive fully funded support for your studies at ETH Zurich, enabling you to focus on academics without worrying about tuition or living costs.
See Also: Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University for International Students>ETH-D Scholarship
- Partial stipend: The amount of the stipend may vary, depending on your specific circumstances.
- Departmental offer: ETH-D scholars often receive an assistantship or additional funding from their respective departments, which can further help with living costs.
While the ETH-D Scholarship does not cover full tuition fees or living expenses, it still offers valuable financial support and potential opportunities for academic experience or additional funding.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | ESOP | ETH-D Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Stipend | CHF 12,000 per semester | Partial stipend (amount varies) |
| Tuition Fees | Waived | Typically not waived (depends on program) |
| Additional Offers | None guaranteed | Potential departmental assistantship |
| Duration | 3–4 semesters | Typically aligns with Master’s duration |
| Funding Level | Comprehensive (full funding) | Partial funding |
Eligibility Criteria for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships
The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships are highly competitive. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Top Academic Performance
You must have an excellent academic record, usually in the top 10% of your class, or equivalent. A grade equivalent to an A or better is often required.
See Also: Chancellor’s International Scholarship at the University of Sussex>2. Application Timing
You must submit your application during the first application window (typically November 2025 for the 2026 academic year).
3. First-time Master’s Students
You cannot apply if you are already enrolled in a Master’s program at ETH Zurich or hold a Master’s degree.
Key Deadlines (Autumn 2026 Intake)
To ensure a smooth application process, here are the critical dates for students applying for the Autumn 2026 intake:
- Application Window: 1 November – 30 November 2025 (11:59 a.m. CET).
- ESOP Decisions Announced: End of March 2026.
- Expected Number of ESOP Awards: Approximately 60 scholarships will be granted for the 2025/26 academic year.
Make sure to mark these dates in your calendar to avoid missing out on this amazing opportunity!
See Also: University of Kent International Undergraduate Scholarships (2025–2026 Guide)>Required Documents for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships
In addition to the standard Master’s application materials, you will need to submit specific documents for the scholarship application:
1. Master’s Thesis Pre-Proposal
A crucial component of the ESOP application. This proposal allows the selection committee to assess your research interests and potential.
2. References
Depending on the program, you may need to provide two references. If your program does not require them, you will need to supply the contact information of referees who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
Selection Process & Interviews
The selection for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships involves a multi-step process:
1. Departmental Evaluation
Your academic record and Master’s thesis pre-proposal will be evaluated by the department offering your chosen Master’s programme.
2. Interviews
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a phone or video interview to assess motivation, research interests, and academic suitability.
3. Final Decision
The final decision will be made by the Rector of ETH Zurich based on departmental evaluation and interview performance.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships:
1. Create Your Master’s Application
Start by creating an account on the eApply portal at ETH Zurich.
2. Select Your Master’s Programme
Choose the Master’s programme you want to apply for.
3. Indicate Interest in ESOP/ETH-D
During the application process, be sure to indicate that you want to be considered for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships.
4. Prepare Master’s Thesis Pre-Proposal
Develop a concise Master’s thesis pre-proposal and upload it with your application.
5. Provide Reference Details
If your program doesn’t automatically request references, provide the contact details of two referees.
6. Submit Complete Application
Double-check that you’ve uploaded all required documents and submit your application before the deadline.
Living in Zurich & Practical Tips
Zurich is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, the ESOP scholarship provides a CHF 12,000 stipend per semester, which should cover most living costs. ETH-D recipients will receive partial funding but may need additional financial support for living expenses.
Practical Tips for Managing Costs in Zurich:
- Accommodation: Start looking for accommodation early. Options like student dormitories can help keep costs down.
- Health Insurance: It’s mandatory in Switzerland, so make sure to research affordable providers.
- Budget Wisely: Create a monthly budget to ensure that your stipend lasts throughout the semester.
FAQs
Can I apply for both ESOP and ETH-D?
Yes, the single application process covers both scholarships. You do not need to apply separately for each.
Who is considered a competitive applicant?
Top academic records, strong letters of recommendation, a well-articulated thesis proposal, and clear motivation for studying at ETH Zurich make for a competitive application.
Can current ETH Master’s students apply?
No, the scholarship is only for students applying for their first Master’s degree at ETH Zurich.
Key Dates (Autumn 2026 Start):
- Application Window: 1 – 30 November 2025
- ESOP Decisions: End of March 2026
Official Links:
Conclusion: Take the First Step Towards Your Future at ETH Zurich
The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships offer an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue their Master’s degrees at a globally renowned institution. With generous funding through ESOP and valuable support via ETH-D, these scholarships can help you focus on your academic and research goals without the burden of financial stress.
To apply, start by researching the Master’s programmes at ETH Zurich that align with your career goals, prepare your Master’s thesis proposal, and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. Submit your application by the deadline and take the first step towards your transformative academic journey at ETH Zurich.
Good luck with your application!
