Pursuing a Master’s degree at a top-ranking European university is a transformative milestone for ambitious international students. Located in Zurich, Switzerland, ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) is globally renowned for its pioneering research, state-of-the-art facilities, and high academic standards. The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) supports students with a scholarship, mentorship and a network of the ETH Foundation. The scholarship covers the full study and living costs during the Master’s degree course.
To support exceptional talent from around the world, the university offers its flagship Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP). The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2027 provides financial support alongside access to an active network of researchers and industry leaders. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2027—including eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, cost of living estimates, and proven tips for success.
Basic Information About the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2027
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is a merit-based award designed for international and domestic students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance in their Bachelor’s degree.
- University: ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
- Scholarship name: Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP).
- Level: Master’s degree (not MAS programmes).
- Academic session: Autumn Semester 2027 (HS27).
- Number of scholarships: Approximately 60.
- Duration: The regular duration of the Master’s programme (3 or 4 semesters).
- Purpose: To support academically excellent students through financial assistance, mentorship, and professional networking
- Application deadline: November 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Central European Time).
University Details: ETH Zurich
Founded in 1855, ETH Zurich is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities—particularly in engineering, science, and technology.
- Global Ranking: Consistently ranked in the top 10 globally in QS World University Rankings.
- Campus Locations: Main Campus (Zentrum) in central Zurich and the modern Science City campus at Hönggerberg.
- Research & Innovation: Associated with over 20 Nobel Laureates, including Albert Einstein.
- International Environment: Home to over 24,000 students and researchers from more than 120 countries.
Study Areas (Available Programs)
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship applies to almost all full-time regular Master’s degree programs offered across its departments.
1. Architecture and Civil Engineering
- Master in Architecture (M.Arch)
- Master in Civil Engineering
- Master in Environmental Engineering
- Master in Geomatics
- Master in Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems
2. Engineering Sciences
- Master in Computer Science
- Master in Data Science
- Master in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
- Master in Mechanical Engineering
- Master in Robotics, Systems, and Control
- Master in Micro and Nanosystems
- Master in Cyber Security
- Master in Biomedical Engineering
- Master in Energy Science and Technology
- Master in Nuclear Engineering
- Master in Process Engineering
3. Natural Sciences and Mathematics
- Master in Mathematics / Applied Mathematics
- Master in Physics
- Master in Chemistry / Chemical Biology
- Master in Biochemistry
- Master in Interdisciplinary Natural Sciences
- Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences
4. System-Oriented Natural Sciences
- Master in Agricultural Sciences
- Master in Atmospheric and Climate Science
- Master in Environmental Sciences
- Master in Earth Sciences
- Master in Health Sciences and Technology
5. Management and Social Sciences
- Master in Management, Technology, and Economics (MTEC)
- Master in Comparative and International Studies
Note: Professional post-experience programs such as Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) are not eligible for the ESOP scholarship.
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship Benefits
- Financial support: CHF 13,500 per semester from Autumn Semester 2027.
- Tuition fee waiver: Full exemption from tuition fees.
- Living expenses: The scholarship contributes towards living and study costs.
- Mentorship: Guidance and support from ETH Zurich.
- Networking: Access to the ETH Foundation’s professional network.
- Duration: Financial support and tuition fee waiver continue for the normal duration of the Master’s programme (3 or 4 semesters).
Benefits Not Included
While generous, the ESOP grant is a fixed financial contribution. Candidates should plan for expenses not directly covered:
- Travel & Airfare:
- Visa & Permit Fees: Expenses for Swiss student visa processing and local residence permits (Permit L/B).
- Mandatory Swiss Health Insurance:
- Housing Security Deposits: Upfront rental deposits (often 1 to 3 months’ rent).
- Personal & Leisure Travel: Non-academic personal travel and local entertainment costs.
Eligibility Criteria for ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
- Must have an excellent Bachelor’s degree result.
- Must be among the top 10% of students in the Bachelor’s programme (equivalent to grade A).
- The top 10% requirement is based on the applicant’s self-assessment.
- Must apply for an eligible ETH Zurich Master’s programme.
- Must apply during the first application window.
- Applicants who are already enrolled in an ETH Zurich Master’s programme are not eligible.
- Applicants who already hold a Master’s degree are not eligible.
Selection:
- Selection Process
- Applications are evaluated by the Admissions Committee of the relevant Master’s programme.
- Academic excellence and the quality of the application are important.
- The final scholarship decision is made by the Rector of ETH Zurich.
- Scholarship decisions are communicated by the end of March 2027.
Required Documents for the Application
In addition to the regular documents required for Master’s admission, ESOP applicants must submit:
- Bachelor’s academic documents: Transcripts and other required academic records.
- Master’s thesis pre-proposal: A research proposal for the planned Master’s thesis.
- CV: Include a telephone number where you can be reached.
- Two academic references: If your chosen Master’s programme does not require references, you must provide the names of two professors as reference persons.
Important requirements:
- The Master’s thesis pre-proposal must be written independently.
- It must follow proper academic citation and referencing practices.
- The two professors must submit their reference letters within two weeks of receiving the university’s email request.
- Applicants may be invited for a telephone or video interview in February 2027.
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Select an eligible Master’s programme at ETH Zurich.
- Prepare all documents required for Master’s admission.
- Prepare your Master’s thesis pre-proposal.
- Arrange two academic reference persons if your programme does not require references.
- Submit your Master’s application through the ETH Zurich eApply portal.
- Complete the application between November 1 and November 30, 2026.
Official Resources
- ETH Zurich Master’s Application Portal
- Master’s Thesis Pre-Proposal Guidelines
- Reference Letter Guidelines
Tips for a Successful Application
Securing the ETH ESOP award requires a well-prepared submission. Consider these key recommendations:
- Refine Your Thesis Pre-Proposal: The pre-proposal carries substantial weight in selection. Focus on a distinct research problem, outline a methodology, and demonstrate academic rigor within the 500-word limit.
- Coordinate Early with Referees: Notify your professors well ahead of the deadline. Provide them with your CV, academic transcript, and pre-proposal so they can write detailed recommendation letters.
- Highlight Quantifiable Achievements: Emphasize awards, high class rankings, competitive exam scores, research publications, or conference presentations on your CV.
- Demonstrate Clear Fit: Tailor your motivation letter specifically to ETH Zurich. Name labs, research groups, or faculty members whose work aligns with your goals.
- Apply Well Before the Deadline: Avoid submitting on November 30 to prevent potential delays from system traffic or reference submission issues.
Monthly Living Expenses in Zurich for International Students (USD)
Zurich consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, though local living costs reflect high standards of accommodation and services. Below is an estimated breakdown of monthly living costs for a student in Zurich, formatted in USD ($1 USD ≈ 0.90 CHF):
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
| Student Housing / Rent | $650 – $1,100 | Shared apartment (WG) or student residence |
| Food & Groceries | $400 – $600 | Cooking at home; shopping at discount stores (Lidl, Aldi) |
| Health & Accident Insurance | $100 – $180 | Mandatory Swiss health insurance (Swisscare / academic rates) |
| Public Transportation | $70 – $110 | Local ZVV monthly pass or SBB Half-Fare travelcard |
| Study Materials & Books | $50 – $100 | Course books, software subscriptions, printing |
| Utilities & Internet | $40 – $80 | Mobile plan, electricity, internet share |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | $150 – $300 | Clothing, leisure, gym membership |
| Total Estimated Expense | $1,460 – $2,470 / month | ~$17,500 – $29,600 per year |
Financial Insight: The ESOP scholarship stipend of CHF 13,500 per semester (~$15,000 USD/semester or ~$2,500 USD/month) combined with the tuition fee waiver is structured to cover the standard living expenses of a student residing in Zurich.
Why Choose the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
1. Outstanding Global Reputation
ETH Zurich ranks among the top universities globally, particularly in science and engineering. Holding a Master’s degree from ETH provides a recognized qualification for academic research or international industry careers.
2. Comprehensive Financial Support
The ESOP combination of a tuition fee waiver and living stipend allows recipients to focus fully on their academic and research pursuits without needing part-time employment.
3. Dedicated Mentorship Program
Each scholar is paired with a professor who acts as an academic mentor. This structural access provides guidance on research directions, thesis preparation, and early career planning.
4. Direct Industry & Research Connections
Zurich is a hub for research laboratories and corporate headquarters, including Google, IBM Research, Disney Research, and ABB. ETH scholars regularly access internship options, collaborative thesis projects, and job placements.
5. High Quality of Life in Switzerland
Studying in Switzerland offers access to modern campus facilities, reliable public transport, high safety standards, and proximity to the Swiss Alps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students from any country apply for ESOP 2027?
Yes, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is open to qualified candidates of all nationalities who meet the academic entry criteria.
2. Is there a separate application portal for the ESOP scholarship?
No. The ESOP scholarship application is fully integrated into the main online Master’s admission system (eApply). You opt into scholarship consideration while completing your program application.
3. What if my Bachelor’s university does not issue official rank certificates?
If your university does not provide an official class ranking certificate, you must submit a signed self-evaluation statement or letter from your department confirming your position within the top 10% of your graduating class.
4. Can I change my Master’s thesis pre-proposal after receiving the scholarship?
Yes. The pre-proposal submitted during application is evaluated to assess your research capabilities, structure, and original thinking. Your actual Master’s thesis topic will be finalized later in consultation with your assigned supervisor.
5. Are candidates with an existing Master’s degree eligible?
No. Applicants who already hold a Master’s degree or are currently enrolled in a Master’s program at ETH Zurich are not eligible to apply for ESOP.
6. When will scholarship selection outcomes be announced?
Scholarship evaluation takes place alongside general admissions. Decision notifications are sent to applicants via email by late March 2027.
Application Dates
- Application opens: November 1, 2026.
- Application deadline: November 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Central European Time).
- Results: By the end of March 2027.
- Programme begins: Autumn Semester 2027.
Important You must apply during the first Master’s application window (November 1–30) to be considered for ESOP.
