ETH Zurich, Switzerland: Admission Information

ETH Zurich, located in Zurich, Switzerland, is one of the top universities worldwide, particularly in science, engineering, and technology. Founded in 1855, it has produced 22 Nobel laureates, including Albert Einstein. Ranked 7th globally, ETH Zurich offers rigorous education through its 16 departments. It is known for a balance between solid theory and practical application, with bachelor’s programs primarily in German and master’s/PhD programs in English. The main teaching is done in two campuses across Zurich

Study Areas: Program List at ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines. Below are the main faculties and departments:

• Architecture and Civil Engineering:
  • Architecture
  • Civil, Environmental, and Geomatic Engineering
• Engineering Sciences:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Materials Science
  • Information Technology and Electrical Engineering
• Natural Sciences and Mathematics:
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Earth Sciences
• System-oriented Natural Sciences:
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Health Sciences and Technology
  • Food Science
  • Biosystems Science and Engineering
• Management and Social Sciences:
  • Management, Technology, and Economics
  • Humanities, Social and Political Sciences

ETH Zurich also offers interdisciplinary programs in fields like Data Science, Energy Science and Technology, and Robotics, Systems, and Control​

Admission Requirements:

PhD: Master’s degree in a related field, English proficiency, and often a supervisor’s approval​

Bachelor’s: High school diploma with strong grades in mathematics and sciences; German proficiency (C1 level); ETH admission test may be required.

Master’s: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, TOEFL (minimum 100), or IELTS (7.0). GRE may be recommended for some programs.

Required Documents:

• Completed application form
• Transcripts
• CV/Resume
• Proof of language proficiency
• Letters of recommendation (especially for graduate programs)
• Research proposal for PhD applications

Tuition Fees for International Students at ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich offers affordable tuition compared to other top-ranked global universities. The fee structure is the same for both international and domestic students:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs:
  • CHF 730 per semester
  • Total Annual Fee: CHF 1,460 (two semesters)
• Doctoral Programs (PhD):
  • No tuition fees are charged for doctoral students. However, a CHF 150 semester fee applies to cover administrative and student services

Additional Costs:

• Compulsory Semester Fee: CHF 69 (includes sports, student associations, etc.)
• Application Fees: CHF 150 – 250, depending on the program level and applicant’s nationality​

Living Expenses

The estimated living expenses for students in Zurich can range from CHF 21,000 to CHF 28,000 per year, covering:

• Accommodation: CHF 650 – 1,200 per month
• Food: CHF 450 – 600 per month
• Health Insurance: CHF 100 – 300 per month
• Public Transportation: CHF 60 – 80 per month
• Books and Study Materials: CHF 100 – 300 per semester

Zurich is an expensive city, and while tuition fees are low, securing scholarships or financial aid can help manage these living costs

Why Choose ETH Zurich:

ETH Zurich is renowned for its world-class education, particularly in STEM fields. The institution’s focus on research, collaboration with industries, and a high concentration of Nobel laureates make it a prestigious destination for students aiming for innovation and academic excellence

Suggestions for International Applicants:

• Start early: Admission to ETH Zurich is competitive, so prepare your application thoroughly.
• Learn some German: Although most graduate courses are in English, knowing German can help with integration into the local culture and everyday life in Zurich.
• Research scholarships: While tuition is low, living expenses in Zurich are high, so securing financial aid or scholarships is crucial​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about ETH Zurich

1. What is the language of instruction at ETH Zurich?
   • Bachelor’s programs are primarily taught in German, requiring at least a C1 proficiency level. Master’s and PhD programs are typically in English, and applicants need TOEFL (100) or IELTS (7.0) scores as proof of English proficiency​
2. Does ETH Zurich offer scholarships for international students?
   • Yes, ETH provides the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP), which covers full tuition and offers a stipend for living expenses. Additional scholarships from Swiss foundations are also available, but competition is high​
3. Can international students work part-time while studying?
   • Yes, international students can work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. However, some restrictions apply for students from non-EU countries in their first six months​
4. What is the average cost of living in Zurich for students?
   • The estimated cost ranges from CHF 21,000 to CHF 28,000 per year, covering housing, food, transportation, and health insurance. Zurich is an expensive city, so students are advised to budget carefully​
5. How competitive is admission to ETH Zurich?
   • ETH Zurich is highly selective, especially for graduate programs. A strong academic background, particularly in mathematics and sciences, along with research experience and standardized test scores (if required), improves your chances of admission